《The Rebirth of an Ill-Fated Consort》 Chapter 1 Cold winds suddenly rose in the inky darkness of the night, making the decay on the dilapidated residence door more noticeably appalling as it rattled in the wind. A few elder maids passed through the courtyard hurriedly. A servant with a wider figure than the rest, who wore a green robe with her sleeves rolled up halfway, headed towards the innermost room with a food basket in hand. A strange odour permeated throughout the residence. A slightly younger maid, trailed behind her and whispered, The smell is really unpleasant. I dont know why Master arranged for that thing to be there. It is quite scary. When she got to this point, she could not resist crying out in shock and edged herself closer to whisper into the head elder maids ear to continue, It couldnt be for- Wang [1], speak less. The green-clad elder maid was slightly annoyed. If anyone around us overhears, you wont be spared. [1] Wang (): When youre a servant, youre referred to as belonging to someones family or clan since youre considered their property. Hence, this is more of Wangs family maid, or Wangs family servant. Wang silenced herself hastily. Arriving at the entrance, a young, round-faced maid emerged from within and accepted the food basket, before entering the house again. After a moment, she carried an empty food basket out. The green-clad elder maid took it and spoke to the round-faced maid, Master ordered us to bring the person into the room. Is this for- The round faced maid was alarmed. We do not need to know. Sighing, the green-clad elder maid summoned Wang. Come here and bring the person over there. A lamp lit the house, brightening the hall slightly. Wang pinched her nose, only noticing the thing that sat in the wooden basin after several moments had passed. Seeing it for the first time, she almost threw up. Over the course of the past few days, even if she had delivered food daily with the green-clad elder maid, she had never seen the person inside clearly. The thing in the wooden basin could no longer be referred to as human. All four of her limbs had been severed, her rod-like body propped up, as it swayed in the wooden basin. Her hair was bunched together, with small bits of debris scattered throughout. It vaguely looked female. The green-clad elder maid stared, sympathy flashing through her eyes. Although she did not have an inkling of this ladys identity, this lady had already been crippled to this extent, which really made her pity the lady. Furthermore since Master had suddenly ordered them to bring her out today, things did not bode well for her. Though Wang felt afraid and disgusted, she did not dare disobey her orders. Steeling herself, she heaved the wooden basin out of the house. The lady inside was yielding and did not struggle or cause a scene, as if she was already asleep. Setting the wooden basin in the Masters sleeping quarters as ordered, Wang thought to herself, why did Master place this terrifying thing in the house? The lady in the wooden basin suddenly opened her eyes, locking eyes with Wang. Oddly, this extremely frightening lady had a pair of strikingly beautiful eyes, alluring and untainted, cold, yet moving, their clarity akin to water from a creek flowing through the green mountains. Briefly stunned, Wang turned her head and bolted out of the house. Jiang Ruan opened her eyes slowly. After languishing in the dark for a long time, she was unaccustomed to the light. When she considered her situation clearly, she could not help but laugh sorrowfully. She was the legitimate eldest daughter of the Defense Minister and once, she had been the Beautiful Lady Ruan. But now, she was treated as swine, unable to hold her head high ever again! She then recalled her sixteen year old self, and the words of her father before she entered the palace, Ruaner, since you are entering the palace as a concubine, the entire Zhao-Jiang family supports you. You do not need to worry. Her younger sister held her hand tearfully, Ruaner, you are my savior. Even if I die, I wont be able to repay your kindness. And him, clasping her hand in his, Wait a little while longer. After some time has passed, I will marry you properly as my legitimate wife. But now, her father had already risen to the rank of Prime Minister, a respected official, while her stepmother had become the Prime Ministers wife. Her sister had become the Empress, while that person ascended to the throne! They had already cast her to the back of their minds, to the point abandoning her and killing her off. At the age of five, her biological mother passed away early and her brother perished in war. Her fathers concubine was promoted as the second wife. A passing Taoist priest divined her birthdate and mentioned that she bore bad luck for her parents. She was then sent to a residence in a village. At nearly fifteen-years-old, Jiang Quan finally recognized her as his own flesh and blood and brought her back into the manor. Not long after, there was news from the palace that the daughter of the Jiang family had been chosen as the Emperors concubine. The Emperor suspected that the Jiang family had colluded with the Eighth Prince and summoned him into the palace. On the surface, he appeared to be benevolent and caring, but it was merely to keep the Eighth Prince in check. The Jiang family only had two legitimate daughters. Jiang Susus body was weaker with a gentle and innocent personality. As no one could defy the Emperors edict, Jiang Quan ordered Jiang Ruan to enter the palace and become the Beautiful Lady Ruan [2]. [2] Beautiful Lady: A rank Even though she kept trying to accept her situation, she could not endure pleasing the Emperor sexually. At her ripe, blooming age, she began to wilt in the inner palace. If it was not because of the constant comfort from the Eighth Prince, she would have hung herself in the inner palace with a white cloth. Growing up, other than her dead brother and mother, there wasnt anyone else who treated her this considerately. She entrusted her heart to him, stopped causing a fuss and willingly settled in the palace to pass messages along, acting as a chess piece for him and the Jiang family. Who could have guessed, after forcing the Emperor to abdicate, the Emperor died tragically. They then imprisoned her, accused her of murdering the emperor, and laid the title of a country-wrecking temptress on her! When she stood on the platform, meeting the cold look of her father, she finally understood that she had been abandoned. As soon as she was of no use to them anymore, they deserted her. Trapped in the dark prison, she thought she had regained hope when someone saved her. But it was only the beginning of her nightmare. Her innocent, fairy-like sister smiled faintly as she watched people chop off Jiang Ruans limbs, reducing Jiang Ruan to human swine. Jiang Ruan felt despair and anger, unwilling to be resigned to her fate. However, she heard the fairy-like person continue, Does elder sister know, I usually love cleanliness? I cannot even tolerate even a grain of sand. Elder sister, you are a grain of sand that I have already endured for many years. Now, it is time to clear you away. She added another sentence with a slight smile, The Eighth Prince is going to crown me as the Empress. Let me help elder sister enjoy the glory that elder sister could not partake in. Pain seeped into her bones. She finally understood what true numbness was. However, Jiang Ruan could not fathom why Susu hated her to this extent. Susu almost read her mind as she smiled and spoke, Isnt elder sisters mother the beloved daughter of the Generals manor? Didnt you rely on this identity to look down on me? What a pity! She supported her cheek as she tilted her head, Yesterday, the Generals manor was executed in the afternoon bearing the crime of rebellion. She stared at Jiang Ruan, articulating every word slowly, All one hundred and three members were seized and beheaded. Shock coursed through her like thunder. Her mind was in complete chaos. The Generals manor was her maternal home. Although her mother had angered the General with her determination to marry Jiang Quan in the past, and they had not communicated since, blood was still thicker than water. How could she escape the knife slicing through her heart?! She directed a dead stare at Susu. Yet, Susu only sneered mockingly, Is elder sister angered by a mere provocation? Dont be anxious. I still have a large gift for you. You shall receive it very soon. Hence, Jiang Ruan was sent to a dimly-lit house. After struggling for a few days to survive, she saw the light again today. The door opened with a sound. A fat man who reeked of alcohol, grabbed and threw a young boy onto the ground in front of him with a hideous expression. The young boy appeared to be struggling with all his might. When Jiang Ruan looked at the boys face, color drained from her face. That was- Peier! The luck of palace ladies ran thin. There were many who could not bear the Emperors son, and many who passed away after they did. Peiers biological mother was merely a lowly palace maid, meeting her death shortly after giving birth to Peier. The Emperor did not value his low-born son. With a twist of fate, Jiang Ruan became his foster mother. Six years went by and Jiang Ruan and Peier had long since developed a mother-son relationship. When the situation in the palace began to change, she commanded her personal palace maid to flee with Peier in her arms. Yet, they had failed to escape. Mother! Mother! Peier howled as he struggled. Yet, he could not break free from the pair of hands on his privates. Jiang Ruan only felt a chill encase her entire body. She had learned of the despicable acts that Senior Marquis Li Dong was capable of even before she entered the palace. But now, she could only stare at her own son being humiliated by this monster. She screamed loudly. Yet, she could only produce hoarse and unclear sounds, Ah, ah- Li Dong eyed her with disgust and hatred. I do not even know why Her Highness deems it necessary that this thing must watch me perform my duties. This really ruins my appetite. He thought about it, but in the end, he still bent to imperial power. He did not dare make excessive motions, as he focused solely on bullying the unconscious child. Jiang Ruan sat inside the wooden basin. Only then did she realize why Jiang Susu had only left her a pair of eyes at this time. Jiang Susu wanted her to see her final relative die in front of her. Like a mannequin, she sat blankly in the wooden basin, every scene from the past playing in front of her eyes: the defeated look on her mothers face before she passed, her fathers thin, cold smile, the Eighth Princes vow, Jiang Susu thanking her as she held her hand, the Emperors cold detached eyes and her sufferings in the inner palace. In the end, everything morphed into the struggling, tearful Peier in front of her very eyes. Li Dong inadvertently turned around, unexpectedly catching sight of the person in the basin. Startled into falling off the bed, he shouted, Someone, come! Two lines of blood and tears streaked across the stupefied expression of the lady in the wooden basin, emphasizing feelings of bitterness and dismalness. The housekeeper, who broke the door down and entered, stopped in his tracks. He felt as if he had encountered a vengeful spirit from hell seeking to take his life. His entire body felt as if it had been enveloped by a type of frigidness. Agitated, Li Dong asked, What are you standing there for? Beat it to death with a stick. In the midst of his uneasiness, he dismissed the Empresss orders unconsciously. It did not matter anyway, for the entire residence was guarded by his subordinates so he did not need to worry about the news leaking out. The housekeeper recollected himself, rushing forward with a stick in his grasp to swing down at her face continuously without explanation. No one could hear the most profound curse that came from the persons heart who was inside the basin: Even if I can never reincarnate, even if my ashes are scattered and I am dispersed, I am willing to become a vengeful spirit for eternity. Let those who harmed me pay their debt in blood! At the same time, inside Yang Ping palace. Your Highness seems extremely spirited today, Jiang Susu smiled gently. The newly-crowned Emperor lifted his eyes to gaze at the lady at the opposite of him. Her majestic phoenix crown and red cape coupled with her refined face made her seem unlike a mortal; she resembled a fairy from the Nine Heavens. Jiang Quans youngest daughter was truly absolutely exquisite. There is still no news from Jiang Ruan? He asked suddenly with a low voice. Jiang Susus face darkened. No, I believe that elder sister has taken Peier with her and escaped. Indeed, she has exhausted herself these past few years. However, regardless of the situation, she should not have doubted Your Highness The newly-crowned Emperor thought about Jiang Ruan. Yet he realized that no matter how hard he tried to recall Jiang Ruan, she remained a blurry shadow in his memory. With her tarnished reputation, she could only be at best, a lady with good looks. He was marrying for the immense power backing the Jiang family, so there was no difference between Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu. Since Jiang Ruan had been the previous Emperors woman, he definitely would not marry her. Although Jiang Ruan was now an abandoned chess piece, he still hesitated slightly. Many times, he had overcome many critical circumstances with the help of Jiang Ruan in the past few years. Indeed, she had helped him quite a bit. But, why had she escaped from prison first without waiting for him to come to a decision? He did not like the feeling of losing control. The new Emperor tutted coldly, Ungrateful thing. The time has come. Let us go. Jiang Susu curtseyed and placed her hand within the mans palm. A new emperor ascended the throne in the eighteenth year of Xuan De, crowning Miss Jiang personally as the Empress and tying an eternal knot with her. Chapter 2 At a peasants residence with three green-tiled and red-walled rooms, the spacious courtyard was covered by layers and layers of accumulated snow. A large, black watchdog paced at the entrance, lazily chomping a bone from a cracked bowl. It seemed that the frosty air made it feel extremely cold, as it retreated into its cozy kennel. It was New Years Eve. Colorful paintings, depicting an abundant harvest of all food crops, were pasted at the entrance. Three fat, huge lanterns hung from the roof. Firecracker sounds could be heard from the outside. Occupants of the residence were beaming with happiness, in harmony with the feeling of a New Years Eve dinner. Although village delicacies were served, the eight main dishes had been cooked meticulously with attention to detail. The meat and vegetables complemented each other. There were spicy steamed striped bass cooked with bean sprouts1, braised pork2, tea-infused smoked chicken3, five-colored shredded vegetables4, onion and lamb dumplings5, praying for blessings shrimp6, four happiness meatballs7 and abundant wealth8. A large group drank and gambled together. It was an extraordinary scene that was bustling with noise and excitement. At the same time, there was an atmosphere of bleak emptiness in the most remote residence of the peasants courtyard. A solitary room was dimly lit by a candle, which seemed as though it would be extinguishing soon. A tall, young maid with her hair combed into a topknot bun sat in front of the residence, carefully adding firewood to the brazier. As the firewood in the brazier caught fire, a pungent, thick smoke immediately pervaded the small residence. Another maid with a petite figure ran towards the residence hurriedly as she picked a thin, shabby fan from the ground, before fanning it carefully. She scolded, Lian Qiao, you should be more careful. Our ladys health has not recovered yet. What if she chokes? Lian Qiao curled her lips with an extremely angry expression. Yet, she still lowered her voice, I do hope that there is not any smoke. Today, I went to find Zhang Lan family. I didnt even request for fusain, just normal coal. She has the nerve to blame the heavy usage over these past few days as the reason why there isnt any more coal left in the storage. Bah! Who is she trying to deceive? At this time of the year, how can there be no coal in the residence? She is just taking advantage of her authority to bully us. If it wasnt for our currently sick lady, and I do not dare to worry her, I must slap her twice! You- The fanning maid sighed again, You should restrain your stubbornness. Although this family bullies us intolerably, we are still living under their roof. We have to lower our heads. If you really stir up trouble, our lady will be the one who will suffer. Lian Qiao eyed her in contempt, Bai Zhi, I did not realize that you are this cowardly. What is the social standing of this family, and what is the social standing of our lady? Regardless of what happens to our lady, with her status, we cannot let these low-born people continue to bully her! Bai Zhi shook her head, Both of us are our ladys maids. Of course, I want the best for her. It is just that, lately, there has been no news from the capital. I do not know how much longer our lady has to stay here. It is fine if we are here for a short amount of time, but you see, it is already the fourth year now. Master has never sent anyone to ask about her well-being. If we still have to stay here for a longer time and you incite a dispute with them, the one who suffers in the end is our lady. Lian Qiao stopped herself from replying. After a moment, she only spoke softly, Then, should we just allow them to simply bully our lady? Bai Zhi only sighed softly. The house fell into silence again. Only the firewood within the fire was crackling. The two maids kept the fire going with the fan in their hands. No one noticed that the person on the bed had awakened. Jiang Ruan had been awake for quite some time. Naturally, the conversation between Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao reached her ears, word for word. When she opened her eyes, she was surprised to learn that she has transmigrated into her younger self from a decade ago. The experience from her past life felt like a dream from an afternoon nap. However, she knew that her hatred of being callously killed was not something that could be dissipated by a dream. Since God has provided her with a chance to start over, she would not hesitate in accepting and availing it properly. When she stirred on the bed three days ago, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao heaved a large breath of relief. Jiang Ruan had already been unconscious for more than ten days, since the day she fell into a lake. The medical practitioner that attended to her said he was incapable of defying fate. Zhang Lan family even enquired about funeral rites. Who knew, she would wake up again. Lian Qiao held her hand and cried her heart out, repeating that God had blessed her, while Jiang Ruan merely closed her eyes. After dying once, not only did the experiences from her past life not vanish like smoke into thin air, Jiang Ruan could remember them even more clearly. When her mother passed away four years ago, a wandering Taoist came to the manor and divined her character to be unyielding from a glance. She was said to bear bad luck for her parents, and her life was destined to be the bane of anothers existence. At first, Jiang Quan wanted to send her to the family temple to be a nun. It was precisely because Jiang Su Su kneeled and begged for mercy that Jiang Quan changed his mind and sent her to a residence in a village instead. Because of this incident, Jiang Ruan bore a gratuitous heart for Jiang Su Su. But, now that she had thought about it, all of the endless bullying and humiliation that she was being subjected to were bestowed by Jiang Su Su and her mother. The residence was entrusted to the care of Zhang Lan family. Zhang Lan was someone who was avaricious, stingy and extremely shrewd. Every day, she did not fail to scold and humiliate Jiang Ruan indirectly. Her husband, Chen Fu, was an alcoholic loafer and a gambling addict. They had a son and a daughter. The son, Chen Zhao, was a complete pervert. The daughter, Chen Fang, wielded sharp and unkind words. The pieces of jewelry and accessories that Jiang Ruan brought with her when she initially arrived, either fell into Zhang Lans hands or were tricked away by Chen Fang. Ten days ago, Chen Zhao touched her inappropriately by the lakeside. Jiang Ruan could not bear the abasement and jumped into the water. Chen Zhao escaped as soon as he realized that he had caused trouble. By the time Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi asked someone to save Jiang Ruan, she had already lost her consciousness. As it was during the final days of the lunar year, the lake water was cold and piercing to the bone. Additionally, under Zhang Lans harsh mistreatment over these past few years, Jiang Ruans body had grown more and more frail. Catching a cold just made things worse in a bad situation. She immediately came down with a severe illness. Jiang Ruan remembered very clearly. Originally, she did not wake up as early as this. After she gained consciousness, she had contracted a nearly incurable illness. However, a more significant incident occurred not long after. Gossip heard from outside mentioned that she was already seducing men at such a young age, without caring about her invaluable body. She fell into the water, after she took the initiative to seduce Chen Zhao and failed in her attempt. Thinking back, the act of pushing the blame on her must have been Zhang Lans doing. As a result of this marred reputation, when Jiang Ruan met the elders face to face in the future, the title of temptress befell her. Now that she has woken up earlier, the gossip has not spread yet. Until now, the thought must have not occured to Zhang Lan, so she could actually use this chance to send her a New Years gift. There was no future in extending her stay in this residence, where they could torment her. After four years, she would be sent into the palace as a pawn. This was not something that she could endure. Her purpose was not to be taken advantage of without reason and there was always a price to pay for everything a person did. Thus, she singled Chen Zhao out as the first target to meet her blade. Jiang Ruan peered outside the window. The faint sound of the firecrackers caused the house with the trio to seem even more cold and dreary. She righted herself slowly into a sitting position. Bai Zhi heard her rising, so she stood up and went towards her quickly, Miss, you have woken up. Do you feel discomfort anywhere? Jiang Ruan shook her head, What time is it now? It should be around seven to nine in the evening, Bai Zhi answered. Lian Qiao placed her fan down, Is Miss hungry? Let me bring some food from the kitchen. Most of the misses and madams that stayed in the residence were usually the ones who had committed crimes. Regardless, they were still masters. Unless they were being cared for in a special manner, it was unlikely that the treatment would be so disappointing that it could not even be compared to a lowly servant. One might ponder deeply about why the New Years Eve dinner was never sent earlier. Before Jiang Ruan could reply, she heard knocks on the door. A clear voice spoke from outside, Miss, I have come to deliver the New Years Eve dinner. Lian Qiao was stunned. Jiang Ruan said, Come in. The door opened with a sound. An extremely festive-looking maid entered, carrying a food basket in her hand. She was all smiles, Auntie Lan ordered me to bring some food over. Miss, you should eat some too. When Bai Zhi saw that Jiang Ruan was still for a long time, she lowered her head unsurely. She watched a glimpse of emotion flash across Jiang Ruans eyes. Then, Jiang Ruan turned and raised her head with a slight smile. Chapter 3 The maid, who had come, was named Qiu Yan. She was a high-ranked maid in the residence. Although her position was uncomparable to Zhang Lan, she still had a certain amount of respect from others. As letting Qiu Yan deliver food on the night of New Years Eve was something that had not happened in the past years, Zhang Lan must have wanted to stop everyone from gossiping and portray herself to be meticulously caring to the ill, bedridden daughter of the Jiang family. When Qiu Yan placed the food basket down, she quickly scrutinized the residence at the same time. This was her first visit to Jiang Ruans residence. She observed a shabby and decaying air permeating the tight spaces of the residence and traces of rainwater seeping through the walls from the leaking roof. The blanket on the bed was also extremely thin. Even the most basic utensils were particularly defective. Living in such a damp and dark house, it would be odd if the body was not frail. At a glance, this did not look like a wealthy ladys chamber at all. Even the lowest-ranked slave in this residence, perhaps, did not live as deplorably as this. As Qiu Yan had been settled in the main residence for a long time, she understood in her heart that although the Zhang Lan family was greedy and harsh, they would not be so brazen in treating a lady like this, if the higher-ups did not intend to treat her that way. Since this was the case, naturally, she would not meddle. Your name is Qiu Yan, I presume. The person on the bed opened her mouth. Her voice was still a little hoarse. Yet, it oddly carried a subtle emotion. Qiu Yan raised her head, smiling, Yes, I am. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao guarded Jiang Ruans sides, watching Qiu Yan closely. In this residence, they could only trust themselves since everyone else harbored unfathomable motives towards the trio. Jiang Ruan smiled, Today is New Years Eve. These clothes worn by Sister Qiu Yan are fittingly festive. You wear them beautifully. These words were a little strange. Qiu Yan could not wrap her head around them. She smiled, It is Aunt who ordered them to be tailor-made. I am just a servant. To say that they are beautiful, Miss, you must be ridiculing me. Jiang Ruan sighed lightly, Auntie Lan is considerate. Did the entire residence have new clothes made for them? Her soft voice contained a smile. Qiu Yan subconsciously wanted to nod her head in agreement, before reacting quickly. The entire residence had gotten new clothes made for them, and yet, this lady and her maids in front of her were the only ones who were left out. However, regardless of the situation, these words could not be uttered. She just wanted to dodge this topic when Jiang Ruan spoke softly, The two maids by my side are clumsy, and even the clothes worn by them are not as festive-looking as Sister Qiu Yans. There is something that Sister Qiu Yan is wrong about. I am not cracking jokes. Although Sister Qiu Yan is a servant, you seem to live more comfortably and respectably than me. The words were too sharp, in stark contrast with their owners gentle tone. Without reason, Qiu Yan unexpectedly felt a bout of nervousness. She raised her head unconsciously to look at the person on the bed. Under the dim candlelight, the lady on the bed accepted hot tea from Bai Zhi. The rising spirals from the steaming tea concealed her face partially. She could not see her expression clearly, just long, drooping eyelashes drawing elegant curves that appeared unusually enticing. Jiang Ruans voice was laced with a smile when it reached her, With Sister Qiu Yans kind of face, when you have reached a marriageable age, it is certain that you will be married into a good family. The second son of Landlord Ma, from the outskirts, is quite decent. He already has twelve concubines. Of course, Sister Qiu Yan could be arranged to become the thirteenth concubine. Qiu Yan was surprised. Chills slowly rose from her soles, her expression paling immediately. Biting her lips, she could not utter a single word, and just stared at Jiang Ruan with widened eyes. Jiang Ruan was not worried. She merely brought the warm tea closer to her lips, sipping it lightly. After a while, Qiu Yan finally gathered her courage. Puffing her chest, she spoke, I do not know what Miss is talking about. The first half of the sentence was spoken in a righteous and confident manner. However, when she reached the latter half, she did not know why she began to feel guilty. A talented person should choose both a good position that one can excel in and a leader that uses one wisely. Humans walk towards the peak, while water flows towards lower grounds. It is normal for Sister Qiu Yan to act this way. You dont need to feel shy. She tilted her head with a laugh, This is a good matter. If there is a day when Sister Qiu Yan becomes the thirteenth concubine, of course, I will gift you a set of rouge. Sister Qiu Yans reputation, I think, is also something that you acquired through your intelligence. Qiu Yan stood on her spot, holding her fists tightly. Jiang Ruan kneaded the space between her eyebrows, Even if it has been just a while, I feel sleepy. My body has not recovered yet, so I cannot personally deliver my New Year greetings to Auntie Lan. I am troubling Sister Qiu Yan to do it for me. After finishing her words, she ordered Bai Zhi, Go and send Sister Qiu Yan away. This was considered as an invitation for her to leave. At that moment, Qiu Yan could not make up her mind. Naturally, she wished to leave this stifling house immediately. She nodded her head agreeably in panic. Her faint superiority when she arrived was no longer visible. When Bai Zhi and Qiu Yan walked to the door, Jiang Ruan opened her mouth again, By the way, Sister Qiu Yan, the clothes for both my maids that I mentioned earlier, since it is already the New Year, I want to see a little cheer. Sister Qiu Yan, please think of a way for them to look more festive. Qiu Yan bit her lips, Miss is being forcefully difficult. Sister Qiu Yan is a smart person, Jiang Ruan interrupted her. Otherwise, how will you become the thirteenth concubine? Qiu Yans face whitened even more, and she replied hatefully, Yes. After Bai Zhi sent Qiu Yan away, Lian Qiao asked, What happened earlier, Miss? How did Qiu Yan claim a connection of a higher status with the second son of Landlord Ma? She has been presenting a false facade in front of the second son of the Ma family to achieve her purpose. Now, they are at a stage where they are intimately close. Jiang Ruan spoke. In her past life, someone chanced upon the private affair between Qiu Yan and the second son of the Ma family after it went on for a few years. When this scandalous matter had been exposed, he was left unharmed. Qiu Yan, however, was drowned alive in a cylindrical bamboo cage that was used to constrain pigs during transport. Before that, Qiu Yan had already been tormented to the extent of having an unsound mind. She kept repeating over and over again that she was the second son of the Ma familys thirteenth concubine. Probably, when there had been an intense mutual attraction, he might have promised her that. It was just that, in the end, Qiu Yan was not fated to be the thirteenth concubine. Naturally, Jiang Ruan would not reveal this matter. It finally dawned on Lian Qiao, No wonder she was shocked to this extent. Bah, she is really a vulgar person. She does not have any sense of honor or shame! As she was just a few years older than ten, she reddened immediately, Just that, Miss, how do you know of these things? Lian Qiao doubted deeply in her heart. Not only that, she also discovered that today, Jiang Ruan seemed as though she had practically switched personalities. She, who had always been submissive, really threatened Qiu Yan this boldly without fear. Even as they were talking about this filthy matter, there was nothing peculiar about her expression, as if she was just mentioning an extremely ordinary household matter. Compared to Bai Zhi and her, Jiang Ruan had less opportunities to step out of the house. Throughout the year, there were always unfinished chores in the residence. She had no chance to encounter these things. Lian Qiao had her suspicions, yet Jiang Ruan did not answer her question. She merely said, Lian Qiao, do you want to stay here for your whole life? Of course, I do not want to. Lian Qiao had an outspoken and bold personality, so she spoke without much thought, Do not worry, Miss. Naturally, we will not stay in this residence for an entire lifetime. After some time has passed, Master will come for you. Jiang Ruan smiled. She was more aware than anyone else as to when they would send for her. She had no patience to wait until then, and she did not want to either. Why should we wait? Qiu Yan will send us to the capital soon. Lian Qiao was distracted for a while, before looking at Jiang Ruan subconsciously. However, she only saw the girl yawning slowly in an elegant manner. Under her straight nose, the red, pursed lips that tasted tea earlier curved slightly. Chapter 4 Early in the morning on the first day of the Chinese New Year, the sound of bamboo firecrackers could be heard from the stretch of streets outside the residence. One after another, children of the residence appeared to set off the firecrackers for the door-opening ceremony[1]. After the bamboo firecrackers had exploded, the entire ground was covered with red, as resplendent as embroidered brocades, implying that one would obtain success and prosperity in all aspects of their lives. [1] Kai men pao zhang ( ) C Opening the cannon is a traditional Chinese custom. In the early morning of the Lunar New Years Day , as soon as people get up, the first thing for every household to do is to fight for opening the gun ceremony, knocking on the door thrice, and firing the guns to declare the beginning of the new year. The sound of firecrackers in the whole city symbolizes the sending of the old and welcoming the new year with blessings. The entire residence began to bustle. It was unknown if the act was deliberate or if they had simply forgotten about Jiang Ruan and her maids. After the New Years Eve dinner, it was unbelievable that no one bothered to visit their residence. Bai Zhi lit the brazier by the door. Half of her frame blocked the entrance as she fanned the suffocating smoke away. The residence barely managed a hint of warmth, as the sunlight shone through the windows. Considering that this residence was the most remote and dilapidated one in the courtyard, wind and rain often leaked through the roof throughout the year. Field mice often scampered about. The blankets that were originally sent by the manor were already very thin. Moreover, most of them had been gnawed by the mice to the extent of being unusable. Bai Zhi sighed, unable to stop herself from turning her head to look at Jiang Ruan, who was sitting on the bed with a blanket wrapped around her. Jiang Ruan leaned on a coarsely-sewn brown pillow with a blanket covering her chest, lost in thought, her head drooping. It had been four years since she had been sent to this residence. With the Zhang Lan family depriving her of basic clothing and food, she had reached maturity much later than the other girls. Her hair was dry and showed a yellowing tint. At this moment, the sunlight filtered through the window, onto her long tresses, giving them a hint of shifting glow. Her slightly pursed lips appeared to have a healthier color than usual, accentuating her facial features to appear delicate and proper. As she sat silently, she was notably quieter than in the past, almost as if she had turned into a completely unfamiliar person. Bai Zhi fiddled with the firewood in the brazier. She recalled how yesterday, Lian Qiao had told her about the incident with Qiu Yan in its entirety. At the end of her story, she wondered, Why do I feel as if there is something wrong with our lady? This sudden transformation has caused a disparity in her personality. Is it possible that her meek submission in the past was meant to deceive? Bai Zhi did not know how to answer her. Actually, Lian Qiao was right. Jiang Ruan had changed so much, and as her personal maids, it was even more apparent to the both of them. Since she was sent into the residence four years ago, Jiang Ruan often wept, as the Zhang Lan family deliberately made things difficult for her. Gradually, she did not have the will to cry any longer and merely accepted their treatment quietly. With sadness plaguing her heart, she became even more timid and withdrawn. Yesterday, when she interacted with Qiu Yan, her expression and manners seemed as if she was a whole new person. Bai Zhi had some suspicions in her heart, and wondered if it was possible for someones personality to change so drastically after suffering from a severe illness. Regardless of the change, Jiang Ruan was still their master. Perhaps, it was a blessing that Jiang Ruans current attitude was completely different from the past. Just as she was lost in thought, Lian Qiao walked in carrying a package wrapped in oil paper, almost bumping the brazier over. Be a little more careful, Bai Zhi reproached lightly, Why are you so impetuous? I went to purchase some New Year goods, Lian Qiao was not angered by her, continuing to smile happily as before. Stepping inside the residence, she unwrapped the oil paper from the package and spoke to Jiang Ruan, Miss, come and eat some too, the spring pancakes are still piping hot. Bai Zhi was baffled, Where did you get them from? Surely, the Zhang Lan family would not be this kind-hearted. Nowadays, because of the incident with Chen Zhao, Zhang Lan resented Jiang Ruan quite a bit. The servants would not initiate any contact with them in order to avoid trouble. Even more so, they did not have any spare change in their hands to purchase snacks. It seems that some important guests will soon be arriving at the residence. So for the past few days, everyone has been busy preparing for it. They have also prepared more snacks. I am on slightly friendly terms with Bai He, who is new in the kitchen, so I asked for some. She smiled, Even though we are in a rough situation, we still have to celebrate the New Year. Look, Miss, I also have this. She fished out a bracelet made from bronze coins from her sleeves, When I was coming back, I bought it for ten taels to invite a good omen, so everything will proceed smoothly this year. Bai Zhi chortled, What do we need a bracelet to invite good omens for? Bai Zhi chortled, What do we need a bracelet to invite good omens for? Is it so that we can pray for our lady to rake in fortune in this upcoming year? What is wrong with raking fortune in? Lian Qiao went on to say, If you have money, you can make the devil push the millstone for you. What is wrong with being wealthy? If we have money, I bet these people would never dare to bully our lady. Bai Zhi quickly flashed a disapproving face towards Lian Qiao, warning her to stop speaking in Jiang Ruans presence. Lian Qiao knew that she had said words that should not be spoken, and immediately held her tongue. She glanced at Jiang Ruan cautiously. Yet, Jiang Ruan shook her head, lifting her sheets slowly before stepping down from the bed. Lian Qiao hurriedly assisted her by the arm. Jiang Ruan walked to the table and sat down. After taking a look at the bracelet on the table, she held her hand out and wore it on her wrist. She showed it off and said, I should invite a good omen. Lian Qiaos heart ached. In her heart, she thought, was there any daughter from an influential manor that does not have a collection of jewelry and accessories made for the New Year? But her own lady only possesses a bronze coin bracelet that merely costs ten taels. It was not something that was worth mentioning even in an ordinary commoners household. Turning her head to the side to conceal the pain in her eyes, Lian Qiao smiled, Miss, you should eat another spring pancake. Jiang Ruan shook her head, I dont feel like eating. You can eat. She paused, and spoke again, I do not have any money to reward you. By following me to this residence, you have suffered greatly these past four years. Fortunately, with the start of this new year, we will not need to suffer anymore. Yes, yes, yes. Bai Zhi spoke quickly, This year, Miss will absolutely have a good fortune for the entire year. Everything will go smoothly! Jiang Ruan knew that she had misunderstood her meaning. She did not explain further, however, and just peered outside the window. The weather outside is excellent, lets go out for a walk. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao looked at each other in pleasant surprise. Normally, unless she had chores to perform, Jiang Ruan would be unwilling to take a walk outside on her own accord. Whenever the servants in the residence saw them, they always seemed to have a knack for ridiculing them. Lian Qiaos bold personality barely managed to subdue some of them, but it did not suppress everyone. Gradually, Jiang Ruan became unwilling to meet people, and always stayed in her own residence. Okay, okay, okay. Lian Qiao rummaged through the trunk with a smile, Which clothes does Miss plan to wear? Jiang Ruan could not help but laugh, in spite of herself. In reality, it didnt matter which clothes she wore. When she initially arrived at the residence, she brought numerous sets of clothes and accessories with her. But it was not long after, they were either tricked or snatched away by Zhang Lan and Chen Fang. In the end, they did not spare even a single clothing of hers, substituting them with crude, tattered and worn clothes. Appearance and clothing materials aside, the cotton padding for the jackets meant for the winter were so sparse that they failed to provide a basic protection against the cold. You pick, Jiang Ruan spoke. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi took a long time making a choice, and settled on an old cotton-padded jacket with a dark green buckle. Underneath, was a loose, light yellow thick dress that Bai Zhi had altered. For the outermost layer, she wore a long, brown cape. Afraid that an exquisite hairstyle would clash with the outfit, Bai Zhi helped her to style a simple dumpling hair bun that suited her young age. This ensemble could not be counted as festive, but with Jiang Ruans fair complexion, she did not appear uncouth. Additionally, with a calm and apathetic aura, it was obvious that if someone was to differentiate her from her usual self, they would consider them two different people. After packing up properly, the trio walked out of the residence. Lian Qiao suggested a walk along the streets. Just as they emerged from the main residence, they bumped directly into a few people. A pleasantly surprised voice could be heard, Younger Sister Ruan! Lian Qiao creased her brow. Without a sound, Bai Zhi protectively positioned Jiang Ruan behind her. Jiang Ruan raised her head, the other persons shadow clearly reflected in both her eyes. It was the young son of the Zhang Lan family, Chen Zhao. Chapter 5 Today, Chen Zhao was just returning from outside, after goofing off, when he coincidentally met the few people leaving the residence. The girl in the middle had a delicate and graceful appearance, seeing this his eyes couldnt help but brighten. It was only after he has looked closely, did he realize that she was Jiang Ruan. Ordinarily, Jiang Ruan did not dress as presentably as Chen Fang, so Chen Zhao seldom paid any attention to her. However, a few days ago, he suddenly developed a curiosity to experience ladies from an officials family. Who could have guessed that this lady had such an upright personality, going so far as to jump into the water without another word. Now when he thought about it, he had to suppress a belly full of resentment. Who knew, when he saw her today, his eyes would brighten? Perhaps, it was because New Year was around the corner that although she was dressed lightly, the garment that complemented her skin made her face extremely elegant. The most important feature was her calm and quiet aura, as if she had become another person. Chen Zhao squinted, carefully scrutinizing the girl in front of his eyes. Jiang Ruan was merely a young lady who had yet to reach her prime. Her figure exuded a slight naivety, yet embodied a certain feeling of composure, strangely making her seem a bit mature. These contrasting auras surfacing in a single person were extremely mesmerizing to others. Although she was a young lady, Chen Zhao could not help but to swallow his saliva. He had seen the unusual and horrible habits of a few officials sons at the brothel, especially when they loved to fool around with younger-aged girls. Yet, he had never experienced that kind of feeling before. Lian Qiao could not bear the lecherous gaze Chen Zhao laid upon Jiang Ruans body. The look in her eyes turned stern. Without thinking, she opened her mouth and spoke, Presumptuous! Who allowed you to misbehave? How dare you speak to a master like this! Although these words were rather formidable, they had fallen on deaf ears. Chen Zhao was not fearful at all. He had heard about how this lady had fallen into dire straits with her family from the capital and was well aware of her current status. Referring to Zhang Lans opinion, Jiang Ruan might have to stay in this residence for the rest of her life. Thus, given the situation, it would be great if he could fool around with her. Although he had this thought in his heart, Chen Zhao was still all smiles as he clasped his hands, It is my fault. Just now as I watched a few people heading here from afar, I was wondering who the fairy-like younger girl was in the middle as she looked very unfamiliar. After walking closer, I only saw now that she is our lady. I couldnt control my sudden feelings- please forgive me just this once. As soon as these words escaped his mouth, not only Lian Qiaos expression changed, but Bai Zhis as well. She spoke angrily, What nonsense are you blathering about? Our ladys pure reputation is not something that you can ruin! Chen Zhao took two steps backwards in astonishment, Ruin our ladys pure reputation? I have never thought about something like this. Our lady is a daughter from a noble family. I wouldnt dare to think about it. I just hope that Miss will not chase me away, and let me look at you from afar. With this, I will be satisfied. In the past, he had harassed many ladies from decent families. As soon as he opened his mouth, he possessed a silver tongue. If a lady heard it, she would either be angered to the point of crying loudly on the spot, or turning completely red with embarrassment. Jiang Ruans reaction was a bit unusual today. Jiang Ruan stared at him quietly. Her clear eyes were akin to a cold lake in the winter, without a hint of warmth. Although her gaze was cold, her lips curved slightly, as if watching a prancing clown. There was no indignance, merely impenetrably cold indifference. Chen Zhao was startled. Yet, he saw Jiang Ruan opening her mouth slowly, Of course, I will not chase you away. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi were also stumped. They were in a hurry to get rid of an immoral scoundrel like him, so what did Jiang Ruans words mean? Initially, Chen Zhao was slightly suspicious. However, his misgivings soon transformed into secret delight. Eyeing the two maids gleefully, he thought inwardly that this lady was still someone who knew how to have fun. Looking at the present situation, so what if she was a noble familys daughter? After residing in the village for a long time, she still lost her sense of propriety, justice, integrity and honor by indulging in these matters at a young age. Recently, you accidentally pushed me into the lake. I suffered a cold and was bedridden. Auntie Lan sent a medical practitioner to see me, and personally apologized, with the request that I forgive you. I have already forgiven you. Then, of course I will not chase you away. Jiang Ruans voice was soft and gentle, with a soothing coolness that comforted people. Yet, Chen Zhaos heart sank when he heard it. After Jiang Ruan fell into the lake, in order to prevent people from discovering the truth, he lied that he accidentally caused Jiang Ruan to slip. These words that were spoken by Jiang Ruan made Chen Zhao remember that because he wanted to avoid arousing suspicion, he rarely met her. Now that Jiang Ruan mentioned it, was the incident unintentional or on purpose? Thinking about this, Chen Zhao seriously scrutinized Jiang Ruan . Under his observation, the girl simply stood on her spot. The old-fashioned, drab clothing on her did not make her look haggard. Instead, it accentuated her pale, snowy skin, dark eyes and black eyebrows. Furthermore, the expression that moved between her eyebrows unexpectedly had an austere charm. Staring at her, Chen Zhaos alarmed gaze turned into infatuation. Since he discovered how interesting this lady from the Jiang family was, naturally, he would not let her go. The days were still long; there was no need to be anxious at the moment. Thinking of this, he smiled and clasped his hands again at Jiang Ruan, I am the one to blame for your thinness. Today, it is inconvenient for me to bother you as you want to go out. I will visit you and apologize another day. Who wants you to visit us and apologize? Lian Qiao glared at him, but Chen Zhao left with a smile. After Chen Zhao walked away, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi breathed a sigh of relief. Bai Zhi knitted her eyebrows together, Miss, why did you phrase it that way? He is trouble, how can- Thats right, thats right, Lian Qiao assented, I am really itching to gouge both of his eyeballs out! Disgusting! They will be gouged out, Jiang Ruan spoke calmly, He wants to silently watch me from afar, then let him look to his hearts content. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao exchanged stares as they felt the slight chill in her tone. Pausing for a while, Bai Zhi said, Who cares about him? Let us go out for a walk. For these past few days, the residence has been uneventful. The East Street should be quite lively. East Street? Jiang Ruan thought about it and shook her head, No, lets go to West Street. West Street? Bai Zhi hesitated slightly, Why does Miss want to go to West Street? There are mostly beggars and poor commoners on West Street. Coinciding with the New Year, it is even more chaotic. Miss, I think it would be best to not head there. East Street has many cosmetic stores and restaurants, and there will be some new and odd trinkets. Why dont we walk around East Street? Jiang Ruan shook her head, To West Street. Although the voice was soft, it could definitely not tolerate any objections. It was clear that she had made her decision. Bai Zhi stared blankly, momentarily put into a tight spot. Aiya, lets listen to our lady and go to West Street. Lian Qiao clapped Bai Zhis shoulders, With us around, what are you afraid of? Especially now that it is a clear, sunny day, why are you putting so much thought into it? If there is really a problem, there are still us maids protecting her so our lady can be rest assured. Bai Zhi could only nod her head, though she had become more wary. There was a disparity between the wealthy and the poor between the East and West Streets. Poor commoners had been living on West Street for ages so naturally, it couldnt be compared with the flourishing and lively East Street. Their lady did not usually have any desire to come to West Street so why did she have this impulse today? Bai Zhi felt that she could not understand her ladys thoughts more and more, as if their lady had grown nine levels of astuteness overnight. Being looked at by those dark eyes, she felt a slight chill. Yet, Lian Qiao was extremely happy. It was obvious that Jiang Ruan had been enlightened. Compared to being submissive, having a master like this was so much better- at least those people would not dare to bully her openly. Jiang Ruan did not notice that the two maids by her side were lost in their alternating thoughts. She just quietly walked forward. However, if someone observed her attentively, they would see slight trembling of her fingertips. There were certain matters that should have been changed from the beginning. Chapter 6 It was an inevitable principle that everything in the world has a polar opposite. Where there was Yin, there should be Yang. Where there was bitterness, there should be sweetness. Where there was a golden mansion, there would be a dilapidated shack. While there was affluent houses, there was also the Ping Yang Alley, which was considered rundown and poor. While the flourishing East Street was lively, the cheerless West Street was in decline. As if completely uninfluenced by the New Years atmosphere, the citizens of West Street were sparsely clothed as they rushed hastily around to various places. They did not have the relaxed mood of the New Year. Most of their faces seemed apathetic and cold. Compared to the pressing problems of food and clothing expenses, the New Year festival did not seem as important. In the middle of the street, there were only a few houses that had stuck simple Spring Festival couplets on red paper at their entrances, and hung old-fashioned lanterns, vaguely giving a slight feeling of New Year. A few children sat in front of a cosmetics stall, playing with a button that they had just picked up earlier. Sometimes, they would lift their dirty faces to scrutinize the Jiang Ruan trio curiously before enthusiastically returning their attentions to their own play. Contrary to what one might expect, there was a peddler selling plum blossoms. At his stall, he displayed a few large, chipped earthen vases with a few stalks of almost wilting plum blossoms. His eyes brightened as he saw Jiang Ruan and her maids. He hawked hastily, Beautiful plum blossoms, does Miss want one? When it is placed in a room, it will look very pretty. Its also fragrant! How much are these plum blossoms? Lian Qiao asked. The peddler spread his palms, They are not expensive, five bronze coins. So expensive, Lian Qiao spoke in surprise, We dont want them anymore. Ai, ai, ai, Upon seeing this, the peddler quickly said, Forget about it, just three bronze coins will do. The price cannot be lower. The children in my family are still waiting for a warm bowl of rice. Lian Qiao wanted to reduce it further when Jiang Ruan had already opened her mouth, I want everything that you have. Bai Zhi was startled and spoke up in slight disagreement, Miss, money is tight now- Jiang Ruan shook her head, Do according to what I say. There is a need for them later. Bai Zhi no longer said anything. She poured most of the bronze coins from her personal cloth pouch into her hand, and handed them over to the peddler. The peddler did not expect to close this business deal so successfully. Normally, travellers on East Street were penniless. They were not likely to spend any money on flowers. Yet, he had an unforeseen gain today. Therefore, he might as well push the vase containing the plum blossoms into Lian Qiaos arms, Its the New Year now. Miss, you should also invite some good omens. I will regard this porcelain vase as a gift to you. After he finished speaking, he packed up his stall and left. Holding the porcelain vase containing the plum blossoms in her hands, Lian Qiao finally could not help but ask, What does Miss need these plum blossoms for? Although they are pretty, we will not be able to use everything that we bought. Moreover, the flowers are going to wilt in a few days. It is more realistic to eat a few spring pancakes. These flowers are not meant to be looked at, Jiang Ruan spoke as she walked forward, They are to be gifted. Gifted? Lian Qiao looked at her curiously. Gifted to whom? Yet, Jiang Ruan had stopped speaking. They walked and walked, and reached the West Street Market. The West Street Market was the most lively place on the street. Compared to East Street, it was the place where most of the crooks and honest folk mingled together. There were people of various ranks and status. Precisely because of this, regardless of what happened in this place, it wasnt surprising. However, nothing could surpass the most common crime of ones belongings being stolen by the pickpockets. And at the moment, one of them was happening. The trio had just walked to the market entrance, when they saw an extremely thick crowd making an incomprehensible clamour from within. Lian Qiao watched Jiang Ruan halt her footsteps and thought for a moment before delivering a few sentences into Bai Zhis ear. The duo pushed against the crowd to open a path for Jiang Ruan. As soon as the trio reached the inner circle of the crowd, they were able to see the situation clearly. In the middle of the circle, they saw two people engaged in a confrontation. One of them was an old person with white beard and hair. At this moment, his face was flushed with anger, with veins popping out in a towering rage. The other party was a young girl of either seven or eight, whose head was lowered with tears filling her eyes. Lian Qiao patted the person beside her on the shoulders and quietly spoke a few words. Then, she turned to Jiang Ruan, Apparently, this old man claimed that the young lady stole his money. She said she did not steal and began to cry anxiously. Surrounded by the crowd, the young girl stood with an extremely pale expression. Her hand gripped the money with her eyes widening in utter helplessness. She looked at the old man, who could not restrain his anger. He wore a long, brown, hemp-lined robe and was angry to the point of a trembling moustache. His booming voice came to a near roar, As a young lady, you have already learned this ploy to steal at such a young age. How uneducated you are! Someone could not watch the situation any longer, and opened his mouth to put a stop to it, Old man, why do you have to speak such unpleasant words? You are being so forcefully aggressive towards a young girl. Dont tell me that after living for so many years, you are willing to use your seniority to bully the young? You are not ashamed at all! You- The old man was so angry that he could not speak. Besides, how can you prove that she stole your money? The person was unrelenting, You are claiming that mere young girl of seven or eight is capable of stealing your money. Is it because you are too careless or that this girl possesses remarkable abilities? Bah, perhaps, you are the one who intends on cheating this young lady out of her money! As soon as these words were spoken, the onlookers agreed immediately, Yes, yes. How can a young girl like this have the capability to steal things? He did not even have any forethought before he lied. It is obvious that he wants to cheat the young ladys money! One by one, the onlookers started to discuss the confrontation. They collectively blamed the old man, as if he was the main culprit. The old mans beard quivered, and his face reddened as if it could spill blood. Yet, he could not say a word. His lips just trembled as he breathed deeply. How pitiful, Lian Qiao lamented. Jiang Ruan eyed her, You also believe that he wanted to steal other peoples money? Of course not, Lian Qiao spoke, She can deceive others, but she cannot deceive me. In the past, I have seen a lot of these girls in the village. Clearly, she is lying. Bai Zhi, am I right? Bai Zhi nodded her head slightly. Lian Qiao said, Today, this old man is out of luck. How pitiful. An unusual glint flitted past Jiang Ruans eyes. In reality, just as Lian Qiao mentioned, the young girl was unskilled in the art of deceit. Within the crowd, it wasnt that there wasnt anyone who couldnt detect the true nature of her ploy. Its just that West street, in and of itself, was a place where the poorer folk gathered and they bore a very large prejudice against outsiders and excluded those who came from foreign lands. To the people here, this old man was nothing more than a stranger, and strangers should be held in check. So today, this little girl would bag a definite win and this old man was destined to bear the crime of a swindler. Then, what can she do? Jiang Ruan paused for a while, gently pushing away Bai Zhi, who was protecting her with part of her body. Bai Zhi was startled. Seeing Jiang Ruans movement, she hurriedly spoke to stop her, Miss, you cannot. It is best that we do not interfere. The truth was not important, but the attitude of the onlookers was. Even if her lady stepped forward to mediate, she would only be regarded as an undiscriminating outsider and hence, she would be attacked alongside the old man. As for the old man, let him be. He would only lose some face. But her lady was a daughter from a prestigious family. Even if she was now tied to the residence, her identity was not something that could be changed. Jiang Ruan shook her head gently, Bai Zhi, move away. Bai Zhi was startled, but Jiang Ruan had already moved forward a few steps, exposed to the crowds sight. She spoke gently, Old man, you do not need to be anxious. This world is not composed of black and white. Although it cannot be explained clearly at this moment, the truth will eventually be revealed. Why do you hurt your own body with such foul words? Doesnt the loss outweigh the gain? Chapter 7 In a situation where the circumstances were skewed to the young girls favor and someone suddenly came to the old mans defense, everyones eyes would naturally gather on the one who spoke up for him. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao barricaded Jiang Ruan quickly from the front and the back to prevent anyone from bumping into her. Jiang Ruan did not shrink away from the eyes of the crowd. She merely stood on her spot and allowed others to scrutinize her. The old mans face and neck were flushed crimson in the heat of his anger. Therefore, Jiang Ruans gentle, unexpected consolation bore a hint of coolness that pierced through his temper. Although they were experiencing winter, it was akin to a spring breeze that swept the impatience clean from his head. His heart gradually calmed down. Flabbergasted, just like the crowd, he examined the other party along with them. A little girl of ten stood within the crowd, in contrast to her tone that was similar to a mature adults. Although her stature was small and her height was short, one could not ignore her. This young girls living conditions probably caused the paleness of her skin and lips. Yet, her facial features were naturally elegant. She had cherry lips, while her nose resembled jade. Her most beautiful attribute was the pair of eyes beneath her umber-black lashes. Their moistness was similar to a spring at the top of the mountains and their depths could penetrate into the bottom of ones heart. Although her gaze was extremely innocent, the slightly rising corners of her eyes unconsciously implied seductive undertones. If she had grown up with proper nurturing, she would have been a devastating beauty. Nevertheless, the entire body of a young girl with a natural charm like this emanated an indescribable chill. She just stood silently, yet there was an unspeakable feeling. It was impossible for one to take her lightly, to the extent that a tinge of fear might appear without reason. The old man creased his eyebrows at the two maids accompanying her. If she was a daughter from a prestigious family, she was clothed too crudely. If she was a daughter from a common household, her imposing style did not seem like it could be nurtured by such a household. Jiang Ruan stood quietly. From the side, the accused child stared at her before crying loudly. As her tears spilled, she sobbed, I did not- I did not steal the money. Mother, I did not steal the money! With this outburst, a commoner housewife wearing a flowery robe squeezed through the crowd and strode forward to protect the child by shielding her behind her back. She eyed the old man and Jiang Ruan in a hostile manner and spoke loudly, What are you trying to do to my Qiao? Two people bullying one girl and using your elderly position to bully the younger, arent you embarrassed? Lian Qiao could not stand it. Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak, she jumped forward and laughed, This Madam, you have spoken wrongly. Our lady merely came forward to speak some words of justice and reason. How did she bully your daughter? There are so many onlookers right now, did our lady beat or scold her? Besides, using ones elderly position to bully the young, I cannot tell if our lady is that much older than your daughter. Who would want to argue noisily amongst the crowd with your daughter? Using ones elderly position to bully the younger and using a large number to bully the few, from what Ive seen, it is uncertain who is bullying whom. Bah! The housewife was startled, as if she did not expect Lian Qiao, who seemed gentle, to scold someone without stopping for a breath. For a short while, she did not know how to reply. When she had digested the words, she flew into a rage out of humiliation. She wanted to continue to assert herself without proper basis when Jiang Ruan opened her mouth, It is unimportant who was the one who bullied the other. The most important thing is the money, isnt it? The housewife turned her head and pulled the child into her embrace. She spoke angrily, Our Qiaoer would never steal anothers money. I handed it to her when she left this morning. This is a large amount of money. Yet, you are comfortable with letting such a young child take care of it. Your composure is admirable, Jiang Ruan spoke drily. One did not know if it was on purpose or by accident, she emphasized on the word young heavily. Her surroundings immediately produced a wave of laughter. This housewife just claimed that her daughter was young in age, yet she handed such a huge sum of money to her. It was a rather unconvincing justification. I- I wanted to let her go out to purchase some items, the housewife was slightly enraged. What did you want to buy? With this much money, the items that you wanted to purchase must have been a lot. Would Miss Qiao be able to carry them? The surrounding laughter grew louder. The housewife became more and more enraged, Why do you need to care about that? Of course, I have things to purchase. Now, I have already mentioned that I gave this money to Qiaoer. However, this old man claimed that it is his money. Does he have any evidence or a witness? Among the spectators, no one spoke. There was truly no evidence nor witness. Even though one was able to guess the cause of this matter, there was still no one that was willing to help the old man to get out of this predicament. You are going along with her evil deeds, colluding together and joining her villainy- The old man stamped his foot in rage, spouting a few phrases in a single breath. Unfortunately, these cultured curses did not have any effect on the onlookers. Do not worry, sir, Jiang Ruan spoke. The old man turned to Jiang Ruan, creasing his brows. He spoke in a stiff tone, Young lady, I do not want to implicate you. These people are concealing the evidence of their crime. I will persist until the end. I appreciate that you have lent me a hand today. However, you cannot even defend yourself, much less help others. You better protect yourself. When he uttered the two words young lady, the old man hesitated slightly. It was quite odd to call a child, who could be his own granddaughter, a young lady, but when he faced this young girl, he had a feeling of interacting with a grown woman. He really could not treat her like a normal child. Old man, you are ungrateful. My lady has rescued you, yet you failed to appreciate her kindness. After hearing such words, Lian Qiao spoke angrily. Lian Qiao, Jiang Ruan stopped her and spoke, How are you so sure that I am unable to protect myself? Dont tell me that you still have a plan? The old man raised his voice and it attracted the eyes of the onlookers. Sir, you should first mention how you lost the money, Jiang Ruan spoke. I did not steal his money. I did not steal his money! The child shrieked in tears. Shut up, Jiang Ruan eyed Miss Qiao, who was nestled within the housewifes embrace, coldly. After being stared at by Jiang Ruans cold gaze, Miss Qiao unconsciously felt fear in her heart. She held her tongue immediately, and withdrew further into the housewifes embrace. The crowd was astonished. Upon seeing this, the old man thought about it and spoke, Today was my first visit here. At the end of the street, I bought a deep-fried dough cake [Yu bng] from a peddler. I grabbed some copper coins from my purse. After walking for a while, I felt that someone had touched my things. I saw a young girl walking beside me. Since I was being vigilant, I looked into my coin purse and discovered that my money had vanished all of a sudden. So I caught her. As expected, I discovered the money on her. Who knew that she would make bogus accusations against me? It is really distasteful! After he finished, he glared at the child, whose face had traces of tears. Where is the peddler that sold the deep-fried dough cakes? Jiang Ruan asked. Its me. A tan-skinned, middle-aged man came forward with avoidant eyes. He scratched his head, There were too many customers who purchased the deep-fried dough cakes. I can not remember if he bought anything from my stall. The people of West Street were apathetic. It was evident that these words were meant to patronize. Upon seeing this, the young girl and the housewife rejoiced in Jiang Ruans misfortune as they looked at her. They felt that Jiang Ruan was incapable of dishing out any new tricks anymore. Since both parties insist that they are right, Jiang Ruan spoke softly, Then, let the money speak. Chapter 8 The money spoke? How could the money speak? Because these words were interesting, one by one, the crowd shifted their gaze towards Jiang Ruan. The old man, who was stomping with rage, also turned to look doubtfully at her. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao exchanged glances, not knowing what Jiang Ruan had planned for later. The housewife almost laughed, speaking rather mockingly, Little girl, arent you spouting nonsense? Dont tell me that you can really make the money open its mouth to speak? If it is true that you have this ability, then quickly let it be an eye-opener for everyone. If you are talking through your hat, then dont let everyone watch you make a fool of yourself. Of course, the money can speak, Jiang Ruan spoke drily. Let me ask once more. Madam, is the money really yours? I definitely handed it to Maiden Qiao, the housewife raised her head and spoke in a righteous and self-confident manner. Okay. Jiang Ruan spoke, Bai Zhi, find me a basin of clear water. None of the onlookers knew what Jiang Ruan was planning. A roadside hawker piped up, I have fresh water for immediate use. I can give you some, Bai Zhi carried the basin of clear water to Jiang Ruan and set it properly at her feet. Madam, please hand the money over to me. The housewife eyed Jiang Ruan doubtfully, while the childs hands held the purse even tighter. If you do not pass the money over to me, how can I interrogate it? Jiang Ruan deadpanned. As soon as these words were spoken, the tense atmosphere immediately burst into peals of laughter. At this moment, the number of spectators grew. They observed this young lady, with such an unconventional temperament and who had made such a sudden proclamation, and could not help but feel sorry for her in their hearts. She seemed like a smart lady, so it was unbelievable that a screw had gone loose in her brain. Lian Qiao glared at the crowd around her. Perhaps, the crowds guffaws instilled confidence in the housewife, so she took the money from the childs hands and passed it to Jiang Ruan, There. You should ask clearly since everyone is listening. Amongst the people present at the scene, other than Jiang Ruan, there were only three who hadnt smiled. Needless to say, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao did not smile. The old man also furrowed his brows, carefully observing Jiang Ruans actions. Jiang Ruan held the money within her palms. Her face was expressionless. Yet, her voice was exceptionally gentle, Money, oh, money. Can you please tell me, when all is said and done, who is the one lying? The housewife sniggered, Little girl, please dont say that the money will inform you like this. You are basically trying to fool everyone. You shouldnt play us as if we are idiots! Jiang Ruan barely looked at her. She loosened her hand and the money plopped into the basin. A layer surfaced on the rippling water. She stated, The money has already spoken. What words? The housewife was getting slightly impatient, There are so many pairs of ears here. Dont tell me that you are the only one who can hear it speak? It is not heard, but seen, Jiang Ruan stared at the water. Amongst the crowd, a curious lad craned his neck, Has it spoken already? Didnt it? Jiang Ruan replied him with her own question. With her thin body wrapped under a loose robe, she should have a weak posture. Instead, she exuded extraordinary determination. It was as if there were no matters serious enough in this world that could sway her calmness into submission. The onlookers could not decipher the mystery. One by one, they looked towards the basin, yet they could not spot anything that would explain it. After a moment, someone cried out in surprise, Look! There is something on the water surface! A thin layer of grease surfaced on the clear water and its golden color was extremely noticeable. Jiang Ruan spoke, After Old Mister finished his deep-fried dough cakes, he grabbed his bronze coins. Therefore, it is common for the grease on his fingers to graze upon the money. Its just that, I do not know how you caused the grease to brush against the money? Dont tell me that you are recalling now that you or Maiden Qiao also bought some deep-fried dough cakes? Oddly, one could hear a cadence within her flat tone. She was able to explain the entire sequence of events clearly with just a few sentences. Killing two birds with one stone, she stifled the housewifes possible arguments completely. If the housewife continued to quarrel, others would instead feel that her attempts to cover the matter up would only worsen it. So this is how it is! Someone exclaimed, The money belongs to the old man, because he bought some deep-fried dough cakes and grazed it with oil. The truth can only be revealed when the money meet the water. Isnt this the money speaking? The crowd was full of discussion. Each and every one of them was astonished at Jiang Ruan. At such a young age, this bright mind was worthy of admiration. The old man continued to watch her every action. She freed him from their accusations easily. Naturally, he was overwhelmed with a mixture of joy and great surprise. His gaze softened a few notches towards Jiang Ruan, seemingly different from the person who rejected her so stubbornly earlier. Hugging the child, the housewife still wanted to argue, Your one-sided statement- Sir, Jiang Ruan did not listen to her words at all and turned towards the old man, This matter is very simple. Since there are so many people who are unable to defend you with justice, you probably dont need to waste your time here. Why not ask around at the prefectural county magistrate of East Street? There may be someone who can serve you justice. Naturally, the magistrate of East Street had the authority to uphold justice in the perfectural county, which included the West Street. Since ancient times, the people would not challenge officials. Even though everyone from West Street was prejudiced against outsiders, when it concerned their own gains, no one was willing to wade through muddy waters. The crowd that originally surrounded them dispersed immediately. With the situation turning unfavorable and Jiang Ruan shifting her previously gentle attitude to ruthlessness, the housewife knew that there was no use continuing the dispute. She picked up the child immediately, I wont argue with people like you. Qiao, lets leave. After the housewife left, Jiang Ruan retrieved the coins from the money from the basin and passed it over to the old man. He accepted it and looked at her searchingly, Young girl, you are quite interesting. Which manor are you from? Sir, you are also quite headstrong. I wonder if you are an official from any manor, Jiang Ruan replied coldly. Startled, the old man did not expect the young girl that had been helping him to treat him so coldly out of a sudden. He spoke in confusion, Do you have a bone to pick with me? I do, Jiang Ruan spoke. The old mans blank stare met her. She continued nonchalantly, When you come across such a circumstance, where the dispute cant be settled decisively, you should report it to the authorities immediately. Sir, you have aged beyond decades. Surely, you can recognize the logic that everything has its own limits. If I were not here today, even if you argued for an entire day, settling this matter would have been unlikely. Perhaps, even more accusations may have been piled up against you. Young girl, the old mans neck stiffened, I originally thought that you possessed chivalrous courage when you lent me a helping hand. However, it never crossed my mind that you are also similar to the others. Of course, I need to make it clear who is right or wrong. I am right, hence I am unafraid to confront them. Jiang Ruan thought for a moment, You are right. Despite being past your prime, you still argued in the streets. The strength of your character is deserving of admiration. I think that your younger self must have been similar as well. With the need of having the final say in an argument, no one could forcefully make you concede. With her unchanging expression and gentle voice, one would not know if her speech was meant to praise or disparage the old man. The sharpness of the blade is honed on the grindstone and the fragrance of the plum blossoms originates from the bitter winter. Your character is quite similar to these plum blossoms. Bai Zhi, gift them to him as an acknowledgement of this fated chance that brought us together. Chapter 9 - A Malicious Servant Dominating Her Master On the journey home, Lian Qiao tried to hold it in before she finally snapped, Miss, why did you gift those plum blossoms to someone else? In any case, they still costed us money. If you wanted to use them as a present, you should have kept a stalk so we could display it in the house. What is the logic in giving them away to strangers without anything in return? Lian Qiao, have you ever seen me fancying plum blossoms? Jiang Ruan spoke. This- Indeed, you dont favor them greatly, Lian Qiao shook her head. When Jiang Ruans mother was alive, her lady still liked flowers. However, ever since her passing, Jiang Ruan had been living through hardships everyday and was not in the mood to lead a life of love and gaiety. Since I dont like them, there is no use in keeping them. Jiang Ruan spoke indifferently, Why not do someone else a favor at little cost by gifting them to him? But this favor is also made from money. Anxiety led Lian Qiao to approach the subject bluntly, That old man is neither our relative nor friend. What was the point of gifting them to him? Jiang Ruan walked forward in a relaxed fashion, Of course, there is a benefit in doing so. In this world, everything has a price. Today, I gifted him a few stalks of plum blossoms. In the future, the price that he will have to pay will naturally be higher than these plum blossoms. It is just that for now, we are not able to see it yet. These words were too vague. Lian Qiao could not understand what she heard, while Bai Zhi trailed behind them silently. The both of them were very perplexed. Bai Zhi opened her mouth, From your words, are you implying that we are going to meet the old man again in the future? But those plum blossoms were bought today in passing. If you already had an earlier plan, how could you predict that the old man would show up and argue with others? I am not a deity, so how can I foresee the future? Jiang Ruan replied calmly. Although her tone was light, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao felt a few degrees of coldness within. Goosebumps rose on their skins. In the end, they managed to return to the residence without a hitch. From a great distance, they saw a maid, who wore a brand-new, green double-layered jacket, walking towards them. Her lips were smeared in brilliant red. As soon as she set her sight upon the trio, she raised her voice exaggeratedly, Aiya, my lady. The weather is bitter and cold out there. Your body is still unwell so how could you venture outside? Where did you go? I searched the entire residence but I could not find you at all. Chun Ying, Lian Qiao stuck her hands on her hips, Why are you causing an uproar in broad daylight? Dont tell me that wherever she goes, our lady has to report her whereabouts to you? I am just worried about our lady. Miss, you barely recovered. As it is currently the years end, if there were any more unexpected accidents, what should I do? With her mocking tone, Chun Ying was not easy to be dealt with. Bai Zhi knitted her brows, You are also aware that our lady has not recovered fully yet. Then, why are you so loud? Your noisiness is causing her headaches. Chun Ying flattened her mouth and spoke to Jiang Ruan, Miss, I have the best of intentions. You are currently still sick, so you should not walk all over the place and allow outsiders the chance to gossip. Jiang Ruan looked at her quietly. Both Chun Ying and Qiu Yan were high-ranked maids. Hence, her position was relatively high within the residence. Throughout the year, Qiu Yan was busy with matters outside of the residence, so her opportunities to bump into Jiang Ruan were extremely rare. However, Chun Ying was mainly responsible for the matters within the residence. She had a close relationship with the Zhang Lan family. As she was eager to please Zhang Lan, she often made life difficult for Jiang Ruan; she probably acted upon her superiors wishes. In front of Jiang Ruan, Chun Ying did not show a single shred of respect at all, as if she did not attach any importance to Jiang Ruan. Instead, she treated the Zhang Lans family with more respect than her. Jiang Ruan remembered Chun Ying very clearly. In her past life, the gossip about how she seduced Chen Zhao had spread like wildfire because Chun Ying was involved in adding fuel to that fire. She recounted the incident amongst the servants, as if she had seen it with her own eyes. Because of this, the gossip worsened and led Jiang Ruan to her early ruin. As Jiang Ruan did not reply for a long time, Chun Ying looked towards her in surprise. Her sight met Jiang Ruans. Her soft gaze was indescribably unnerving, as if she was scrutinizing a plaything that would soon be destroyed with detached pity. Miss? Chun Ying creased her eyebrows. Who is the one that is gossiping? Jiang Ruan stared at her, curving her lips lightly with a smile. The edge of her eyebrows rose flippantly, as if she was a different person. Immediately, her allure shone through. Although Chun Ying was a lady, Jiang Ruans charm captivated her to the point of speechlessness. Dont tell me that you are the one who was making thoughtless remarks? Jiang Ruans next sentence reined Chun Yings train of thought back on track. Stunned, she shook her head subconsciously, Of course, it wasnt me. A dog is raised to bite outsiders and not the people it is supposed to protect. If the dog insists on causing a ruckus when it meets them, do you know what its ending will be? Jiang Ruan asked her. Chun Ying shook her head. Of course, it will be braised into a delicious delicacy. Jiang Ruan spoke softly, slowly emphasizing over the last two words. Chun Ying pinned a blank stare on her. Under the sunlight, Jiang Ruans fair skin and beautiful facade seemed rather ghastly. Chun Ying unconsciously took two steps backwards, M- Miss, Auntie Lan has been waiting in the house. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiaos expressions twisted simultaneously. As a servant, she dared to use the word wait. She had no sense of respect at all. The Zhang Lan family acted too wilfully with their usual lip service. On the surface, their pretense did not allow anyone to raise any issues of their shortcomings but in private, they were extremely harsh towards Jiang Ruan. Is she waiting for me now? Jiang Ruan raised her head slightly, Lets go then. I wouldnt want to let her wait for too long. She caressed her jackets dark green button. In the house, two people sat in front of the brazier. A young girl of thirteen cuddled in a middle-aged womans embrace and spoke critically, It is so cold in here. There is even an unpleasant stench wafting about. It is of no wonder that her body always smells so awful. Fanger, dont speak nonsense, the woman admonished, Regardless, she is our master. You shouldnt mistreat her too excessively. This might be used against us. Although it was meant to reprimand, her tone was full of love. The young girl straightened into a sitting position, How can she be considered as our master? Look at her wretched and poor appearance. Our master has already given up and stopped caring about her. I know how to handle her. Mother, look at this golden hairpin on my head. Is it pretty? She tilted her head, exposing its golden base inlaid with grain-sized pearls. Slightly tanned, her facial features were common. She wore a brand-new, pink satin jacket with embroidered peony. A purple dress skirt with a red layer was wrapped around her lower half and a long string of multi-colored jade hung on her waist. A pair of eight treasures earrings dangled from her ears. There was a large, golden necklace looped around her neck. Although she was merely a daughter of a servant in the residence, her manner of dressing was on par with a wealthy households daughter. The quality is not bad. Fanger wears it beautifully, Zhang Lan praised. Chen Fang laughed gleefully. She was about to say more when a soft voice spoke from outside, Auntie Lan has waited in my house for such a long time; is there an important matter? Chapter 10 - Change Chen Fang and Zhang Lan were smiling at each other when they heard Jiang Ruan. They directed their eyes towards the entrance and saw three approaching silhouettes illuminated from their backs. Although the leaders slim figure was nestled under a loose-fitting jacket, she seemed immaculate. The sunlight glowed on her pale skin, as if within a night, her facial features had become more defined. Her pupils were no longer lifeless like in the past. They were similar to an ancient well without ripples. Yet, the edges of her eyes showed an indescribable charm. Her gaze was akin to flowing spring water. Her unsophisticated manners were no longer visible, while a captivating vigor was present. Jiang Ruan raised her brows. Even though her clear voice was pleasant to the ears, it was laced with a penetrating coolness, Auntie Lan? Zhang Lan recovered her senses abruptly and even Chen Fang, who was beside her, was jolted from her reverie and glared at Jiang Ruan with a mixture of jealousy and anger. It was as if this utterly pathetic daughter of an official, who did not possess any pride or dignity, had transformed into another person. As Jiang Ruans gaze skimmed over her, she felt her soul depart from her body. Miss, youre back. Although Zhang Lan worded her speech in this manner, her body hadnt moved at all. She merely tapped her legs tiredly, Today, after resolving all the frivolous matters in the residence with much difficulty, I finally managed to clear some free time so I thought of visiting you. It has never crossed my mind that you might not be around. I looked and looked for you everywhere and sprained my leg as a result. Therefore, I have been resting here for a bit. Miss, I hope that you can excuse my lack of manners. Lian Qiao watched the scene with a pair of furious eyes. On the surface, one would not be able to nitpick any faults with Zhang Lans words, but she was brazenly humiliating Jiang Ruan. She was merely a servant, yet she sat when her mistress was standing. She really did not have any respect for authority at all. At first, Lian Qiao wanted to rebuke her, but she changed her mind suddenly when she observed Jiang Ruans gaze. Therefore, she stood quietly beside Jiang Ruan with Bai Zhi without a word. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, Auntie Lan, you are taking this too seriously. You have been breaking your back over this residences matters, striving to perform to your utmost duty. Of course, you should rest properly. I feel really apologetic that you have been working so hard because of me. Why not let me massage your leg? Then perhaps, you will feel more comfortable? At the beginning, Jiang Ruans reply sounded very pleasing but after Zhang Lan listened to the rest, her expression changed completely. When Jiang Ruan finished talking, she stood up immediately, Miss, what are you talking about? You are my mistress and I am your servant so I do not deserve your good fortunes. You terrify me. Jiang Ruan eyed Zhang Lan. Her tone carried a hint of mild surprise, Auntie Lan, unexpectedly, you can stand up now. I am relieved to see that you are perfectly fine. Otherwise, if anything untoward were to happen to you, I really would not know what to do. Zhang Lan seethed with hatred. Jiang Ruans earlier words seemed to stroke her ego, but if the second half of her speech reached outside ears, she would have to face the consequences. In this world, there was definitely no logic in a master massaging the legs of a servant. Even if her superior hinted at treating Jiang Ruan harshly, if this matter was spread around, people would only say that a servant like her took advantage of her master and brought shame to the high officials residence. The best way to carry out the orders was to act in a way that did not allow any room for blame, and at the same time, make things difficult for Jiang Ruan in every way. She never thought that a seasoned veteran like her could be similarly counter-attacked by someone younger than herself. After thinking about this, Zhang Lan sized Jiang Ruan up again. Jiang Ruan merely smiled faintly and stood quietly on her spot. No one could see through her. At that moment, a hint of terror surfaced in her heart. Her opponent was merely a young girl of ten. How could she lead her to feel fear? Was she possessed by an evil spirit? Chen Fang, who was at her side, could not guess Zhang Lans thoughts. She only felt that this usually weak master, who was vulnerable to bullying, seemed rather imposing today. Although the accessories that Jiang Ruan wore could not surpass hers, it was rather difficult to conceal her beauty. Her appearance was lively and pretty. As Chen Fang began to feel enormous jealousy, she spoke thoughtlessly, Miss, your body must have recovered well to be able to go around everywhere. I think that you can start sewing embroidered handkerchiefs tomorrow. You should be able to finish them by the end of this month. When Jiang Ruan was first sent to the residence, Zhang Lan mentioned that everything in the countryside could not compete with the comfortable lifestyle in the flourishing capital. Thus, Jiang Ruan would need to attend to many chores personally. Usually, Jiang Ruan was not required to chop firewood or work at the field, but Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were constantly used as slaves. The two maids perfectly fine hands were already callused at such a young age. Jiang Ruan did not fare any better than them. Although she did not need to work in the field, she still needed to embroider twenty handkerchiefs every month so that she could hand them over to the residence to pay for her own living costs. Twenty pieces were not a small number so Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi also helped a little. However, their combined efforts were barely enough to make the numbers. Because the embroidery patterns were complicated, it strained their eyes to work on them one after another, especially when it was close to the New Year and the twenty pieces were increased to thirty pieces. The work was hard to handle. Jiang Ruan smiled thinly, Of course. Chen Fang wanted to embarrass Jiang Ruan at first, but she never thought that she would be so agreeable. Facing such a tactful retort, Chen Fang gritted her teeth, Then, you should work hard. You should be mindful of the time. When it arrives and you are unable to complete your embroidery, there will be problems. Jiang Ruan raised her eyebrows, Auntie Lan, the important matter that you came here for today was about the embroidered handkerchiefs? Startled, Zhang Lan laughed, Look at this old servants memory. Since the residence is sending food supply to the manor, I wanted to ask if you wanted to deliver any letters to Master and Mistress? Letters? Jiang Ruans fingertips trembled slightly. Too much time had passed that she had almost forgotten that over the several years that she had lived in the residence, at the end of every year, she would write letters to Jiang Quan and her elder brother. The content of the letter was nothing more than to hope that they could bring her home. Year after year, the letters were akin to a rock sinking to the bottom of a large ocean. There was no reply. The only reply that ever came was the grievous news of her elder brother, Jiang Xin Zhis death in the battlefield. Actually, after his death, her life no longer contained any hope. As someone who had passed away once, she could look at things more clearly in comparison to the past. She would no longer entrust her hope to the cold and ruthless Jiang Quan. Rather than being resigned to her fate, why not initiate an attack? As for the letter, there was no need for it. Jiang Quan would not read it. In the end, it would fall into the hands of Jiang Su Su and her mother and would be no more than a laughing stock for their tea sessions. Father is busy with official matters. There is no need to write this year, Jiang Ruan looked at her nails, Auntie Lan, I dont have any letters for delivery. Zhang Lan was stunned. Every year, Jiang Ruan would write some letters to be sent home. The servants were well aware that the letters were of no use. No one would give up hope on their own accord, but Jiang Ruan did not wish to send any letters now. Was she really disheartened and no longer bore any hope? Zhang Lan looked at Jiang Ruan doubtfully. Yet, she did not sense anything amiss. Reluctantly, she assured herself. Regardless, the more demoralized Jiang Ruan was, the easier it was to report to her superior. To her, it was quite a good matter. She chuckled, Since it is so, then I shall go and arrange the food supply that would be delivered to the manor. I shall take my leave now. After Zhang Lan and Chen Fang left, Bai Zhi spoke with uncertainty, Miss, why dont you want to send letters anymore? Dont tell me that you are acting in a fit of pique? The days are very valuable. I dont have any spare energy to be peeved about my father, Jiang Ruan sat in front of the table and looked at the face of a pale girl in the rust-stained copper mirror, We are heading back soon. Why do we need to send letters? If there is anything I want to say, its better to say it directly to them face to face. We are returning? Lian Qiaos eyes brightened, Miss, did you think of a way to return? Jiang Ruan reached out and stroked the cracked edges of her copper mirror, smiling faintly. Of course, she would have a way. But before her departure, there was still a debt she wanted to claim. Chapter 11 - Spew Out Everything of Mine That You Have Devoured Early in the morning, the air in the residence was extremely refreshing. Grey-winged sparrows pecked their meals from the top of tree branches. As it had snowed just the night before, the sunlight seemed brighter and the accumulated snow draped thickly over the grass and branches. The atmosphere of the New Year was palpable within the residence. Jiang Ruan woke up to an early start. After she consumed a simple breakfast, she took a stroll in the pear blossom garden with Lian Qiao. As it was not their flowering season, dense, lush foliage adorned the branches. Lian Qiao was slightly regretful, It is not their time yet. When the weather becomes warmer, the pear blossoms will bloom completely. That will truly be a sight. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. As plants, they merely compete to be the one with the most vibrant, beautiful colors and nothing else. In her past life, she had seen abundant trees of full-fledged plum blossoms in the palace. Who would have expected that overnight a blast from a spring breeze would have blown those hundreds of flowers away. There was not only plum blossom, but also peonies, water lilies, lotuses and chinese roses. The flourishing blossoms in the palace were akin to a rich, woven fabric with raised patterns. It was a pity that the scenery was only admired by a single person. Afterwards, she thought that there was someone who would accompany her through thick and thin. However, it was only at the time of her death that she discovered that it was merely a mirage. The flowers resembled her own life, in the sense that they appeared to be bright and beautiful but when they wilted, they did not even have a place that they could call home. Once withered and fallen into the mud, they decomposed before turning into dust. Even if they exuded a faint fragrance, it had a bitter undertone. Lian Qiao felt the depth of Jiang Ruans gaze, but she did not know what she was thinking about. Yet, her cool expression was full of sorrow. Stunned, she asked in concern, Miss? Jiang Ruan recollected herself and shook her head, Its nothing. Lets move on. As the duo walked around, they did not notice the person that had already been standing for a long time in the midst of a dense thicket behind them. That person wore a lake green silk jacket with gold-threaded sleeves, secured by a multi-colored eight treasures pearl and jade corset, and light green boots. Dressed extravagantly, his leer glued onto Jiang Ruans silhouette, completely infatuated. It was the young son of Zhang Lans family, Chen Zhao. Usually, Chen Zhao loved to sleep beneath the pear blossom trees. Today was not an exception. Caught off guard by a female voice, he was no different than a cat getting a whiff of fish. He immediately followed the source of the sound. Unexpectedly, he was entranced. Jiang Ruan was dressed similarly to the previous day. The difference was that Bai Zhi did not style a dumpling-style hair bun on her. She parted some of Jiang Ruans frontal hair into the shape of a lotus hair bun. The rest of her tresses rested casually on her shoulders. It made her look more mature, with a touch of gorgeousness. The pear blossoms in the garden had not bloomed yet, but the tip of the tree branches were heavy with a layer of snow as if they had blossomed into flowers. Jiang Ruans skin was paler than the white snow, and her facial features, even brighter than the pear blossoms. With a stoic expression, her eyes swept through the depth of the branches indifferently, like a cold and raw spring water rippling ones heart gently. Hooked, he felt an insatiable desire in his heart. He could not hear her voice clearly as she was some distance away, yet he could imagine that crisp and stirring sound. She raised her head slightly to admire the ice crystals which hung from the branches, exposing her neck like an elegant swan. Chen Zhao swallowed his saliva as he casted his eyes on Jiang Ruans thin frame from afar. Her very loose jacket concealed her slender waist. Although she was younger and her figure still looked like a young girl, from a glance, she possessed a certain liveliness, as if both a mature womans playful allure and the tenderness of a child were present in her alone. He had never noticed her appeal in the past, but after a terrible illness, she had such beautiful quality. She was really a natural-born rarity. If he was able to claim an extraordinarily beautiful woman of this class, having his way with her every night, it would truly be a wonderful matter in the world. He stood on his spot with a pair of restless eyes, deep in his unfathomable thoughts. Not far away, Lian Qiao finally discovered Chen Zhaos presence and pulled a face, Miss, lets head back earlier. There is a filthy being in this garden. Please be careful so that we will not invite trouble onto ourselves. Jiang Ruan followed her stare. She curved her lips lightly into a smile, Alright. Captivated, Chen Zhao watched Jiang Ruan in a daze as he received a sudden smile from the little beauty. That smile contained a feeling of indescribable meaning, it was not the naivety or bashfulness that a little girl should have, but a kind of light enticement. It was like a faint, fragrant epiphyllum, temporarily aloof but lovely in the night. Despite himself, Chen Zhao became foolish. Until Jiang Ruan and Lian Qiao departed from the pear blossom garden, he did not reclaim his senses from that breathtaking smile. This matter was very quickly relegated to the back of Jiang Ruan and Lian Qiaos minds. Three days of peacefulness passed. Over these three days, Jiang Ruan would walk casually around the residence every day. She would bump into Chen Zhao sometimes, but against her expectations, he was more well-behaved than in the past. He did not foist himself upon her like a pesky fly circling around them. This caused Lian Qiao to be more assured. However, there was a worrying matter. The day that they had to hand over the embroidered handkerchiefs was arriving soon, but Jiang Ruan had not started on even one of them. After Jiang Ruan fell into the water, and since Zhang Lan temporarily did not mention the embroidered handkerchiefs, they thought of stalling for a while before sewing. However, a few days ago, Chen Fang brought it up on purpose, stressing both Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi out. Now, Jiang Ruan had not yet recovered fully so naturally, the two of them would not let her perform this task. They could overlook how Jiang Ruan refused to embroider, but she did not let the two of them embroider either. Miss, Lian Qiao looked at Jiang Ruan who was reading by the window disagreeably, Soon, we will have to hand the embroidered handkerchiefs in. How can you be so relaxed? You do not need to worry, Jiang Ruan flipped a page. How can I not be worried, Lian Qiao replied with a long face, If we do not give them the embroidered handkerchiefs, those people will find a reason to restrict your allowance. Jiang Ruan sighed and closed her book. When she first came to the residence, she brought three chests with her. One of them contained clothing, another had money and accessories, and the last one was filled with volumes of books. All these were personally bequeathed by her deceased mother to her. At first, she thought of bringing them with her to commemorate her mother, but it was as if she entered a wolfs den. The Zhang Lan family was greedy and unkind to her, taking her belongings away as if they had a right to it and stealing them in the dark. In the end, the only remaining item that was not taken away was this chest of books. Before the day comes when they distribute the allowance to us, we shall be back in the manor, Jiang Ruan caressed the title on the book cover, Dont worry. Lian Qiao furrowed her brows, wanting to speak further. Bai Zhi pushed the door open and walked in, Miss, Miss Fang is here. Lian Qiao was startled. A pink silhouette appeared behind Bai Zhi. Chen Fang smiled, Miss. Today, she wore a pink jacket with an embroidered butterfly. On her lower body was a skirt of matching color and red boots. Her hair was fashioned in a delicate drifting cloud hairstyle. There was a pair of golden carved flower earrings on her ear, while a gold enamel hairpin adorned her hair. Lian Qiao chuckled coldly as she observed Chen Fang with despise. From head to toe, everything belonged to Jiang Ruan. Only she had the face thick enough to overtly wear these items and appear in front of their original owner. She was truly fitting of the title crook. Jiang Ruan propped her chin on her hand and smiled thinly. The crooks felt secure with the knowledge that they had the backings of their superior so they had become more and more impudent recently. But it did not matter, since she was here to reclaim her debts. She would force those, who had asserted their claim over her things, to return everything back to her. Chapter 12 - Beautiful Flowers Under the Moon Jiang Ruan raised her cup of tea from the table and wetted her pursed lips lightly, before looking at Chen Fang, who stood to the side. Chen Fang bit her lips tensely. Over the past few years, she had become well-acquainted with Jiang Ruans wretched and forlorn state in the residence. Who could have expected that, after she fell into the lake, it was as if Jiang Ruan had transformed into another person. The transformation was akin to a slowly withering flower suddenly obtaining an opportunity to live with boundless possibilities and starting to bloom once more. Chen Fang was unfamiliar with Jiang Ruans old temperament as every movement of this officials daughter exuded a sense of beauty now. It was as if she was used to the life of royalty, displaying the elegant mannerisms of an empress. Naturally, Chen Fang would not be aware that after Jiang Ruan was sent into the palace in her past life, there was no lack of plotting and conspiracies. One moment of inattentiveness could allow someone else to seize an opportunity to incriminate one because of wrongdoings and/or shortcomings, hence there was no room for error, especially in regards to ones act and behavior. The palace was governed by strict rules and the elder maids who trained her were extremely harsh. Those demanding lessons led her to master etiquette to the point of perfection. Over the years, in the unique environment of the palace, the noble temperament is naturally cultivated. This standard of conduct was nothing exceptional when it was exhibited by a Beautiful Lady [MeiRen ranked concubine] from the palace, but for a young, unfortunate lady who lived in a village residence for years, it was a kind of virtuous and honorable grace. Whats the matter? Jiang Ruan asked. Her attitude was that of a mistress of the residence conversing with her servant. A hint of resentment flashed across Chen Fangs face before she suppressed it forcefully. She touched her hairpin and smiled, Miss, a few days ago, a pot of Queen of the Night [1] was delivered from outside. Since then, it has been properly cared for. Lately, the petals have become bigger and bigger. And, from the look of it, it will bloom tonight. If you are interested, why not come and have a look? [1] Queen of the Night C aka Epiphyllum Oxypetalum, is a species of cactus. It blooms rarely and only at night, and its flowers wilt before dawn. This is the tan hua flower they had featured in recent movie Crazy Rich Asians. Queen of the Night? Jiang Ruan muttered, This time of the year does not seem to be the blooming season for Queen of the Night. Chen Fang hurriedly replied, It isnt. Usually Queen of the Night only blooms in the summer and autumn, but this pot came into flower prematurely. It is a rare sight. Miss, why not check it out yourself? Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak, Lian Qiao spoke, Its so deep in the night and its bitterly cold outside. How can we let our lady to walk around? What if she cant bear the cold? The current state of her health cannot stand any suffering. Bai Zhi also said, Why dont we bring the plant inside the house? Our lady can admire it here. Chen Fang creased her eyebrows, As the name Queen of the Night implies, the beauty under the moon is only interesting and rewarding to admire when under the moon. If it is viewed in the house, then it would be no different than a common flower so what is the point? Moreover, this Queen of the Night is accounted for in the books. I dont have the authority to move it as I please. Lian Qiao wanted to speak again when Jiang Ruan smiled, If this is the case, then I will go and have a look tonight. Miss, Bai Zhi advised against it, It is too cold outside. It would be troublesome if the cold causes your body to suffer. Chen Fang covered her mouth with her hand and smiled, Senior Bai Zhi and Senior Lian Qiao, our lady has already agreed so why do you continue to fixate on this matter? As servants, it is most important that we abide by our mistresss orders. How can you decide so casually for our lady? Arent you coercing our lady? These sensitive words managed to strike Lian Qiao and Bai Zhis nerves and their expressions changed. Jiang Ruan placed her teacup down and spoke slowly, Fanger, you are right. But it is my prerogative to discipline my own servants. On the other hand, you surprised me. It has never crossed my mind that you could also fancy such a cultured event such as admiring flowers under the moon. Chen Fang toyed with a strand of long hair that rested on her chest, Although I grew up in the residence, I also like to read a little poetic literature sometimes. Admiring flowers under the moon is also the kind of refined activity that I like. Thinking about it more, Chen Fang continued, Oh, right. You should also visit the pear blossom garden around midnight. The Queen of the Night is placed at the entrance. When its time, I will also make my way there. Noted, Jiang Ruan nodded. Chen Fang sighed in relief, Then I shall take my leave now. Miss, dont forget. After she finished, her gaze skimmed around the house once more. Only then did she leave rather happily. After Chen Fangs departure, Lian Qiao was furious and angrily said, What kind of act is she putting on? Trying to act all cultured and sophisticated, I spit on her in contempt. She thought that because she wore someone elses clothes, she could be a master! Why doesnt she piss on the ground and take a good look at her reflection. How shameless! Bai Zhi looked at Jiang Ruan worriedly, If you insist on going to the pear blossom garden, there is some advice I must give. Chen Fang is a person who speaks sharply and unkindly. That she expresses goodwill towards you is really out of her character. You should be careful because she might have other intentions. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. In her past life, when she was about to enter the palace, Lian Qiao was flogged to death with a paddle for speaking out of place towards Jiang Quan. The truth was simply that Lian Qiao was unwilling to let her replace Su Su as the one who entered the palace, so she pleaded with Jiang Quan in her favor. However, she did not know why this provoked him into a rage that resulted in her violent death. After all was said and done, she was just eager to protect Jiang Ruan. Although Lian Qiao was bold and straightforward, she knew how to act appropriately. Recalling this incident, Jiang Su Su and her mother had also contributed to his violent rage and fury. Bai Zhi did accompany her safely into the palace. The mother and daughter pair must have considered Bai Zhis personality as gentle and calm, so they were assured enough to let her stay with Jiang Ruan. When the emperor was forced to abdicate the throne, she let Bai Zhi carry Peier and escape. As Peier was caught in the end, Bai Zhi must have met a disastrous end. These two maids accompanied her brief, yet tragic past life to their utmost duty, and yet, she did not manage to protect even one of them, just like Peier and her elder brother. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao looked at Jiang Ruan hesitantly when she did not reply for a long time. They were shocked by the chill in her eyes. Just as they were about to say something, Jiang Ruan laughed. The frigidity earlier cleared in a flash, I know. Although you are aware that she does not bear good intentions, you are still going? Lian Qiao asked. Its too risky. I definitely have to attend this appointment. Jiang Ruan spoke, Its just that I am not going to admire flowers, but to reclaim a debt. Reclaiming a debt? Lian Qiao became more confused. Lian Qiao, there is a matter I need you to handle for me, Jiang Ruan asked her to bring her ear closer and whispered her orders. At the same time, Chen Fang left Jiang Ruans residence and excitedly walked out of the courtyard. Watching her emerge, a person standing outside rushed forward to ask, How did it go? Did she agree to it? Of course, she did. Chen Fang curled her lips, Now that she is in an appalling situation, once I mentioned Queen of the Night, she would naturally not miss this opportunity. Brother, where is the item you promised me? Chen Zhao grinned happily and fished a sparkling and translucent jade bangle out, My good sister, it is not a waste that I love you dearly. After I manage to succeed, I will definitely thank you properly. Chen Fang accepted the bangle from Chen Zhaos hands and put it on impatiently. Satisfied, she spoke, The quality is not bad. After she finished speaking, she thought of something and stared at Chen Zhao, You really like her? What is so good about that charming vixen? Master does not even like her. She has no future. Hey, I am not going to marry her. Chen Zhao spoke smugly, With such a beautiful concubine in my home, I dont need to patronize the brothel in the future. Isnt this cost-effective? I have not experienced the feeling of being with an officials daughter. Although she is an unfortunate person, she still has soft skin and tender flesh. Ahem, I dont want to discuss this further with you. Ill go first. Remember to keep it to yourself. I am too lazy to be bothered, Chen Fang snorted, and turned to leave. Chapter 13 - Luring A Snake From Its Nest Taking advantage of the bright afternoon sun, Lian Qiao brought the blankets out from their residence to air out in the courtyard. As the cotton that lined the worn blankets was sparse, they were just thin layers. They seemed extremely unsightly when placed next to all the thickly-stuffed, bright-colored blankets of the main residence. Chun Ying commanded a few lower-ranked maids to hang the cotton blanket from Zhang Lans room on the clotheslines. Compared to the dull colors in Lian Qiaos hands, the blanket in front of Chun Ying depicted an exquisite embroidery of peonies. It was so fully stuffed with that years new fluffy cotton that it was bulging. It was obvious from a glance that it was an extremely thick blanket as the weight of the cotton blanket made the clothesline sink gradually. Chun Ying roared her orders, Be more careful. Pay more attention so that you dont scrape its reverse side. It has top-notch embroidery. Lian Qiao did not even bother sparing her a glance and walked to the other side of the courtyard by herself and raised her arms to drape her blankets over the clothesline. The light cotton blankets did not seem to possess any weight so it was easy to hang them in the sun. Upon watching Lian Qiao, Chun Ying laughed, Goodness, Senior Lian Qiao has also personally come to air out the blankets. She swept her eyes over the hung blankets, Everyone, you should learn from her. Can you see how capable Lian Qiao is? She is able to hang the blankets all by herself and it seemed so effortless too. Unlike the few of us that were needed to carry ours and felt tired because of them. The few maids sniggered before one of them spoke, Maybe only the cotton of the highest quality was used in our young ladys blankets. They do not seem to bear any weight at all. It must be very comfortable being covered by this type of blanket. It is not like our cotton blankets, which are thick and large. They are just too heavy. Ignoring their mockery, Lian Qiao smoothed over the creases on the cotton blankets. In response, Chun Ying unrelentingly continued, Lian Qiao, how can you only air out your ladys blankets but not yours and Bai Zhis too? You should let us see if your blankets are different from ours. Another bout of laughter broke out amongst the lower ranked maids. She was implying that as a young mistress, Jiang Ruans standards were not even at the level of a servant. It was really too much for Lian Qiao to hear. Her long, shapely eyebrows narrowed. She almost exploded when a maid, who was smiling sweetly, rushed hurriedly to her, Senior Lian Qiao, the item that you instructed me to find- Lu Zhu, Lian Qiao interrupted her, Wait for a moment. She made sure that the last blanket was hung properly before turning around to pull the young maid away by the hand, Come here and discuss it. The two of them walked to the side and huddled together where no one could figure out what they were speaking about. After a while, Lian Qiao picked up an empty wooden basin and left. After her departure, Chun Ying summoned the maid who was about to leave, You must be Lu Zhu. Lu Zhu eyed Chun Ying timidly, Yes. Dont be afraid, Chun Ying spoke, What were you and Lian Qiao talking about? No- Nothing, Lu Zhu shook her lowered head, fixated on her feet. What are you afraid of? I wont eat you, Chun Yings voice became fiercer, Why did Lian Qiao find you without a good reason? What were you discussing so secretly just now? You should understand who is the decision-maker here. If you cannot provide a clear explanation, you dont need to stay in this residence any longer. Dont, Lu Zhu raised her head suddenly, her pair of helpless eyes reddening, Senior Chun Ying, please dont chase me out. As long as you explain this matter clearly, I will definitely not do anything to you, Chun Ying continued, I am not someone who is unreasonable. Your face looks extremely new to me so you must be a newly recruited maid. If you perform your duties properly, I wont let anyone bully you in the future. Really? Lu Zhu raised her head, her face alight with hope. I would not deceive you. Chun Yings tone became progressively gentler. She believed there was something fishy about this matter related to Lian Qiao. Actually, Senior Lian Qiao just sought me out for an insignificant matter, Lu Zhu replied. She just heard that my embroidery skills were decent and asked me to embroider a water lily on our young mistresss ripped jacket so that a tear is not visible. Chun Ying looked at her suspiciously, Is that all? Yes, Lu Zhu nodded. But this is really odd. Usually, young mistress would not concern herself over a jacket. Why would she suddenly want a water lily embroidered on it? This- Lu Zhu hesitated slightly. Is there something else? Chun Ying asked impatiently. Is there something else? Chun Ying asked impatiently. I heard that they managed to obtain a pot of Queen of the Night from somewhere. Tonight, our young mistress wants to admire the flower in the pear blossom garden. Thus, she wanted to dress more beautifully for the event, so as to not insult the rare and famous flower. Lu Zhu spilled everything that she knew. Additionally, this Queen of the Night is extremely precious and it is a rare sight that only blooms in the winter night. Queen of the Night? Chun Ying raised her suspicions, The residence has acquired a pot of Queen of the Night? I did not hear anything about that. She looked at Lu Zhu, Okay, there is nothing here that concerns you anymore. You can go and perform your duties. Lu Zhu answered affirmatively and turned to leave. Chun Ying stood on her spot and muttered, Under the current circumstances, how could she be in the mood to admire flowers? And, even if she was in the mood, why would she make an effort to seek out a beautiful piece of clothing? Usually, she does not care about these things at all. Surely, there must be another reason why she is so unusual today. I must investigate properly about what they are planning to do. In a room, by the side of the courtyard, Bai Zhi took out several books from a chest to air out under the sun. The chest that had been full of books was completely emptied out in the courtyard. As she carefully pried the pages open, she expressed, Miss, contrary to what one would expect, this chest is well preserved and the books are in good condition. After the New Year, the house will get very damp so we will have to constantly take them out to dry under the sun. After she had finished speaking, she recalled something, In the past, when your mother was alive, she also loved these volumes of books a lot. She would insist on drying them everyday. Mother was born into a military family, and yet she collected this valuable literature just to gain someones favor. However, I was the one who benefitted from them. Looking at the books in the courtyard, Jiang Ruan spoke softly. The Zhao family lineage consisted of military generals, who were used to bloodthirsty battlefields in the midst of sandstorms. Each and every man in their family was the pride of the army. Yet, the only legitimate daughter Zhao Mei fell in love with Jiang Quan. The entire Zhao family vehemently opposed the relationship but she was determined to marry him. Because of this, the Zhao family had disowned their only daughter. After Zhao Mei married Jiang Quan, she found out that he adored scholarly ladies with many talents so she searched far and wide, all over the country, for various books to learn from. Alas, who could have known that not long after their marriage, Jiang Quan would marry the capitals most talented lady, Xia Yan, as his noble concubine. In the end, Zhao Mei did not live until the day she could finish reading this chest of books. However, Xia Yan was then quickly promoted from being a noble concubine to Jiang furen[1] all of a sudden. Jiang Ruan laughed mockingly at herself. Until her death, her mother was unable to understand that if that man did not really love her, regardless of what she did, she would never be able to win over his affections. From then until now, what Jiang Quan loved was not the talented and educated ladies, but rather the talented and educated Xia Yan. [1] Jiang furen C Mistress of the house; Main wife. Miss, were you reminiscing about your mother? Bai Zhi observed Jiang Ruans expression, If she were still alive and could witness how intelligent and sharp you are now, she would feel very assured. Jiang Ruan smiled noncommittally. Bai Zhi walked to her and was surprised to see the book in Jiang Ruans hands, Miss, why are you reading those military books again? There is no need for you to use the knowledge in battlefields. Why not read some folk stories and poetic verses? Even if we are not at war, our enemies may still approach us, Jiang Ruans gaze fell on the few words in the book of military strategies: luring a snake from its nest. Chapter 14 - Casting the Bait Winter passed quietly. The thriving places were bustling with activities, while the quieter places become pronouncedly quiescent. As no one had visited Jiang Ruans residence for a long time, the trio experienced a period of idle solitude that was usually hard to come by. In the refreshing early morning air, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao sat at the entrance of their residence mending clothes. Their clothes were as old as they could be, needing continuous mending. Although both of their embroidery skills were extraordinary, and these clothes could be worn again after being patched with flowery patterns, brightly-colored threads were extremely valuable to them. On normal days, they did not need such exquisite patchwork. A girl sat quietly at the window, attentively reading the pages in front of her. The sunlight shone on the side of her pretty face. Her long, winged eyebrows quivered lightly above a clear, yet beautiful gaze. She had a kind of gentleness that moved peoples hearts. Lian Qiao unintentionally turned her head around and was entranced by the vision of her mistress. She felt that her lady possessed an exquisite beauty that was rare in the world. When she was quiet, she was immensely refined and serene, almost as if she were a piece of tranquil scenery painting. However, when she became ruthless, her harsh and frigid demeanor exuded a kind of charisma. As mentioned in the idiom when a married lady was calm and composed, but once she made a move, she would be similar to a shrewd and nimble rabbit, it must have been referring to a lady like Jiang Ruan. Bai Zhi saw that Lian Qiao was lost in her thoughts, and she also followed her eyes. She spoke pensively, Our lady has grown quite a bit this year and has become much taller. In the future, it might be harder to fit her into her clothes. Spring will be coming soon. We should find some time to make some new clothes for her to wear. It is easy for you to say, Lian Qiao recollected herself and continued sewing the button on a piece of clothing in front of her, At this time of the year, the allowance distributed by those people has been halved. Two sets of new clothing require a lot of materials. Where can we find those? I think that we need to hike the mountains to gather a few medicinal plants to trade for some money so that we can buy some material to make clothes for our lady. She paused for a moment, Our lady is so beautiful, yet the clothes that she wears are so shabby. At such an age, other ladies are dressed up as beautifully as flowers, but our lady is not as fortunate. She does not even have a set of brightly-colored clothes. It is such a waste of her good looks. If our lady wore those pretty clothes, she would definitely defeat all the ladies in the entire capital. Hearing Lian Qiaos words, Bai Zhi could not help but laugh, Talking about this is futile. You are speaking about the capital right now, but I dont even know when can we return to the manor. As soon as the matter of returning to the manor was mentioned, their moods dampened slightly. After a while, Lian Qiao shook her head, Dont think too much about it. Didnt our lady tell us previously that we will return soon? I think that our lady already has a plan. We dont need to feel anxious. Bai Zhi nodded her head, Our lady is smart. Just that- I hope that there wont be any mishaps. While they were chattering away, someone knocked on the door outside. It was a maid named Xiao Yuan who came to deliver firewood. The residence did not allocate coal, but firewood, to them. After all, it was abundantly clear who Zhang Lan received her orders from. To the trio, every winter was the most sufferable time of the year to bear, especially more so when the firewood was rationed and giving them more was out of the question. Zhang Lan really was not afraid that she would cause the trio to freeze to death. Xiao Yuan greeted Jiang Ruan and removed the firewood from her basket swiftly. Lian Qiao helped her from the side. After they were done, Xiao Yuan glanced at the clothes in Bai Zhis hands and smiled, Senior Bai Zhis hands are so skilled. This needlework is done so meticulously, yet so finely that one can not tell that the clothes have been mended. Bai Zhi chuckled, It was merely sewn casually. Furthermore, who would notice this when worn in our everyday lives? Senior Bai Zhi, you are wrong. Xiao Yuan shook her head, This year, my mother made me a new peach short coat. Unexpectedly, while I was working, I ripped a hole under the arm. I thought about mending it properly but that part of the clothing is not easy to mend. When I am not careful about concealing it, others can even see the hole. It is truly vexing. If I possessed a skill like yours, I wouldnt need to feel worried about it anymore. What is so difficult about this? Lian Qiao returned the basket to Xiao Yuan, It will be fine. Just let Bai Zhi mend it for you. Really? Xiao Yuan looked at Bai Zhi with pleasant surprise. She could not conceal the expectation that filled her eyes. Bai Zhi nodded in amusement, Of course, I can. It is just that I dont have any peach-colored thread here. You will have to give me a spool. Xiao Yuan immediately smiled as soon as she heard Bai Zhis words, No problem. Thank you, Senior Bai Zhi. You are such a good person. If I had known earlier that Senior Bai Zhi is so amiable, I would have come by here more on my usual days. I have a pile of torn clothes with me that I have mended carelessly. Silly girl[1], Lian Qiao pretended to be angry, You are taking advantage of us. Everyone knows that maids like you that serve outside this yard in the main residence are extremely lucky and privileged. How is it even possible that you own any torn clothes? [1] Ya Tou (Ѿͷ) C girl ; servant girl (used deprecatingly, but sometimes also as a term of endearment) Who said that we were full of luck? Xiao Yuan pouted, Although it is quieter than usual here, I would rather serve our lady, who has such a good personality. Let me not keep both Seniors in the dark. It is very hard to perform duties for those few people who are outside this residence. It is not only Auntie Lan, but even her son is someone who is not easy to deal with. One could close ones eyes when he fooled around in the past but lately, his behaviour has been excessively bad. I heard that he went behind Auntie Lans back and sold off one of their lands. After Auntie Lan found out about it last night she flew into a terrible rage. Over these past few days, lower-ranked maids like me try to be as inconspicuous as possible so that we do not suffer her temper. Oh? There was really such an incident? Bai Zhi gave Lian Qiao a look, Although Chen Zhao usually loves to cause trouble everywhere, he is not that generous when it comes to spending money on it. How could he just sell land like this? Thats right, thats right, Lian Qiao chimed in, Dont tell me that you are just trying to make a fool of us? There is no such thing, Xiao Yuan waved their doubts away, Even maids like us, who are in charge of shopping and are stationed outside of this residence, have heard about this matter. Yesterday it caused Auntie Lan to be very furious. I heard that she asked him where the money went, but she could not get an answer out of him, so she rummaged through his entire room quite thoroughly. You should be able to guess what the result was- he didnt even have a single cent left! Ah, Lian Qiao cried out in surprise, That is really odd. A piece of land can be sold for a large sum of money, so he definitely would not be able to spend it all in a short span of few days. Dont tell me that the money grew wings and flew away? Auntie Lan is also acting very strangely. But her son feigned complete ignorance. In the end, he had a big fight with Auntie Lan and walked off without another word or any consideration for her feelings. The trio further discussed the topic, each forming a theory of her own. Seeing that the sky was getting darker, Xiao Yuan stood up and took her leave. Lian Qiao accompanied her to the entrance to send her off. Bai Zhi put the clothes down and walked to Jiang Ruans side. Jiang Ruan, who was reading, raised her head with a shadow of a smile, Hes got quite the nerve to sell the land without consulting his mother. Miss, Bai Zhi spoke, Although I do not know what has actually happened,I have a feeling that this incident, of him selling off the land, has to be influenced by you. I feel extremely puzzled but since I am not very intelligent, I cant wrap my head around it. You do not understand it? Jiang Ruan spoke. It is very simple. Before Bai Zhi could process her words, they heard Lian Qiaos loud voice roaring from outside, How dare you misbehave and rush inside? Yet, another voice was burning with scorching anger, Dont block my way. Let me in! Bai Zhi could not help feeling stunned as that voice sounded very familiar to her. It was definitely Chen Fang. But what was Chen Fang here for? Jiang Ruan spread her hands, Look, you will understand it all very soon. Chapter 15 - The First Layer of Net The door swung open with a bang. Chen Fang appeared in front of Jiang Ruan with a flustered and exasperated Lian Qiao hot on her heels. Both of their clothes were equally dishevelled. It seemed likely that they had engaged in a scuffle earlier. Jiang Ruan did not even spare Chen Fang a glance. Her eyes continued to stay fixed on the pages in front of her. By her side, Bai Zhi blew carefully at her hot tea to cool it down while Lian Qiao had not uttered even a single word since she had entered the room, lowering her head submissively after she walked in front of Jiang Ruan. Hence, Chen Fang was given a cold shoulder as no one paid attention to her. Anxiety coursed through her. Originally, Chen Fang planned to keep her cool so that Jiang Ruan would be the one who would first direct a question at her. However, she did not expect that Jiang Ruan would barely raise her head to consider her opinions. Her heart thumped. This kind of attitude left her with no confidence. The atmosphere was exceptionally solemn. In the end, she was merely a young lady who was a few years more than ten. Not only that, she did not usually conceal her feelings and patiently endure things. After trying to contain herself again and again, she finally seethed, Miss, I have to consult with you about a matter . Jiang Ruan did not bat an eye. She drawled lazily, Ask away. Chen Fang did not expect that reaction. Jiang Ruans demeanor irritated her. Being reminded of the reason why she came there, her anger escalated, Miss, a few days ago, did you not go to admire the Queen of the Night? No, Jiang Ruan thought about it when she heard Chen Fang, I suddenly felt unwell that night so I could not make the trip to the pear blossom garden to admire the flower. Miss, how could you do this? Chen Fang grew angrier, Clearly, you had accepted my invitation. If you were unable to attend, you should have at least sent someone to inform me. Ah? Jiang Ruan looked at her in slight surprise, No one told you? Lian Qiao, didnt I tell you to notify Fanger that night that I was unable to go? Dont tell me that you were too focused on having fun that you put the matters that I had ordered to the back of your mind? Lian Qiao curtseyed, No matter what, I would not dare to forget your orders. That night, I went to the pear blossom garden. Actually, I wanted to tell her once she arrived but who knew that even though I waited and waited, she did not come at all. I thought that Fanger already knew about it and that was why she did not show up so after midnight I returned here. Jiang Ruan smiled apologetically, In reality, it was all merely a misunderstanding. Fanger, you have heard it clearly today that this matter was completely unrelated to me. After hearing this, Chen Fang was so furious that her face could not help but shed its makeup foundation. She had speculated about various possible scenarios in her mind but she had never predicted that Jiang Ruan would treat her with such a lukewarm attitude, as if she used all her might to punch fluffy cotton. Even if she had grievances, she did not have a place to vent them out. Her stomach simmered with anger in vain. But Fanger, Jiang Ruan furrowed her brows slightly, Its just that it has already been quite some time since the appointment between you and I, so how can you come only now to ask about that nights happenings? Dont tell me that you yourself did not go to the pear blossom garden, but you were confident that I did? Chen Fang was at a loss for words. A hint of nervousness flashed across her face, No, no, its just that Its just that I only became aware today that you had never gone there. That night, I had something to attend to, so I did not keep the appointment Chen Fangs words were all jumbled up. She realized that no matter how she tried to express herself, her words were full of loopholes. However, Jiang Ruan spoke with compassion, If this is the case, then let us treat it like a simple misunderstanding. Chen Fang bit her lips. Although her heart was extremely unwilling to let the matter go, she could not find a point that she could logically argue with. She could only blame herself for rushing here today when she had not planned her countermeasure for dealing with Jiang Ruan thoroughly. As she was fretting, she heard Jiang Ruans faint voice, After seeing you arrive here in such a hurry, I thought that something had happened. Its good that everything is fine. Chen Fangs heart suddenly tightened in alarm and she eyed Jiang Ruan uneasily. She met Jiang Ruans smiling gaze, which was extremely gentle, akin to the flowing summer streams that surrounded one completely in a charming manner. However, looking at it carefully, she felt that those pair of clear eyes contained waves of murderous intention. The rising corner of her eyes had the icy harshness of the devil. Chen Fang could not help but take two steps back. However, when she looked at Jiang Ruan again, her expression was impassive. All of a sudden, uncertainty surfaced in her heart. A far-fetched thought appeared in her mind. Could it be that this mistress, who appeared to be weak, actually knew everything and did it on purpose, and she was the one who reaped the benefits from this? Chen Fang balled her fists tightly, and shook her head furiously. That seemed impossible. Jiang Ruan had stayed in the residence for five years; she was extremely clear on what kind of person Jiang Ruan was. Not only that, even if she spoke out about it, no one would believe that a ten year old girl would be capable of this sort of scheming. It was merely an accident that her plan was foiled. Chen Fang forced herself to smile, It is my fault. Please rebuke me for disturbing you. You were well-intentioned, Jiang Ruan drank a mouthful of tea, How can I bear to punish you? Now that you have mentioned it, I regret that I did not have the good fortune. The Queen of the Night must have bloomed gorgeously that night. Upon hearing that, Chen Fang only wanted to vomit blood. She spoke with much difficulty, Of course, if you do not have any other orders, I shall go ahead and continue my work. I still have some matters in the residence to attend to. You have a tough job, Jiang Ruan spoke without any emotion, You should go ahead and perform your tasks. You are a very important member of this household. It felt as if those words had hidden meaning. Chen Fangs heart jumped, as if there was something horrifying that was following her from behind. Not long after, she left hastily. After Chen Fang was gone, Lian Qiao closed the door and spat, Look at her lack of discipline. She is out of control and does not act like a servant at all. Earlier, she was so full of herself and even dared to use that interrogative tone against our lady! I really need to teach her a proper lesson someday! Why do we need to wait for another day? Jiang Ruan closed her book, She will be taught a lesson soon enough. Miss Bai Zhis eyes brightened, Dont tell me that that night Jiang Ruan nodded, Since I didnt go, naturally, there would be someone who would replace me. It seems like the younger sibling of Chen family (Chen Xiao-mei)[1] had not only invited a wolf, but also a wolf that loved money. Chun Yings ability surpassed my expectation. This saves me a lot of trouble. [1] Xiao Mei Сá C little sister; literal meaning little girl. Mei Mei is the word for little sister. Chinese people often use shortened nicknames so, Xiao Mei Mei refers to a little sister, and shortened, it would be Xiao Mei. Lian Qiao beamed, That girl is extremely paranoid by nature. I only needed to act a bit in front of her, and she took our bait in such a hurry! But I think that she is also someone who is immoral. Together with Chen Zhao, they must have mutually consented to it. You have accomplished this task beautifully, Jiang Ruan praised, Who knows how long will Chen Zhao be able to enjoy this? Chun Ying, please dont disappoint me. Chapter 16 - Murder The story branched into two different, yet interrelated, routes simultaneously. On the one hand, just when Chen Zhao and Chen Fang thought they would succeed, against all odds Jiang Ruan and her maids managed to emerge unscathed from this unfavorable situation. On the other hand, that night the main leads of this wonderful show were in the midst of their honeymoon period. Currently, a light olive-colored satin fabric, which flowed like cascading smoke, was fashionable on the streets. Its material was incomparably glossy as well as sleek. When sunlight shone on the fabric, it would reflect a faint glow. This type of clothing material was immensely popular among the madames and ladies of wealthy families, since they looked extremely elegant and beautiful when they wore new dresses made from it. At the moment, two bolts of that cascading smoke satin lay on a table in a room. A seemingly beautiful lady, dressed in purple clothing, was sitting in front of a copper mirror and carefully examining a pearl necklace on her neck. The necklace was made from South China pearls which were huge and round, and also of excellent quality. Exuding a subtle pink gleam, they enhanced the paleness of her neck. After a long time passed, Chun Ying removed the necklace from her neck. After all, she could never wear such an accessory out in public. She might be in trouble if someone suspected that she had obtained it wrongfully, because it was impossible for a maid of her rank to be able to own such a luxurious item. She walked to the side of her bed and reached under it to retrieve a small box and unlocked it using a small copper key. Filled to the brim, it was a box full of pearls, jade and enamel jewelry. Chun Ying placed the pearl necklace inside the box and contentedly gazed at its lustre. No matter how hard she might have worked as a servant, it was not possible for her to hoard such an assortment of this kind of fine quality accessories. Chun Ying smiled. That idiot was unexpectedly agreeable to her wishes, sending the jewelry over without any objections. A few days ago, she had heard the news of Jiang Ruan wanting to admire flowers with someone under the moon. That night, she visited the pear blossom garden herself, to investigate the matter. Surprisingly, she did not see Jiang Ruan there, but surprisingly instead, someone embraced her from behind as soon as she had arrived. Initially, she was extremely frightened when that person moved closer to her ear and whispered, Miss, you should not scream. If anyone sees you with me, you are going to be only tied to me for the rest of your life. This remark stunned her, while the person continued, Even though I cherish you greatly, I have treated you poorly. Miss, I will take care of you well. Chun Ying finally understood. It turned out that the person was Chen Zhao, who had mistaken her for Jiang Ruan. She could not believe that Jiang Ruan would have a love affair with Chen Zhao. However, before she could process what was happening, Chen Zhao had already started to tear her clothes off. At first, Chun Ying wanted to scream but as the sound began to escape her lips, she stopped herself. After all, Chen Zhao was the son of the person who was in charge of managing the residence and even though it did not seem like an important position, she was extremely knowledgeable about the large amount of private property that Zhang Lan had accumulated over the years. Chen Zhaos life was in no way inferior to an ordinary wealthy familys. And, although she was a high-ranked maid in the residence now, her monthly salary and bonus alone could not satisfy her. But, if she had someone rich like Chen Zhao as a patron- In a brief amount of time, Chun Ying weighed the positives and negatives of the situation clearly and immediately stopped struggling. Yielding to Chen Zhao sexually, she had a passionate encounter with him. Chun Ying did not mind that she lost her virginity. If she could sell her body for a good price, then there was no harm in it. Anyway, in the future she could only be someones concubine. Perhaps, it would be difficult for her to meet a patron like Chen Zhao again so she could not let him escape her clutches. Later, when Chen Zhao woke up and realized that the person by his side was Chun Ying, the color immediately drained from his face. Chun Ying merely warned him coldly that if he did not pay her for her silence, she would take him to court and let everyone know how Chen Zhao had humiliated her. It had never crossed Chen Zhaos mind that Chun Ying was not just a beauty, but also a cunning snake. Chun Ying and Jiang Ruan were extremely different. With a higher social standing, as an officials daughter, it would ruin Jiang Ruan to have her reputation tarnished. The Jiang family would never acknowledge such a disgraceful event in public, and thus could only hand her over to Chen Zhao in secret. Chun Ying, on the other hand, did not have any such worries. Not only that, she was extremely sly and shameless. It could be possible that she would file a lawsuit against him. If this matter was really exposed, even if he did not have to die, he would need to pay a heavy price for his actions. He had no choice but to give into Chun Yings wishes. As it was a rare opportunity for Chun Ying to be involved with Chen Zhao, her appetite would not be satisfied that easily. Coughing up money again and again, Chen Zhao had become embarrassingly short of money, however, Chun Ying still cornered him relentlessly. For this reason Chen Zhao silently sold off the first piece of land. How could one piece of land ever be equal to her? Everyone has a price and Chun Ying felt that her worth was much higher than a piece of land. Chen Zhao, though, felt that Chun Ying was being too greedy. Their arguments became more and more serious, and eventually, one could no longer see the infatuation of the beauty under the moon that night. Chun Ying had just closed the box when she heard the door open. Chen Zhao impatiently strode into the room. She stood up immediately, knitting her brows, as she scrutinized Chen Zhao standing in front of her. Just within a few days of not meeting him, his expression had become haggard and his eyes bloodshot. Even the layer of skin on his lips was cracked open. Chun Ying paused for a moment before she said, Youve come. Chen Zhao sat down on the chair in Chun Yings room, and lifted a teapot from the table casually before pouring the liquid into his open mouth. Chun Ying wanted to stop him but she restrained herself in the end. Only a hint of annoyance flashed past her eyes. Finally, she spoke coldly, What are you here for? Chen Zhao had just sent her some money two days ago therefore it was obvious that this time he was not here to be her god of wealth. Thus, she did not know the reason for his visit. Chen Zhao did not answer her. He only wiped his mouth and mocked her, Despite being a cheap slave, you can afford to drink this high grade silver needle tea from Jun Shan. As expected, you do not need to think twice before you spend the money that I gave you! Chun Yings greatest vice was her vanity and she was especially resentful of her family background. Chen Zhaos words were no different than pouring salt on her wound. Instantly, she was enraged. Her eyes glinted, and she snickered, Yes, I am a cheap slave. But who do you regard yourself as? Dont tell me that you really think of yourself as the son of a wealthy family? Or did you think that as long as you have Miss Jiang, you would be able to claim connections to the minister? Chen Zhaos face paled. Chun Yings words had exposed him. Not only that, she worded them so unpleasantly. Without any consideration to his expression, she continued, We are the same. As servants, we have to act according to our masters wishes. Moreover, didnt you willingly give me the money to spend? Or did you think that your future plans were not worth this much money? You- Chen Zhao balled his fists tightly. He squeezed a few words out from between the cracks of his teeth, You shouldnt go overboard in taking unfair advantage of me. It was you who took advantage of me, Chun Ying beamed as she walked to his side. Her pair of pale hands slowly caressed his neck, But why did you come here today? A strong fragrance from Chun Yings beautiful body invaded Chen Zhaos senses. He was turned on at once and his attitude softened, Give me a break, I came here today to inform you that I am not someone who has more money than brains. It is impossible for you to continue taking advantage of me like this for the rest of your life. Lets settle this once and for all since it was something that we were both willing to do. Chun Yings hands tightened. Her nails left a bright red streak on Chen Zhaos neck. She slowly smiled, Dont tell me that you want to renege on your responsibility to me? We were both willing? It is clear that you forced yourself on me. Everyone in the residence can bear witness to the fact that, in general, I never associate with you. You want to claim that we were both willing, but when we are at court, do you really think that the magistrate will believe you? Even Chen Zhao knew that his words would not convince even himself. He gritted his teeth and asked, What do you actually want? Chun Yings eyes swept over Chen Zhao. It was clear that although Chen Zhao had some money, the majority of the wealth was in Zhang Lans hands. However, she could never let Zhang Lan know of this matter. Zhang Lan was someone who was formidable. If that were to happen, it was uncertain who would be the one to suffer the most. Its just that as a source of easy money, Chen Zhao would eventually have a day when he would be wrung dry. If she could capitalize on this situation, she would not get the worst of it in the end. At midnight, the moon was curved like a hook. The cold wind rustled through the wild, overgrown branches in the backyard. A Eurasian jackdaw perched on one of the higher branches of the tree and cawed twice, before flapping its wings and disappearing into the night. In the courtyard, a maid who was carrying a laundry basket scuttled by. Hearing the muffled sound of an object falling into the water from the veranda, she turned her head in alarm. In the darkness, there was the sound of soft, muted crackling. She even heard a few indistinct meows. After thinking about it for a moment, she must have heard a wild cat that had come into the residence to catch rats. The maid tightened her sash. Feeling an eeriness from the courtyard, she quickened her steps and left the area with haste. Chapter 17 - A Scheme to Seize Someone’s Life Outside the pear blossom garden, Lian Qiao was holding a large paper bag in her hands and speaking to Jiang Ruan rather happily, Today, Xiao Yuan gave me some flaky lily pastries[1] that were bought outside. She said that the taste is extremely delicious. After we return to the house, you should taste a few pieces. [1] Baihe su ( ٺ ) C lily pastries Jiang Ruan nodded, before gazing at the sky. Dark clouds shrouded almost half of the moon. The light outside was slightly hazy. There were only a few dismal, faintly-lit red lanterns on the road. The appearance of these festive colors in the midst of such a cold and cheerless atmosphere instead painted a contrasting image and thus, added a touch of strangeness to the night. Lian Qiaos gaze followed Jiang Ruans line of sight. She thought for a moment and then spoke, The night sky is darkening rather quickly, and its starting to get cold out here. Miss, you should be careful so that you dont catch a cold. A murder taking place during a moonless night as the wind howls, Jiang Ruan suddenly chuckled, It is indeed a beautiful scene. These words were spoken in such an odd manner that Lian Qiao could not make head or tail of them. Suddenly out of the darkness, a person hurried towards them. She was able to clearly recognize the person only when they came near. It was Chen Zhao. Chen Zhao also noticed the duo. He halted his steps immediately. Jiang Ruan dipped her head slightly to acknowledge his presence. Chen Zhao greeted, Miss[2]. [2] Xiao Jie ( С ) C young lady; miss Feeling slightly nervous, Lian Qiao stood in front of Jiang Ruan. For them to meet such a person in the pitch-dark night, could only lead to some sort of mishap. Jiang Ruans gaze trailed across Chen Zhaos tense expression and slid to his exposed neck. The streaks of bright red scars on his neck were particularly eye-catching. Chen Zhao seemed completely oblivious to them himself. Jiang Ruans lips curved. She did not speak and just looked at him with a meaningful stare. Under the dusky moonlight, the fire from the lanterns casted shadows over Jiang Ruans features, making her appear ethereal, as if she were an enchanting supernatural being amidst the flowers that bloomed under the moon. She had a noticeably innocent face, and yet, she seemed like a demon that had lived for a very, very long time, observing the struggles of the living in the world of mortals. Her charming eyes, which seemed to be smiling when she was not, were locked on Chen Zhao. With that pair of eyes pinned on him, she whisked his soul away. However, looking into her eyes again made him shake in fearful dread, as if he was gazing into a deep abyss. These conflicting emotions between infatuation and terror wavered in his eyes. Finally, her conflicting expressions resulted in a light smile at the corner of Jiang Ruans red lips. Chen Zhao gritted his teeth. His gaze was suddenly lit with a small flame, as he recalled how he had attracted a person as troublesome as Chun Ying because of Jiang Ruan. If it were not for her, he would not have needed to kill someone. But now, he had killed but yet, Jiang Ruan was still perfectly innocent. Mulling over the situation filled him with resentment. How could he suffer from a double loss, after trying to deceive her? After examining Chen Zhaos eyes, which seemed like a hungry wolf, Jiang Ruan eyed Lian Qiao and spoke flippantly, With such a heavy atmosphere, let us leave and not draw any filth to us. Chen Zhao froze, as though a bucket of icy water had been poured over his head. Immediately, the fervent passion in his heart was driven away completely. He only felt gusts of chilly wind as the image of Chun Yings widened eyes, just before her death, flashed before him. Chen Zhao shivered uncontrollably. By the time his thoughts veered back to the present, Jiang Ruan and Lian Qiao had already walked away. He balled his hands into fists and continued on his way angrily. The two of them reached the house. Just as Lian Qiao was putting the flaky lily pastry down, Bai Zhi dashed over to them. Her expression was filled with anxiety, Miss- Jiang Ruan waved, gesturing at Lian Qiao to shut the door. Only then did she sit beside her bed and ask, Whats wrong? Chun Ying is dead! Bai Zhi exclaimed. What?! Lian Qiao was shocked, How did she die? Contrary to what one might expect, Chen Zhao is callous, Jiang Ruan laughed coldly, Chun Ying, though, was stupid. Seeing that Jiang Ruan was at ease without any sign of surprise, Bai Zhi was astonished, Miss- you already knew? Chen Zhao has an irritable temper, while Chun Yings personality was unyielding. The two of them must have fought. Originally, I wanted to make use of their argument to cause issues in their lives. However, I never imagined that Chen Zhao would be so ruthless. He dared to kill her to prevent her from divulging their secret, Jiang Ruan explained indifferently, Nevertheless, Chun Ying was merely reaping what she had sowed and only had herself to blame. Lian Qiao creased her eyebrows, That Chen Zhao is really not a good person. He was really this cold and unscrupulous. However, it is obvious that when Chun Ying asked him for money, was akin to negotiating with a tiger for its skin. She wanted someone as terrible as him to sacrifice his own interests so of course, she would not be able to succeed. It served her right to lose her life! Nevertheless, Bai Zhi disagreed slightly, But still, this concerns a persons life. Chen Zhao is too scary. Luckily, our lady is quick-witted. If this were not the case, today would have been a terrible tragedy for us. How did you find out about it? Jiang Ruan asked Bai Zhi. Bai Zhi paused, before she spoke lightly, Qiu Yan informed me that she had witnessed Chen Zhao killing someone with her own eyes. Qiu Yan? Jiang Ruan raised an eyebrow, She is someone smart. Miss, Chun Yings death can not be related to us, right? Dont tell me that the matter of Chen Zhao killing someone will be passed over so easily? Chen Zhao has dug himself a grave. Jiang Ruan smiled, There is no need for us to take any action. Soon enough, someone will expose him. His actions have already fallen apart and been exposed. Lian Qiao spoke, I keep feeling some uneasiness that this matter is not as simple as it appears. Although we did not intend for Chun Ying to die, the situation still has some connection to us. Jiang Ruan casually lifted a book from the table, What are you afraid of? The two of them engaged in an illicit affair and had a dispute that ended in murder. How is it possible to get us involved? If they want to smear my name, Im afraid it wont be an easy thing for them to do. They wont be able to claim that I made them commit adultery. If they want to go ahead and investigate it thoroughly, what will they be able to find? Lian Qiao slapped her own forehead, Thats right! I am being silly. We did not expect this to happen so what does it have to do with us? Chun Ying and Chen Zhao are not on friendly terms with us. Even if the officials come for us, we can defend ourselves with a clear conscience! Thus, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao felt reassured and went to fetch some hot water. Jiang Ruan sat beside the oil lamp and leafed through the book slowly. Her gaze, though, travelled elsewhere. She had lied. Chun Yings death was not a surprise to her at all, because she had already expected this ending. Everyone has their own weaknesses and limits. Chen Zhao was not only bad-tempered, but also someone who was unreasonably mistrustful of others. She knew that Chun Yings continuous demands would only exhaust his patience and sooner or later, he would stop believing that there would be a day when Chun Yings greed could be satisfied. His displeasure would gradually develop to the critical point when it would become disastrous for her. When his anger and shame from the inability to provide for her reached a turning point, his trait of cruelty would be provoked. Killing someone would merely be a natural course of action with these factors at play. For her to make this possible, she would also require Chun Yings contribution. Chun Yings materialism as a result of this opportunity to blackmail Chen Zhao, in which she herself could benefit without investing any of her efforts, fell into her lap. This chance would definitely be something she would not give up on. Jiang Ruan merely ordered Bai Zhi to bribe a few servants to unintentionally mention Chun Yings craftiness and insatiable greed in front of Chen Zhao. It was the right time, right place, and right people. Even if she did not orchestrate Chun Yings death, she still had to die. Since this was the case, she could never be honest with her two maids. In their eyes, she was merely a helpless lady with a kind character, who had been forced into a corner where she had no choice but to fight back without any hesitation. However, she was the only one who was aware how rotten and corrupted her heart was under this skin of hers. Chapter 18 - Exposing A Failed Plan The next day, Jiang Ruan woke up at dawn. Bai Zhi had received some freshly cooked corn porridge for the morning meal. The corn was thoroughly mashed, then simmered to a pulpy texture. A faint, sweet aroma wafted from the dish. It piqued Lian Qiaos curiosity, The kitchen is treating us well today. Why are we having corn porridge? The usual breakfast in the residence consisted of plain brown rice congee, which was so watery that one could see ones own reflection in it, and some pickled vegetables. There was never any corn porridge. It was not because the ingredients were extremely expensive, but because the kitchen staff was unwilling to spend more effort on preparing their meal. When they had first arrived at the residence, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao argued endlessly with the kitchen staff on this matter, but once all was said and done, nothing had changed in the end. All of this was aggravated by the fact that those who were in the capital had never shown any concern towards Jiang Ruan, so there was no one to support her. Therefore, Jiang Ruan had become used to it. Bai Zhi smiled, Xiao Yuan sent it here. Ever since she had helped Xiao Yuan with mending some clothes a few days ago, Xiao Yuan was quite thoughtful and knew how to repay their kindness with her own kindness. Also, she visited them more frequently. Lian Qiao was surprised, She has a good character. After she finished speaking, she lifted the bowl, Miss, you should drink a few mouthfuls. It is good for your body. Nevertheless, corn porridge could not be considered a rare delicacy. As one might expect, its nutritional benefit could not be compared to that of precious medicinal herbs or fish supplements. But now, for them to cherish even a bowl of corn porridge, their days were indeed rather rough. Bai Zhi felt slightly sad thinking about it. However, Jiang Ruan lifted the bowl without any hesitation to take a sip and asked them to eat some as well. Bai Zhi was touched. It was rare to see her own lady remain positive while enduring hardships, after adapting to such a massive change in circumstances. From an early age, she had served Jiang Ruan and grown up with her in the residence. As a maid of a mistress who held no importance in the residence, naturally, she also met with cold shoulders from others. In a short span of a few years, she had seen beyond the facade of a persons warmth and coldness. And because of this, she had matured more quickly than other maids of her age and acted more responsibly. Even so, she felt that her tolerance and steadiness were nothing much when compared to her lady. But, she did not know from which moment it began, perhaps, it was after that serious illness, that her lady had become someone she could not read. It was unusual that in ones life, one could still retain their ability to remain unshaken in the face of extreme joy or grief. In the past, whenever her lady reminisced about all the happy memories of her bygone days in the ministers manor, she would privately shed tears and feel dispirited about it, but now, Bai Zhi never witnessed those expressions anymore. Jiang Ruan was extremely calm now. After thinking about it, Bai Zhi said to Jiang Ruan, Miss, it seems that you are becoming happier as the days pass by. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, but did not bare herself to Bai Zhi. The stress of living in poverty was nothing. So what if she had previously lived a life of luxury and extravagance? The most terrifying thing was when one did not lack for anything, and yet, felt as if they had nothing; no one to love her, no relatives, no family and no friends. Later, she thought that she had a lover, but his love for her was nothing but a pretense. Besides, these days were far, far better than being trapped in a wooden basin like a human swine and forced to watch her own loved ones being humiliated, and yet, being unable to do anything about it. At least now, she still had a complete body and her freedom. At least now, she was still alive. As long as she was alive, she would have the chance to turn the tables and make a comeback. And since she had crawled out of hell, she would not be mindful of these minor matters. Right at that moment, they noticed someone dashing towards them from outside. Upon seeing that Jiang Ruan and her maids were all present in the room, she rushed in without even knocking on the door. Lian Qiao was shocked. After she had seen the person clearly, she reprimanded, Xiao Yuan, why are you in such a hurry? Propping herself against the door, Xiao Yuan huffed and puffed, her face swollen and completely flushed red. After a long time, she barely managed to utter, Miss, oh no! Speak slowly, Bai Zhi furrowed her brows, What happened? A large number of guardsmen[1] have surrounded the residence. They are claiming that someone has seen you kill a person. Xiao Yuans eyes were frantic, Auntie Lan is currently leading them over here. [1] Gunbng ( ٱ ) C guan means public servant, official. And bing means soldiers or troops. Lian Qiao widened her eyes, How can our lady kill someone? It is clearly a malicious slander. How shameless! Dont worry, Jiang Ruan slowly placed her bowl down, Lets bide our time. Chapter 19 - Marring One’s Reputation The sudden arrival of this piece of news caused Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao to momentarily feel both indignant and stunned. However, contrary to their expectations, Jiang Ruan accepted the matter calmly to the extent that she was still in the mood to continue eating her porridge. Seeing this, Xiao Yuan could not help but speak up, Miss, you should come up with a plan in advance. Those people seemed extremely assured, as if as if they are absolutely certain that you have committed a murder. These words were phrased in such a clever way, showing that she meant to pass along a message on purpose. Jiang Ruan smiled softly, It is alright. The world is divided into black and white. The truth and what is false cannot remain indistinguishable forever.. If I have done it, then I have done it. If I have not done it, then that means I have not done it. And since I have not done it, even if the officers come for me, there is nothing for me to fear. Xiao Yuan gritted her teeth, as if she had just made a difficult decision, Let me not keep Miss in the dark any longer. I have worked for so many years in this residence that I have learned a bit about these matters. Miss, you are unaware of the gravity of the situation. This.. is really a dead end. If your crime has already been decided, even if you are really innocent, then you will also be considered as guilty. If Miss doesnt devise a strategy to get out of this as early as you can, why dont you inform Master instead? Bai Zhi also nodded, Shes right. Miss, at the moment, these people are easily hostile. Why dont we ask Master for help? He will not just watch silently without lifting a finger. Lian Qiao bobbed her head as well, Miss, this matter is extremely urgent. Under the eyes of the group, Jiang Ruan shook her head softly, There is no need. Xiao Yuan, thank you for your warning regarding this matter. It is just that the officers are already heading this way so it is inappropriate for you to linger here any longer. If you stay, you will also be implicated with us. You should leave first. If I need your help with anything in the future, I will ask Bai Zhi to find you. Xiao Yuan peered outside the window and nodded, Miss, you do not need to be so polite with me. You are my mistress, and servants obeying the orders of a master is a proper thing to do. I will leave now. If you require me, I will perform the task to my utmost ability. After Xiao Yuans departure, Jiang Ruan knocked on the table and spoke without much emotion, When the officials arrive later, no matter what transpires, the both of you are not allowed to divulge any hint of it to the ministers manor. Not only that, I also do not permit you to seek my fathers help. Why? Bai Zhi asked uncomprehendingly, After all, our Miss is Masters Di[1] daughter. Blood is thicker than water. If our Master can lend a helping hand, Miss does not need to suffer these hardships. Miss, now is not the time to be prideful in front of Master. Grudges usually do not fester overnight between families. [1] Di ( ) daughter C refers to legitimate daughter born from the official wife. Jiang Ruan shook her head, You have thought about it too simply. If something bad really happened to me and you approached my father for his aid, I am afraid that the help would not benefit us, but would become a burden instead. Lian Qiao knitted her brows, Miss, what do you mean? Think about it, Jiang Ruan stared at her own fingertips, If I am really being vilified as a murderer, after my father finds out about it, what would he do? I fear that he would not clear my name of the injustice, but would instead find someone to smooth things over and keep this matter under wraps. However, currently everyone from inside as well as outside the residence already knows that the officials have sent someone to arrest me, so clearly he wont be able to keep it a secret. Later, even if on the surface it might seem like this matter has died down, there will continue to be gossip that I have killed someone and used my fathers authority to settle this matter. From then on, I will definitely have to bear this evil reputation. As Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao listened, they broke out in buckets of cold sweat. They equally felt trepidatious. Lian Qiao questioned, Since its not possible for us to ask for Masters help, then what should we do? The current situation may seem like a dead end, but in reality, it is full of budding opportunities. This is not a hindrance. Being reborn after being cornered into death- it is not evident who is the last winner. But, I have an idea. You do not have to be worried. Upon hearing Jiang Ruans words, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi gradually collected themselves. Bai Zhi spoke, I know, Miss. Then, for now let us pretend that nothing has happened. Jiang Ruan removed a piece of paper from a book that was beside her and passed it along to Lian Qiao, Pass this to Qiu Yan the day after tomorrow. Lian Qiao nodded. After thinking for a moment, she poured a cup of tea for Jiang Ruan. Yet, Jiang Ruan was not in a hurry to drink it, only caressing the corner of her own sleeves gently. The incident for which the two maids initially suggested requesting Jiang Quans help was overruled by Jiang Ruan. Other than her given explanation, she still had another reason. In the end, the truth was that there was no need for her to write a letter. The ministers manor would also learn of this news immediately as the Zhang Lan family would undoubtedly report this matter to their superior. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su were eagerly awaiting for her to be struck with some kind of misfortune. Naturally, they would not give up this chance and would rather add fuel to the fire in order to strike down someone like her who was in a difficult position. They were capable of many things, and Jiang Quan would be unlikely to take the initiative to get her out of this predicament. From her past life until now, when she remembered her own fathers indifferent gaze that declared that his own daughter was a temptress, who not only brought havoc to the country during the shift in the throne position, but had also plotted to murder the emperor. She knew then that Jiang Quan had never deemed her his own flesh and blood; his only daughter was Jiang Su Su. Even if she had to die, she would not ask help from Jiang Quan. Furthermore, after this matter passed, she had a huge gift for Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su, that mother and daughter pair. She would consider the present as a repayment for their decision to send her to this residence, to live a cruel and inhumane life for the past five years . The show had to go on. It was just that the main character of the play had already been replaced in advance. While Jiang Ruan was lost in thought, a racket could be heard outside in her courtyard. Before Lian Qiao had the chance to react, the door burst open with a bang and a few officers, with swords girdled to their waist, walked in. One of them asked in a gruff voice, Where is Jiang Ruan? Jiang Ruan stood up, and curtseyed slightly. The officers leader sized her up. He was a bit surprised that she was a healthy-looking young lady. Regardless, he continued in a formal tone, Miss Jiang, I am sorry to intrude. But someone has claimed that you have murdered someone. Jiang Ruan looked at him in faint surprise, Oh? May I know who that person is? Her voice was gentle, like the willows of spring that softly brushed over someones heart. There was a certain kind of charm to it that could cause a persons heart to move unintentionally. The head officer could not help but soften his voice, as if he was afraid that he would terrify her, a person who seemed as fragile as a piece of crystal, He is the son of the person who manages this residence, Chen Zhao. In the end, Lian Qiao could not stop herself from exclaiming, My lady is someone who is extremely sweet-tempered. How could she commit murder? Clearly, it is that vile person who is causing trouble and just wants to smear my ladys reputation! The head officer hesitated for a while. He looked at how Jiang Ruan was smiling at him, with the edges of her brows exuding an indescribable grace. She was obviously a naive and inexperienced girl, but somehow, she had the elegant bearing of a mature lady. However, there was also a peculiar sense of cold detachment and indifference. This contradiction that existed within her body led her to appear as if she was a spirit being that had accidentally descended into the mortal realm. Furthermore, her allure was so captivating that a person could not help but direct his gaze at her. Jiang Ruan spoke, Lian Qiao, you do not need to say more. Whether it is true or false, his honor will make a sound judgement himself. We only need to wait and see. Hearing these words, the head officers impression of Jiang Ruan improved considerably. He cupped one of his fists in the palm of the other hand, in a salute, It is our recklessness that has agitated Miss. There is currently a search being conducted outside. Can you please step out of this residence so that its more convenient for us to conduct our investigation? Jiang Ruan smiled, and walked out with Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao. As soon as they walked out of the door, they saw that there were officers everywhere. Very quickly the small courtyard had become extremely cramped, with little space for movement. Chen Zhao stood beside Zhang Lan. When he saw Jiang Ruan, his eyes flashed. Without waiting for Chen Zhao to open his mouth, Lian Qiao leapt forward, and went on a tirade as she pointed at Chen Zhaos nose, Clearly, you are the one who killed someone and now you want to push the blame on our lady. You are really selfish and heartless in matters that do not concern you! Bah, you are such a two-faced lowlife! Zhang Lan laughed coldly, What are you talking about? Lian Qiao, you can carelessly eat meals, but the same cant be said for words . You want to falsely accuse my Zhaoer? Be careful or else you will have to face the consequences! Chen Zhao looked at Jiang Ruan in grief as he lamented, Miss, I did not want to expose you. It is just that I cannot go against my own conscience. I had hoped that you would not harbor a grudge against me. Jiang Ruan chuckled, Your conscience? Of course, I would not resent you. After death, a persons spirit may linger, especially of those who have died wrongfully. They would definitely seek out those who have hurt them to enact their revenge. I am not scared of them coming for me, but I wonder if you are. Chapter 20 - Imprisoned A picturesque beauty, yet in the light of the day, she was like a bewitching black widow[1],speaking gentle phrases with an eerie aura. In the heat of broad daylight, Chen Zhao unwittingly reeled back, his back breaking out in a cold sweat. [1] Hng fn k lu C hong fen means rouge and powder, figuratively, it refers to women. Ku lou means human skeleton/skull. This is an ancient Chinese phrase with two meanings: 1. A woman with a beautiful appearance and a terrifyingly venomous heart, 2. A woman who uses her beauty to charm men and feeds off all their physical, mental and material means until he dies. In this context, black widow spider refers to the second meaning. In response to this, Zhang Lan chuckled, This fool doesnt know how to speak. Miss Jiang, dont worry. If anything happens, there is still Master to rely on, Miss just needs to stay put. She spoke such malicious words, as if it was certain that Jiang Ruan was the mastermind behind this murder. In a few words, she was convicted of the crime, and so eliminated any chance for one to retort back. Jiang Ruan faintly smiled, Lan mama, to speak like this and declare with such confidence, is it possible that Lan mama also coincidentally saw me killing someone? Startled, Zhang Lan gave a dry laugh, This old servant actually did not. That is true, Jiang Ruan said softly, Lan mama, please take heed as to how you speak. For those who arent aware of this matter, it would seem like Lan mama is deliberately putting the blame on me. Zhang Lans heart tensed as she lifted her gaze towards Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan was looking right at her with a smile, yet it did not reach her eyes. Her pupils resembled a dark abyss, bearing a sense of mocking indifference. At that moment, they heard a few officers dash over to the brooding head bailiff, exclaiming, Leader[2], a female corpse was found in the well. [2] Tu er ͷ C Leader ; Chief With such shocking words, all the servants immediately retreated from Jiang Ruans side, looking at their Miss and her two servants with alarm and contempt. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi were utterly shocked and could not stop themselves from glancing at Jiang Ruan. However, seeing her steady countenance with its unchanging faint smile, as well as her delicate yet unyielding frame, calmed ones anxieties. The head bailiff could not help but admire the trio of this young Miss and her maids. During such a misfortune, it was rare for someone to not show their emotions and remain unperturbed. Sweeping his gaze across the courtyard, he noticed that besides the trio, everyone else had formed a faction. This seemed a little unreasonable. These servants addressed Jiang Ruan as Miss, yet their attitudes were disrespectful. Moreover, this dilapidated courtyard did not seem like the home of an influential familys young lady. The head bailiff was slightly more aware of the situation. Any young miss that made a mistake would be sent off to live in a county estate to reflect on their past errors. However, this familys young lady seemed to be quite unlucky- not only was her life an abyss of suffering, but she was even being framed by someone. The subordinate officers enquired, Leader? The head bailiff recovered and looked towards Jiang Ruan, Miss Jiang, please pardon me. As the female corpse was found in your courtyard, we need you to follow us and stay in prison for a period of time. After this statement, he tried to read Jiang Ruans expression. She calmly accepted his stare and even gave a respectful bow, One shall comply and obey. With no fuss or tears, it did not seem like she was being dragged off to be imprisoned, but rather being escorted to attend a banquet. With no crack in her unfailing poise, the head bailiff could not help but admire her, and declared, Dont worry, Miss Jiang. I, Li Mi, will definitely ensure that the truth comes to light and will not let the villain slip away. After hearing this profound statement, Jiang Ruan faintly smiled, Thank you, Daren[3]. [3] Dren C a title of respect toward superiors; sir All the surrounding officers were somewhat surprised. This leader of theirs, Li Mi, had always been impassive. Being inflexible and harsh by nature, he had never shown any solicitude, much less kindness towards criminals. It made one feel disconcerted to see his hospitality today toward this silly little girl. Chen Zhao was able to perceive the bailiffs concern, and thus sneered, Requesting Daren to investigate the incident diligently to bring justice to the people. He then turned towards Jiang Ruan, Miss, after a few days, I will visit you. Miss, please dont be too anxious. Lian Qiao snorted, What a ploy! Framing and fawning over our Miss at the same time. Chen Zhao, do you believe our Miss to be a fool to play along with you? Remember this, you are only the son of a steward. In front of our Miss, you will never be qualified to mention yourself. Your name has but two words, and that is servant[1]! Hmph! Lian Qiao flatly spat out everything she wanted to say to him. Upon hearing this, Chen Zhaos expression flickered back and forth between fuming rage and pale ashen. [1] N cai ( ū ) C slave or derogatively, flunkey. Jiang Ruan giggled and addressed Li Mi, Daren, since Chen Zhaos statement about witnessing me kill someone has no relation with these two servant girls, I would like to request Daren for consent to allow these two girls to stay in the estate so that they can send a letter to my family. Li Mi mused and nodded, Alright, I will allow it. With her eyes gleaming with tears, Lian Qiao held Jiang Ruans hand, Miss, please be careful not to be bullied by others. After thinking about it some more, she still felt uncertain, It would still be better to let this servant come along with Miss because this servant is not afraid of being locked up. Jiang Ruan could not help but laugh and squeezed her hand, Silly, it is not a walk in the park, there is no need for a companion. I will be out soon. If you follow me, who would help me send word to my family? Send word, Jiang Ruan enunciated these words a little stronger, and Lian Qiao was astonished. Bai Zhi approached Lian Qiao to pull her away, reassuring Jiang Ruan, Miss, please take care of yourself. These servants will ensure that the letter is delivered. Jiang Ruan nodded and addressed Li Mi, Lets go. All the officers were bewildered as they had never seen one take such initiative to be incarcerated. With her actions, it seemed as if she were the master, and these officers were merely her entourage of bodyguards. A sliver of dark intention flashed in Chen Zhaos eyes. Initially, he wanted to see Jiang Ruan embarrassed and crushed. He never expected that she would still remain calm and collected, even glancing at him with a mocking smile. Her graceful demeanor remained unchanged, causing ones heart to skip a beat. After a while, Zhang Lan ruthlessly slapped him, What are you looking at? Is there anything worth seeing? Truly wretched! Once Jiang Ruan reached the prison, Li Mi arranged a cell especially for her. There were several other people in the prison, and upon seeing such a lively young lady, their foul-mouths uttered every kind of filthy word. Nevertheless, Jiang Ruan looked on aloofly, without embarrassment or anger. Thus, upon seeing her calm reaction, the person in the neighbouring cell was amazed. Curiously, the prisoner leaned forward against the grille to look at her. Seeing that Jiang Ruan had no intention of responding, the inmate began to query, Hey, young lady, why were you locked up? Jiang Ruan looked towards the direction of the sound and saw an extremely filthy person staring at her. From head to toe, the persons clothes were dusty and covered with mud. And although unkempt hair covered the persons face, with a pure and sweet tone, it was clear that it was the voice of a young woman. After glancing at her, Jiang Ruan did not respond. This young woman was shocked and relentlessly persisted, Hey, why are you ignoring me? Could it be that you are deaf? You look quite beautiful, yet it turns out youre a master that cannot hear at all. Tsk tsk, how pitiful! Jiang Ruan stared at her, How does that concern you? Ah, so it turns out, youre not deaf or mute. The woman cried out in pleasant surprise, Im bored to death here so you came at the right time. The two of us can keep each other company. Chapter 21 - Who Is Worse Off Than Whom? After being silent for a while, Jiang Ruan asked, Have you been here for a long time? The woman saw that Jiang Ruan was willing to speak. On ordinary days, she was afraid she would get stifled and choked in this prison. Therefore, she immediately came clean and spoke, I have been here for almost a year. And for more than half a year, not a single person has been brought in. Little girl, what have you done to be locked in here? Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, I did nothing. How is that possible The woman was surprised. She wanted to ask more questions in order to understand the situation further. Is it that you have also been wrongly accused ? When I look at you, you seem to look like the daughter of an influential family. How could they dare? Jiang Ruan looked at her. What do you mean? The woman shrugged. No, nothing. Jiang Ruan sighed gently. The sigh contained her helplessness, as if she had experienced great grievances in life, as if there was a heavy load in her heart that made her feel immense sadness. The woman secretly looked at Jiang Ruan through the hair covering her eyes, and in seeing this, made Jiang Ruan smile. Her eyes were full of strength and warmth. They seemed to immediately make one feel comfortable around her. The person in front of her was clearly just a young girl like herself, however, she was full of a kind of charm and exuded an aura of enchantment that made it so that others couldnt help but look twice. The girl swallowed. You are not aware, since you have just come. To get out of this place, you have to rely on silver. I was just an ordinary young woman and when I got married, my husband went to the sea on business. But, unfortunately, he met with some gangsters there and never came back. Only my mother-in-law and I lived together. Who knew that my husband had a brother he had invested some money with my husband and one day when I was out of the house, he strangled my mother-in-law and then blamed me. The prefectural magistrate here was a muddle-headed official who had been bribed by my brother-in-law. I was forcibly taken to the prison and eventually had to confess under torture. Although I wasnt sentenced to beheading, I was confined to live in this prison for a long time. When the young girl told her story, she appeared sad, but her voice was toneless. She didnt have any tears. She had been in the prison for a year already and her tears had already dried up. Although it was painful, she could only accept life as it was. Seeing that Jiang Ruan remained silent, the girl slowly grew comfortable with her, saying, But, little girl, I see that you are different from me. Although your clothes dont look very good, I can see you are not an ordinary familys daughter. How have you ended up here? Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. Even a small family has its share of scheming and intrigue, so will a large and wealthy family lack those backyard politics? When the woman heard this, she felt that it was reasonable. Her gaze towards Jiang Ruan became more compassionate. Little girl, this prison is no better than the outside. I have lived here for a year. No one can stay here. Since both of us share the same cruel fate, it will be good to talk to each other often. My name is Shu Fen. You can call me Fen jiejie[1]. [1] Jiji ( ) C Elder sister; A girl friend who is almost a sister to you. Jiang Ruan nodded, Fen jiejie. She looked around, Have all the prisoners here been wrongly accused? Shu Fen shook her head. Not everyone, but the experiences of most people here are just like mine. Some of them are really guilty, but they dont have enough silver to bail themselves out. But anyone who is guilty of crime, yet possesses the monetary resources, will easily be able to get out. Qian Wan Li was the prefectural magistrate of this area. Jiang Ruan remembered clearly that this person loved money and was extremely greedy. Even with a dead goose, he would want to pluck off a few feathers to make profit. Over these past few years, there had been no lack of opportunity to fleece others. This time, he took Chen Zhaos money, but he really thought far ahead of Chen Zhaos means. Knowing her identity, he locked her up wanting to extort more money from Jiang Quan. This transaction, Jiang Quan would certainly make. And Jiang Su Su and her mother would also beg for her forgiveness. But she would not allow others to take advantage of her like that. If Qian Wan Li wanted to eat a fat goose, she didnt mind letting him try being killed in the process. If you had the chance to get out of here, are you willing to speak up? Jiang Ruan asked Shu Fen. Shu Fen was startled. She looked at her and said, How can there be another opportunity to seek justice? I have already spent a year here. I can see things clearly. There is no fairness or justice in this system. If you are thinking of causing a commotion, I can tell you right now that it is a mistake. Listen to this jiejie. It is best not to do that, or you yourself will suffer. Jiang Ruan smiled. Fen jiejie must not forget that my father is not an ordinary person. He knows that I have been imprisoned here and will inevitably come to save me. I am innocent. You must take this opportunity, that I am bringing to your attention, to get out; I will certainly not forget you outside of these walls even though our family situations are so different. Listening to Jiang Ruan speak about her father, Shu Fens expression was slightly hesitant. Does your father really have that ability? Jiang Ruan nodded. If that is the case, then things will be better. Shu Fen suddenly saw a glimmer of hope in the darkness, however, a nagging suspicion arose shortly. But if your father loves you, how could he have let you fall into this miserable situation? Jiang Ruan lowered her head. Seeping through the small, dark window in the cell, little rays of sunshine fell on her white neck. Her fluttering eyelashes concealed the emotions in her eyes. Only, her weak shoulders appeared so fragile that people couldnt help but pity her. Shu Fen sighed, Well, alright, I wont ask about your family. It is just that will your father really come to save you? Yes, my maids must have already sent him a letter by now. My father will soon send someone to pick me up. Jiang Ruan blinked. When? Shu Fen still had some doubt. Tomorrow, Jiang Ruan smiled. I think there will be an opportunity for you to appeal for justice tomorrow, Fen jiejie. At that time, not only you, but all the prisoners in this prison should seize the opportunity and shout loudly. You must remember, the louder you shout, the more likely you are to be released. Shu Fen nodded, and began to inform everyone in the prison about the plan. The night passed quickly. On the tenth day of the month, the sun was completely hidden behind thick clouds. The skies were covered with bits of snow, falling softly like feathers. The ground was covered with a layer of snow. Inside the prison cells, it was dark and damp, and ice was frozen in some corners. Shu Fen found some straw lying scattered around her and gave it to Jiang Ruan so that she could warm herself. Jiang Ruan shook her head gently. The prison cell here was heaven on earth when compared to the horrifying situation she had experienced in her last life. At that time, she had been placed in the most terrifying cell, the darkest of dungeons, for being a criminal. She was soaked in a half-filled pool, her entire body immersed in chillingly cold water. There were also mice running around, waiting to feed on her body. The freezing water constantly flowed against her body, causing a chill in the viewers heart. Even if such a snowfall occurred today, it could not compare to even a thousandth of her experience. These days, it seemed like the incidents of her past were repeating themselves. She was once again locked up in a prison. But this time, she would no longer be as miserable and helpless as she was in her previous life. She would not let herself be tortured. Now that she was still alive, she owed some people and some people owed her. She needed to collect her debts. The suffering she was experiencing at present, combined with her grievances from her previous life, must all be returned in full to all the people who had been the cause of it. Until then, lets see who is worse off than whom! Chapter 22 - Simply Mediocre Today, East Street was exceptionally lively. This was due to an ongoing trial of a judicial case by the prefectural magistrate. It was said that a young lady, who had been banished to the county estate, murdered a maid of the estate and disposed of the body inside a dried up well. Also, the witness to the crime was the son of the steward. This matter had both human testimony and material evidence. There was much discussion among many people about what a vicious heart the murderous young lady possessed. Somehow, that maid must have unknowingly offended her. Some asserted that the young lady abased her status, to even contend with a maid in such a manner. To not even spare a persons life, who knew which familys young lady could be this arrogant. At this moment, in the prefectural magistrates office, a paunchy middle-aged man sat in the central seat. Wearing a lake green silk brocade chang pao[1], the jade girdle at his waist was a little strained because it was unable to cover his portly build. Wearing a gilded jade ornamental ring on his thumb, this fair, yet chubby, person was the prefectural magistrate, Qian Wan Li. [1] Chng po ( ) C traditional Chinese mens long robe. At the left side of the central seat, the person sitting there did not appear to be as wealthy and influential as Qian Wan Li. On the contrary, he was dressed in clothing made of such simple and unadorned material that it could even be considered somewhat coarse. Portraying an appearance of poverty from head to toe, he was an incongruous fit in a hall filled with moneyed aristocracy. Still, Qian Wan Li was extremely deferential to this plainly dressed guest, to an extent that it could even be termed as effusive flattery. Instructing his subordinates to pour a cup of hot tea for his esteemed guest, Qian Wan Li gave a smile, Wang Daren, please take a look at the current judicial case Official Wang glanced at him and declared indifferently, You may investigate, I will just watch over. Yes, yes. Furtively fishing out a handkerchief from his vest, Qian Wan Li wiped away his sweat. Looking at the crowd of people, he slammed down the wooden gavel[2], Bring in the accused! [2] Jng tng m ( ľ ) C It has many different appellations in Chinese, but essentially, it is used in the same way as a gavel. However, the Chinese wooden gavel is crafted into a rectangular thick block. As soon as Jiang Ruan was brought out of the cell, Shu Fen grabbed onto her hand through the bars of the cell in worry, Nothing will happen, right? Nothing at all, Jiang Ruan patted her hand, My father will come to meet me. No need to worry. Remember what I have said- soon everything will be alright. Shu Fen then loosened her grip. Li Mi looked at Jiang Ruan with pity. In fact, not only would Jiang Ruans father not receive her, there wasnt even anyone to plead for leniency on her behalf. Today was just an examination of the legal records. Currently, all the leads pointed towards Jiang Ruan, as there was no one willing to plead in her defence. And even though he would like to help, he was powerless, and as the investigator of the case he also needed to avoid arousing suspicion of showing favoritism. Li Mi heaved a deep sigh; it would be difficult for Jiang Ruan to escape conviction. The verdict was already predetermined. Thinking about Jiang Ruans imminent tragic circumstances, Li Mis manner became even more gentle. When Jiang Ruan was brought out to the magistrate court, the curious crowd surrounding the main court hall was a little surprised. They were under the impression that the young lady, with the courage to commit murder, would inevitably be a fiend- a vulgar, shallow shrew. After all, her appearance would resemble her heart. And so, who could have known that the person who would be brought in was in fact a beautiful young girl. Her overall demeanor was calm and tender, and not even the least bit terrifying. People easily believed what was in front of their eyes, but at the moment, they were in disbelief that Jiang Ruan could really be the individual behind the murder. In his own mind, Qian Wan Li, too, felt it was weird. It was unexpected that the main suspect could actually be this delicate and charming beauty. This kind of thought betrayed his tender and protective feelings for beautiful women. However With a quick glance at the person sitting beside him, he cleared his throat and slammed down the wooden gavel with a loud shout, Audacious criminal, why are you still not kneeling! With a lowered head, Jiang Ruan quietly knelt. Then, raising her head, she revealed a clean, graceful young face and asked in puzzlement, I am unaware, Daren, what crime did this citizen[3] commit? [3] Nfn ( Ů ) C female offender in olden times in imperial China. Here it depicts Jiang Ruan humbling herself in her speech in front of the magistrate. As she spoke, her facial expression remained unchanged, moreover, her voice seemed extremely soft and melodious. All at once, it seemed as if she were a beautiful painting, her each and every little move causing people to admire her. Knitting his brows, Qian Wan Li slammed down the gavel. Silence! Suspect Jiang Ruan, you are accused of killing a maid, Chun Ying, and disposing of her corpse inside a dried-up well. There is testimony and evidence against you; I would like to see how you will deny this crime! Then, he yelled, Bring in the witness! Sitting in the seat beside him, a glint of dissatisfaction flashed through the eyes of Wang Daren. In this manner of investigating a case, it seemed as though one was practically seizing through forceful means, with no room for a word in the defendants defence. Honestly, it seemed as though the purpose of this investigation was to convict the girl hastily, as if he was impatient to establish her crime. The witness was swiftly brought in. Today, Chen Zhao wore a set of white clothes to put on an appearance of being extremely neat. Upon entering the main hall, he immediately made his salutations to Qian Wan Li. Qian Wan Li questioned, Chen Zhao, did you indeed personally witness Jiang Ruan commit murder? Yes, Daren, thats right, Chen Zhao replied, glancing at Jiang Ruan, I attest to witnessing Miss Jiang murder Chun Ying and pushing her into the well. The crowd immediately burst into a chaotic discussion. With such conclusive testimony, it seemed almost definite that Jiang Ruan had really committed murder. Jiang Ruan looked towards Chen Zhao, I have a few questions, Daren, would you please permit me to ask him? Qian Wan Li chanced a look towards Official Wang sitting at the side, and when he gave a wave of his hand, Qian Wan Li then responded, You may ask. Jiang Ruan gave a slight smile, Thank you, Daren. I would like to ask Chen Zhao, are you sure that you witnessed me commit murder? Yes. Chen Zhao responded, At the time, I was in the courtyard and saw with my own eyes when Miss killed Chun Ying in the residence. Chen Zhao, even if we set aside the possibility of you, as a male outsider, entering my courtyard without giving due notice, since you saw me commit a murder, why did you not try to thwart it? Furthermore, you even continued to watch me dispose of the corpse. Wouldnt this be considered as you being my accomplice? If I were to be convicted, should you not be convicted as well? When Chen Zhao heard this, he was shocked and unconsciously replied, N-No. By the time I noticed, she was already dead. Then, Jiang Ruan blandly responded, So you are asserting that when you saw Chun Ying, she was no longer alive. How did she die? What was the cause of her death? How did you conclude that it was me who had murdered her? You only saw a corpse then and did not actually witness me kill her, right? Chen Zhao started, and immediately shook his head, No, at that time only you were there with her. Moreover, your actions were definitely those of a person who had committed murder. Qian Wan Lis face turned pale and he gripped his handkerchief nervously. He then heard Jiang Ruan continue without pause, Alright, even if you did see me murder her Based on your testimony, at the time of the murder there was no one around me. However, I am just a young girl, yet Chun Ying was already eighteen. My height falls short of reaching even Chun Yings chest. To be able to drag Chun Yings corpse over such a long distance, and afterwards throw her in the dried up well, can you explain in detail how that was even possible? You- You dragged her, Chen Zhao stammered, beads of sweat beginning to faintly cover his forehead. Youre lying, Jiang Ruan shook her head, Chen Zhao, before beginning your lies, perhaps you should have first pondered this: Chun Ying and I had a stark contrast in height, not to mention, I do not possess that much physical strength. Comparatively, Chun Ying was larger in size, had more strength, and her reflexes were also nimble. How could I possibly hold a knife and stab her in the heart? What knife? She was strangled! Chen Zhao bellowed. With a shadow of a smile, Jiang Ruan glanced at him, Oh, is that so? It has not been revealed how she died, how did you know that she was suffocated. Didnt you say that when you saw her, she was already dead? Chen Zhao began to sweat profusely and Qian Wan Li followed the lead as well, becoming as white as a sheet. With such a weak testimony that was full of flaws, the truth of the matter had immediately become evident to the crowd. Nonchalantly, Jiang Ruan fiddled with her hair, Daren, is there still a need for a further investigation? Chapter 23 - Reversal The beauty was like a poisonous flower, with a lethality behind her smile. Chen Zhaos whole body went soft. His only thought was that Jiang Ruans gentle argument had already dug numerous traps for him to fall in. Anything he said now would only be perceived as false. From the beginning, he had no chance of winning. Qian Wan Li was not faring much better than Chen Zhao. Jiang Ruan, undermining the judge in such a way, had made it impossible for the trial to continue. Only, Qian Wan Li had already collected the bribe, so he had put in a great effort to keep up appearances. However, today, this thorny situation had already gone beyond his expectations. Not to mention, Imperial Censor Wang was present as well and had witnessed the whole ordeal. If he stubbornly supported Chen Zhao, it would be hard to convince the people, moreover, he was not sure what Wang Daren would think of this action. On the other hand, if he supported Jiang Ruan, he would have to return the money that he had already received from Chen Zhao, and he felt really unwilling to do so. Furthermore, he had also planned to ask for a sum of money from Jiang Quan as well, so this gold mine of his could not be squandered away. Only, he needed to think of a way where it could be possible for him to have his cake and eat it too? But the reality did not allow Qian Wan Li to ponder even for much longer. A moment later, the sound of the beats of a drum[1] fell into the peoples ears. Li Mi rushed towards Qian Wan Li and cupped his fist to him. Qian Daren, there is someone outside, beating the drum of justice. [1] Gshng ( ) C sound of a drum; drumbeat To beat the drum of justice, no one had made such a move on East Street before! Everyone knew what kind of a place this government office was. If one really suffered an injustice, shelling out silver was better than beating the drum. If they had no silver with them, even if they beat the drum for a year, no one would care about them and the person might possibly be sent to jail for it. Upon hearing this, Qian Wan Li was also surprised. Who is beating the drum of justice? He looked to the side, where Wang Daren sat, and sought his opinion, What do you think, Daren? Bring the person in, Wang Daren said coldly, his voice like a gong striking Qian Wan Lis heart. Qian Wan Li couldnt help but be frightened. The person was quickly brought in. It was a young girl who was dressed as a maidservant. When she entered the court, she knelt. Who are you? What injustice have you faced? Without waiting for Qian Wan Li to speak, Wang Daren spoke first. Qian Wan Li didnt dare to stop him and could only complain in his heart. It seemed that Wang Daren was determined to intervene in this case. But Qian Wan Li couldnt refuse his intervention. This Imperial Censor Wang was a favourite of the Emperor and usually, he would never suffer a loss. This person was as stubborn and unyielding as a stone. Unable to stand most officials, the ones that were positioned under his control would ultimately not have a good end. It could be said that Imperial Censor Wang was like a demon in the minds of the officials. So, when the demon spoke now, he didnt dare to slight him. Although the money was good, he had to keep his official hat on his head. Qian Wan Li made up his mind that it was worthless to keep Chen Zhaos money, and as for Jian Quan, he would forget about him too. Since Imperial Censor Wang was present, he would present the image of being a just and incorruptible official who was a parental figure to the masses. Having made up his mind, Qian Wan Li hummed and said, Yes, what grievances do you have? If you speak honestly- this official- I myself, and Daren here will give you justice. The people standing outside let out a laugh; Qian Wan Lis words were bound to make them laugh. When a corruptible official swore to bring justice to someone, it would only make people think that he was putting on airs. Chen Zhao looked at Qian Wan Li blankly. Suddenly, he began to panic. Things werent proceeding as he had expected. Now even Qian Wan Lis attitude had become quite ambiguous. If at this crucial point, he defected, what hope would he, Chen Zhao, have? The girl quickly and obediently kowtowed to the officials sitting in the front. This slave is deeply grateful for the help. This slave did not beat the drum for herself, but for Miss Jiang. This slave is a maidservant at Jiang familys manor. This slave can vouch for Miss Jiang. It wasnt Miss Jiang who killed Chun Ying, it was Chen Zhao! Then, the girl looked up to reveal a familiar face. It was Qiu Yan. Qiu Yan! You what are you talking about? Chen Zhao, after the initial surprise, now showed an expression of disbelief. In this case, Qiu Yan should have actually been on his side. There was no reason for her to support Jiang Ruan but now she had come out to testify against him. What could be the reason? This slave did not lie! Qiu Yan didnt look at Chen Zhao. This slave and Chun Ying were first-rank maids at the residence, and thus, we also lived together. The day of the murder, this slave went out to buy something and after this slaves return, this slave heard something strange outside. Since it was a strange noise, this slave didnt dare to show myself but peeped out from a small hole through a window. Chen Zhao was pushing Chun Ying to the ground. He covered her nose and mouth, restraining her, until she stopped struggling. This slave was terribly scared of being discovered by him and so, ran. Later, this slave didnt dare mention this matter to anyone. Who knew that yesterday, the young lady would be imprisoned! Although this slave is afraid of dying, this slave could not watch an innocent person being tried and become a scapegoat. So this slave decided to come here after much thought to vouch for Miss Jiang. Damn hussy, what are you saying?! Jiang Ruan must have given you many benefits to pour filthy water* on my son like this. Daren is just and fair and naturally knows who is lying and who is speaking the truth! Be careful, or you will be imprisoned! You little slut, just wait and see if this old woman does not tear your mouth after you leave! From within the crowd, this familiar high pitched voice came. It was none other than Zhang Lan. At first, without a doubt, Chen Zhaos stance was untouchable. However, after watching her and listening to Jiang Ruans speech, she had suddenly become anxious. And now, Qiu Yan had appeared to cause a stir. By this time, Zhang Lan had begun to realize the danger of the situation. Thus, without taking into account the place she was in, she began shouting abuses in public like a shrew. * To cast a bucket of dirty water C to deflect and misdirect the culpability onto someone else. After hearing such words used in front of him, Qian Wan Li was not happy. Seeing that Imperial Censor Wang was frowning, Qian Wan Li hit the gavel on the desk. Silence! When everyone became quiet, Qian Wan Li asked Qiu Yan. What evidence do you have to support your claim? Jiang Ruan smiled quietly. In the silent court, her smile was clear and unblemished, and in seeing that, people felt as if a soft breeze was blowing in their hearts. As everyone focused their eyes on her, Jiang Ruan slowly said, Daren actually need not think that Qiu Yan would speak on my behalf. Everyone knows that in the entire residence, other than Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao, my two maids, I am not familiar with others. Jiang Ruans smiling gaze landed upon Qiu Yan. I am also very surprised that Qiu Yan is willing to bear witness for me. Qiu Yan dodged Jiang Ruans gaze. This slave this slave wants to act according to her conscience. Youre lying! Chen Zhao roared furiously. You are clearly talking nonsense! You both are colluding together to place the blame on me! Your words are truly laughable, Jiang Ruan raised her eyebrows and looked at him. I have stayed in prison all day. I did not have any opportunity to meet Qiu Yan. Are you suggesting that we colluded earlier and planned this entire incident out? But if that is correct, how could we have known that Chen Zhao would bring government officials to arrest us yesterday? Am I a ghost or a demon to know all that? Chen Zhao looked at her beautiful face. Her limpid eyes were like spring water, but they taught people not to unconsciously fall into their trap. Her lips were full, like petals, but they seemed to only spit out venomous words. Her moving eyebrows were charming, but had a vague, murderous intent to them. She was not a fairy, but a witch. She was not a beauty, but a snake. Suddenly, inside Chen Zhaos heart there was a flash of panic. He only felt that the other person had transformed from a charming woman to a terrible monster. His whole body shivered with uncertainty. This slave can also vouch for Miss Jiang! Miss Jiang is not the murderer! Another voice shouted at the right time. Chapter 24 - Witness An abrupt voice suddenly arose, interrupting the discussion at just the right moment. Imperial Censor Wang, with a wave of his hand, ordered, Bring her in! The person who had interrupted was led in by the bailiff. She was a servant girl finely dressed in a ladys attire. After she came in, she bowed down low as she spoke eloquently To answer Daren, I have come forward to confirm that Miss Jiang has been framed. Please elaborate and explain yourself. Imperial Censor Wang hurriedly replied. The servant girl lifted her head, revealing a round cherubic look of innocence. It was Lu Zhu, who was once acquainted with Lian Qiao. Scratching her head as she proceeded to answer, The night when Chen Zhao informed everyone of Chun Ying jiejies death, I was coming from the outer courtyard carrying in the laundry and went past Miss Jiangs courtyard. At that time, I was rather spooked because I heard some strange noise coming out from the well, but later thought it to be merely the sound of a cat calling and did not bother to investigate further. Lu Zhu took a moment to recollect, However, at that time, I had wanted to look for Lian Qiao jiejie to have a chat, but there was no one in the house. Thus, Miss Jiang was nowhere near the courtyard, and therefore, she could not have been the one to throw Chun Ying jiejies corpse into the well. Lu Zhu had just finished her testimony when another voice was heard from outside, I can also vouch for Miss Jiang. This servant encountered Chen Zhao out on the street that day. At that time, it was getting late in the evening and Chen Zhao was making haste and looked rather frenetic. Initially, I did not grasp what was happening, but thinking back now, I am afraid to say that he might have murdered someone and was hoping to cast this bucket of dirty water onto Miss Jiang[1]. [1] To cast a bucket of dirty water C to deflect and misdirect the culpability onto someone else. This time, it was Xiao Yuan who had spoken up. The whole situation had been completely overturned, with many more testimonies arising and pointing towards Chen Zhao. Chen Zhao was utterly baffled and had never thought that at such a time as this, so many servants would appear pointing their fingers and giving testimonies against him. All his thoughts were in chaos. As he apprehensively looked towards Jiang Ruan, he was in total disbelief. He was absolutely confounded as to when Jiang Ruan had both the means and opportunity to bribe all of these servants. On one end, there was Chen Zhao who was in a state of confusion and disarray, and on the other end, Zhang Lan was beside herself becoming completely frantic. She desperately broke through the barricades to enter the court, with her foul mouth cursing and swearing all the while. With the situation being at such a diabolical life and death stage, she had absolutely no regard for any particular status or station in life anymore. There was an outpouring of profanity as she continued to lambast Jian Ruan with finger pointing and oblique accusations. Those standing around repeatedly cast sidelong glances towards the Jiang Familys young lady who appeared to not only be indifferent, but nor did she seem to have taken to heart that she was being dishonored, and for this they could not help but admire her stance. Qian Wan Li was able to get a handle on the situation and knew that, today, Chen Zhao would not obtain his intended outcome. No one knew if Jiang Ruan was just plain lucky, or if she was backed by someone influential who made it possible for her to turn a dire situation around and escape unscathed. He looked towards Imperial Censor Wang and said, Daren, if you would just. Imperial Censor Wang waved his hand, addressing, Qiu Yan, you said that you have witnessed Chen Zhao murdering someone. Then, do you have any evidence to support your testimony? At this, Chen Zhao released a sigh of relief. He was very sure that he had been meticulous that day and had in no way left any loose ends or traces. Even if someone was sent to investigate, there would be nothing that could implicate him. Qiu Yan nodded, I do. Chen Zhao was flabbergasted, and Imperial Censor Wang questioned, What is the evidence? In reply to Darens question, at that time your humble servant saw Chen Zhao strangling Chun Yings neck, and Chun Ying was probably attempting to fight for her life when she retaliated and scratched Chen Zhao on his neck. So if Daren would check for any scratch marks on Chen Zhaos neck and also examine under Chun Yings fingernails for signs of blood, then the truth will eventually be revealed. Chen Zhao was taken aback, unconsciously grabbing his neck. Imperial Censor Wang, without any further hesitation and with a wave of his hand, commanded the bailiff, Come forward to examine Chen Zhao. Chen Zhao wanted to put up a struggle, but physically he was no match for the court officers who very quickly subdued him. Li Mi came forward to assess and verify before reporting back to Imperial Censor Wang, To respond to Daren, there is definitely evidence of scratches. Imperial Censor Wang nodded, Guards, go check under Chun Yings fingernails for any evidence of blood. Chen Zhao, knowing that the situation had taken a turn for the worst, collapsed to the ground. Almost immediately the guard returned from examining Chun Yings fingers and reported that there was indeed traces of blood under her fingernails. Then, Imperial Censor Wang bellowed, Such audacity you have, Chen Zhao. You have murdered a person and tried to silence any witnesses. Youve tried to both get rid of the corpse and destroy evidence. Furthermore, youve tried to implicate and mislead by putting the blame on another person. A thief shouting the capture to catch the thief, this is just preposterous! Well now, we have witnesses and physical evidence that are irrefutable, so now do you confess to your crimes? In a frenzy, Chen Zhao got on his knees and kowtowed. As he kowtowed, he called out, Daren, have mercy, Daren, have mercy, this humble person had a moment of confusion, no, it was a moment of error. I did not intend to kill her, but when she started to threaten me, I was consumed by anger. It was not intentional, so Daren, please have mercy on me Zhang Lan, having watched the whole scene unfold from outside the court, felt her vision gradually turn black before fainting in the midst of the crowd. Imperial Censor Wang instructed the guards to take Chen Zhao into custody and escort him to a prison cell. For the court investigation to arrive at such an outcome, was liken to emerging from a somber period. The common folks of East Street had not encountered such an exciting and intriguing case in a long time. It was not just the fact that the familys son had committed a crime, but to add to it, he had incited trouble and shifted the blame onto someone else- going so far as to implicate and lay charges against an innocent young lady. This was absolutely reprehensible and he was truly guilty of the crime. But, just when everyone thought that the case had come to a close, suddenly, an untimely sound was heard. The bailiff came forward to report, Daren, someone else has just beaten the drum of justice. What, another grievance? Qian Wan Li almost forgot to stand up, however casting a glance towards Imperial Censor Wang, he could only feel even more diffident. He did not know why today of all days there would be someone beating the drum of justice. From Imperial Censor Wangs perspective, it would reflect back on his [Qian Wan Lis] incompetency to govern, and thus, resulting in so many judicial issues. Coming to such a conclusion, Qian Wan Li knew in his heart that he had to be prepared for every kind of eventuality. So without much ado, he resolutely called forth, Bring the person in! The person who was brought in was yet another servant and after seeing this, the crowd could not resist commenting and discussing- indeed what was it about this day, all the grievances were brought forward by servants. When the servant was brought forward, Imperial Censor Wang inquired, Please state your grievance. The servant kowtowed before answering, In response to Daren, I am seeking justice on behalf of our familys young lady. Who is this young lady of yours? Qian Wan Li asked out of curiosity. My familys young lady is none other than Miss Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at Lian Qiao and smiled, Lian Qiao also smiled back. Her eyes appeared to blaze red, as she turned and kowtowed to Imperial Censor Wang, Can this servant be so bold as to ask Daren a question? If a servant was mistreating her master, to the extent of deliberately conspiring to plot the demise of said master, what should be done in such an instance? Imperial Censor Wang tilted his neck, mulling, The county has the state laws, while families have their familial laws, and the governance of servants does fall under the familial laws. In saying that, with regards to the law, familial laws are derived from the state law, and premeditation to take a life is a severe crime and will definitely be punished accordingly. Good. Lian Qiao nodded, Then, Daren, I would like to seek justice on behalf of my young lady, and file a lawsuit against Zhang Lan and her son. My lady has stayed in the residence for five years and has been made to suffer hardships under tyrannical oppression. She has been treated worse than the servants of the household. Zhang Lan and her family have taken advantage of my ladys goodness, seizing all her assets and properties, while mistreating and abusing her at every turn. During the coldest time of the year, nine days after the winter solstice when it is the coldest, they would make her go up into the mountain to gather and chop firewood. On cold, wintry days, they would instruct her to head down to the river to wash clothes. She was given plain bread and water for food, and for winter, a coat that was merely made out of a thin quilt. In the five years that my lady has lived in the residence, she has not once had a full meal, and not once has she lived a good day. She has to sew her own clothes and linens, and make a living through her embroidery work. She has been forced to live in such poor conditions, cohabitating with rats and rodents, and even eating ants and critters for survival. Even when she was sick, there wasnt any medication to aid her recovery. Essentially she has been a grass left to wither and die. Lian Qiaos earnest entreaty moved the hearts of those, who had congregated, to the point of tears. There were some soft hearted ladies whose hearts were breaking upon hearing the plight of this young genteel lady, and they began to rebuke Zhang Lan and her family for their treacherous acts. Even those who were affluent could not help but sigh, as even the life of a child from an ordinary household would be better off than what Jiang Ruan had to endure. However, Lian Qiao was still not done with her plea. She raised her head, Even if we dont quibble about those mundane things, as servants, we can only lament to the heavens for being unfair and simply accept our fate. However, there should be consequences for taking a life C a life for a life. Even if it was accidental, there has to be a price to be paid for such actions. Chen Zhao has dragged my lady through the mud, setting her up to take the the fall for murder. It is indeed by a stroke of luck that my lady was gifted, and able to escape from the jaws of death. Please, Daren, impart justice for my lady. Please punish these evil and devious miscreants. Chapter 25 - The Final Objective Once these words were spoken, everyone present in the hall sucked in a shocked breath. How could you say such things? Imperial Censor Wang asked. Lian Qiao once again gave an account of the day Chen Zhao had taken liberties with his words when speaking with Jiang Ruan, and how she had been forced to fall into the pond. When she got to the point where Jiang Ruan was lying sick in bed, yet no medicine was procured for her, Lian Qiao could barely choke out her words. Let everyone judge what is right or wrong. Even children of ordinary families- having to suffer in such a way would be rare. Therefore, a servant with the guts to come up with this kind of plan to seize someones life is really too savage! There was a truth to these words; there will always be incidents where people are being harmed. However, this was the first time that a servant had abused their master in such a way. In the midst of the crowd, Zhang Lan had long since fainted away, and many people started spitting on her. The little servant girls by her side were too scared to come forward to help her as they feared the crowds rage. Qian Wan Li had not made a sound. The more complex the situation became, the greater its significance and impact on the future. These were not the waters that he wished to wade in, and so, he decided to hand the entire situation over to Imperial Censor Wang to do as he saw fit. He himself would just watch the show from the side. Imperial Censor Wang asked, Jiang Ruan, what your servant girl said, is it true? Not a word is false, Jiang Ruan said lightly. However, my thoughts on the matter differ in some ways from Lian Qiaos. How so? Imperial Censor Wang raised his eyes and looked at her. At the end of the day, Auntie Lan is still only someone who oversees a residential compound. Who gave her such power and authority to abuse me? If she did abuse me, a few hundred people reside in the compound; how is it that not a single one came to my aid while I have been facing such difficulties? It is almost as if they all agreed without prior consultation to refuse to treat me as their mistress. In my opinion, Auntie Lan was born into this household, and her entire family also makes a living within the compound. She would not have the guts to abuse me, unless there was someone encouraging her in the background. Imperial Censor Wangs eyes flashed. Who is it? Jiang Ruan shook her head and said, This is a matter for the government office to look into. I dont know who it is, either. Upon hearing this, the densely packed hall was once again abuzz with discussion. They also felt that what Jiang Ruan had said was highly reasonable. Still, she was such an educated and sensible young lady, who would harden their heart to such an extent and abuse her in this way? Imperial Censor Wang nodded. I will carefully examine every aspect of what you have stated. However, there is still something I dont quite understand. You are the young mistress of the residence, but how could it be that the servants bullied and humiliated you to this point, and your family was not at all concerned? If there is some secret grievance behind this situation, I will have to judge you together with everyone else and hold you responsible. Imperial Censor Wang made his intention known to make Jiang Ruan take responsibility if she were somehow involved. The crowd guessed that since this crudely dressed high-ranked superior official had the authority to make someone take responsibility, his ability must not be inconsiderable. However, Jiang Ruan simply shook her head lightly. Its only a matter of loathsome servants abusing their master. My family . . . its just that they dont know. Could you possibly be taking me for a fool? Imperial Censor Wang suddenly raised his voice. Since this residential compound belongs to your family, and it is not far away from your family home, how could it be that not even the tiniest hint of news reached your family? Are you trying to imply that all the servants in this residence, from the highest ranks to the lowest ones, are in the habit of hiding things from their master? Then, I will have to look into this even more carefully! Daren, Jiang Ruan spoke louder, with a hint of irritation on her features. Please do not make rash conjectures. I am the eldest daughter of high-ranking government official[1] Jiang. My father is fair and impartial, and shows me every consideration. It is only that he has been deeply deceived! [1] Bing shu shang shu ( ) C refers to someone who holds a high rank in the military as well as in the government. As soon as this statement was made, everyone was taken aback! The crowd burst into a hubbub of discussion, the noise filling the entire court. No one could have imagined that this young lady, whose situation was immeasurably worse than any misfortune that could befall an ordinary person, was actually the daughter of a high-ranking government official. A man who could take pride in his position, at the height of his career, someone considered to be fair and impartial, he would not have thought that his own daughter would be bullied like this at the residence. Everyone looked at Jiang Ruan with eyes full of sympathy and compassion. Now, none of Jiang Ruans denials would be believed. Everyone would simply think that this pitiful little lady from a wealthy family was only attempting to safeguard her fathers reputation, thus causing her to swallow all her grievances and conceal all the outrageous actions against her. At this turn of events, quite a few people praised Jiang Ruans actions, as they were both filial and virtuous. Even if her own father was too indifferent to make a fuss, and constantly worked to maintain the reputation of his family, this kind of situation would even be difficult for an adult shoulder. She was only a young girl. What kind of astonishing sense of righteousness was this? In contrast to Jiang Ruans high sense of righteousness stood Jiang Quans reputation. The reputation of this high-ranking government official was excellent. From the imperial court to the common people, no one could say that he was not fair, and had always appeared to be incorruptible and impartial. However, from todays revelations, which portrayed him to be so indifferent towards his eldest daughter so as to allow her to be bullied by servants, and to have his household matters in such a mess, other officials would, in all likelihood, not see him as completely clear of blame. Jiang Ruan seemed a little uncomfortable to be at the receiving end of sympathetic glances of the bystanders. She lowered her head slightly, revealing the pale back of her neck. She looked like a swan whose wings had been broken. Her posture was weak, yet she gave off the aura of one who was fighting hard to protect her pride. Her jet-black hair obscured her side profile, only revealing the delicate angles of her lower jaw. Her pale lips, due to her having bitten them hard, showed a little bloody colour, and were strangely appealing. No one noticed the mocking laughter in her eyes, concealed by her long eyelashes. One should not wash ones dirty linen in public. She would naturally never do this of her own volition, but there are many ways to ensure a matter becomes common knowledge. One way was to have people guess at it. Jiang Quan should have long had the hypocritical veneer of his reputation ripped away. In his previous life, he must have caused himself to be cast into prison, and so lost his good name and the possibility of being seen as one who would value righteousness over his family. Thus, in this lifetime, he was being allowed to exterminate his own family. This was the only reason he could have ended up in such a state! In this world, it was impossible to have a good name last forever so cheaply when one has committed cruel and unscrupulous acts. Today, she had taken advantage of this wave of public opinion, and starkly exposed the filth within the Jiang family! The sound of quarrelling had become too loud, so Imperial Censor Wang struck the table with his wooden gavel. Silence! It was only when silence resumed that he looked at Jiang Ruan and said, Youve been at the residence for several years, and Official Jiang has never come to take you back? My father is very busy with his official duties, Jiang Ruan said as she lifted her head, then quickly turned away once again. As his child, I ought to share his burdens. I do not wish to add to his troubles. As soon as she said this, the buzz of conversation started up again. Now, the more Jiang Ruan expressed charity towards Jiang Quan, the more the people were disgusted by him. What was so troublesome about having his daughter, his own flesh and blood, live at home? Imperial Censor Wang frowned. I have heard that you have stayed at the residence for five years. I want to know C five years ago, why did you come to the residence? My birth mother died of an illness, and Jiang Ruan* had to observe the period of mourning for her. She spoke in a pleasant and captivating manner, and the people around her could not help but sob when they heard her. No wonder this little girl had been abandoned at the residence. Her own mother was dead, and her stepmother must indeed be a vicious lady to put her through this kind of torment. That Official Jiang was really a beast with a human face to go so far as to favour his concubine and neglect his wife. *T/N: Jiang Ruan refers to herself in the third person when speaking here. This is known as Illeism (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illeism) and is employed for various purposes (think Gollum in The Lord of the Rings). Here, it is probably to show humility and deference as she is addressing someone superior to her in status and age (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_honorifics). Imperial Censor Wang struck the table with his wooden gavel. According to our illustrious imperial laws, the period of mourning ends after three years. As of today, you have long fulfilled the period of mourning. You do not have to be detained here. I will make the decision on your behalf, return home immediately! Jiang Ruan was startled for a moment. Very carefully, she asked, Really? Her upward-tilting eyes were full of joy. At that moment, she looked like a butterfly fluttering its wings in flight- so beautiful that people could not tear their eyes away from her. She was indeed incredibly happy. After such a long and circuitous route, she had finally achieved her final objective C to return home! Chapter 26 - A Well-Played Chess Move Accompanied by the sighs and murmurs of the people, the curtain finally came down on a big spectacle with many twists and turns. Chen Zhao and Zhang Lan were taken into custody pending trial, whereas Jiang Ruan was able to return to the Jiang residence. The court was still in session, but Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi could not stop themselves from running forward to join Jiang Ruan. They were both too excited to speak coherently. Lian Qiao said, Your servants know the heavens consider our young Miss worthy, and our mistress in heaven will also protect you. We should burn some incense for our mistress later. Jiang Ruan shook her head. If you put it that way, then we should show our gratitude to the two Darens as well who presided over this trial and gave me justice. Also, we should thank Lu Zhu and the others who were willing to come forward and speak on my behalf, especially Qiu Yan. I really owe her my thanks. After she had spoken, she walked to face Qiu Yan and said, with a faint smile, Many thanks, Qiu Yan. Qiu Yan looked dazedly at Jiang Ruan standing in front of her, and a hint of fear surfaced in her eyes. In the eyes of external observers, as far as todays events were concerned, Jiang Ruan had not done anything at all. As it appeared, it was the household servants who took the initiative and came forward. However, the truth was that all that had been spoken had been orchestrated by Jiang Ruan. Right from the outset, Jiang Ruan had arranged the situation. She had dug a splendidly decorated pit, and sat smilingly at the side to watch Chen Zhao jump into it. When the pitiful Chen Zhao jumped in, he was still under the impression that the trap he himself had set was larger. The status of Zhang Lans family was deeply entrenched in the residence. One could say, if the Jiang family did not collapse, if Xia Yan had not been Jiang Quans wife, they would have easily been able to cover up their misdeeds in the residence. Jiang Ruan would definitely not have been able to weed out and eliminate these people, with their deeply rooted connections and power, with such ease. Because Zhang Lan felt secure in the knowledge that she had backing, she never once thought that Jiang Ruan actually had a plan to completely clear out these complicated relationships. Her motive, right from the start, was to target Zhang Lan and her son with clean, efficient, and absolutely decisive methods. Finally, she took drastic measures and pulled the carpet out from under them. In the blink of an eye, she had achieved her main objective, to return to the Jiang family residence, and no one could touch her now. This was the real master stroke. However, that this kind of scheme could come from the hand of such a young girl, coupled with the impression she had given in the past five years of slow-wittedness, vulnerability, and silent endurance, this really caused one to shudder with dread. A wave of regret surfaced in Qiu Yans heart. Who would have thought that the most deeply hidden secret of this village would be this seemingly insignificant young Miss. If she returned to the Jiang household, it was to be feared that Xia Yan and her daughter would derive no benefit from it. Jiang Ruan had maintained silence with great forbearance for so many years, yet, she had struck back in this way. The Jiang household would be turned upside down. Qiu Yan respectfully bowed her head and replied, Miss, you are my mistress. That this servant should act on behalf of her mistress is only right and proper. That Miss should say this to me gives me great fear. Jiang Ruan gave a small smile. Not everyone is like you. Even so, many thanks. She grasped Qiu Yans hand. On discovering that the hand was trembling slightly, a hint of cryptic laughter surfaced in her eyes. Indeed, as Qiu Yan had thought, today she had finally achieved the first step in her plan. In her previous life, Zhang Lan and her son had played a crucial role in destroying her life. At that time, she was completely unable to help herself, and could only allow others to trample on her. Now, she would no longer offer up her life on a platter. On the contrary, no one would be able to touch her. Returning to the Jiang household would be the beginning of her revenge, but more importantly, after todays revelations and major changes, Jiang Quans reputation had taken a severe beating. If the talk of the people* could take the shine off his good name, then the Imperial Censors accusation of misconduct would certainly throw a spanner into the progress of his official career. The crowd dispersed from the court. Jiang Ruans eyes lighted upon the figure that was slowly moving towards her. She waited until it drew closer, then she bowed gracefully and said, Wang Daren. Imperial Censor Wang stroked his white beard and said meaningfully, Girl[1], we meet once again. [1] Ya Tou ( Ѿͷ ) C It refers to a girl/servant girl, but when the person is not actually a servant, it is a term of endearment. Jiang Ruan also smiled lightly as she asked, How well did the Darens red plum flower bloom today? It showed no sign of inferiority, it did not resort to flattery, it was clearly of lofty and unyielding character, it showed vital energy throughout. It bloomed very well. Imperial Censor Wang looked straight into her eyes. It was just a little obstinate. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly once more and declined to comment. The reason why she was so certain Imperial Censor Wang would judge on her behalf was entirely due to her memories from her previous life. When she was living in the residence in her previous life, Bai Zhi had gone out one day to hear the streets abuzz with talk of an old man who had been cheated out of his money on West Street, and who was so furious that he had gone to the local authority. However, they had not only refused to pay any attention to him, but had even called an officer to chase him away without any further ado, enraging him further. Not long after, an imperial edict had arrived from the capital banishing Qian Wan Li from his official position. It turned out that the old man was, unexpectedly, a high-ranking government official in the capital, the Emperors favored Imperial Censor Wang.. This Imperial Censor Wang was unrepentantly stubborn, and even dared to directly admonish the Emperor. As part of his everyday routine, he loved to meddle in other peoples affairs. If he sensed there was some injustice, he was more than delighted to interfere. This was why Jiang Ruan had suddenly suggested going to West Street that day, and had worked to resolve Imperial Censor Wangs desperate situation[2]. Since Imperial Censor Wang highly valued righting a wrong, he would definitely want to look into Chen Zhaos case. Moreover, once he realised that it involved Jiang Ruan, with whom he had a red plum blossom friendship[3], he would naturally not stand aside and ignore her grievances. [2] Ran Mei Zhi Ji ( ȼü֮ ) C lit. the fire that burns ones eyebrows [3] It refers to the time when Jiang Ruan gifted Imperial Censor Wang with a stalk of red plum blossoms after she had resolved the situation with his stolen money. That red plum blossom was the key that opened the door to Imperial Censor Wangs stony heart. Imperial Censor Wang had boasted of his absolute sense of justice, but people always have a kind of balancing scale in their hearts. Unless one were a holy man devoid of desire or emotions, the scale would always tip in favour of ones preferences. Imperial Censor Wang already had a very strong first impression of her. When Qiu Yan said that she was wrongly accused, he had already subconsciously believed her, and intended to spare no effort in looking for evidence which was beneficial to her. Using Imperial Censor Wang was indeed a good chess move, but the true beauty of this move was to be revealed in its impact after the event. With Imperial Censor Wangs stubborn nature, when Jiang Ruans current situation was brought to his notice, he was bound to harbour a lot of dissatisfaction against his fellow government official, Jiang Quan. Upon his return to the capital, he would surely write a scathing report about Jiang Ruans situation. Since his word was taken seriously, one could imagine the blow to Jiang Quan. Jiang Ruan laughed and said, Jiang Ruan will never be able to repay Darens benevolence. Imperial Censor Wangs face took on a rather strange expression. Are you thanking me for the chance I have offered you to seek justice, for sending you back to the Jiang household, or for my cooperation in the court today? Those who have served with righteousness in the government for many years and still remain upright are naturally not incompetent. Jiang Ruan was not concerned about having been found out and calmly replied, All the above. Imperial Censor Wang looked at her searchingly. Little girl, dont let your heart be too burdened. Treat my slight effort today as being repayment for your stalks of the red plum blossoms. You said that this old fellow was like the red plum blossom, that it has to go through bitter cold before its fragrance emerges. However, this old fellow thinks that these words suit you even better. He shook his head and said, Later, allow some guardsmen to go back with you and retrieve all your belongings. Everything must be returned to the rightful owner. Jiang Ruan nodded her head in thanks. Imperial Censor Wang walked on once again, but suddenly stopped. With his back to her, he told Jiang Ruan, It is correct, your father was not strict enough in governing his household. He ignored the situation when those he had appointed to positions of responsibility bullied his di[4] daughter. To cultivate ones moral character and to regulate ones family is the only way to ensure proper rule and harmony in the country, yet Jiang Quans backyard is in such disarray. In all likelihood, the bureaucracy is excessively biased. When this old fellow returns to the capital, he will write an official report condemning his actions, using this bad example to warn others. [4] Di ( ) daughter C Di refers to the legitimate/first wife, the original spouse of a man. In the context of children, di means legitimate, a child born from the official wife. Di children have higher standing than shu () children (born of a concubine) and are generally the rightful heirs of the family. Chapter 27 - Preparations for Return to The Capital At noon, the servants in the residence brought the chests in one after another. Inside the two yellow pearwood chests[1], which were of the finest quality, most of the clothes and accessories which had been well-worn could now be deemed as completely returned. However, the money could not be retrieved. The maids were somewhat fearful as they looked towards Jiang Ruan, Miss, what could be found has all been recovered [1] Hung l m xing ( ľ ) C huang li can mean pineapple or pear. In this case, huang li mu means yellow pearwood, its official name in Chinese is huang hua li or yellow flowering pear wood. Xiang also has a number of meanings such as box, trunk or chest. The yellow flowering pear is a member of the rosewood family and is classified as Dalbergia odorifera. More recently, the word huang or yellow was added in the early 20th century due to the old wood surfaces mellowing into a yellowish tone due to long exposure to light. These finest quality yellow pearwood chests have a translucent, shimmering surface with abstract aesthetically pleasing patterns. No matter, you may all leave. Jiang Ruan spoke as she shook her head. Zhang Lans family had always enjoyed the privileges but detested the work given to them; the money that they received was taken by Chen Zhao to charm women or else, by Chen Fu to gamble away. Thankfully, the clothes and accessories were in Chen Fangs possession, hence, those items were not pawned off and had not become irreclaimable. However, unfortunately they could no longer be worn. Bai Zhi, Jiang Ruan nodded towards the two chests, Other than those left behind by mother[2], bring everything else to the pawn shop and sell it all. If possible, have all of these things exchanged for banknotes. [2] Ning ( ) C Mother Young Miss, Bao Zhi was rather shocked, Everything? All of this is yours, Miss Things that have already been used, what need do I have for them. Sitting by the table, Jiang Ruan slowly poured herself a cup of tea. After Zhang Lans incident, the maids in the residence were extremely afraid of Jiang Ruan; even the tea leaves that were sent over were freshly-grown this year. Nevertheless, a few sets of clothes should be kept, Bai Zhi responded, In a few days, we will be going back to the capital. It would not be good if you are dressed like this, young Miss. If I am not dressed like this, how would father feel distressed on my behalf? Jiang Ruan coldly answered. Her face still remained expressionless, however, her gaze had become ice-cold. At that instant, Bai Zhi was at loss for words and did not know how to reply. While she was still hesitant, Lian Qiao pushed the door and came in, carrying a basket of washed fruits. Taking part in the conversation between the both of them, Lian Qiao then continued, Thats right. If young Miss wore these clothes, to just fake a facade without a care about the current situation, wouldnt it be unbearable for Miss to remain unfazed? Also, Bai Zhi, dont forget, our Miss can no longer fit into these clothes. You might have noticed Chen Fang not wearing them either. After thinking about it, Bai Zhi no longer hesitated and crouched down, carefully removing the upper layer of the remaining things in the chest. She then instructed a few people to remove the remaining clothes and carry them out so that she could find a pawn shop to bring the items to exchange for money. Waiting until Bai Zhi had left, as she placed some of the read books into the chest, Liao Qiao spoke with some uncertainty, Miss, today, this slave heard something when she went out earlier. However, her recollection remained unfinished as they heard the door being slammed open by someone from the outside. Barging in aggressively as she began to give her a dressing down, Chen Fang accused, Miss, why did you have to do this to my mother! How impudent! Following suit, Lian Qiao also stood up and tore into her, Who gave you the nerve to create a commotion in front of our young Miss! Unfazed, Chen Fang loudly proclaimed, Miss, I respect you as the young lady of the residence. After you arrived, over your past few years here, my mother has always served you well. If not for my mother, how could you still be here today! My brother treated you well too, why did you have to frame him and get him locked up in prison? Miss, you are truly ruthless! What rubbish are you spouting! Lian Qiao blustered angrily, What do you mean by framing, it was clearly proven that Chen Zhao only had himself to blame for his actions. Are you trying to falsely incriminate our young Miss! Lian Qiao, Jiang Ruan halted her from continuing, then looked at Chen Fang and suddenly smiled, Miss Chen, you are widely off the mark; the one who rightly brought about Chen Zhaos imprisonment, wasnt it you? What are you trying to say? Chen Fang frowned. Miss Chen, have you forgotten that it was you who invited me to admire that pot of the queen of the night[3]. Holding the teacup in her hands, Jiang Ruan blew at the bubbles that were floating in the tea and took a light sip, Speaking of which, your brother and Chun Ying, their fates began to intertwine because of that pot of flowers. [3] Yu xi mi rn ( ) C It refers to the queen of the night. This plant was referenced first at chapter 12, part 1; the cactus species that began the downfall of Zhang Lans family. At first, Chen Fang did not fully understand what Jiang Ruan was talking about. Once she heard that last sentence, she was thunderstruck and spoke incredulously, You did all this on purpose, didnt you? For Chun Ying to be there, that was your doing? What do you think? Jiang Ruan countered. Impossible, this is impossible Chen Fang looked at her with fear, Even if you managed to lure Chun Ying over there, how could you have known what would happen later. It is impossible for you to anticipate everything like this unless. Unless you are some demon Maybe I am a demon, regardless, how would you be able to tell? You harmed your own brother and your brother made trouble for your mother. Therefore, you have no right to put the blame on me. After saying this, Jiang Ruan smiled, the piping hot tea making her lips appear rosy and moist. With her pitch-black hair and snowy white complexion, the smile on her lips was charmingly enticing. Retreating a bit, Chen Fang shook her head and answered, No, I cannot believe this, no It seemed that her fear had reached its peak; she instantly turned and fled. Furrowing her eyebrows, Lian Qiao commented, She is ridiculous. What she is eating and wearing daily, which of it doesnt belong to Miss? To look upon our young Miss like this, she still has the nerve to speak these senseless things. As expected, she has no conscience, how disgusting! Jiang Ruan stated, Didnt she already receive retribution? Every single thing and action in this world has its cause and effect. At this point, Zhang Lans family has received their just desserts because of their past misdeeds. Lian Qiao laughed, That is due to Miss intelligence, look how frightened she was. Our young Miss has incredible foresight. Jiang Ruan broke into laughter. In her past life, during the times when she was miserable and helpless, one thing that she had learnt from those that harmed her was forbearance. If there were conspiracies against her, to use all that she could to slowly scheme and thwart such efforts; all this seemed to have worked flawlessly for her now. Thinking about how it was back then, she asked, What did you want to tell me before? This Lian Qiao bit her lips, Outside, there are rumours about the master. They talk about how the master does not govern his home firmly and neglected his eldest di daughter to be humiliated and bullied by his servants at another residence. She then cautiously evaluated Jiang Ruans response, however, there was a faint smile on on Jiang Ruans face as she responded, Is that so? If the town was abuzz with this news, then naturally, in the capital, this matter would have become an idle topic being discussed fervently. Everyone was talking about how Minister Jiang had hidden his coldheartedness behind his visage of kindness. They felt sorry for the righteous and intelligent Jiang familys di daughter. In the Jiang familys official residence, the entrance was so tightly shut that not even a servant girl could be seen leaving the household to make purchases. In the Jiang fu, Jiang Quan threw the booklet in his hand with a loud thud, onto his desk. His face was ashen as he spluttered, Scoundrel! Master[4] , Pushing the door as she entered, his wife was dressed in a rose slender-cut cotton inner robe that was embroidered with hundreds of butterflies flying over camellia flowers. The outer layer was an azure blue gown of multi-coloured silk tapestry woven with designs of ermine on it. As for her lower garment, it was a jadeite cloud brocade pleated skirt with scattered flowers. Clusters of southern sea pearl flowers were held in a hairpin in her falling horse-shape hairstyle. Although she was dressed in a style befitting a married woman, both refreshing and colourful, and with elegant almond eyes[5], she possessed a scholarly aura which appeared extremely gentle and understatedly graceful. Placing the food basket in her hands down, she walked forward and held Jiang Quans hand as she continued in a low voice, Please calm down, Master, and not let anger harm your body. [4] Loye ( ү ) C (respectful) lord / master. [5] Xng Yn ( ) C This refers to almond eyes which is used to depict large, round eyes that are considered beautiful. After he saw her, the gloomy expression on Jiang Quans face subsided a little. However, his tone remained furious, Look at what is written in all of these booklets! All of them are saying that I, Jiang Quan, did not manage my home firmly. That without showing concern for her over the past five years, I treated my di daughter harshly. Therefore, I am cold-blooded and heartless, a sanctimonious person! The emperor has already ordered me home to reflect. Already I have become the laughing stock of Chaozhong! Zhao Mei, what a fine daughter you have raised! Jiejie isnt to blame. Xia Yan hastily soothed, Ruaner definitely did not do this on purpose. Just that, now that the situation has gotten to this state, Master, why dont we have Ruaner return here to assuage the Emperors misgivings. This concubine will immediately make the preparations. There is no need, with a wave of his hand, Jiang Quans gaze was completely dark and hooded, Imperial Censor Wang has already personally prepared a carriage to bring her back to the capital. Chapter 28 - A Murderous Intent The distance from this town to the capital would take two, but at most three days to cover. Imperial Censor Wang always advocated frugality. Thus, contrary to ones expectation, he eschewed the comfortable sedan chair that Qian Wan Li had arranged for, and ordered instead two horse carriages . Sedan Chair vs Horse Carriage: Jiang Ruans chests of miscellaneous items had already been sold and the value converted to banknotes[1], so only a chest of books remained to be moved into the carriage. Thus a lot of space was saved. [1] Yin Piao ( Ʊ ) C Used in olden times, banknotes with a value in silver (Source: https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/yƱ) Apart from being accompanied by Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao, Lu Zhu would also join them in their journey. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were not only witty and intelligent servant girls, but also bold, which was quite a rare trait. Before the departure, Lu Zhu had voluntarily offered to serve Jiang Ruan. And as it turned out, Jiang Ruan had also planned to bring Xiao Yuan along with them. However, Xiao Yuan had been born a servant in that residence, and was reluctant to leave her father and mother. So, she tactfully and politely declined Jiang Ruans kind intention. Thus, Jiang Ruan did not force the matter, and had left her a sum of money in repayment for the favour Xiao Yuan had done for her. On the other hand, Lu Zhu was a servant girl who had been bought from outside. After both parents deaths, her relatives had sold her to the slave traders. And since she had travelled extensively and had met a great number of people, she was extremely bright. In the short time of their interaction, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao had already grown close to her. Because of Jiang Ruan and the other womenfolk, Qian Wan Li had tried to curry favour with Imperial Censor Wang by arranging for Li Mi and another officer to escort them to the capital. And so, the entire journey was travelled in harmony. During their journey, Lu Zhu was very lively, recounting the time she had spent travelling with the slave traders and the strange things they had encountered. Or, perhaps she was naturally optimistic; every word she spoke was full of charm and interest, with nary a hint of low spirits. If she were harbouring any sadness or fear, only she herself knew of it. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao could naturally sense that she was a gentle and outgoing person, and the three of them chattered away enthusiastically, while Jiang Ruan sat in the horse carriage with a book in her hand, seemingly enjoying the taste of freedom. They soon reached the half-way mark of their two-day journey. After a nights rest, they would probably be able to reach the capital by the afternoon of the next day. Li Mi and the other officer sat astride their ponies, accompanying Imperial Censor Wang in the other horse carriage. The sky gradually darkened. Li Mi had made enquiries and discovered there was a temple ahead of them. As they were in the middle of the wilderness, he considered the difficulty of finding an inn to stay in overnight. Thus, after asking Jiang Ruans opinion, he decided that they should stay at the temple. The temple was quite large, yet not much incense had been lit. Perhaps, due to its remote location in the deep mountain wilderness, very few people travelled here to light incense. Even the monks going to and fro were few in number. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao had not stepped over the threshold of a temple for a long time. Earlier, when Zhao Mei had still been around, she had often taken Jiang Ruan to the temple in Putuo to pray for blessings. After her death, when Jiang Ruan had been sent to the countryside residence, life became harsher by the day, and there was neither time nor money to visit the temple. Money required to buy the fragrant oil used in worship was still money. Asking for Buddhas blessing and protection came with a cost. Lu Zhu was no stranger to temples. At Jiang Ruans command, while Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were tidying up, she had already made one round of the temple and even returned bearing several dishes of vegetarian food. As she urged Jiang Ruan to eat while the food was hot, she described the temples layout to her in detail. Night had fallen by the time they settled in the temple. All the men, including Imperial Censor Wang, Li Mi and the other officer, had arranged to sleep on the other side of the temple. Even though Li Mi had some misgivings regarding this, he concluded that the reputation of the ladies was of prime importance. Moreover, although the temple was quite large in surface area, if anything truly did happen, he would still be able to react in time. Lian Qiao trimmed the long wick in the oil lamp to make the lamp glow more brightly. Jiang Ruan put down the book she was holding and rubbed her temples. Miss, it is quite late, shouldnt you sleep? Bai Zhi asked. Jiang Ruan had rested enough in the past few days, and was now full of spirits, with no inclination to sleep. There is no rush, there is still time for an entertaining play tonight, Jiang Ruan said with a small smile. Theres no rush, there is still time for an entertaining play tonight, Jiang Ruan said with a small smile. She thought about the question she had asked Li Mi whilst in the carriage: Daren, do people on the way to the capital have to pass this temple? Yes, Li Mi replied. This temple is the only building within a radius of several tens of li[1]. [1] Li ( ) C ancient measure of length, approximately 500m. Jiang Ruan broke off her train of thought in time to hear Lian Qiao ask, curiously, What entertaining play? Lu Zhu. Jiang Ruan answered. Lu Zhu came into the room and said, all smiles, Everything has been arranged, Miss. It was late at night in the depth of winter, and surrounded by inky blackness, dead silence presided over the temple. Only the sound of the cold wind, like a whimper, could be heard. The lamps had been completely extinguished. The only light remaining was a wisp of moonlight from the waning moon, shining on the snowy land. At that moment, huge dark clouds rolled overhead, completely blotting out the faint moonlight. Under the heavens, the earth was shrouded in a blanket of darkness. In the silent darkness, several furtive figures suddenly appeared in the courtyard. The figures paused at a few rooms, glancing inside for confirmation, before entering one of the rooms in a single file. Into the noiseless silence of the courtyard dropped one or two soft chimes of small bells. The maiden in the darkness opened her eyes, pupils gleaming with a hint of chilliness. She smiled faintly and whispered, Lian Qiao, Bai Zhi. Both servant girls nodded in unison, got up, opened the door, and walked out. Jiang Ruan stood in the middle of the room. She had already laid out everything in the room next door, but had not slept there. Instead, she had hidden in this adjoining room the whole time. She had in fact set herself up as an easy target[2]. [2] Weng zhong zhuo bie ( ׽ ) C = jar, ׽ = to catch; = turtle; lit. to catch a turtle in a jar; fig. to go after an easy prey. In her previous life, she had also lived in a similar temple, but her recollection of that time was extremely vague. She could only remember that the monks and the abbot had made things difficult for her, but whether this was deliberate or due to some other reason, she had not been able to figure out back then. The food she was given had been extremely meager, and the condition of the room she slept in had been extremely harsh. However, on hindsight, it must have been at the instigation of Xia Yan and her daughter. Back then, they had needed her as a pawn in their scheme to enter the palace, so they had made things difficult for her only for a short while before letting her go. Now that she had been given a new lease of life, and was returning to the Jiang fu[3] with great fanfare and the status of the highly righteous daughter of the first wife, she was afraid that Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su would not be too happy. [3] Fu ( ) C compound, estate or mansion; usually the residence of a noble or powerful family. So Jiang fu refers to main residence, i.e., Jiang mansion. On this final day, they still wanted to block her return to the Jiang fu. However, this time, what they wanted was her life! Due to the temples remote location and consequent lack of monetary offering, they had taken Xia Yans silver and were doing her bidding. Thus the few kind-hearted monks who had remained had considerately advised Jiang Ruan to place the male and female members of her party in separate rooms to preserve her reputation. So if something were to happen, she would have no one to call for help, and could only endure it all by herself! However, today, she was an evil spirit who had returned from hell, and in this play they were putting on, she alone had the key role to demand someones life! The faint chime of bells came from the neighbouring room; it was a secret code. Excellent. She had released a large quantity of poisonous smoke into the room, and Lu Zhu had taken the antidote earlier. Once the people that Xia Yan had sent entered the room, their part (in the play C continuation of the entertaining play metaphor) was C to be trampled on. At day break, she planned to throw the bodies of these people in front of the temples statue of Buddha. Li Mi was an officer and would naturally have to investigate. As to how the abbot and monks would explain all this, well, they would have to concoct a plausible explanation by themselves. Jiang Ruan tidied her skirt in preparation to open the door and go to the neighbouring room to check on the situation. She had just reached the door when it was shoved open violently, and a figure slipped in quickly from outside. Startled, Jiang Ruan hastily took a few steps back. The other party, seemingly, had not imagined that someone would be in the room either, and did not react immediately. In that split second, Jiang Ruan, having moved too quickly, stepped carelessly on her oversized skirt and toppled backwards in the prelude to a fall. Upon seeing her fall, the other person moved swiftly and reflexively stretched out a hand to grasp her waist. For a brief moment, their bodies were pressed close to one another and Jiang Ruans face touched the black material of his clothes, patterned with black mythical creatures (qilin)[4]. She went blank. In a twinkling of an eye, the dark clouds receded, and moonlight flooded the room through the window. Jiang Ruan looked up into a pair of eyes as cold as a dead star. Chapter 29 - Exploited Although Jiang Ruans heart was like an immovable rock, when she saw the person before her clearly, she could not help but become distracted for a split second. The youth dressed in black clothes was roughly in his twenties. His peerlessly graceful appearance was one that was rarely seen in the world: shapely eyebrows, cold eyes, snow-white skin and thin lips. Yet, she did not feel that this man was feminine. On the contrary, the sharpness of his features were distinct and he had a unrelenting heroic spirit. With drooped eyes, he looked at Jiang Ruan. Like specks of paint, that pair of eyes was extremely clear and cold like a still lake without a single ripple. (TN: specks of paint HOW is this a compliment??!!) The two people were too close in proximity. Their breath was ice-cold, and she could feel an icy-cold sensation around her waist as well. In this kind of situation, it should have been an ambiguously romantic scene between them, however, one was cold hearted and the other was on her guard. Therefore, the two of them experienced no rush of excitement that one felt when they fell in love. In this position, it was as if she had been disgraced[1]. In a flash, Jiang Ruan roused back into action. Inwardly, she felt irked and just felt that beauty could be such a seductive danger. In a blink of an eye, she retreated two steps and placed a distance between herself and the youth dressed in black clothes. [1] Qng B ( ᱡ )- This phrase has several meanings such as being teased; of an item being light in weight/thin and scorned or disrespected. In this case, it refers to being disgraced as women were not allowed to be without a chaperone in ancient Chinese history. They also had to remain pure and untouched by any male. To be even seen by a man without a chaperone was considered a scandalous matter and made a lady impure and undesirable for marriage as they would be labelled as promiscuous. Suddenly, she heard a faint clanging clash between swords from the outside. Jiang Ruan was shocked and quickly reacted. The black-dressed youth wordlessly and indifferently stared at her. Originally, the temple was overtaken by Xia Yans assassins, however, she would not have sent two groups of people to kill her. If she was not the target, then these people might have been lured in because of this young man. While she had just resolved a problem, she was unfortunately entrapped in these circumstances now. Moreover, she was unsure if these people would silence her with murder. After all, her appearance here was an accident. By the time Jiang Ruan raised her head to take a measure of him again, the man had already leaned against the door while she had been retreating from him. She was unsure of when he had brandished an elaborate dagger, but at the moment, he was fiddling with it in his hands thoughtfully. His gaze was not facing her at all, but Jiang Ruan knew that if she made the slightest movement, this person would definitely react too. As she took a moment to ponder, Jiang Ruan slowly walked forward. Her movements were deliberately slow to demonstrate that she was completely harmless and without any ill will. The fiddling stopped, as the youth watched her step forward until they were only a fingers width apart. Standing on the tip of her toes, Jiang Ruan could only just reach his chest height. Strenuously, she moved closer to his ears and lightly spoke in a hushed tone, I did not see a thing. The youth dressed in black clothes was slightly shocked and lowered his gaze to study her. Jiang Ruan frowned and noticed that he was clothed in ice-silk fabric that had a black and scaly pattern. She knew he was definitely not any ordinary person. Thinking for a bit, she then added on, Sire[2], please hide here. Naturally, we would not want to expose what is now happening in this room. If you killed me, Im afraid it would be a bit of a problem. Although this problem would not be unsolvable, undoubtedly, it would definitely not be what you have planned. [2] Gxi ( ) C Your distinguished self / your majesty / sire Who are you? The youth garbed in black raiment finally spoke and his voice was as cold and clear as an icy-cold jewel. The eldest di daughter of the minister in the Ministry of War, Jiang Quan, Jiang Ruan stated. In Chaozhong, Jiang Quans status could be considered as important. When this identity could be utilised, she would use it without any reservation. She was not afraid that an incident would occur. Firstly, in the memories of her past life, the Jiang family did not have any enemies. Secondly, even if she was that unlucky, if someone really had any history with the Jiang family, they would definitely know that she had a humble status in the Jiang family. She merely occupied her station as the di daughter in the family and would have no influence in the pecking order. There was no benefit in killing her and would most likely bring forth complications into the situation. Jiang Ruan had already delineated some of the gains and losses so now she could only wait to see what decision the other person would make. As the youths gaze took stock of her person, Jiang Ruan knew that her current outfit was simple and crude. Due to deliberate instructions, her clothes were still the worn ones that were once altered at the residence. Therefore, she would definitely cut an extremely pitiful figure and perhaps that man might even be suspicious of her supposed status. She then added on, Imperial Censor Wang and Official Li Mi are in the side room for the men. If anything were to happen to me, they would certainly be unable to shirk any responsibility. I am afraid they would investigate for a very long time. The youthful figure simply eyed her and turned to stow away the decorative dagger in his hand. In her heart, Jiang Ruan heaved a sigh of relief and knew that the other person would not kill her. However, it was not necessarily on account of her threat that he would refrain from doing so. Then the door was suddenly opened, and she saw a black figure barge in from the outside and greet the youth dressed in black, Master[1], it has been arranged. [1] Zhzi ( ) C Master (term used by servant) / Your Majesty Looking around by just the faint light of the moon, a group of corpses could be seen, lying disorderly on the ground. They were all dressed in nondescript black clothes that were meant for nocturnal activities. Their fatal wounds were all similar; there were lines of blood slit at the throat which clearly indicated they were killed in one slash. The man that addressed the youth as master raised his head, and upon looking at Jiang Ruan, was a little surprised. He did not seem to expect to see someone still awake in the temple and hesitantly enquired, Master? Was he asking if he could silence her with murder? Jiang Ruan chuckled coldly in her heart and only heard the youth dressed in black indifferently speak, No need. Jiang Ruans thoughts raced quickly, those people were evidently after this young man. And in just that short period of time, these people had then breathed their last breath. And even then, this matter was quickly resolved without alerting the other people in the temple. In all probability, this youths influence was not small. Moreover, if she could make use of it Suddenly, she smiled, Sire, there is still something that slipped through your net. The youth turned to stare at her and Jiang Ruan continued, Wait for a bit. Then she stood up and walked towards the room next door. In the neighbouring room, Bai Zhi and her other two maidservants had just bundled up the people who were knocked out. They were completely oblivious as to what had happened outside and saw Jiang Ruan enter the room. Lian Qiao questioned, Young Miss, look Jiang Ruan shook her head and placed a finger to her own lips as if to signal to her maidservant to remain silent. She then lightly remarked, All of you will stay here and dont move. After saying this, strenuously, she dragged a person on the ground and backed out of the door. Lian Qiao wanted to follow suit but was pulled back by Bai Zhi, therefore, she could only remain behind in the room. Jiang Ruan went back and forth five times and finally managed to drag all of the five people in front of the black-dressed youth. The youth and his attendant that stood beside him were both waiting for her to clear up the confusion. Jiang Ruan laughed slightly, These people were drugged by fainting fumes and their bodies are unable to move. However, their conscious remains clear- if I converse with sire right now, then all of them will hear it. However, once awake, I am not sure what kind of problems they would give sire. So I am doing you a favour and brought this people to you, sire. Please handle them as you would see fit. They were still going to be killed at the lonely temple on a snowy night, so actually, they ought to share a similar fate with the other group of assassins. Although she spoke in an extremely easy manner, it was as if she had given him a chance to take an enormously convenient yet immoral course of action. However, how could this method of getting someone else to do her dirty work not be seen through by the two people in front of her. Still, what she said was extremely reasonable, therefore, the youth in black slightly gestured with his hand and his attendant immediately went forward with his raised sword. In a split second, with five cold tips of the blade, the people on the ground had no reprieves from death. In her heart, Jiang Ruan already understood. While this persons attendant was so brilliant, evidently his master would definitely not be ordinary. Although he had yet to reveal his face tonight, she was aware that he intended to lay low since concealing himself would definitely mean keeping anothers lips sealed. He had not killed her who was the di daughter of the Jiang family- this was mostly likely due to all the trouble it would cause. However, for these five dubious people, he could just take care of them as he wished. Thinking back to how she had initially wanted to handle this matter herself, she felt that now there was a better option before her; the technique of an immediate slash of death. No matter what, the suspicion would not be able to land upon her and the accusation could be washed away from her cleanly. As she thought this far, her mood became somewhat better. Jiang Ruan smiled towards the young man in black, The path has been completely cleared, sire, please go ahead. The youth dressed in black clothes glanced at her and his cold eyes showed an unreadable emotion that was cold, clear and unusual. Then, he suddenly turned and walked into the dark night. Jiang Ruan stared at the figures back. As he walked, his movements were natural and effortless and she could only see an understated sort of elegance. It was as if this elegance was deeply carved and flowed into his every bone, so that it was superficially inconcealable and unconsciously revealed with every step. Such an outstandingly magnificent appearance, she had never seen this even in her past life. As she tightly furrowed her eyebrows, she wondered when did the Great Jin dynasty ever have this sort of person? Who in the world was he? Chapter 30 - Jiang Su Su The night passed. When the sun rose the next morning, a cacophony of sounds arose from the temple courtyard. All around the temple, doors were knocked upon in a flurry, and Li Mis anxious voice could be heard calling, Miss Jiang, Miss Jiang! Jiang Ruan pushed herself off the bed. As she dressed herself hurriedly, she instructed Bai Zhi to check on the situation outside. After she had put on her coat, she pushed open the door, and the thick scent of blood rushed into the room. Li Mi drew in a deep breath when he saw that Jiang Ruan was unharmed. The strain was evident in his voice as he questioned her, Miss, are you all right? Jiang Ruan looked at him doubtfully. What on earth has happened to cause Daren to ask this kind of question? When she had finished speaking, she craned her neck to see what was happening behind Li Mis back. With a startled cry, she turned her head and said, with a fearful quiver, This . . . Several bodies lay in a disorderly state on the snowy ground. Blood ran everywhere, as if a massacre had taken place on the Shura field*. Bai Zhi and several others rushed to block Jiang Ruans view of the gory spectacle and stood in front of her wordlessly. *Xiuluo chang ( ޳ ) C lit. Shura Field. An asura in Buddhism is a demigod. A shura field refers to the scene where asura fight to the death, and therefore is used to denote a battlefield with fierce fighting. Li Mi shook his head and said, A group of thieves came here last night, and this is the scene we encountered this morning. I was worried that something might have happened to you. Thankfully, you are all right. Jiang Ruan frowned. That . . . how could it be that I am unharmed? You were probably not their target, Li Mi said grimly. Perhaps the motive was the usual seeking after revenge, which generally does not harm the innocent. Unfortunately, I need to remain here to investigate this matter. Miss Jiang, my duty lies here. My deepest apologies, but I will stay here today. There is not much farther to go on your journey. I will leave it to the horse guard to accompany you back to the capital. Jiang Ruan hurried to return the courtesy and said, Daren does not need to be concerned about me. On the contrary, it is the situation here which is of prime importance as human life is beyond value. And since the murders occurred here, the temple personnel cannot disassociate themselves from the deaths. I wonder if I might be of any use to you here. Li Mi noted her evident sincerity and said consolingly, Miss Jiang is worrying too much. The situation at hand has nothing to do with Miss Jiang. We have to conduct a proper investigation into the temple, but it would be better for Miss Jiang to set off on your journey as soon as possible. There is no need to hold you back from returning to the capital. He did not speak falsely. Although he had grounds to suspect the temple personnel, Jiang Ruan was the person with the least amount of suspicion hanging over her. For one, she had only passed by this temple by chance. For another, the bodies on the ground were all marked with injuries caused by martial arts. Since the previous nights massacre had not been noticed by a single person in the temple, the people responsible for the killing must have been highly skilled in martial arts. Thus, it was even more unlikely that the culprits were Jiang Ruan and her maids, four delicate ladies. Since he had already given such a reply, to ask once more to remain at the scene would only be added trouble. Jiang Ruan instructed Bai Zhi to tidy up their belongings, then stepped into the horse carriage with Imperial Censor Wang. The both of them said their farewells to Li Mi. They were already quite close to the capital, and the carriage reached the gate of the capital around noon. Lu Zhu had never been to the capital, and her curiosity led her to lift up a corner of the window curtain and peer out. She exclaimed, Ah, so this is the capital! Previously, I heard people say that the capital is always bustling. Now, I see that it is really true! So beautiful! Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao also looked outside. They had been away from the capital for five years, and on this occasion of returning, they were filled with an unspeakable excitement. They were also happy for Jiang Ruan, and it felt as if the bitterness of life was over, and the sweetness was about to begin. Unlike them, Jiang Ruan bore no happy or excited expression. Slowly, she lifted up the corner of the curtain nearest her, and was just in time to see a fine, jet black horse brush by the carriage as it sped away. That steed was a rare breed and she could not help taking another look. By that time, it was only a distant silhouette, but she felt that the rider had an incomparably graceful bearing. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and took in the surroundings. The streets of the capital were full of hustle and bustle, and thronged with crowds. The scene coincided with what she remembered of the capital. She recalled the time when she had left the capital; it had also been in a horse carriage; however, at that time it was draped with mourning, with several people alongside, walking in a solitary group. In this manner, she had left the capital. In the time between her departure and return, she had already passed an entire lifetime. Now, the person returning was not the same as the person before. She tilted her head back, and felt the capitals cold winter wind slowly brush her face. Lian Qiao was just about to advise that Jiang Ruan let the curtain fall back in place for fear of catching a cold when she caught a glimpse of the expression on Jiang Ruans face, and could not help being shocked. Her mistresss eyes were coldly indifferent. Although there was no visible emotion on her face, she gave off the aura of utter chilliness, as if she were a demon who had returned from hell. Looking at her made one shudder. Not far from the Jiang residence, Jiang Ruan and Imperial Censor Wang parted ways. Now that he had filed an official complaint against Jiang Quan, Imperial Censor Wang viewed him with utmost disdain, and was reluctant to even see him. He sent Jiang Ruan off with the horse carriage, and left them. The closer they got to the Jiang fu, the more tense Bai Zhi and the other occupants of the horse carriage became. Returning to the Jiang fu indicated a change of fortune for them, a better life, but it also indicated the beginning of a war. Jiang Ruan looked the most calm of them all, for only she was privy to the violent hatred that surged in her heart. The Jiang fu was located on the most prosperous and bustling street in the capital. Because a messenger boy had gone ahead with the news, the entire Jiang household had to come out to receive the Jiang familys di daughter. Jiang Quan was not at home, so Xia Yan personally came out to welcome them. Adding to the emperors anger was the peoples gossip. It was only by showing that they regarded the Jiang familys di daughter as someone of importance that they could hope to gradually calm the storm. When the people saw Xia Yan coming outside with all the household servants, from the lowest to the highest ranked, they understood what was going on[1]. Some went so far as to stand obstinately at the gate of the residence, waiting to see the fun. In a course of time, a whole crowd of people had gathered at the Jiang fus entrance. Xia Yan did not order the servants to shoo the crowd away. The more people, the more witnesses. [1] Lai long qu mai ( ȥ ) C fig. the rise and fall of the terrain, the whole sequence of events. The horse carriage jolted on its way, and finally came to a halt at the Jiang residence gate. Da Xiaojie[2] has returned! An old servant next to Xia Yan called out loudly. Immediately, a warm smile surfaced on Xia Yans face. [2] Da xiao jie (С ) C the eldest () daughter of an affluent family (С). The bystanders all eyed the horse carriage curiously. News of Jiang Ruans conduct at court had spread throughout the capital, and everyone wanted to see what the righteous yet ill-destined di daughter of the Jiang family looked like. Two servant girls speedily descended from the carriage. One lifted up the curtains, and the other extended a hand to help the passenger. Jiejie! Someone exclaimed with pleasant surprise. A young girl emerged from behind the residence gate, all in white. Despite her young age, she was already a stunning beauty, like an elegant lady in an ink-wash painting. Her beautiful eyes seemed to contain depths of clouds and mist, while her crimson skirt and jacket, richly embroidered with white lilies and lined with white brocade, set off her pale skin perfectly and made it glow like pure jade. Her pink lips were like cherries. Her most beautiful feature was a tear-shaped birthmark under her eye. It was neat and lovely, and stirred up peoples emotions, elevating her beauty to that of a mystical fairy. She wore no ornaments, only two green ribbons, so that those looking at her felt their hearts softening towards this exquisite and refined girl. As some people had discerned, the Jiang familys di daughter was not favoured. Thus, Jiang Ruans name was known to very few people. However, Jiang Su Sus name was well known throughout the capital. She was the pearl of the Jiang family, an outstanding beauty who moved people with her looks, and was considered the prettiest woman in the capital. With the appearance of this stunning beauty, fewer people looked towards the carriage. Slow down, guniang[3], A delicate voice was suddenly heard from within the carriage. [3] Gniang ( ) C girl / young lady. In the next moment, a beautifully slender lily-white hand emerged. The hand was so pale that it was almost like translucent jade. Just looking at it, one would hardly dare to grasp it, as it seemed so soft and delicate that it would shatter at any moment. It was only a hand, but, somehow, it caused the onlookers to be shaken to the core. Those who had been enticed to look at Jiang Su Su found themselves once again looking towards the carriage. Chapter 31 - A Battle At The Doorstep From the horse carriage, a maidservant assisted her as the rumoured di daughter of the Jiang family finally appeared before the crowd. However, they saw a girl who was at the spring of youth, wearing plain cotton clothing and a chasteberry wood hairpin. Wearing a worn dark-green coloured cotton-padded jacket that was laden with water caltrop patterns, she had paired it with a light grey coarse cloth skirt. Long tresses were loosely pulled up in a bun with a simple wooden hairpin and two locks of hair had curled by her ears. In contrast with her inky black hair, those dainty and delicate ears that were like white jade, it made one shift their gaze in her direction and widen their eyes to look upon her. As she slowly raised her head, she revealed a delicate goose-egg shaped face. Jiang Su Sus skin was already very fair, however, this girls skin was even fairer than Jiang Su Sus, so much so that it seemed to appear as moist and clear as water. Perhaps due to being travel-worn, there were faint traces of a powdery-red flush on her cheeks. As the pair of eyes filled with glossy lustre lightly surveyed her surroundings, the rise on the corner of her eyes seemed to bring out a faintly discernible charm which caused the people around her to only have eyes for her. Jiang Su Sus dressing was outstanding and made her appear to be incomparably elegant and refined. In comparison, this girls dressing was old and worn, however, it still made her appear to be extremely beautiful and gorgeous. It made people unable to help but surmise that if she were to change into brightly coloured clothing, who knew how splendid of an appearance she would have. Generally speaking, the more beautiful and gorgeous a girls looks were, the more likely it was for her appearance to seem gaudy and vulgar. In general, only a style like Jiang Su Sus, that was elegant and refined, would remain stunning for a long time. Yet, this girl that was wearing plain cotton clothing and a chasteberry hairpin, had extremely beautiful and gorgeous facial features which made her look gentle and reserved. It made her exude an indescribable sense of steadiness that though she had weathered through many hard years that were not insignificant, they were still tinted with steady and beautiful colour. Although she was still young, there was a kind of magnificence and maturity to her conduct. As she walked steadily towards the Jiang fus entrance, people with good eyesight noticed that her skirt did not seem to move a single jot. Looking at the girl walking forward once more, they noticed her back was ramrod straight as she walked step by step and one could not find any flaw in her at all. Initially, they had assumed that the Jiang familys di daughter, who lived in the countryside residence without any instruction, would inevitably be unable to conduct herself well under public scrutiny. Nonetheless, it seemed that this girl was not only noble and righteous, she also had an excellent upbringing and an outstanding appearance that could actually keep pace with the Jiang familys second daughter Jiang Su Su. Xia Yan hurriedly went over, swiftly stood before Jiang Ruan and carefully did a once-over of her. Then, she took her hand and spoke gently, Good child, you have suffered. Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile on her face, and Xia Yan had tears in her eyes and her gaze was filled with sincerity. If she had not learned a lesson from her past life, Jiang Ruan herself would have nearly been convinced that the other person was treating her sincerely. However, she still lightly remarked, Jiang Ruan is unfilial and caused mother to be concerned. At this moment, Jiang Su Su walked forward as well and with a slant of her head, she sized Jiang Ruan up for a while and laughed, Jiejie has finally returned home. A few days ago, Mother kept talking about jiejies return, and now that we have finally seen you in person, Mother can finally relax too. Smiling, Jiang Ruan directed her gaze towards her. Comparing with her memories, Jiang Su Su had remained unchanged. Elegant and exquisite with no flaws, she appeared as innocent and sincere as if she was an otherworldly fairy that was unfamiliar with the ways of the world; as if it was only natural for her to be carefree and without worries. The birthmark below her eye was as vivid as before, yet who knew if it was this resplendently red because of her inhaling the fresh blood of the Zhao family.(Disregarding the over the top language, it means that she played a major role in conspiring against the Zhao family, i.e., JRs maternal family) Although she had given herself more than sufficient reminders, at the moment she saw Jiang Su Su, Jiang Ruan still could not help but stop breathing for a short second. She was overcome with huge waves of hatred overflowing her as she looked at this face of guileless and pure benevolence. It was this face that had caused her to bury her entire lifetime and ruin all of her future prospects. With her sensitive perception, Jiang Su Su had noticed the change in Jiang Ruans gaze. She was unsure of what was wrong because even though the other party was smiling, yet, the light in her eyes were incomparably cold as if it was restraining terrifying emotions in them. With a jolt in her heart, Jiang Su Su unconsciously retreated two steps back and the smile on her face also stiffened slightly. In her heart, Jiang Ruan took deep breaths to calm herself as she smiled, Its alright, I have now returned. Gently saying this, her smile was beautiful and amiable. Yet, it made both mother and daughter feel a strange air of eeriness, as if those words were spoken with a fierce inflection. The turbulent undercurrents surged, however, the crowd remained unaware. They only remarked that seeing the di daughter and the second daughter of the Jiang family standing together was indeed a sight for sore eyes. One was bright eyed with a brilliant smile that made one unwilling to leave her, the other was slim and delicate with a mild temperament that made one feel tenderness and pity towards her. When the two pretty girls were together, it somewhat deepened ones impression of Jiang Ruan. Thus, this identity of hers as the Jiang familys di daughter became irrefutable. Yet in the crowd by the Jiang fu, a sharp voice made an appearance, It has been a long time, Da Jiejie has become even more beautiful. Jiang Ruan glanced up and looked over. The person speaking was the Jiang familys shu* daughter of the second concubine, Jiang Li. Her facial features were similar to Jiang Quans which were rather harsh and hard, and thus, was lacking womanly gentleness and beauty. As she looked at Jiang Ruan, she suddenly gave a tight smile, With beautiful looks like Da Jiejies, is there a need for you to wear this sort of clothes as a contrast. Unless you were afraid that we sisters would be envious of Jiejies clothes and hid them away extremely well. *Sh ( ) C children born of a concubine, as opposed to those born from the official wife (di). These comments caused one to conjecture wild and fanciful thoughts and made one think that Jiang Ruan actually wore old clothes on purpose to invite others to scrutinize and gossip about her. The crowd had always enjoyed watching dramatic scenes and knew that there were always plots and schemes in a residence. Therefore, they were extremely interested to see the continued development of the events happening right before their eyes. Jiang Ruans folded hands at her bosom twitched slightly as her smile deepened. Just that the smile did not reach her eyes. As expected, Xia Yan was too anxious. This would become her first successful battle upon returning to the Jiang fu. If she was unable to perfectly resolve what happened today, then she might not be able to have a firm and stable position to fall back on in the upcoming days. Or maybe, in the capital, this reputation of hers as the Jiang familys di daughter had to be established once more, and thus, would require a new plan. It is getting windy outside, and I am worried that mother and sisters will catch a cold. Perhaps we should go into the courtyard to speak instead, Jiang Ruan lightly spoke. Noticing that she had found an excuse to avoid Jiang Lis sharp remarks, the crowd was rather disappointed that she did not show the drive that she had initially shown in the law court. So they concluded that perhaps this di daughter of the Jiang family was hoping to pass her days in tranquility. Just then, they heard Jiang Ruan continue, Lian Qiao, Bai Zhi, you can bring in those chests into the fu too. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi nodded in acknowledgment and the two people lifted the curtains of the horse carriage open. The audience could clearly see that there was only one chest in the horse carriage. Carefully, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi lifted it out of the carriage. It seemed that they were unable to bear the weight and in a few short steps, they were panting. The people began deducing what sort of treasures could be in it- after all, the Jiang fu could be considered as a rich and powerful noble family. Looking at the current situation, the treasures in the chest were likely immeasurable. Could this di daughter of the Jiang family be trying to fool people and guard her wealth in a pretence to depict herself as pitiful and garner sympathy? Jiang Li lightly smiled and spoke few sentences to the maid-servant standing to a side. That maid-servant then moved a few steps forward to stand before Lian Qiao. Jiang Li then laughed, Have a look at the strenuous expressions of Da Jiejies two maid-servants, in all likelihood, it is very heavy so why not let Cui Er help you. Without waiting for Lian Qiao to let go, Cui Er actively went forward to support the chest. Lian Qiao had yet to relinquish her grip and Cui Er had already moved two steps forward. With a resounding bang, the chest had split into two, right down the middle, and the buckle on top loosened. With that, it dropped and broke open. The lid of the chest had entirely toppled over and half of the things in it completely fell out with a crash. As the noise caused a stir in everyones heart, the smile on Jiang Lis face grew increasingly joyous. Everyone was stretching their necks to look over the contents. Xia Yans mouth opened slightly and Jiang Su Su had a curious expression on her face. The only exception was Jiang Ruan who had let out a light sigh. Chapter 32 - In The Residence The chest fell to the ground while the superior yellow pearwood continued to emit a faintly sweet scent. The items that had toppled out of the box were several volumes of books. Seeing that the books in the chest were preserved so well, it was evident that they were cherished by the owner. It was not unexpected for a Miss of a big aristocratic family to bring a chest of books out with them. However, what was unexpected was the fact that there was no other luggage other than that chest of books inside the carriage. Each person in the audience before the Jiang fu had a different and unique expression on their faces. Only Jiang Ruan was unaffected and spoke, Lian Qiao, what are you doing standing there with a startled look. With this, Jiang Su Su then understood and smiled, Da Jiejie really does adore reading. With a chest full of books, it really makes one feel envious. Just the day before, I begged Father to get Zhuang Qins book anthology of poetry for me. But, Father could not find any copies. However, it seems that Da Jiejie has one in here. Saying this in such an innocent and artless tone, it was as if she was a little girl who was simply brooding over a book. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, It is just a book. Since you and I are sisters, I will have Lu Zhu wrap the book up later and gift it to you. This chest of books are things that Mother left for me. Therefore, I am doing my utmost to preserve and keep them in a good condition. It was not hard for the audience to deduce the truth from her words. Since she had used the words doing her utmost for those belongings, with one more glance at the di daughter of the Jiang fu, it was clear that she had no other luggage except the worn clothes on her body. In all likelihood, she had passed these few years in destitution. Everyone understood the idea of fishing in troubled waters; it was rare for someone as young as her to have this level of filiality. Unfortunately, while she could protect the remnants of her deceased mothers possessions, all other wealth of hers must have been stolen away. Smiling as she looked at her, Xia Yan withdrew her fingers that were gathered at her sleeves. The expression on her face grew even more sympathetic, I know that you are a child who loves to read books, and since we are going back inside together with Suer, it is wonderful that you two sisters actually have similar interests. Brushing aside the forelocks by her forehead, Jiang Ruan lightly spoke, Meimei and I have close family ties. After all, blood is thicker than water, so naturally, our interests are similar. If they did not have similar interests, how could they have fallen for the same man? If they did not have clashing interests, with this position of hers as the di daughter of the Jiang fu, how could they always be butting heads? Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao both quickly gathered the books that had fallen all over the ground and took the initiative to carry them into the Jiang fu. Xia Yan then welcomed them into the fu. As the gates of the Jiang fu closed, the audience surrounding the residence gradually dispersed. At that moment, when she stepped over the big vermillion gates of the Jiang fu, Lu Zhu supported Jiang Ruans hand, Miss, please slow down a bit, be careful not to fall. Jiang Ruan took each step steadily with a distant smile on her face. Meanwhile, in her heart, it was as if there was a whistling gale, Mother, Elder brother, Peier, look, I am back! As the courtyard was still being tidied up, Xia Yan led Jiang Ruan to the big hall where several yiniangs[1] were waiting for her. Jiang Su Su walked alongside her, a picture of brimming joy as she narrated interesting stories about the family to Jiang Ruan. From a distance, they looked as close as two sisters whose duet on the zither gave rise to a beautiful harmony. [1] Yning ( ) C maternal aunt; old term for fathers concubines. Just as Xia Yan had said, several yiniangs had arrived earlier in the big hall to meet her, and they were all standing as a form of courtesy. The yiniang wearing a tea-coloured, straight-cut coat and skirt, who appeared to be their leader by virtue of being a little older than the others, smiled warmly at Jiang Ruan and said, Da Xiaojie.[2] [2] D xioji ( С ) C salutation for the eldest daughter of an affluent family. Jiang Ruan swept a glance over her. This was the Jiang familys most senior yiniang. When Zhao Mei had conceived, she was the servant girl whom Zhao Mei had brought forward to share Jiang Quans bed. Unfortunately, she had never become one of his favourites, and had also never conceived. Thus, she had become one of the adornments of the Jiang fu. Jiang Ruan returned her greeting with a small smile. Jiang Li walked over to an yiniang wearing a peach-coloured short coat to match a long skirt embroidered with sprays of tree peonies, and said coquettishly, Yiniang. This woman could be said to be beautiful, with a pair of long, shapely eyebrows raised in a high arch. In a similarly high voice, she said, laughingly, Oh, isnt this Da Xiaojie? I was wondering why Madam wanted us to come here today. So, it was because Da Xiaojie was returning from the countryside residence. Jiang Ruan ignored her cutting words. This Second Yiniang was the shu daughter of a concubine of a minister in the Ministry of Civil Appointments, and thus was a means of courting official favour. In order to show respect to her father, Second Yiniang was considered a favourite in the Jiang fu, and her daughter, Jiang Li, was extremely close to Xia Yan. Jiang Ruan had not gotten along with her ever since they were small. When Zhao Mei was alive, she had suffered from Second Yiniangs schemes countless times. Jiang Ruans gaze rested on a girl who was standing by herself C Jiang Dan, the daughter of Third Yiniang, who had died after giving birth. Later, it was Zhao Mei who had raised Jiang Dan. When Zhao Mei died, Jiang Dan had no place to go. Jiang Ruan remembered that in her previous life, at the time she had entered the palace, Jiang Dan had not been married off yet. After that, there had been no news about her. The only thing Jiang Ruan could recall from their life in Jiang fu was that Jiang Dan did not seem to like talking, and was habitually silent. Jiang Ruan remembered this last woman too as she was a lot younger than the other yiniangs. This young woman was very capable; in her past life, she had gradually ascended to a status almost on par with Xia Yan, enough to become her equal. Her name was Hong Ying. She was a courtesan from a brothel and was initially brought back by Jiang Quan as a gift for a superior. However, for some unknown reason, he kept her as an yiniang in the end. In her past life, she had wholeheartedly relied on Xia Yan. Therefore, her attitude towards Hong Ying had also been extremely nasty. On the contrary, seeing this scene before her right now, she was elated. The impression that Hong Ying gave was a common one, her appearance was lovely and moving. Contrary to her origins, there was no aspect of her that seemed like she had gone through the hardships of being a courtesan. Rather, she seemed dainty and exquisite as if she were a doll finely made from crystal. It was no wonder that Jiang Quan, who was indifferent to female wiles, would give her a second look. With such a considerate and exceptionally beautiful flower, who wouldnt fancy her? Truthfully, in a residence filled with a lovable wife and beautiful concubines, he sometimes went along with his wifes wishes or at times had a pick of something new. The only one that Jiang Quan truly doted upon was Xia Yan. With her excellent means and methods in addition to the adoration of her husband, it was hard for her to not have a steady position in the Jiang household. Moreover, Xia Yan also had a son and a daughter, Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su. Xia Yan explained, Today, Master brought Chaoer to Wang Darens fu. Im afraid that Ruaner will have to wait until the evening to see them. Unsurprisingly, that was the reason why she did not see Jiang Chao around the hall. Jiang Quan earnestly wanted to bring Jiang Chao into officialdom, therefore, he would often bring him along to his fellow colleagues residences. Also, since a young age, he had lended a hand in guiding his favored son. This was poles apart when compared with his cold treatment towards his other son, Jiang Xin Zhi. As she thought about her elder brother, Jiang Ruans gaze became slightly pained. Unconsciously, she tightened her fists in her sleeves and took a deep breath. Then, she smiled lightly, There is no need to do this for me. I was and am someone from the Jiang fu. As for my return, it should naturally be treated as a normal trip home. When the people around her heard this, the surroundings became silent. Jiang Su Su laughed, What Da Jiejie said is right, only, Da Jiejie has returned to the fu just today. Over these past few years, the fu has changed quite a bit. How about letting the momos[3] guide and explain to Da Jiejie later, otherwise, Da Jiejie may not recognise her way around the fu. [3] Momo ( ) C general term for elderly lady, specifically used for wet nurses. Jiang Li too, laughed merrily, I am worried that Da Jiejie might be used to those interesting mountain roads in the countryside. Therefore later, when we walk on the paths of the Jiang fu, you may not be too familiar with the surroundings. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, How could I? How could she? Every strand of grass and every block of wood in the Jiang fu had long been etched deeply into her heart with the blood and tears of her past lifetime. Every person and every spot in this fu would constantly appear in her nightmares. Each time she was frightened awake by the nightmares of her past life, those scenes in her dreams would remind her about what kind of a living hell the Jiang fu was. She had planted a seed of revenge here. And now the seed was buried in the soil, waiting for the time to gradually sprout. Chapter 33 - In The Residence Mei Qing courtyard was where Zhao Mei had lived previously, and she had meticulously arranged and cared for every plant and tree within it. The interior had a good orientation. The fengshui[1] master had come to take a look and declared that blessings would completely surround it. When Zhao Mei died, the name of the residence was changed to Yan Hua Yuan (lit. beautiful flower park), and Jiang Su Su and her mother began to live there. [1] Fengshui ( ˮ ) C It refers to geomancy, a Chinese belief that individuals can be harmonized with their surrounding environment using energy forces (known as qi, ), thus bringing them better fortune. Historically, it was used to orient buildings in an auspicious manner, as in this chapter. (Its still practised today. My friends brother had his bed set at an awkward angle for better fengshui.) Wang momo, the old maid-servant who was bringing Jiang Ruan to her new residence, was loyal to Xia Yan. Her shrewd, triangular eyes[2] were constantly assessing Jiang Ruan and her maids, and she never stopped talking. Eldest Miss doesnt know this, but today new people are coming to the residence. As Second Miss has already grown up, she has been given her own residence, so today rooms are in short supply, but Eldest Misss residence was specially arranged for by Madam. Dont know whether Eldest Miss will like it or not. [2] San Jiao Yan ( ) C lit. triangular eyes. People with triangular eyes are said to be shrewd, deep thinkers, difficult to get along with, and highly suspicious in nature. They also experience very strong emotions e.g. if they fall in love, they remain wholeheartedly dedicated to that person. As Lu Zhu walked along, she looked all around her with interest. Because she was the newest servant, the onlookers assumed she was a country girl who had never seen the world before and regarded the Jiang household with wonder. Wang momo stopped at a compound and said, with a smile, This is it. Jiang Ruan sized up her surroundings. The compound could not be considered big, but she did not have many servants, so it would actually be more than enough. The courtyard had been tidied up in an acceptably neat manner. When she opened the door to enter the room, she found it to be clean and tidy. Furniture and other items she needed for daily use were readily available. In comparison to the other residence, this was immeasurably better. Upon seeing this, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi heaved a sigh of relief, and started to deal with their belongings. Old auntie Wang noticed Jiang Ruan standing in the middle of the room, deep in thought. She put on a smile and said, Although this compound is a little remote, it is very clean. Moreover, the compound of Fourth Miss is not far away. When you are free, Eldest Miss will be able to look for a companion; you wont be bored. Jiang Dan? Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and said, I think this compound is quite good. Please convey my thanks to my mother. However, since this is where I will be residing, I would like to change the name of the compound. May I trouble you, momo, to convey this to my mother? As Wang momo smilingly assented, Jiang Ruan turned around and walked out of the room to the compounds front gate. Above the entrance hung a plaque with three large characters written on it: Fu Ping[3] Courtyard. [3] Fu Ping ( Ƽ ) C Duckweed. In Chinese culture, each flowers meaning is unique and important. However, flowers sometimes carry negative meanings as well. For instance, the flowers from poplar trees can easily be blown apart, so they represent an unfaithful spouse or lover. Likewise, duckweed is a floating flower that has no roots, which contrasts with the Chinese moral value placed on harmony and family unity. Fu Ping Courtyard, how excellent! Xia Yan really knew how to observe and understand peoples hearts. If these three commonly used characters had been applied to her previous life, they would have been an accurate foreshadowing of her depressing, long-term suffering. However, in this present time, this Fu Ping Courtyard should indeed change its name. In the evening, Wang momo came over once more. Firstly, she conveyed Xia Yans message that this compound had been given to Jiang Ruan, and therefore, she was at liberty to change its name as she desired. Secondly, she informed Jiang Ruan that Jiang Quan and Jiang Chao were returning later that night. Hence, they would not be able to eat dinner together; Jiang Ruan was to eat on her own. The di daughter had returned home, but her father was unwilling to even meet her briefly. One could very well imagine the cold indifference encapsulated in that decision. After hearing Wang momos words, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao felt chilled to the heart. Presently, the closest kin Jiang Ruan had in the Jiang household was Jiang Quan. Since Jiang Quan had insulted her today in this way, Jiang Ruans future would, in all likelihood, be much harder than imagined. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were each occupied with their own thoughts. On the other hand, Lu Zhu stood next to Jiang Ruan, who was writing. Quite happily, she commented, Miss, you write beautifully.[4] [4] T/N C Chinese writing is known as calligraphy, where a brush is dipped into ink and the character is written (almost drawn) on specially prepared thin rice paper. There are many styles of writing, and the way each person writes is as distinctive as handwriting. Calligraphy is really an art form. Two large characters snaked across the snowy white writing paper, like imposing dragons: Ruan Ju[5]. The characters were truly remarkable, magnificently written. People often said that one could discern a persons character by looking at their written words. Jiang Ruans brush strokes were smooth and sleek, but there was also a hint of sharpness to her words. It was as if the melancholy in her heart had been concealed under a tranquil facade; at first glance, all seemed as peaceful as an undisturbed pool of water, whereas reality lay in the far-reaching murderous intent within. [5] Ruan J ( ) C Ruan Residence. J (classifier for bedrooms) is a part of the fu. is, of course, Jiang Ruans name, but it also refers to a four-stringed lute. thus could possibly also be said to be a poetic name for a residence. You can read? Jiang Ruan asked Lu Zhu. Lu Zhu shook her head. This servant cannot read, but can still recognise that Miss has written the words well. Jiang Ruan laughed in spite of herself. That Xia Yan, once the most talented lady in the Great Jin dynasty, would allow the change of residence name without making a fuss might appear to be a magnanimous action, however, in reality, she only wanted to encourage Jiang Ruan to make a fool of herself. Jiang Ruan wanted to change the words on the sign, but had just returned to the Jiang household, without a single silver coin to boot. Thus, she would have to write the words herself. However, she had been sent to the countryside residence at a young age, where there was no one to teach her how to read or write. Everyone had long assumed that she was an idiot who couldnt even recognise the simplest characters. If she actually could write something, who knows who the joke would actually be on. Lu Zhu asked suspiciously, When Miss lived in the residence, you never practised writing or learned to read. How did you learn how to write? How did she learn how to write? Jiang Ruans eyes lighted on the writing paper in front of her. In her previous life, she had been groomed by Xia Yan to be a brainless beauty. All she had learned was how to play the zither[6] and to dance, such that if her name were mentioned to any citizen of the Great Jin dynasty, they would say, with extreme disdain: That brainless beauty ah, her talent could only be compared to that of a low-class singer, so different from her brilliant younger sister. [6] Qin ( ) C probably refers to the (guqin), a long zither with seven strings, plucked with the fingers. You can hear the sound of the quqin here. (psst C irisu-san can play the guqin!) After she was sent into the palace, she realized that there were countless women in the inner palace whose talent in dancing and playing the zither far surpassed hers. In order to gain favour, she was forced to undergo several hellish training sessions. One of those was to practice writing characters, which had been personally supervised by the Eighth Prince. When flowers were blossoming as far as the eye could see, he taught her how to hold the brush and write, on the snowy white writing paper: Just like the red beans inlaid in tinkling ivory dice, my longing for you runs deep in my bones[7] C such touchingly emotional words. Who would have ever thought that it was just playacting? [7] Ling long shai zi an hong dou, ru gu xiang si zhi bu zhi? ( Ӱ춹˼֪֪) C Its from a poem by Tang dynasty poet ͥ (Wen Tingjun). The line is actually a question C Do you know how much I long for you? = dice, usually made of ivory, where two sides are hollowed out and inlaid () with red beans (춹), which are symbols of love-sickness. is an onomatopoeia, the sound of dice being thrown. Whichever way the dice lands, the red beans will be visible. ˼ = longing or yearning. Looking back, she should be grateful to Eighth Prince. In the Great Jin dynasty, his writing style was considered to be outstanding. He always said that her brush strokes were too soft, without sufficient firmness or will power. This was why, in the end, she had met her demise[8]. Presently, her writing style was still smooth and sleek, but she wondered if he would be able to see the murderous intent threaded through all her characters. [8] Ming sang huang quan ( ɥȪ ) C Ȫ is literally to return to Yellow Springs, the underworld of Chinese mythology, akin to Hades/ Hell. Fig. it means to die / to meet ones end Jiang Ruan smiled, took up the writing paper and blew on it, then gave it to Lu Zhu. Mount it above the entrance gate. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao also smiled. Ruan Ju, what an excellent name! Miss has written the words so well, it would be wonderful if Eldest Young Master[9] could see them. After saying this, they realized that they had misspoken, and looked at Jiang Ruan with some unease. [9] Da Shao Ye ( ү ) C Eldest son and young master of the household. Jiang Ruans gaze wavered. When Zhao Mei died, and she had been sent to the countryside residence, Jiang Xin Zhi had knelt in the ancestral hall[10] for a whole day and a night, but was still unable to move Jiang Quan to change his mind. In a fit of anger, Jiang Xin Zhi had enlisted in the military. Before he left, he had urgently exhorted her to return to the Jiang household in glory, so that no one would be able to bully her. [10] Ci Tang ( ) C The ancestral hall refers to a room where the ancestral tablets, which embody the spirits of deceased ancestors, are kept. The ancestors (or their spirits) are still considered part of this world. If not in a room, the tablets are placed on a table. There is usually an altar and incense burner nearby. Confucian philosophy calls for paying respect to ones ancestors, an aspect of filial piety. Incense is lit before the altar daily, significant announcements are made before the ancestors, and offerings (such as favourite food and spirit money) are made bi-monthly and on special occasions (e.g. Ghost Festival). In those days of unbearable pain and heartache, Jiang Xin Zhi had been her only source of strength, her pillar of support. Until one day, at the other residence, she had received grave news from the Jiang fu that Jiang Xin Zhi had died on the battlefield, and his body had not been recovered. A thought suddenly struck her. In her previous life, when news of Jiang Xin Zhis death arrived, it had been two years after the actual event. Because in this life she had returned two years earlier, was there still a chance for the situation to have changed for the better? On thinking about this point, Jiang Ruan was abruptly seized with excitement. If Jiang Xin Zhi were still alive, she would not be so lonely in this lifetime. It was only . . . how to find out if Jiang Xin Zhi were still alive? And how to reverse his fate? Lian Qiao noticed Jiang Ruans tightly furrowed brow and altered countenance. Worried, she asked, Miss? Lian Qiao, when my mother died, I was sick in bed, and did not know anything that was happening outside. I only knew that my Eldest Brother knelt in the ancestral hall for a day and a night, then he came to bid me farewell. You and Bai Zhi were outside. I want to ask you, do you know whose military unit he joined? Lian Qiao looked blank for a moment, then exchanged looks with Bai Zhi and shook her head. The Eldest Young Master never said anything about this. Even the servants dont know anything. However, we remember very clearly, the barbarians (i.e. ethnic groups in the north and west of China) were causing trouble at the border at that time. The commander of the Chen family army and General Guan were both recruiting troops, but this servant does not know whose command he came under. Chapter 34 - I Have Returned Her first day back at the Jiang fu was spent dealing with turbulent undercurrents while exhibiting a tranquil front. The next day, the weather was exceedingly good. Early in the morning, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi set off to make some inquiries about Jiang Xin Zhi. As Lu Zhu had no knowledge of past events in the Jiang fu, she would not be able to help them even if she went with them. Thus, she stayed by Jiang Ruans side, sorting out matters to do with their new home, Ruan Ju. The sunlight shone through the flower windows[1], filling the room with light. As Lu Zhu sat by the door woking on her embroidery, she smiled and said, The weather is good in the capital. The sun is steady and the sun rays feel so comfortable. [1] Hua chuang ( ) C flower window. They were a means of decorating and beautifying windows in ancient Chinese garden architecture. Such windows are both decorative and practical, and can still be seen in modern buildings today. See http://madoken.jp/en/research/windows-in-chinese-architecture/3505/ Jiang Ruan did not comment. Ruan Ju and its courtyard were in a remote location, so the sunlight did not reach many areas. The contrast to Mei Qing courtyard was great, where the sunlight had been beautiful and ample. When Zhao Mei was still alive, Jiang Ruan had sprawled on her knees watching Jiang Xin Zhi practising his swordplay, the japonica flowers drifting down one by one. That scene had truly been beautiful. Now, things remained the same, but the people were gone. Zhao Mei was long dead and she did not know whether Jiang Xin Zhi was dead or alive. Of her own flesh and blood, she alone was left. Jiang Ruan smoothed a stray lock of hair behind her ear, and resumed reading the book in her hand. However, at this time, Bai Zhi hurried in, and whispered, Miss, bad news. Lian Qiao and the people from Yan Hua Yuan are in a disagreement. How could this be? Jiang Ruan frowned as she asked. Lian Qiao is anxious and impatient in character, but everyone knows this. How could it be that a disagreement could arise on the first day itself? Lu Zhu had put down her embroidery work and was looking at Bai Zhi. Bai Zhi paused and looked at Jiang Ruan hesitantly before saying, with some difficulty, When this servant and Lian Qiao returned to Jiang fu, we saw the people from Yan Hua Yuan disciplining one of the servants. At first, we didnt pay attention to it, but later, Lian Qiao caught a glimpse of the servants face . . . It was . . . it was Zhou momo. Nai niang[2]? Jiang Ruan asked in surprise. Zhou momo had been Jiang Xin Zhi and Jiang Ruans wet nurse, whom Zhao Mei had brought from her maternal residence when she had married. After Zhao Mei passed away, the people at Jiang fu said that Zhou momo had beseeched them to let her retire and leave Jiang fu as her mistress was no longer there. From that time onwards, nothing had been heard of her. In her previous life, Jiang Ruan had also never seen Zhou momo again. However, how is it that Bai Zhi was now saying that Zhou momo was still at Jiang fu? [2] Nining ( ) C wet nurse Lu Zhu, being clever and quick on the uptake, was able to surmise Zhou momos importance from the conversation. She said, Why would Lian Qiao jie raise a ruckus with these people? Could it be that Zhou momo was being badly bullied? Bai Zhi faced Jiang Ruans sharp gaze, and said with difficulty, Zhou momo, she . . . She is blind. When this servant and Lian Qiao saw her, she was throwing out the night soil[3]. The people from Yan Hua Yuan said she had smeared night soil on the new clothes that the mistress was preparing to wear for her visit to Jun Wang Fei[4]. Therefore, because they wanted to punish her, they forced Zhou momo to eat the contents of the pail. [3] Ye xiang ( ҹ ) C lit., night fragrance. Definitely a euphemism, as it refers to human excrement. There being no flushing toilets at that time, human waste was deposited in a bucket, and it was a lowly-ranked servants task to dispose of the contents. Ive used the term night soil as thats how its referred to in my country; up until the late 1960s night soil cars (with 36 compartments) were still in use, with night soil collectors going around the different districts to pick up buckets of night soil in the outhouses and replacing them with empty buckets. [4] Jun wang fei ( ) C probably refers to the wife of the Prince of the Second Rank. is an ancient Chinese title first seen in the Western Jin Dynasty. It is one of the titles given to direct male-line descendants of the Emperor, and is usually translated as Prince of the Second Rank, second only to the Prince of the First Rank or Prince of the Blood. See Noble ranks of Qing Dynasty and more. Jiang Ruans eyes narrowed, and one could feel the fury suddenly emanating from her entire body. Even Lu Zhu, who had never met Zhou momo before, could not help but cover her mouth in horror and spit out in indignation, This kind of bullying is really too much! Jiang Ruans forehead was tightly furrowed, and her eyes were full of pure rage. Oh, such a wonderful Yan Hua Yuan! Oh, how great Xia Yan is! In her previous life, Zhou momo had probably also suffered such inhumane torture before her very eyes, but, at that time, she had been completely oblivious to other peoples suffering. Now, she feared that Zhou momos appearance in front of Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao had also been arranged by Xia Yan. Xia Yan wanted her to see that Zhou momos life in Jiang fu was actually worse than death, and was using her to strike a blow at Jiang Ruan. Was this to humiliate her, or to take measure of her, to see if she would be provoked to action? Miss, Lian Qiao is hot-tempered, the minute she saw how Zhou momo was being treated, she started arguing with the people from Yan Hua Yuan. Their people are also not pushovers, and they had strength in numbers. This servant thinks that, in these circumstances, Lian Qiao may suffer in their hands, and it will eventually adversely affect Miss. Miss, can you think of any way out? The people of Yan Hua Yuan will definitely not let this go. Lu Zhu, go and get my clothes. Jiang Ruan closed the book on the table and stood up. Does Miss intend to save Lian Qiao jiejie? Lu Zhu asked as she deftly handed Jiang Ruan her outer robe. Should we inform Master? No need, Jiang Ruan said coolly. By the time we wait for him to appear, I will not even be able to protect Lian Qiao. Bai Zhi was stunned. Miss, are you going to confront the people from Yan Hua Yuan? Now that people have brought the bullying right to our doorstep, should we still act like a turtle withdrawing into its shell? Jiang Ruan glanced at her, then said indifferently, Since she has decided to be provocative, how can we not meet her head-on? Xia Yan, Im looking forward to our first confrontation even more than you are. The three of them quickly tidied up, then followed Bai Zhi to the flower garden just within the entrance of Yan Hua Yuan. From a distance, they could see a group of servants surrounding two figures C one was motionless on the ground, while the other was standing in front of the first one in a protective stance. The air reeked with a strange odour. Not too far away, two gong tongs[5] could be seen, and one of them was lying on its side. [5] Gong tong ( Ͱ ) C literally, means respect, and Ͱ is a pail or bucket. Interesting, therefore, that the term refers to a covered bucket for human waste. When they saw Jiang Ruan and her party, the group of servants surrounding the two figures did not move from their places, until Lian Qiao uttered, Miss. The servant who was acting as the leader then turned her head and put on an unaffected air to say, Why has Eldest Miss come? This is the area of the lower classes, and would befoul your eyes. It would be better for Eldest Miss to leave quickly. Jiang Ruan recognised this servant. It was none other than Xia Yans devoted senior maid, Lin Lang. In her previous life, Jiang Ruan had not understood why Xia Yan, who was so gracious and well-mannered, would have such a sharp-tongued and mean-spirited personal maid. Now, she saw clearly that Lin Lang was in fact the true reflection of Xia Yans character. Whatever Xia Yan was unable to say would find its way into the world through Lin Langs mouth; such as this current taunting of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan slightly smiled and said, What you have said makes a lot of sense. So, you should leave quickly, in order to not befoul my eyes. Lin Lang stared blankly at her, while Jiang Ruan said doubtfully, What is it? Are you not of the lower class? Her tone was moderate, but her words were sharp; her expression was smiling, but her upraised eyes were like cold knives. Lin Lang unconsciously took a step back. Jiang Ruan heaved a sigh. So, it turns out that Lin Lang, this servant, considers herself to be of the upper class, which is why she tortures other servants like this. This servant does not, Lin Lang said in a slightly panicked voice. Jiang Ruans statement basically implied that even though she was a servant, her influence had grown such that she was now capable of bullying[6] her mistress. In the Jiang fu, although she had received Xia Yans favour, she would not be able to bear the consequences of such a title. Eldest Miss, this servant really does not think so. [6] N d q zh ( ū ) C ū = slave/ servant; = big; = bully; = master. Jiang Ruan is saying that even though Lin Lang is a servant, her influence has grown to the extent that she is now capable of bullying her mistress i.e. shes a big shot now. Thats a dangerous title to claim if one doesnt have this power in reality, or doesnt have the favour of the master/mistress. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly and ignored her, instead turning her head to look at Lian Qiao. Lian Qiao was hemmed in by a few servants. With her clothes in a disorderly state and the clear imprint of a palm on her face, it was evident she must have been involved in a fierce dispute. At this sight, Jiang Ruans face fell. She then noticed that another servant had an extremely vivid palm print on her face C clearly, Lian Qiao was not one to take offence lying down. The person lying huddled at Lian Qiaos feet had remained motionless. Even after Jiang Ruans arrival, she had said nothing and kept her head low, like a lifeless statue. One could only see a head full of white hair in disarray, and paper-thin winter clothes. Jiang Ruan stretched out her hand and placed it gently on that persons shoulder. The second she made contact, she could sense that the other person was trembling violently. Lian Qiao opened her mouth, but ultimately did not say anything. Jiang Ruan looked at the older woman with her head down and said tenderly, Nai niang, do not be afraid. I am Jiang Ruan, and I have returned. Chapter 35 - Old Jiang Madame The moment Jiang Ruan spoke, the person on the ground trembled before finally raising her head in a steady manner. Upon seeing this, Jiang Ruans breath became labored as she slowly balled up her fists. Lines were woven across Zhou momos weathered face. Her body was so thin, like merely skin wrapped around bones. The two cheeks that had once expressed good fortune were now deeply sunken. Yet, the most terrifying feature was her pair of eyes, because now, there remained only dried eye sockets in their place. It was clear that someone had mercilessly gouged her eyeballs out. Ah! Lu Zhu exclaimed, before immediately clasping her hand over her mouth. She did not have the heart to continue being a spectator of this scene. Evidently, this old married woman had gone through countless painful experiences. Her whole body discharged whiffs of rotting stench. Because she had lost her sight in both eyes, she could only tilt her head upwards blankly. With quivering lips, she spoke, Eldest Miss? Its me. Jiang Ruan disregarded the odd looks from people around her and bent her body to pull Zhou momo into her embrace. Her gaze was as cold as ice, and yet, her voice was strangely mesmerizing. Jiang Ruan consoled Zhou momo, Nai Niang, ARuan[1] has returned. [1] [ ] : prefix used before monosyllabic names, kinship terms etc to indicate familiarity. It seemed like the time had suddenly returned to a few years ago, when she and Jiang Xin Zhi were still young and foolish children. Every time they had angered Zhao Mei, it was Zhou momo who had helped them to mollify her. Whenever she and Jiang Xin Zhi were punished by kneeling in the ancestral hall after they had stirred up trouble, it was also Zhou momo who had secretly had food sent to them in the middle of the night. Zhou momo did not have any children in her life so she had treated them as if they were her own. Except now, instead of a pair of always affectionate and smiling eyes, only empty, gaping eye sockets remained- how could one remain indifferent to her plight! Lin Lang creased her eyebrows, Eldest Miss, what are you doing? Please dont defile your body. This servant has made a serious mistake. I still need to quickly punish her, in accordance to my Mistress orders. If you do not have other matters, please move back a little. However, before Jiang Ruan could open her mouth, Lian Qiao spoke, Since Miss is present, let her be in charge of deciding the fate of this servant. As a servant, how can you have the right to meddle in the masters affairs? Lin Lang laughed. A maid beside her replied, You are wrong. We are carrying out our Mistress orders. Sister Lin Langs Mistress is Jiang Furen[2]. Although Eldest Miss is also a master of this manor, currently, Furen is in charge of managing domestic matters in this fu. Of course, even as powerful as Eldest Miss is, you will not be able to override her. Please do not continue to force us into a difficult position. [2] Fren [ ] C Mistress or madam/lady. It can be added to the surname of the household as a form of address; like Mrs. in English. You- Lian Qiao wanted to continue what she was saying when Jiang Ruan interrupted her. You are not wrong, since you all are merely complying with Furens orders to punish this guilty servant. Zhou momos body in Jiang Ruans arms was still shaking slightly. Jiang Ruan patted her shoulders and smiled, You are indeed right. It is just that I am slightly doubtful about the rules in the Jiang fu. I do not know which family rule she did not follow that she is being made to eat night soil? Lin Lang, you are also someone who has served in the manor for a long time, so can you tell me which rule it was? Lin Lang was stunned. She had not expected Jiang Ruan to challenge her explanation. Originally, she only mentioned it to patronize her as such a rule did not exist at all. For a short moment, she could not think of any reply so she just said, Eldest Miss, at present I do not remember it exactly. I am only doing what Furen has asked me to do. Lin Langs thoughts were simple. She tossed the blame to Xia Yan because she was banking on the fact that Jiang Ruan would not set herself against her. Today, Jiang Ruan had already crossed Xia Yan and stepped on her toes when she stood up for Zhou momo. It was just that since it was clear that pretending to be deaf and mute was not working, why not escalate the matter? Jiang Ruan had created the present situation through her interference, but it would not be up to her to dictate how it ended. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Lin Lang, based on your words, do you mean that it was Furen who has committed a mistake? This is not what I meant, Lin Lang was anxious, Eldest Miss, there is no need to bother about an insignificant servant. Jiang Ruan shook her head, Jiang Family is well-reputed in the capital so we cannot mislead the public with deliberate falsehoods. Even though she is merely a servant, we cannot wrongly blame her or punish her unjustly. If she has committed a crime, then she should be punished severely according to the family rules. If not, she should be listened to without prejudice. If just anyone can administer their own punishment as they wish, this would cause a uproar in the Jiang fu. Therefore, this matter must be investigated clearly. Eldest Miss, what are you planning to do? Although Jiang Ruan was unyielding in her attitude, Lin Lang had sensed a change in her so she did not trouble her any further. However, she was still slightly rude and unreasonable. Jiang Ruan wanted to speak further when she suddenly became aware of a sinking weight in her arms. Zhou momo had fainted. Her expression darkened, Bai Zhi, bring Zhou momo into my room and ask for a medical practitioner to come immediately. Eldest Miss, Lin Lang blocked their way, This is unreasonable. She has not received her punishment yet, moreover, she is not a servant under your authority. Im afraid that you do not have this power. Lin Lang, then tell me, do you have the power to stand in front of me? Jiang Ruan spoke coldly, Bai Zhi, make haste. Lin Lang still wanted to stop her but when she glimpsed Jiang Ruans frigid expression, she could not help but be startled. She did not dare to speak further and with wide eyes watched Bai Zhi help Zhou momo back to Jiang Ruans residence. Jiang Ruans eyes swept over her and then coldly stated, Lin Lang, I do not have the power to decide certain matters, and I also do not know if Furen has the authority either, but there is certainly someone who does. Lin Lang was dumbfounded as she looked at Jiang Ruan. Lin Lang, please invite Furen to meet me in Gui Lan Courtyard. The Old Madame, who was Jiang Quans adoptive mother, resided in Gui Lan Courtyard. Jiang Quan was birthed by a Jiang family concubine. After the concubine passed away, he was then raised under the name of the main wife. The relationship between them was as natural a love as between a parent and her child. The Old Madames position in the Jiang fu was unshakeable. Jiang Ruan did not have a relationship with the Old Madame at all in her past life because Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su always mentioned how eccentric she was. Therefore, she did not develop any closeness with her. In her memory, Old Madame was someone who placed a heavy emphasis on rules and established customs. Although she did not warm up to Zhao Mei at that time, when Jiang Quan married Xia Yan and was then reluctant to leave Xia Yans residence, he was harshly reprimanded by Old Madame. When she reached a marriageable age in her past life, everyone had supported the idea of her entering the palace in place of Jiang Su Su, but it was only Old Madame Jiang who had disapproved of it. However, it was during that time that her body was already in poor health. And as the days passed, she became bedridden, hence no one listened to her. But now, there were still a few years left before Jiang Ruan was eligible for marriage so Old Madame was still in charge of the significant matters in the Jiang fu. In front of Old Madame who was still in her prime, and was intelligent and capable, Xia Yans tricks might possibly not succeed. In the Jiang fu, Gui Lan Courtyard was located in the west so it was the furthest from Ruan Ju. The maid that had passed a message to Old Madame had brought a higher-ranked maid, who served by Old Madames side, back. Cai Que had a huge shock when she saw Jiang Ruan. When Zhao Mei was still alive, this Eldest Miss, who was the least favored, was completely estranged from Old Madame so why did she want to come to her courtyard as soon as she returned to the manor? Jiang Ruan directed a smile towards her, Cai Que jiejie, is zumu[3] still resting? [3] Zm [ ĸ ] : fathers mother / paternal grandmother Old Madame awoken earlier, Cai Que put away her doubts and spoke politely, Miss, come with me. As Jiang Ruan walked, she smiled at her, I was afraid that I might be disturbing zumus rest. I did not expect that she would be in such good spirits. She has risen from bed so early, seeing that I am quite ashamed at myself. Although Jiang Ruan worded her courtesy in this way, she was already stepping inside the room. Immediately, she caught the scent of sandalwood, which lifted her heart and refreshed her mind, slowly wafting around. Looking forward, an old madame with a head full of silver hair was leaning on a chaise, with her eyes closed, silently meditating with prayer beads in her hand. Chapter 36 - Currying Favor is A Life Skill How I imagine Jiang Su Su doing her white lotus act. Astonished, Du Juan, who stood beside the Old Jiang Madame, stared at Jiang Ruan and the others as Cai Que quietly stated, Old Madame, the eldest young miss has arrived. With her eyes remaining unopened, the Old Jiang Madame remained still and motionless. Lu Zhu was a little uneasy but Jiang Ruan stayed composed and continued standing where she was. In a similar fashion, both Cai Que and Du Juan silently waited off to the side. They neither spoke nor greeted Jiang Ruan, and clearly kept her waiting while giving her the cold shoulder. Jiang Ruans gaze was dull and in the silence and absence of either movement or word, she had proceeded to take the measure of the Old Madame. Upon a closer look, there were some discrepancies between her memories of the Old Madame and the person herself. At the time when she first saw her, she had assumed that the Old Jiang Madame could only be an inflexible and severe zumu. However, now that she saw her once more, though she was draped in riches, glory and splendor from head to toe, she had a peaceful bearing. Furthermore, her brows were filled with an icy authoritative and severe demeanour that emanated from her very bones. It was evident that the heart of this furen, who had been praying to Buddha, was not as detached from the worldly desires as was preached in the scriptures in her hand. As for her astuteness and intelligence, perhaps only the person herself knew. As the time slowly passed, the room remained completely quiet. It seemed that even the sound of a strand of hair dropping on the floor would be clearly heard. Then, after an unknown stretch of time, the old furen on the couch slowly opened her eyes and with a glance, she looked towards Jiang Ruan. With a serene expression, Jiang Ruan returned her own glance as she stood ramrod straight, yet respectfully. The Old Jiang Madame then narrowed her eyes and impassively spoke, Why didnt you greet me at once when you came in? What are you doing, standing there like an immovable stone. When I first came in, I noticed that zumu was silently chanting. One has to pray intently and wholeheartedly, otherwise, it would be deemed as insincere. Jiang Ruan did not dare to disrupt zumu. Jiang Ruan smiled, Yet, it seems that I have still troubled you. The Old Jiang Madame leaned to the side as Du Juan hurriedly presented her with a cup of hot tea. After she received the tea and took a sip, the Old Madame swept a look over Jiang Ruan. She then spoke, Contrary to what one might expect, you are one that can stand her ground. In comparison to zumu, I still have a lot to learn. Jiang Ruan modestly replied, During the hurried return to the fu yesterday, I had yet to visit zumu; that is my mistake. The Old Jiang Madame indifferently countered, The matter of your return to the fu caused the capital to become abuzz with a great ruckus. Surely yesterday, you had to deal with weariness and exhaustion C it was a right decision that you did not come here. While this was being said, her tone was rather ambiguous, therefore, one could not perceive the old furens intentions. Jiang Ruan thought briefly and said, Regardless, zumu is my paternal grandmother, the Old Madame of the Jiang fu and also, Jiang Ruans close family. It was unexpected that Jiang Ruan would say this and upon hearing it, the Old Jiang Madame was slightly astonished. Slightly bending her head to take a few sips of tea, she spoke, I have not seen you for a few years. Come forward and let me have a clearer look. In compliance, Jiang Ruan shifted closer. As they stood by the side, Cai Que and Du Juans gazes began to take the measure of Jiang Ruan. As the personal servants who served the Old Madame, the two were constantly by her side and were well-acquainted with the Old Madames temperament. They had predicted several possible scenarios that could have happened today, yet, they had not envisioned such a situation as the one at this present moment. There was neither hatred spoken nor uncouth actions; on the contrary, it was incomparably tranquil. The Eldest Young Miss bearing and disposition was unexpectedly magnanimous without the slightest bit of cowardice. Looking once more at the girl who had moved a few steps forward, her figure was delicate with an upright posture. As the sunlight shone on her bright and unblemished face, it further delineated her alabaster and jade-like skin tone. Her facial features were filled with tenderness, and her pair of moist and charming eyes revealed an expression of smiling serenely, exuding a warm and resolute aura. But most importantly, though she was standing in the center of the room, she did not exhibit even the slightest bit of timidity or stiffness that came with the youthful inexperience of a young lady. What was present though, was a secure sort of steadiness and compounded with that fluttering, resplendent appearance of hers, she deeply radiated a sort of noble magnificence. Du Juan and Cai Que exchanged glances; they each saw the surprise in the others eyes. This Eldest Miss had been at the countryside residence for several years. How had she transformed into someone so different, like a noble young lady who had been carefully nurtured in the palace? It was not only Du Juan and Cai Que who were surprised, the Old Jiang Madames perceptive gaze also rested upon Jiang Ruan, piercing in its intensity. There was not a flicker of change in Jiang Ruans expression; she continued smiling slightly as she locked eyes with the Old Jiang Madame. The Old Jiang Madame looked away and said without emotion, You have grown older, and have somewhat matured. She affected a cold demeanour to suppress the trace of surprise she felt. She had already lived most of the years of her life and was quite accurate at reading people. The Jiang Ruan of the present was an entirely different person from the Jiang Ruan of the past. If one were to compare the two young ladies of the fu, just from this aspect of Jiang Ruans ability to remain unruffled, Jiang Su Su had lost greatly. However, the Old Jiang Madame could not understand what kind of opportunity Jiang Ruan could have had at the countryside residence in order to develop such an imposing and assertive manner at such a young age. Your visit today wasnt just to come and pay respects to your zumu, was it? What else is there? the Old Jiang Madame asked. Long before Jiang Ruan arrived, a servant had already brought news of the earlier situation outside the entrance of Yan Hua Yuan. That Jiang Ruan would seek her out to settle this matter caused the Old Jiang Madame great astonishment. However, after the initial surprise came the clarity of understanding. This eldest girl was not in favour with Jiang Quan, and her stepmother was not the type to be benevolent. So, relying on zumu must be the only route open to her. However, if she intended to curry favour in order to help Zhou momo, she would find that the Old Jiang Madame would not be willing to help. Jiang Ruan had yet to say anything, when the voice of a servant outside was heard announcing, Furen has arrived. Immediately after that, a crisp and melodious voice said, Zumu! Jiang Ruan did not turn around. She saw a white-clothed figure dash past her and climb onto the Old Jiang Madames bed with an air of familiarity. Like a cat, she curled up against the Old Jiang Madames side and joyfully said, Zumu, look, I have brought your favourite almond cakes. Then, she placed the woven straw basket in her hands carefully onto the table, as if it were a precious treasure. Image result for almond cookies Almond cookies Su niang[1], look at the way you are behaving. What should we do if you agitate zumu? Xia Yans voice sounded from behind. [1] Ning ( ) C Young lady Jiang Su Su curled her lips and said, Thats of no concern. Zumu wont blame me for anything. Naughty child, the Old Jiang Madame said in reprimand, but a smile appeared on her face. You have such disregard for proper etiquette, that when you are married in the future, you will be a laughing stock. What is zumu saying? Jiang Su Sus face reddened. With a turn of her head, she appeared to have just noticed Jiang Ruan, and exclaimed in surprise, Da Jiejie[2] is also here. [2] D Jijie ( ) Eldest sister Jiang Ruan smiled and nodded. Jiang Su Su looked at the Old Jiang Madame, then again at Jiang Ruan. Suddenly, she said, Zumu, are you and Da Jiejie whispering secrets behind Su Sus back? Su Su wants to hear them, too. Da Jiejie, what were you both doing just now? She blinked several times. Her eyes, as beautiful and luminous as misty clouds, were lively with intelligence and full of emotion. Her bright red, tear-shaped birthmark was like a little flower and her attitude was innocent and guileless. She seemed just like a fairy who had fallen into the mortal realm, causing humans to feel for her. Old Jiang Madame did not say anything, and simply turned her indifferent gaze towards Jiang Ruan. Cai Que looked at Jiang Ruan with some trepidation. This room was very lively and bustling with noise, but Eldest Miss seemed to be all alone in the midst of it; isolated, with nary a person to speak on her behalf. Xia Yan smiled. Su niang, dont talk nonsense, your eldest sister . . . Before she could finish speaking, Jiang Ruan sighed gently, and spoke slowly, her voice soft and gentle. Su niang is wrong. I am here today only to visit zumu. Su niang, you are also aware that I was in the other residence for five whole years, which means five years of not being able to meet zumu. The sacred Buddhist scriptures speak of striving for perfection. In this world, I think perfection is most closely achieved when families reunite. Unlike you, Su niang, I have not been able to enjoy this perfection at all times. For me, todays meeting with zumu has been the most perfect moment in the past five years. Zumu and I have not been colluding. I . . . I only wanted to be closer to my family. Chapter 37 - Confrontation Happy Stars Shine The Brightest -{ Maybeanothername }?? Xia Yan The house was exceptionally quiet. Jiang Ruan calmly stood there with a faint smile on her face, yet, her gaze seemed to reveal a streak of grief. In comparison with the pity that Jiang Su Su evoked in others, her quietude caused others to feel an urge to probe further. The smile on Xia Yans face had stiffened as her hands tightened into fists inside her sleeves. At first glance, this comment from Jiang Ruan seemed benign, yet, it soundlessly and wordlessly found fault with Jiang Su Sus lack of courtesy. Who would make things difficult for a girl who had just returned home and longed for familial love? As expected, one could see that the Old Jiang Madames gaze had become gentler as she looked upon Jiang Ruan. Xia Yan had yet to respond before Jiang Su Su heard the Old Madames displeased voice echo, Su niang, your da jiejie has only just returned home. Coming to see me, this zumu, is something right and proper to do. Dont you cause trouble. For a split second, Jiang Su Su was stunned because, indeed, what she had said earlier was deliberately targeted against Jiang Ruan. However, she had been confident that the Old Madame would not rebuke her at all. In all these years, she had been cleverly adorable and thoughtful and the Old Jiang Madame had always extremely doted on her. Yet, today was the first time she had gotten angry at her. When all was said and done, however, she was still of a young age, therefore, Jiang Su Su concealed her emotions with some difficulty as she gave a forced smile, I am sorry, Da Jiejie. Su Su did not do it on purpose. Da Jiejie, dont be upset, alright. You and I are sisters, how could I be angry, Jiang Ruan replied gently. The Old Jiang Madame was even more satisfied as she stated, You two sisters both need to support each other. The eldest girl[1] did well today. [1] D Ytou ( Ѿͷ ) C Eldest Girl Xia Yan smiled as she stepped forward, Naturally, Ruan niang is a good girl. However, Ruan niang, I heard that Lin Lang caused you to become angry today, seemingly for the sake of a servant. This still needs to be handled by the Old Madame. How did this all come about? Jiang Su Su was still curled up at Old Jiang Madames side, it was just that, at this moment, her posture was not as natural as when she had first come into the room. The Old Madame also looked towards Jiang Ruan and was evidently waiting for her explanation. Jiang Ruan then compliantly recounted the whole sequence of events of what had transpired outside Yan Hua Yuan. Her tone was steady and she did not leave out even a single word of the conversation between Lin Lang and herself as she retold her version of the events. Honestly speaking, she did not embellish but factually reiterated, making one trust her words even more. When she was done speaking, she looked towards the Old Jiang Madame, Old Madame, at the time of my own mothers passing, I was bed-ridden and only heard mentions of Zhou momo leaving the fu. Yet, unexpectedly, I happened to see a glimpse of her today. I believed that at the time, that audacious maid had mistakenly said something wrong. However, was I too unaware that Zhou momo, who was my wet nurse, had fallen into this particular state? Xia Yan lightly sighed, Ruan niang, at that time you were still young, and there were some matters that I had not wanted to tell you about. Actually, when Jiejie passed away, Zhou momo had not really left the fu. Rather, she was preparing to leave after stealing Jiejies head ornaments first. Our Jiang fu is the least tolerant about thieving servants, moreover, Zhou momo was also your wet nurse. Afraid that your illness would be aggravated while you were broken-hearted and disappointed, I then discussed the matter over with Master[2], and had Zhou momo punished. All this, I have never told you, Xia Yan stated as she looked at her with sincerity, Now that I have told you, I am sure you will understand. Right here and now, Mother will take the blame and compensate you for the loss of your servant, but this servant truly deserves to be punished. Even if you misunderstand me, I will not regret the decision that I made at that time. [2] Loy ( ү ) C (respectful) lord / master With drooped heads, Cai Que and Du Juan had listened without a word or movement. Here, they had no right to speak. But, inwardly in their hearts, they reflected. As expected, the furens words were watertight. With a single statement, there was nothing the eldest young lady could refute. Jiang Ruan shook her head, Mother voluntarily dealt with the servant of Mei Qing Yuan, and for five years, had yet to ever tell me about it. Still, this was all for my sake, how could I blame Mother? Xia Yans complexion was rather unpleasant, yet, when she saw that Jiang Ruans complexion showed even more sincerity than hers, it seemed that she had not realised the hidden mockery behind her own words. In her heart, Xia Yan stifled a breath. Jiang Ruan then continued, Nonetheless, I have one matter that I am still unclear about and that is about the servant who committed the crime of stealing their masters wealth and head ornaments. It seems unlikely that punishments such as gouging out a criminals eyes or eating night soil would be meted out to the culprit at all. After all, the Jiang family is also considered to have a literary reputation. How could we have doled out such bloody punishments? Gouging out eyes, eating night soil? The Old Jiang Madame frowned, What is the meaning of this? She was a person who practised Buddhism[3], therefore, in some matters, she had her own views. Previously, she had always turned a blind eye towards Xia Yans methods as she knew that Xia Yan was not one who was easy to deal with. Yet, it appeared that this furen was unlike her usual soft-spoken self. She too, could be this ruthless towards a defenseless wet nurse. And so, what this furen had done had already touched her bottom line. [3] Nianfo or are simply forms of mindfulness which are essentially methods of meditating upon Amitbha Buddha. Xia Yans voice remained gentle, It is not like that. It is precisely because I kept in mind that Zhou momo was Ruan niangs wet nurse, that I too did not have the heart to chastise her too heavily. So, I had her sent to the washing room. Who knew that in the washing room, Zhou momo still kept her habit of pilfering and a dispute occurred between her and the other servants . Her eyes had been gouged out and the washing room could no longer tolerate her. Therefore, she could only work as a night soil collector. So that was how it was, Jiang Ruan spoke thoughtfully, Then where is that person who gouged out Zhou momos eyeballs now? They were beaten with a plank and expelled out of the fu. Xia Yan remarked, As for eating night soil, that was that servant girl, Lin Langs own decision. I have already severely chided her. With this sort of action, contrary to what the situation looked like, she was made to appear like an able and virtuous wife with good moral conduct who worked for the benefit of everyone. Indeed, she had presented herself as faultless, and that it was entirely Jiang Ruan who had been making a mountain out of a molehill. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Mother is truly wonderful because if it were me, I might not have been able to do any better. Its just that, since I have now returned and Zhou momos crime was not a severe one, she could still be considered as my Mei Qing Yuan No, one of Ruan Jus people. May I have Mother make a decision and permit Ruan niangs request? Without waiting for Xia Yan to speak, Jiang Su Su immediately spoke out, Da Jiejie, if you want Zhou momo to return to your courtyard once more, are you not afraid that she might filch things? Ruan niang, I know that you are a kind-hearted child, but with Zhou momos moral character, she truly is not suitable to accompany you. Furthermore, she has become blind, thus assigning her to the Ruan Ju would merely be her living as a parasite. Would you really want to keep a servant that you must serve instead of the other way round? Then, wouldnt the Jiang fu become a laughingstock? Doesnt the old furen think so too? Thats right. The Old Jiang Madame nodded. Jiang Ruan added, Its because I am doing this for the Jiang fu, that I am pursuing matters along this line of action. The Jiang fu has always been morally upright and has greatly executed matters within the rules and regulations. Now under everyones nose, Zhou momo, a perfectly healthy person, has lost her pair of eyes. The next time, there might be someone else and they may not only lose a pair of eyes. If this was spread around, how would others look upon our Jiang fu. They would simply say that the Jiang fu is extremely disordered and that Mother cannot manage the household well. If Zhou momo truly does begin to steal in the Ruan Ju, then I would be the first to send her to the authorities. However, if she is able to turn over a new leaf, then I would consider it as the predestined fate to maintaining a master and servant relationship between us. Moreover, a person being blind does not mean that they cannot do anything at all. In this world, there are many things that we are unable to see from birth, nevertheless, arent we able to live well just fine? While she was speaking, she noticed that the Old Jiang Madames expression had somewhat relaxed and once more, Xia Yan had heard the implied overt and underhand mocking remarks of her own unfavourable management of the household. Xia Yans eyebrows furrowed, Certainly, this is not permissible. Mother, Jiang Ruan interrupted her as she placidly said, Everything has its own cause and effect, so it could be considered as a good deed for the future generation. In ones lifetime, it would be best not to have ones bad deeds multiply. Chapter 38 - Making Clothes The Old Jiang Madame had always been a follower of Buddha. After hearing what Jiang Ruan had to say, she said, Eldest girl is right. Jiang fu is not a place where sympathy and kindness are absent. That someone would have her eyes dug out under your very nose does not speak well of you as the manager of the household. Since she is just an insignificant servant, there is no harm in assigning her to the eldest girls residence. No matter what, the servant is also one of her people, so its right to leave her to deal with the matter. Jiang Ruan smiled and said, Thank you, zumu. Xia Yan was stunned, but quickly recovered and said, laughingly, Since this is what Mother has decreed, I will not pursue the matter any further. However, when Jiang Ruan brings this servant into her residence, what will she have her do? Will the servant be assigned to dispose off the night soil there as well? Jiang Ruan could not hold back her laughter. Mother worries too much! As Zhou momo is now a member of my residence she will resume her duties as a personal servant, just as she was previously. Xia Yans eyes flashed. Ruan niang, you are an unmarried woman. It would not be good for outsiders to know that the personal servant by your side is blind. Whats wrong with that? Jiang Ruan continued, Not everything in this world can be discerned just by outward appearances. Thats enough, the Old Jiang Madame said with a touch of impatience. Eldest girl is still young, she doesnt need to go out of her way to project a good image. As long as she is comfortable with the servant, it is fine. It is too early to worry about it now. She looked Jiang Ruan up and down, and frowned. In a few days time, the wife of Assistant Minister[1] Shen will be hosting a birthday banquet, and has issued a collective invitation to all of the young ladies from Jiang fu. You, as the mother, should not just concern yourself all day with the running of the Jiang fu. You should have arranged for this eldest girl to have new clothes already. Take a look, what kind of clothes is she wearing today? If others were to see her right now, they would say that our Jiang fu is mistreating our di daughter. [1] Shi liang ( ) C An ancient official title, assistant minister. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, the vice-president of one of the Six Boards. Even with her return to the Jiang fu, Jiang Ruan had not changed her previous way of dressing, and was still wearing her old, dark green jacket patterned with water caltrops. Although her features were bright, and the old clothes added several degrees of colour, the stark contrast between her and Jiang Su Su was immediately noticeable. Jiang Su Su mostly favoured white clothes and extremely simple adornments. At first glance, she looked plain and elegant. However, upon closer examination, all her clothes, without exception, were made of expensive silk, and the embroidery on them was of the highest quality. Although the few head ornaments she wore looked simple, they were all considerably expensive. Looking at her, it was clear that she was a well-cared for and meticulously raised young lady from a wealthy family, well-bred and refined in temperament. Although Ruaner can not be compared to Suer, you, as the stepmother, should still have her concerns at heart, the Old Jiang Madame reprimanded Xia Yan. Xia Yan said, ashamedly, This is all daughter-in-laws fault. Over these past few days, even though Ruan niang had returned, daughter-in-law was paying attention to the matters of the Jiang fu, and forgot all about Ruan niang. Later, daughter-in-law will ask the seamstress from Ruyi Lou (a clothing shop) to come and measure Ruan niang for some new clothes. How can our Jiang fus di daughter not look magnificent? In just a few sentences, Xia Yan had indicated that she had been busily involved with the Jiang fus matters lately, and said that she would call for the seamstress immediately. In this way, she had more or less shown that she was able to recognise her wrongdoings and change for the better. Thus, the Old Jiang Madame let go of her worries. After a few more words of reprimand, followed by some words of self-deprecation, Jiang Ruan and her entourage left the residence. Jiang Su Su stood at the door and called out to Jiang Ruan. Da Jiejie, wont you visit Su Sus courtyard and stay for a while? Jiang Ruan replied, Another day. There are still some matters which I have to take care of. Does Da Jiejie not like me? Jiang Su Su said, helplessly. What has Su Su done wrong? How can that be? Jiang Ruan looked surprised. In a gentle tone, she continued, I am your di older sister, you are my younger sister, how can it be that I dont like you? Dont be overly sensitive. Jiang Su Sus expression did not change. She lifted up her head and said, On hearing Eldest Sisters words, my heart feels at ease. In a few days, when we visit the Shen ladies at their residence, I will take good care of Eldest Sister. After Jiang Su Su had walked away, Lu Zhu stared at her back and said, Miss, why does Second Miss give off such strange vibes? What is so strange? Jiang Ruan asked. Lu Zhu pondered briefly. I dont really know, I just feel that she and furen are too good-tempered. With the situation just now, any other person would have flown into a fury, yet Second Miss and furen kept smiling, and were so polite. How can there be such people in this world? Even a clay figure has some degree of rudimentary emotion. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. Xia Yan was well-educated and capable of sound judgement; Jiang Su Su was elegant and refined. For the both of them, their reputations were the millstones around their necks. In order to preserve their noble skin, they would not do anything that would cause them to lose their dignity, and would always be appropriately magnanimous when others were around. Just now, she had repeatedly emphasised her identity as the eldest di daughter, would Jiang Su Su have experienced great difficulty holding back her ire? Regardless, this was only the beginning. Xia Yan acted quickly. By afternoon, the seamstress from Ruyi Lou had arrived at Ruan Ju. She was a young lady named Liu Ru Yi. Ruyi Lou was one of the best shops in the capital for made-to-order clothing, specialising in clothes for the young ladies of the rich families in the capital. The affairs of the young Miss of the Jiang family had been the talk of the capital for some time now, so Liu Ru Yi was also very curious about this Miss Jiang. When she arrived at Ruan Ju, she saw the two large, flamboyantly written characters, Ruan Ju, on the plaque at the entrance of the courtyard. The characters were remarkably imposing, and the brushstrokes were both refined and free-flowing. They seemed like a sword, which had yet to be drawn, harbouring the hint of a sharp edge. Liu Ru Yi was accustomed to doing business on a daily basis with rich and influential families, so she had quite substantial knowledge of the essentials of calligraphy and scholarship[2]. Upon seeing these characters, she could not help but sigh in admiration. In the capital, the calligraphy of the Eighth Prince had always been praised as being refined and elegant, but she felt that the characters on this plaque were similarly exceptional. [2] Wen fang si bao ( ķı ) C lit. the four treasures of the study i.e. writing brush, ink stick, ink slab, and paper. These are the four items necessary for calligraphy, which is also a display of scholarship C as you can imagine, only the upper classes had the money and means to study and practice calligraphy. Plaque at the entrance looks something like this When Lian Qiao, who was ushering her into the residence, noticed Liu Ru Yi staring intently at the entrance plaque, she smiled and said, This was written by the mistress of our residence. Liu Ru Yi smilingly said, Very well written. As one could tell a persons character by their brushstrokes, Liu Ru Yi had already gained a favourable impression of this young miss of the Jiang family, whom she had yet to meet. After entering the residence, Lian Qiao announced, Miss, Liu gugu[3] from Ruyi Lou has arrived. [3] Gugu ( ù ) C Aunt. Refers to paternal aunts (a fathers sisters, whether younger or older), but is also a respectful term of address for ladies older than oneself. Jiang Ruan put down the book she was holding and looked up. Liu Ru Yi was stunned. Even though she had visited the residences of many nobles and influential people to make clothes, and had seen no small number of beautiful women, she could not help but be amazed when she saw Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan had grown tired while reading, and was reclining on the soft couch. Her entire body seemed comfortably ensconced, and as she lifted up her eyes, she gave off an aura of unconscious indolence. However, her charming eyes, rising up, also contained a cold severity which she had yet to conceal. The effect was like that of a cool and elegant Chinese rose, attractive in the very coldness of its manner. Soft couch (run t ) Chinese Rose (rosa sinensis) She immediately gave Liu Ru Yi a small smile, at which point the aura of coldness instantly disappeared, to be replaced by the bright gentleness of spring water. Liu gugu. Liu Ru Yi also concealed her amazement and smiled. I am here to make clothes for Miss Jiang. Here are several bolts of satin; Miss Jiang may kindly select a bolt. The bolts of satin displayed on the table were all made of first rate silk thread, and were of an assortment of colours: the sky after rain, the essence of autumn, honey peach, bright pink, delicate yellow. All were colours a young lady would feel delighted to wear. These colours that Xia Yan had chosen for her were all vibrantly bright, and she had not chosen in error. Clearly, anyone wearing clothes of such colours would instantly become a foil to Jiang Su Su. The more vivid the colour, the more Jiang Su Su, with her white-clothed figure, would float like a fairy. The contrast would be completely unfavourable to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan pointed at a bolt of bright red satin right at the centre and said, That one. Chapter 39 - Who is Whose Foil? * Be a foil to/for somebody/something C to emphasize the good qualities of another person or thing, by being very different from them. In fiction, a foil is a character who contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, to highlight particular qualities of the other character. The word foil comes from the old practice of backing gems with foil to make them shine more brightly. Liu Ru Yi looked at Jiang Ruan somewhat strangely, probably not expecting that she would select the brightest bolt of material. She paused for a moment in thought before smilingly saying, Eldest Miss Jiang, your fair skin will contrast well against this red. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. Shopkeeper Liu, I think Su niang must have selected the white bolt of fabric. Oh, yes, Second Miss Jiang has always favoured quiet and unobtrusive colours. After she said this, Liu Ru Yi had a sudden flash of understanding. When she looked at Jiang Ruan again, her eyes held a different expression. The people in the capital all say that Second Miss Jiang is quietly elegant, and is matchless in her fairy-like beauty. However, from what I have seen today, Eldest Miss Jiang is even more an object of envy. Liu Ru Yi sighed inwardly. This Eldest Miss Jiang with her seven-aperture heart[1] . . . Usually, in comparison to Jiang Su Sus simple elegance, fresh and vibrant colours would appear common and vulgar. However, if the colour in question was a fiery red, and if the person wearing the clothes was herself extraordinary in nature, then it would be very difficult to prevent her from taking the limelight. Second Miss Jiang wanted to be the focus of attention. However, without even being slightly aware of it, she was going to be someone elses foil. [1] Qi qiao ling long xin ( ) C literally, a heart with seven holes. Figuratively, a person with such a heart is said to be able to communicate with and understand all creatures/ people, and is highly talented e.g. able to adapt quickly to situations, think innovatively, see what others cant. = the seven holes in the head i.e. 2 eyes, 2 ears, 2 nostrils, 1 mouth; = clever, nimble. An example of this phrase in Chinese literature is found in (Feng Shen Bang), English title Investiture of the Gods. Have a look at the reference here. Liu Ru Yi was a very frank and straightforward person. Previously, she had already had a good impression of Jiang Ruan. Now, she added to this a tremendous appreciation of Jiang Ruan. Thus she said, Eldest Miss, do not fret. I guarantee that the dress from Ruyi Lou will be to your satisfaction. When the time comes for you to make a public appearance, you will be presentable and impressive, and all eyes will be drawn to you. Jiang Ruan also smiled. Many thanks, Miss Liu. Thus, measurements were taken and the dresses were made. Several days later, Ruyi Lou sent the dresses over. Because all of the young ladies of the Jiang household had been measured for the dresses at the same time, all the clothes were sent to the Old Jiang Madames Gui Lan Yuan. By the time Jiang Ruan and Lian Qiao reached Gui Lan Yuan, Jiang Su Su had already arrived. When she saw Jiang Ruan, she smiled and said, Is Da Jiejie also here to look at the dresses? Jiang Ruan nodded, only to hear Jiang Su Su carry on, However, it is just a few items of clothing; I dont understand why zumu must always have us gather. Its the same every time, the dresses are more or less the same, there is really nothing to see. She said this with an innocent and indifferent tone, like an ethereal, soaring fairy, who had not an iota of interest in jewellery or clothing, nor the least hint of desire. It seemed as if this kind of girl did not belong to this crude earth. Rather, she should have been hidden right from birth in the palm of ones hand, dearly cherished and taken care of, to live a life of innocence. In Jiang Ruans previous life, Jiang Su Sus talents and reputation were well-known throughout the capital, yet she did not seem like the other girls who were greedy for fame and wealth. Everyone praised her highly, and Jiang Ruan had also thought this younger sister had no understanding of such worldly matters. It was only when she reached the final moments of her previous life that she realised it was not that Jiang Su Su had no desires, or that she viewed fame and wealth as nothing better than a discarded shoe; she did want them, and she had always aimed for the highest position in the world. Anything else was beneath her contempt. In this current life, Jiang Su Su was still young, and it was uncertain if, presently, she had that same force of determination. When the Old Jiang Madame heard what Jiang Su Su said, she laughingly scolded her. Which girl does not like to dress up and look pretty? You are so good, you look like a servant girl dressed in your simple and neat clothes all day long. This is the time of your blossoming youth, yet, you dont like to wear bright colours. Although this was her comment, the Old Jiang Madame had a satisfied expression on her face. It was evident that she considered that Jiang Su Sus unobtrusive clothes expressed refinement, in contrast to the people around her. Jiang Su Su frowned. I dont like those types of colors. I heard Da Jiejie wanted red satin, is that really true? Jiang Ruan nodded. Yes, since the timing happens to coincide with the start of the new year, I wanted to wear something more festive. This was an acceptable reason, and Jiang Su Su could not say anything else. While they had been waiting, Jiang Li and Jiang Dan had arrived one after the other. They bowed to the Old Jiang Madame and stood to one side. Jiang Li was well-behaved in front of Old Jiang Madame, and apart from a hint of arrogance in the way she looked at Jiang Ruan, there was nothing to fault her for. In contrast, Jiang Dans face bore a timid expression, and she clutched somewhat helplessly at the lower half of her dress, as if she was highly uncomfortable with this situation of having everyone get together. After a while, the Old Jiang Madames trusted servant, Cai Que, walked in carrying a small trunk. Smiling, she said, Miss Liu of Ruyi Lou says, she rushed these four items first. Over the next few days, she will hasten to make the spring clothes, and will ask the young ladies to select material when its time. Among the four girls of the Jiang household, Jiang Ruan had the fewest clothes, and they were all the clothes she had brought back from the rural residence. Naturally, the Old Jiang Madame was not going to allow her to go out wearing such clothes. The first thing to do would be to buy some clothes from a ready-made clothes store. When the weather was better, clothes suitable for all four seasons could then be made for her. Jiang Lis gaze rested on Jiang Ruan for a moment, stabbing her with fierce eyes. The dissatisfaction on her face was obvious, but, since the Old Jiang Madame was present, she said nothing in the end. Cai Que opened the little trunk. Young misses, please come and pick your dresses. The clothes were all neatly stacked in the exquisite wooden trunk specially made for Ruyi Lou. Jiang Su Su shot a glance at Jiang Ruan. Da Jiejie, please go first. Jiang Ruan shook her head. I am the eldest. Dan niang should choose first. Cai Que said, with a smile, They are all clothes, it doesnt matter who chooses first. At this, Jiang Su Su said, with some embarrassment, Since you put it that way, Ill go first. Sure enough, what Jiang Su Su first took out of the trunk was a snow white brocade jacket with a pipa jin[2], trimmed with fox fur. Underneath was a pure white skirt made of embroidered brocade, and a silver padded waistcoat as an outer garment. The style was exquisite and unique. Although there were many intricate details, the garment was not encumbered by them, and instead looked extremely grand. Even though Jiang Su Su had affected to be unconcerned about clothes, she could not help smiling faintly on seeing this set of garments made for her. [2] Pipa jin ( ý) refers to an ancient Chinese clothing style for ladies (used for example in waistcoats and dresses) where the left flap of cloth overlaps the right to a large degree (but without reaching to under the armpit), and does not go all the way to the hemline of garment. There is a portion at the bottom of the garment where the two halves meet at the centre. The buttons follow the line of the overlapping flap to the centre. Here, some pictures will help: Sources: 1 & 2 After viewing Jiang Su Sus choice, Jiang Lis eyes flashed unexpectedly. In the Jiang fu, more thought had always been given to the clothes of the di daughter over the shu daughter. Yet, Jiang Su Su, despite not being the di daughter, was still the most favoured daughter. Thus, even though Jiang Li could not entirely resign herself to accept this state of affairs, she did not dare to say anything. Jiang Lis clothes were a light purple, tight-fitting brocade jacket with flat gold discs for buttons, matched with a lotus-green crepe skirt. This set of clothes also looked very attractive. Jiang Dans clothes included a camellia-yellow, figure-hugging cotton jacket, and a yellow-green damask[3] skirt lined with cotton. The clothes excellently set off Jiang Dans shy nature and her desire for approval and love. In reality, Jiang Li and Jiang Dans clothes were really beautiful. However, they immediately became inferior upon comparison with Jiang Su Sus clothes. If the three of them stood together, the eyes of any outsider would only be drawn to Jiang Su Sus graceful bearing and refined figure. Jiang Li was well aware of this, and thus could not be happy upon seeing the clothing. Surprisingly, Jiang Dan was overjoyed, and this happiness shone from her eyes. Related image [3] Damask C a figured woven fabric with a pattern visible on both sides/Damask is commonly used to describe an elaborate floral pattern woven into a damask fabric. Details here Jiang Ruans clothes were right at the bottom of the trunk. Cai Que helped her to retrieve them and shake them out. There was a tight-fitting jacket of crimson satin, patterned with flowers and embellished with gold and white butterflies, a satin skirt sprinkled with jade-green flowers, and a pair of petite red sheepskin boots shot through with gold thread and featuring a cloud pattern**. When everyone had taken a good look at the garments, Jiang Su Su exclaimed, So bright! ** T/N Interestingly, Lin Daiyu, one of the principal characters of the Chinese classic novel, Dream of the Red Chamber (¥), is described in one scene as wearing a pair of shoes with exactly the same description. Although young ladies liked brightly coloured clothes, they were usually willing to wear soft pink or peach-coloured clothes, or anything in a similar shade. Very few would ever try on clothes like this bright red colour. For one, such a colour was most appropriately worn by girls who by nature were passionate and fiery. If a gentle girl were to don such clothes, there would definitely be something lacking. Moreover, in the Jiang fu, Jiang Su Su loved white clothes, so standing next to her in such bright red clothes would present a sharp contrast. Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were not as pretty as Jiang Su Su; to choose to wear such a colour and stand next to her would be a huge mistake. And, Jiang Ruan had deliberately chosen this starkly fiery red. Chapter 40 - Favorable Attention Jiang Li laughed, How did Da Jiejie come to choose a completely different colour from Second Older Sister[1]; with the two of you sitting together right now, it certainly is bright and interesting. [1] Er Jiejie ( ) C Second Sister Jiang Su Su was startled for a moment, then giggled along, Da Jiejie, dressed in red, would definitely be prettier than Su niang and even more festive. Although she knew that Jiang Ruan had chosen the vermillion satin, she had not foreseen that Ruyi Lou would produce such an intricately gorgeous set of clothes from that fabric. However, this made her feel somewhat relieved. A young lady would inevitably be unable to stand up against such a gorgeous and complicated red dress. Even if Jiang Ruan had a bright and resplendent appearance, when she wore these clothes, she would only be drowned out by the their impetus. Not only that, she would appear rather top-heavy and quite gaudy. Jiang Li, too, was thinking along the same lines as Jiang Su Su and the gaze she directed towards Jiang Ruan was somewhat filled with schadenfreude. Yet, at the tip of her lips, these words came out, Shopkeeper Liu is certainly very biased to have created such a gorgeous decorative design for Da Jiejies clothes. We certainly would not be able to compare with it. With such a style of clothes, only Da Jiejie would have the courage to wear them. Since I am Jiang fus eldest daughter, then it would also be good to dress in a more proper manner. Jiang Ruan chuckled lightly, The clothes that you have chosen are extremely complementary as well; each and every one of the young ladies of the Jiang fu is outstanding. Jiang Dan glanced at Jiang Ruan and whispered, Da Jiejies clothes are truly attractive, I have never seen anyone dressing in this manner before in the fu. The Old Jiang Madame who sat on the seat slightly narrowed her eyes and stared at Jiang Ruan meaningfully before she spoke, The clothes are not bad, however, there is still something lacking. It appears that the eldest girl does not have a cape. Du Juan, retrieve that crimson crane* overcoat later from my chest and have it sent to the Ruan Ju. crane Crane Motif * Crane motif C In Chinese culture, the crane is venerated as the prince of all feathered creatures and thus has a legendary status. Embodying longevity and peace, it is the second most favored bird symbol after the phoenix. More At that time, the crimson crane overcoat was part of the Old Jiang Madames dowry and naturally, was precious beyond compare. However, Jiang Su Su had always liked peaceful white colours. Thus, she had never requested it before, but this did not mean she disliked it. Now, seeing the Old Jiang Madame have her own dowry items gifted to Jiang Ruan, in her mind, she was astonished. Jiang Li had long since seen red and sourly added, Zumu certainly dotes on Da Jiejie, to have just returned and already such great things have been given to you. The Old Jiang Madame shot her a glance and remarked with an indistinguishable tone of neither joy nor anger, You have all been raised in the Jiang fu, has anything you have used or worn been lacking? The eldest girl has only just returned home, and she has gone through much hardship in the manor over the past few years. Look, she doesnt even have any presentable accessories on hand. Jiang Su Su thought for a moment and then spoke, Zumu is right. Da Jiejie, I have quite a number of ornaments. Why dont you come over to my courtyard for a visit and choose some accessories. Only, my accessories are too plain, so I am not sure if you would like them. Jiang Li was unable to be as generous as Jiang Su Su. Since she could not bring herself to do so, she simply turned her head aside and pretended not to have heard the offer. Jiang Dan merely lowered her head and her hands grabbed onto the corner of the hem of her own clothes tightly. She did not have as many accessories as her two older sisters; at most, she would only have those that were bestowed by the madame during the new year. However, from what she had already amassed, if it was urgently required someday, she would be able to pawn them off. How can I take Meimeis things? Jiang Ruan replied, It will be alright, Mother will definitely have some prepared for me. The Old Jiang Madames gaze glinted as she waved her hand, Never mind, you have all received your clothes. Since you are going to Assistant Minister Shens residence tomorrow, you will have to dress yourselves respectably. My Jiang fus daughters are all well-bred young ladies of a prestigious family. Second girl, your jiejie has just returned to the capital and will be extremely unfamiliar with many people in the capital. Tomorrow, you will have to take care of her. When you are outside the fu, all of you will be the representatives and the face of the Jiang fu. At that time, you will have to mutually assist each other. Jiang Su Su nodded, What zumu has instructed, Su niang understands. Jiang Ruan, too, nodded in assent. After speaking for a while, the Old Jiang Madame then wanted to meditate thus the young ladies respectively took their own completed sets of clothes and returned to their courtyards. Though, in the end, Jiang Ruan did not go to Jiang Su Sus courtyard to choose some accessories. However, she heard that Jiang Li had gone and borrowed some necklaces and hairpins. Jiang Su Su was not stingy towards Jiang Li regarding the accessories and precious stones; perhaps it was because Jiang Quan never allowed her to lack for anything. As expected that evening, Cai Que, the maidservant at the Old Madames side, sent the crimson crane overcoat over. Apart from that, she had also brought over a small box of accessories and stated that it was given to her by the Old Madame. In addition, she also made an attempt to exhort Jiang Ruan to adorn herself respectably the next day. Jiang Ruan did not decline either. She simply smiled in assent, then chose a silver hairpin of relatively common quality from the small box and gave it to Cai Que for having troubled her to make this trip. At first, Cai Que was unwilling to accept it, but eventually she conceded and accepted it with a smile. Once Cai Que left, Lian Qiao then spoke, Now that the Old Madame is treating Miss this well, the hard times in Miss life can be considered over and the good times are just beginning. This crimson crane overcoat is certainly precious and to have just given it to Miss like this, it is clear that in the Old Madames heart, she still loves our young lady dearly. Bai Zhi was delighted too and as she folded the crane overcoat, she examined the woollen cloth at the same time. Lu Zhu shook her head, From what I see, that is unlikely. Miss has just returned to the fu, and the Old Madame is right away having Miss dress respectably to attend the party at the Assistant Minister Shens residence. Those going to the party tomorrow are certainly the noble young ladies of the capital, and our Miss has not returned to the capital in five years. With this first appearance, the objective is certainly to let everyone know that the Jiang fus eldest miss is a proper beauty of a prestigious family. I surmise that the Old Madame has such intentions. Jiang Ruan lit up the lamp wick, Lu Zhu is right. There is not much advantage to the name of the Jiang fus eldest miss other than influence. Keep that box safe, Im afraid it will not be that relaxing tomorrow. * * * In the Gui Lan Yuan, Zhang mama got up to pour a cup of red date and lotus seed tea for the Old Madame. Old Jiang Madame received the tea but did not drink and merely looked thoughtfully at the bobbing red date inside the teacup, Zhang mama, what do you think about the eldest girl? Zhang mama laughed, Eldest Miss was born beautiful and upon seeing her now, her speech and manners are extremely elegant too. Only, furen passed away long ago and her life has been filled with such hardship since. She is a smart one, the Old Jiang Madame frowned, The time she came to see me after returning to the fu, you did not get a chance to see, but the manner of this girl was equivalent to the high-ranked nobility that comes from the palace. When I knew her before, she was timid and docile, but now her temperament has changed. It is unlike her own mothers as well. Only, during these past few years, she has always been in the rural manor. Those things that Xia Yan has done, you are equally aware of it. How could there possibly be good tidings for the eldest girl; furthermore, to not be brought up as a waste is already not bad. How did she manage to transform from her simple and naive self of the past to this noble persona? Perhaps she takes after you, Cai Que, who had been listening at a side, answered with a smile, After all, she is your descendant. In those years, Old Madame was indeed one of the very best well-bred young ladies in the capital. Anyone who heard your name would say that your mannerisms, capabilities and appearance were all pre-eminently outstanding. Looking upon Eldest Miss now, she is clear and straightforward too. Perhaps she was innately so, thus, even if she was brought up in the rural manor, she could also have the manner of one raised in the palace. Look at your sweet-talking, the Old Jiang Madame scolded with a smile, I do not know what benefits that girl has promised you to actually speak in her favour like this. I am not fawning over Eldest Miss, I am fawning over Old Madame, Cai Que remarked. Zhang mama laughed along, Old Madame certainly does not need to worry that much. It is a good thing that Eldest Miss understands mores. From what I can see, Eldest Miss will be one of the very best among the young ladies of the prestigious families in the capital. To have such a person come out of the Jiang fu, it is certainly something to feel proud and elated about. The Old Jiang Madame nodded, I only hope that she will be able to do well tomorrow. Chapter 41 - Young Lady Ruan of the Jiang Family On the second day, at the first flush of the morning, Lian Qiao had awoken Jiang Ruan to get out of bed. Jiang Ruan had instructed Bai Zhi to tend to Zhou momo, therefore, Lu Zhu and Lian Qiao would accompany her on todays journey. Lu Zhu waited upon Jiang Ruan as she had her breakfast while Lian Qiao was already impatiently waiting to assist Jiang Ruan with changing into her clothes. Lu Zhu giggled, Lian Qiao Jiejie has such an anxious appearance, that those who arent in the know would think that the guest today was going to be Lian Qiao Jiejie. Damned wench. Keep spouting nonsense, and see if I wont tear your mouth into pieces. Lian Qiao added, Our Miss has not adorned herself well in a long time. I had already mentioned long ago that our Miss is a bourgeoning beauty[1] and when I think about how these peoples eyes will drop out of their sockets after our Miss appears in front of them, I cant help but be quite cheerful. [1] Mi rn pi zi ( ) C This adjective often refers to women or girls that are equipped with the potential to become beauties. Often, this phrase refers to the aesthetic appeal and harmony/symmetry with all of a womans body parts such as her figure, physiognomy (face shape) and their five facial features (nose, eyes, lips, tongue and ears). Jiang Ruan smiled, The beauty in the Jiang fu isnt me. Miss is talking about the Second Miss? Lian Qiao was a straightforward person, thus heedless and unconcerned, she continued, The Second Miss natural appearance is good, however, it is excessively light. At her youthful age now, it is still alright. However, once she has grown, to then continue to have such a plain and fresh look will appear rather dull. She is nowhere near our Miss who has a stunning countenance. Jiang Ruan broke into laughter, You are aware that nowadays, here in the capital, the prevalent style is this sort of elegant, attractive and refined beauty. Meanwhile appearances such as mine are gradually becoming gaudy. Originally, Lu Zhu had been tidying up the things on the table. However, once she heard this, she could not help but chime in, Miss is definitely wrong here. The scholars and the poets all assert that they themselves are fond of principled, unsullied and incorruptible lotuses (beauties). However, the people of this world will often fritter away thousands to seek one pot of the tree peony from Luoyang[2]. Yet, would anyone spend thousands of gold to look for a pot of lotus flowers that can be generally found in the pond? [2] T/N note: Peony flowers and particularly, tree peony flowers are held up as the ideal that is unsurpassed by any other flowering plant in China and to a lesser extent, Japan. The tree peony is known as the king of flowers and was once appointed as the national flower during the Qing Dynasty. The flower was highly revered by Chinese literati, poets and painters for hundreds of years and therefore, the flower has become part of the cultural lore. In our current times, whole gardens in China are devoted to tree peonies, in places, especially like Beijing, Shanghai and Luoyang. Moreover, the reason why tree peonies from Luoyang are considered desirable and ornamentally valuable since ancient times till now is due to the difficulty in cultivating it. It is also the citys flower with a Peony Culture Festival that is held annually with millions of visitors every year. 201809041042080065 Luoyang Peony Festival Lian Qiao too nodded, This is exactly the truth. Jiang Ruan shook her head and did not speak further. Once Lu Zhu cleaned her hands, she then had Jiang Ruan sit before the dressing table, What kind of hairstyle does Miss want? Anything is fine. Jiang Ruan stated, As long as it isnt improper, then it will be fine. With the bustle of the transformation, in the span of the smoulder of an incense stick, time passed swiftly. The carriages outside the gates of the Jiang fu had long since been prepared. There were a total of two carriages: Jiang Su Su with Jiang Ruan and Xia Yan in one carriage and Jiang Dan and Jiang Li in another. Ultimately, the two carriages were supposed to depart together for the Shen fu. Assistant Minister Shen and Jiang Quan shared a considerably good relationship, as the bureaucracy between them required mutual areas of assistance. With Lian Qiao and Lu Zhu accompanying her, Jiang Ruan stepped out of the gate. From a distance, she saw that Jiang Li and Jiang Dan had already arrived. The two of them stood by Xia Yans side and were talking to Jiang Su Su. Taking the lead in noticing Jiang Ruan, Jiang Li smiled, Da Jiejie has such great pride, to actually have Mother and your sisters wait for such a long time. This is Jiang Ruans fault, Jiang Ruan chuckled, After all, this is the first time that I am going to the Shen fu after I have returned. I looked for the momo in the courtyard to ask for some pointers so as to not act inappropriately later on because others would only say that our Jiang fus people do not understand the customs and rules. Xia Yan smiled amiably, Why are you saying all this; Ruan niangs style of dressing today really makes one unable to tell that you are unsure at all, and truly looks beautiful. Simultaneously, a thread of bewilderment floated to the surface in Jiang Li and Jiang Su Sus eyes. She was adorned in a crimson cotton close-fitted coat with a plethora of butterflies embroidered in golden silk thread, a skirt with jadeite flower applique embroidery and a pair of shoes made with sheepskin dyed in red with golden applique cloud embroidery. One would have thought that with such an outfit, Jiang Ruan would definitely be unable to suppress it and become overshadowed instead. Who knew that Jiang Ruan was an anomaly; it was a surprisingly exceptional fit for her, as if from the beginning, without the slightest trace of reservation, it was only natural that this outfit was meant to be hers. Contrary to expectations, while wearing this incomparably passionate red outfit, she had brought out a noble and dignified air. At a second glance, she even brought out a faint hint of charmingness and made one unable to help but stare at her in rapture. Everyone present only felt that this irrefutably beautiful appearance standing in front of them, this eldest daughter that was the black sheep and scapegoat of the family, had already become completely unrecognisable. Jiang Ruan smiled, My younger sisters look very beautiful too, therefore I certainly do not deserve to have Mother praising me so. This sort of warm-hearted and affectionate exchange continued for a while, then, they climbed into their own respective carriages. After Jiang Su Su climbed aboard, she nestled in the bosom of Xia Yan. Out of the corner of her eyes, she paid heed to Jiang Ruan. Initially, she had thought that with the three of them squeezed into the same carriage, Jiang Ruan would definitely feel uneasy. However, who knew that once Jiang Ruan boarded, she then opened a travel journal in her hands to peruse. With such a peaceful gaze, it actually made Jiang Su Su, who had wanted to speak up, falter in her words. The entire journey was harmonious and peaceful. After travelling for an unknown stretch of time, the carriage stopped before the Shen fu. As the company of ladies alighted from the carriages, the manservant at Shen fus gates came to welcome them. Xia Yan handed the invitation over and swiftly, a stoutly statured, old momo stepped through the gates and smiled, Jiang furen has arrived. Our furen has long since been waiting for you, Madam. Hearing this, Xia Yan smiled in reply. After walking for a short spell, she was then lead into the reception hall. As expected, Shen furen had already prepared tea and was waiting. Upon seeing Xia Yans face, she spoke in a really intimate manner, Jiejie, these days, you dont come here often enough. If it was not my birthday, Im afraid I would have to verily and eagerly await your visit. Xia Yan laughed too, Ruan niang has recently just returned. I hope you dont blame me for being busy with putting matters to order. Shen furen then shifted her gaze over and a pair of shrewd eyes fell upon Jiang Ruans figure. A flash of bedazzlement spread through her eyes as she exclaimed, This must be the Jiang familys eldest young lady then, she truly is a bourgeoning beauty. Stepping forward, Jiang Ruan gave her salutations. Hearing Shen furens rather unbridled words that were at the same time still calm and cool, she naturally and affably said, Shen furen has flattered me beyond words. Shen furens gaze was sharp and it seemed as if she was sizing up goods. Lian Qiao and Lu Zhu, who were following behind her, were rather discontented. However, without batting an eyelid, they shifted themselves slightly to the side and blocked Shen furens probing gaze. A trace of resentment could be seen in Jiang Lis eyes and reluctantly, she shot a sweet smile towards Shen furen, Hello, furen. However, Shen furen had a very cold response toward Jiang Li and merely made a sound of acknowledgement before she turned to look at Jiang Su Su with a smile, Su niang, these days, you are actually becoming more charming, just like a young fairy; it truly makes me feel green with envy. Mother, what envy are you talking about. Just as the Shen furens voice had fallen upon everyones ears, one could suddenly hear a lovable and delicate voice coming from outside. From there, a young girl clothed in a pink jacket walked in. As she saw Jiang Su Su, she excitedly shot forward, Suer Jiejie! Smiling, Jiang Su Su held onto her hand, Ming Zhu Meimei. Shen Ming Zhu was the pearl in the palm of Assistant Minister Shens family. His family had three sons but as for daughters, he only had one. In her past life, Jiang Ruans impression of Shen Ming Zhu was merely that she was a close friend of Jiang Su Su. Yet, for some unknown reason, Ming Zhu was always filled with enmity towards her. At every instance of contention between Shen Ming Zhu and herself, it had always been resolved with the help of Jiang Su Su. At that time, largely due to Shen Ming Zhus painstaking efforts, she had written herself off as an idiot beauty with her own words: only vulgar female entertainers would have skills in dancing and the qin. In her past life, Jiang Ruan did not understand this animosity. She had never provoked Shen Ming Zhu, yet why was Shen Ming Zhu always at odds with her. However, now that she had recalled everything that once happened, it was crystal clear. In the path of her past lifetime, foes were abundant. And now, after the blurring divide between life and death had ceased, where the wheels of time had turned back once more, where all of the past events had rewound back to a state where nothing had happened yet, seeing this old foe once more, Jiang Ruan was unsure what kind of ending Shen Ming Zhu would have in this lifetime instead. As if she had sensed Jiang Ruans gaze upon her, Shen Ming Zhu turned her head around and upon taking a first glance at Jiang Ruans appearance, she was startled. Her next reaction was an immediate and baffling question filled with ire, Who is she? The people around them had yet to speak in response when they saw Jiang Ruan smile slightly, and with an indistinct trace of ambiguous emotions in the corner of her eyes, she softly spoke, Jiang familys Ruan niang. Chapter 42 - Allure Then, you are Jiang Ruan? Shen Ming Zhu was startled. She had already heard the stories regarding Jiang Ruan. She was on good terms with Jiang Su Su, and a few days ago, when Jiang fu had become the subject of public ridicule due to the account circulating about Jiang Ruans remarks in court, it had caused Jiang Su Sus normally beautiful and refined appearance, and her gentle nature, to transform into a scowling countenance that lasted a few days. In Shen Ming Zhus eyes, Jiang Ruan was nothing better than a crude and untalented country bumpkin. However, after seeing Jiang Ruan today, she appeared to have a noble bearing equivalent to that of the palace officials. Her appearance was comparable to Jiang Su Sus, and might even be a bit more vibrant. Jiang Ruan nodded. Jiang Li smiled and said, Ming Zhu meimei, this is my Da Jiejie. She has just returned from the rural residence and is not familiar with how things are in the capital. This is the first time she has visited your residence. The manner in which Jiang Li emphasised this statement caused Shen Ming Zhus eyes to flash with contempt. She said, The capital and the rural residence are very different. Miss Jiang should be careful. Lu Zhu and Lian Qiao could not prevent anger from showing on their faces. The two ladies were engaged in a battle, both overt and covert, but Xia Yan was happily chatting away with Shen furen and appeared to not have noticed what was happening. Naturally, however, she would not say a word to help Jiang Ruan out of her embarrassment. No need to mention Jiang Dan, who was so thoroughly cowed that she dared not utter a single sound. She stood where she was with her head lowered, fervently hoping that no one would notice her. Jiang Li was already gleefully delighting in Jiang Ruans predicament. What was unexpected was Jiang Su Sus attitude. She stood to one side, smiling slightly, without saying a word. This was the first time such a scene had occurred. In her previous life, whenever any of the young ladies from the influential families crossed swords with Jiang Ruan, if Jiang Su Su were present, she would definitely speak up on Jiang Ruans behalf. Perhaps it was to win her trust, or it could have been to burnish her own reputation. However, now, she was unwilling to put in a good word for Jiang Ruan. Could it be possible that she was waiting for Jiang Ruan to lose her composure? Jiang Ruan simply smiled faintly and kept quiet without responding. In this way, it was as if Shen Ming Zhus blow had struck a wad of cotton, totally without effect. Shen Ming Zhu sucked in a breath and took hold of Jiang Su Sus hand, saying, Niang, the furen and jiemei[1] in the main hall have been waiting for a long time now. Would Jiang furen and Suer Jiejie kindly come this way? [1] jimi ( ) C sisters / siblings. In her arrogance, Shen Ming Zhu had only included Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan in her invitation. It was extremely discourteous. However, Shen furen did not show any intention of rebuking her, and just smiled in agreement. Clearly, this was something of a common occurrence. Shen Ming Zhu was truly the precious pearl of the Shen fu, and had been coddled all throughout her growing years. The furen and young ladies had been waiting in the main hall of Shen fu for a considerable time. Those familiar with each other were seated together, chatting. One lady said, I heard that the Eldest Jiang Miss will make her appearance today. The Eldest Miss of the Jiang family? A lady with high cheekbones said, You mean, the di daughter who was so badly treated by Official Jiang? Heaven have pity on her, to lose her own birth mother at such a young age, and then to end up in such a miserable state. If she had not fortuitously encountered Imperial Censor Wang, who knows how much she would have had to suffer. However, another lady next to her smiled and said, Although she is indeed to be pitied, Ive heard that, according to her birthdate characters[2], she is considered inauspicious in regards to marriage compatibility[3]. Official Jiang is usually a just man, so there must have been some reason for his actions. This lady had a face as round as a disc, and when she smiled, her eyes turned into slits. She looked just like an amiable, portly bodhisattva usually found in a temple, and seemed polite and friendly. She went on to say, Of course growing up in the countryside could never compare to growing up in the Jiang fu. There must surely be some aspects of her conduct which are inappropriate. For certain, she is inferior to the Second Jiang Miss, who is so outstanding. [2] ba zi ( ) C a Chinese fortune-telling method utilising the astrological concept that a persons destiny or fate can be divined by the two sexagenary cycles characters assigned to their birth hour, day, month and year. For more information, see here and here. Most commonly used before marriage to check compatibility. [3] ke qin ( ) C the term refers to someone who, in terms of marriage compatibility, is lacking, almost a jinx. She would have to do something deemed auspicious in order to balance the marriage. On the other hand, there is also the possibility that such a person will increase her opportunities and fortunes through marriage. The former perspective is more likely. As soon as the Second Jiang Miss was spoken of, everyone unanimously thought of Jiang Su Sus talents and appearance, and each nodded in agreement. Naturally, the Second Jiang Miss is indeed exceptional, just like a beautiful fairy. There is no comparison possible between her and the Eldest Jiang Miss. When the Eldest Jiang Miss and the Second Jiang Miss stand next to each other, the contrast is very clear. Its enough that the Jiang fu has the Second Jiang Miss; she is the capitals talented lady. The girl who grew up in the wild mountains would inevitably be terribly boorish. Of course, theres no need to talk about her appearance. The lady with the disc-shaped face smiled even more broadly. The lady with the high cheekbones looked unhappy, but nodded, and unhurriedly drank her tea. The discussion was still in progress when a voice was heard, saying, Look, Jiang furen and the Second Miss are here. Everyone looked up. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su were walking in front of the others. Xia Yans clothes and ornaments were well suited for the occasion, and perfectly displayed her gentle and scholarly disposition. One could tell she was a gentle and virtuous lady with a glance. Her manner of dressing would also not steal the limelight from Jiang Su Su. The young lady who walked leisurely into the hall was wearing a snow white brocade jacket with pipa jin, trimmed with fox fur. The jacket flared slightly at the waist, and made her appear sweet and graceful, a moving sight. Below the waist, she wore a pure white skirt made of embroidered brocade, so full that when she moved, she looked as if she was floating on a cloud of mist. Her outer garment was a padded silver waistcoat, and her long hair was combed up and bound at the back of her head, with two pure white ribbons hanging down. Her face was free of makeup and a slight smile hovered around her light, cherry-red lips. She was both dignified and elegant, and with her natural beauty, she was a picture of innocence and purity. At the same time, she displayed just a touch of arrogance, thus, making her seem even more like a heart-stirring ethereal fairy. As she walked slowly towards them, the ladies were already exclaiming her praises to the heavens. This was a common occurrence for Jiang Su Su. However, today, there was a difference, as the eyes of the people were quickly drawn to the person who walked behind her. The young lady who walked with measured footsteps behind Jiang Su Su was like a fire in the midst of a snowy landscape, a stalk of plum flower amidst frost and snow. She immediately caught the attention of all present. A tight-fitting jacket of crimson satin, patterned with flowers and embellished with gold and white butterflies, a skirt sprinkled with jade-green flowers, and a pair of petite red sheepskin boots shot through with gold thread and featuring a cloud pattern. Such an outfit, by itself, gave off an aura of wealth and honour. However, worn by this young lady, it was as if such wealth and honour were but her due. The white fox fur-edged sleeves of her crimson cape, patterned with cranes, gleamed with a faint silvery sheen. She was a lively, vibrant figure, and her radiance dazzled everyone. As she walked closer to them, everyone could not help but hold their breath upon beholding her appearance. She was naturally fair, and her face, devoid of makeup, glowed with a lustre similar to that of a creamy white jade of the highest quality[4]. In comparison, her lips were even redder, like the rosiest of dawns. The harmonious brilliance of her jet-black eyes was as charming as a spring day. Upon taking a closer look, though, those upturned eyes bore a hint of icy mockery. Her long eyebrows, drawn with luo zi dai[5], enhanced the delicate charm of her appearance, and readily drew the eyes of onlookers towards her. [4] yang zhi yu ( ֬ ) C literally, mutton fat jade, because it glistens like fat. Read more. White Jade [5] luo zi dai ( ) C in a sense, ancient mascara/ eyeliner devised from snail shells. The finished product (a pressed powder), when used on eyebrows, is black, with a hint of blue. Refer . Jiang Su Su was already elegant and refined, but this young ladys beauty was such that she was vibrantly alive. As a result, the people who had become accustomed to looking upon the ethereal fairy-like beauty of Jiang Su Su were dazzled by her. It was like watching a magical spirit full of vitality emerge from the flowering bushes, walking gracefully and elegantly towards them. On taking another look, as this young lady walked, her skirt hardly whispered with movement, and neither did her hair, while her hands were decorously folded over in front of her chest. However, underneath this bright and vibrant appearance, there was a magnificent yet quiet nobility. That such a young lady should exhibit such a unique charm made people feel as if time had stood still. Formal posture with folded hands. What gave rise to the greatest amazement was that, when this young lady stood next to Jiang Su Su, they were equally matched in terms of looks and bearing. If one looked carefully, one would suddenly feel that the elegant and refined fairy had lost several degrees of colour in the presence of this vibrant spirit. That incomparable snow-white purity was somewhat inferior to this ardent and unrestrained crimson. A lady muttered, Its the Eldest Miss of the Jiang family! Chapter 43 - A Den of Snakes and Rats In unison, the expressions on both Xia Yan and Jiang Su Sus faces changed minutely. The ladies had already started quietly chatting amongst one another. What uncouth girl from the mountain wilderness? Her bearing is akin to someone who has been brought up in the palace. Exactly, shes comparable to the Second Jiang Miss, she is nowhere as bad as they say. Her appearance is good, and she is even more vibrant than the Second Miss. For the first time, everyones attention was not on Jiang Su Su. Jiang Ruan was still fully focused on walking onwards, with no discernible change in her expression. She had a slight smile on her face, as if it were not the first time she had visited the Shen fu. Her calm and collected air caused those who had originally wanted to watch the potential fireworks to take notice of her and give her due respect. The face of the round-faced lady had turned black. In contrast, the lady with the high cheekbones was continually nodding. Shen Ming Zhu, who was accompanying them, was thoroughly incensed, and glared fiercely at Jiang Ruan. She walked over and grabbed Jiang Su Sus hand. And without giving Jiang Ruan a second glance, she walked over to the womens seating area. A casual family banquet in an elite household in ancient China C illustration by an ancient artist for Chinese novel Dream in the Red Chamber. Xia Yan kept up a slight smile, as if she had not noticed anything, and laughingly chatted with Shen furen as they seated themselves. Although Jiang Li was naturally arrogant, she had several friends among the young ladies present. In order to deliberately isolate Jiang Ruan, she dragged Jiang Dan off with her, even though she hardly ever gave her the time of day under normal circumstances. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, Jiang Ruan was left standing by herself at the side of the hall, and did not know where she should sit. Although the ladies and young misses present all marvelled at Jiang Ruans looks and manner, they were all present by the invitation of Shen furen, and naturally also had to maintain their good relations with the Jiang fu. The present furen of the Jiang fu was Xia Yan, not Zhao Mei. Those who understood which way the wind blew would not take the initiative to help Jiang Ruan out of her predicament, not to mention the fact that Jiang Ruans appearance was so magnificent, any young lady sitting next to her would only be in her shadow. Thus, in a moment, only the one who had been alienated from the others remained. Lu Zhu and Lian Qiao stood behind Jiang Ruan in low spirits, thinking that this visit to Shen fu, contrary to expectation, had caused a loss of face and unmerited embarrassment for Jiang Ruan. However, it was precisely at this moment that a clear and melodious voice came from the womens area. Eldest Miss Jiang, do come and sit here. A beautiful young lady stood in the womens area, wearing a blue cotton jacket patterned with flowers. Her skin was a little dark, but she looked very pretty, and a heroic spirit was faintly evident in her features. Jiang Ruan had also known this young lady in her previous life. Her name was Lin Zi Xiang, and she was the eldest daughter of Lin Tai Shi. She was an extremely righteous and principled lady who became the Third Princes cefei[1] in Jiang Ruans previous life. Although Lin Tai Shi had little real power in the Great Jin Dynasty, he held a fairly influential position. However, Lin Zi Xiang had not been able to gain the Third Princes favour, and the situation worsened when Lin Tai Shi, to his utter dejection, was dismissed from his position by the emperor. The Third Prince was a beast in mans form, and he collected a whole harem of women. Lin Zi Xiang lost the child she was carrying due to the scheming of his favoured concubine. Unable to bear the insult when the Third Prince defended that favoured concubine, Lin Zi Xiang took a knife and killed both herself and the concubine. [1] ce fei ( ) C literally, a side concubine, who can be considered the secondary wife of a prince. More . In her previous life, the palace ladies had treated Lin Zi Xiangs situation as something of a joke, and Jiang Ruans heart had always ached for her. The heavens were indeed unfair, that such a strong and spirited lady should come to a tragic end, and still be talked about after her death. During a palace banquet in her previous life, Jiang Ruan had once caught sight of Lin Zi Xiang from afar in the guibin[2] area. Jiang Ruans attention had been drawn to the plainly dressed Lin Zi Xiang, who was melancholic in the midst of a flock of gorgeously attired, chattering ladies. They were both in similar circumstances, married to people who were unwilling to be married, and imprisoned in narrow cages for a lifetime. [2] gui bin ( ) C an imperial concubine, one of the middle ranks. Jiang Ruan smiled at Lin Zi Xiang and walked over to sit by her. Lin Zi Xiang nodded at her, and Jiang Ruan whispered, Many thanks. I can never get used to this kind of behaviour, Lin Zi Xiang said. These wealthy aristocrats and nobles always pretend to be so righteous, yet have no qualms making things thoroughly difficult for a young lady. Such sophisticated words coming from such young lips. Jiang Ruan took in the serious expression on Lin Zi Xiangs face and could not help laughing. Her opinion of Lin Zi Xiang went up several notches. Jiang Ruans interaction with Lin Zi Xiang caused Jiang Li to seethe with hatred. In the midst of their conversation, Jiang Su Su and Shen Ming Zhu also observed this scene and frowned. What talent does that Jiang Ruan have? Lin Zi Xiang is usually so aloof, but here she is talking to Jiang Ruan! Jiang Su Su smiled and said, Da Jiejie always charms people in this way. She is obviously a sly fox[3], Shen Ming Zhu spat out. She turned around and noticed Jiang Li staring daggers at Jiang Ruan. She thought for a moment before saying, Suer Jiejie, I believe Jiang Li also hates her. Why dont we help Jiang Li? [3] hu mei zi ( ) C literally, a fox i.e. a woman who seduces by means of her attractive looks. Jiang Su Su was startled. Then, she smiled and said, How can you say this? Youd better not have any devious ideas. Da Jiejie has just returned home from the rural residence. If an incident were to occur, her reputation would be damaged. How could she conduct herself as a person with integrity in the capital after that? Shen Ming Zhu also smiled. Suer Jiejie has the heart of Buddha, but you clearly understand the situation as well as anyone else. Look, today, she deliberately wore this set of red clothing, isnt it to steal the limelight from you? Knowing that you love to wear plain colours, yet wearing something so bright; I think she is provoking you. Suer Jiejie, you cannot always be patient and accommodating. This . . . Jiang Su Su hesitated slightly. This hesitation caused Shen Ming Zhu to feel even more aggrieved, so she said, Dont worry, Suer Jiejie, I will help you out. Having said this, she waved at Jiang Li, who was sitting opposite them. Jiang Li Jiejie! Jiang Li turned towards them with the air of someone who had been bestowed a favour by a superior, and walked over to Shen Ming Zhu . Among the young ladies from the illustrious families in the capital, the shu daughters and the di daughters were actually divided into two separate social circles. Although Jiang Li did her utmost to win the favour of Shen Ming Zhu, Shen Ming Zhu was only close to Jiang Su Su, so Jiang Li could only be jealous. Now, Jiang Li smiled in response to Shen Ming Zhu taking the initiative to greet her, even though she knew that there must be some hidden intention. Disdain flashed in Shen Ming Zhus eyes momentarily, but her smile was sweet as she crooked her little finger at Jiang Li. Jiang Li Jiejie, I have something I want to talk to you about in private. Jiang Li bent her ear towards Shen Ming Zhu, who proceeded to mutter a few words. Jiang Lis face took on an astonished expression, which was then replaced by hesitation as she looked at Jiang Su Su sitting to the side. Jiang Su Su had her head bowed as she drank her tea with her usual smile on her face. It was impossible to discern how she was feeling. Jiang Li Jiejie, what do you think? As Shen Ming Zhu looked at Jiang Li, her tone became even more tender and persuasive. I am doing this all for you. Jiang Li was silent for quite a while. Finally, she bit her lips and said, All right. Many thanks for your help, Ming Zhu meimei. Shen Ming Zhu giggled as she pulled Jiang Lis hand so that she sat down beside her. This being the case, lets talk some more. Jiang Li paused before complying. The two of them huddled together and whispered to each other. As they were doing this, Jiang Su Su simply sat at the side, drinking her tea with bowed head, as if she had no idea what Shen Ming Zhu and Jiang Li were doing. The only movement she made was to glance at Jiang Ruan in the distance just as Jiang Li sat down. Her eyes bore a hint of ruthlessness. However, she had not anticipated that the very moment she looked at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan would turn her head slightly, as if feeling the weight of her glance. Their eyes met, and Jiang Ruan smiled faintly at her. Even though Jiang Ruans upturned eyes were smiling, Jiang Su Su felt a cold shiver run down her back. When she looked again, Jiang Ruan had already turned away, and it was as if nothing had ever happened. Chapter 44 - To Beat Somebody at Their Own Game As it was only her first visit to the Shen fu, Jiang Ruan had only spoken a few words with just Lin Zi Xiang while the other young ladies merely looked upon them from afar. On the other hand, Jiang Su Su had quite a favourable impression amongst everyone; therefore, there were numerous people with whom she spoke intimately with. Shooting a glance at Jiang Su Su, who was speaking with Lieutenant General Lins di daughter, Lin Zi Xiang snorted coldly, How pretentious! How did you surmise this? Jiang Ruan asked as she picked up the teacup in front of her with both hands. Related image Chinese teacup Related image This is how the cup is held using both the hands. She has a haughty and aloof appearance, yet, deep at the very core of her bones, her heart has changed, becoming gaudy and inelegant. If this person is not a sham, then what else can she be called? Moreover, people speak of her as if she is some immortal fairy from the immortal realm; in truth, she is merely someone who has blinded the secular world with her deceptive appearance. Lin Zi Xiangs words were shockingly impolite and yet, Lu Zhu who stood behind them, had burst out in laughter upon hearing them. Chief Historian Lin oversaw the Palaces historical annals and the astronomical calendar. Moreover, he placed a great importance on literary and historical knowledge, therefore, Chief Historian Lin and Imperial Censor Wang were both similarly upright and frank people who had always spurned flattery. With such an honest and candid disposition, Lin Zi Xiang had completely inherited that very same character from Chief Historian Lin. And so, her straightforward nature was naturally unpopular among all the young ladies present. Yet, Jiang Ruan felt that this temperament of hers was excellent. Candidly honest people were hard to come by in the world and this sort of person was much more adorable in comparison to those duplicitous people. Still with Lin Zi Xiangs nature, for her to marry into the ranks of the Third Prince or similar men with profligate lifestyles, was to ruin her future prospects and even her entire life thereafter. This really caused one to heave a sigh and deeply sympathize with her. Lin Zi Xiang noticed Jiang Ruans gaze and frowned, To look at me this way, it feels as if you are looking at an extremely pitiful person? Is that so? Jiang Ruan smiled as she changed the subject, Young Lady Lin, despite disliking my second meimei so, you are willing to sit with me. From the bottom of my heart, I am truly grateful. This has no relation to you. Lin Zi Xiang had no qualms and ruthlessly denied her, I am simply unwilling to see them bully a young lady. You and your second meimei are the same, both of you are equally pretentious. However, unlike her feigned form as a pure immortal fairy, you dont appear to portray the same. On the contrary, it makes one feel somewhat more at ease. In her heart, Jiang Ruan gave Lin Zi Xiang several praises in admiration as she said, I could not possibly compare to an immortal fairy. Everyday, I have my hands full with the usual daily routine and tangle with worldly affairs; what I do are mundane things and what I eat are just coarse grains. I am just a human. After hearing her words, Lin Zi Xiang could not help but take a second glance at Jiang Ruan, Contrary to what I had expected, you do have some self-awareness. Lian Qiao wanted to say something but hesitated, and finally managed to somehow endure. Jiang Ruan, herself, paid no heed to this as she knew that the young miss of the Lin family bore her no malice at all. Still, for her (LZX) to not spare others with her words, that was fine as well. In fact, this sort of person was truly an example of how great intelligence may appear to be stupidity[1]. Rather, that young lady simply had a slightly arrogant and candid personality, and it was not like she (JR), herself, had a fragile heart. [1] D zh ru y () C Great intelligence may appear to be stupidity is an idiom which basically means that who knows the most, speaks the least. Therefore, Lin Zi Xiang is showing her stupidity by highlighting what should not have been said. Unwittingly, they had spent half their time whilst eating, drinking tea and chatting leisurely. But then, they saw Jiang Li stand up from her seat and walk over to Jiang Ruans side murmuring, Da Jiejie, I need to make a trip to the powder room, wont you accompany me? Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, But I dont know the way. Jiang Li glanced at Shen Ming Zhu, Its alright, there will be Miss Shens maid to guide us there. Its just that I feel somewhat afraid going alone. I have already informed Mother and Mother has also agreed. You and I are sisters, therefore today, Ill have to trouble Da Jiejie to look after Li niang[2] for a while. [2] T/N: There is an emphasis here, it isnt as clear as it may seem, however, Jiang Li is clearly using ileism, referring to herself in third person, to be humble since she is asking for a favour. Her voice was neither loud nor soft, yet coincidentally, it could be heard by all the furens and young ladies around them. With this awareness, it actually gave Jiang Ruan no chance to refuse her. After all, it was not considered a big deal to accompany her familys younger shu sister to the powder room. Moreover, Jiang Li had already lowered herself and spoken in such a polite manner to her. Now that she had just returned to the capital, she could not have even the slightest unfavorable opinions about her being spread around. Thus, Jiang Ruan nodded, Is there a need to say all this? Ill accompany you then. After saying so, she stood up. Upon seeing this, Lu Zhu and Lian Qiao wanted to follow suit, however, Jiang Li reached out to stop them, We are just going there and will be back shortly, I too have not brought any maid with me. These two maids can also remain here as its alright with just Shen meimeis maid to come with us. Lu Zhu and Lian Qiao were somewhat concerned but Jiang Ruan simply smiled at them, No worries, I will be right back. Jiang Li then delightedly pulled on Jiang Ruans hand as they left their seats while the maids stayed back. They left from the rear end of the banquet hall. Then Shen furen seemed to have noticed the two empty seats in the middle of the banquet and asked Xia Yan, who was sitting beside her, Your familys eldest young lady and third young lady, they seem to be missing? Xia Yan smiled as she glanced around the banquet hall and nonchalantly remarked, Perhaps, they have gone to the powder room. With this many people around them, they will be alright. Pleased as a plum, Shen Ming Zhu tugged at Jiang Su Sus hand as she smiled, Suer jiejie, you just have to wait and enjoy the show later. Jiang Su Su was somewhat worried and looked at her hesitatingly, Please dont do anything improper. Da Jiejie, she is just a newcomer Look at how kind you are, Shen Ming Zhu remarked impatiently, Im merely giving her a lesson C see if she will still act this ostentatiously going forward. Outside the hall, Jiang Ruan and Jiang Li followed the small pathway in the Shen fus garden at a normal pace. At the very front of them was Shen Ming Zhus personal maid, Xiao Cui. Occasionally, Jiang Li would glance at Jiang Ruan from the corner of her eyes. Seeing that Jiang Ruan had an ever-present smile on her face as if she absolutely had no idea of what would happen later, only then could Jiang Li feel more at ease. While they were walking down a small corridor with no one around, Jiang Li suddenly covered her stomach as she turned to look at Jiang Ruan, Da Jiejie, I cant hold it in any longer. Why dont I have the maid bring me to the powder room first, then after a while, she can come back to get you. Worriedly, Jiang Ruan asked, Will you be alright by yourself? Dont worry, I will swiftly come back. Jiang Li frowned, putting on an expression filled with pain. From the side, Xiao Cui remarked too, Miss Jiang, I will bring Third Young Lady to the powder room first, and in the meantime, Miss can sit in this room. This is the room that the fu uses to receive guests, so there is tea and desserts inside. Jiang Ruan took a glance at the door of the room and thought for a bit, nodding, All right, Li niang, you need to hurry then. Jiang Li urged on, Yes, Da Jiejie, please hurry inside. Jiang Ruan then pushed the door and entered. From the outside, once Jiang Li and Xiao Cui had seen this, only then did they pick up their skirts and quickly leave . Once the sound of the footsteps had faded away into the distance and could no longer be heard, the rooms door was once again pushed open and Jiang Ruan stepped out. Tightening up her crimson crane overcoat over herself, the slightest trace of a cold smile emerged on her face. She did not know what sort of person would enter this room later. However, once this person was found to be alone together with her, and that scene was witnessed by both Jiang Li, who had been worried about losing her, and everyone else, her reputation would be in a complete disarray. Or perhaps, this was precisely Shen Ming Zhus plan. However, this was merely her first time meeting Shen Ming Zhu today. To have thought of such a ruthless scheme of entrapment, she might have been encouraged by Jiang Su Su to push the wave and add to the billows[3]; what Jiang Su Su was best at was precisely attacking someone whilst using the strength of another. [3] T/N : It means to add onto the severity of her previous scheme. However, Jiang Su Su was not the only one who knew how to get someone else to do her dirty work. Jiang Ruan slowly followed along the uninhabited passageway as she walked rather leisurely and in high spirits. However, if Jiang Li had been present, she would have been definitely astounded because this familiarity of hers evidently did not seem like it was her first time entering the Shen fu. In reality, this was definitely her first time entering the Shen fu, however, in her previous life in the palace, Jiang Quan and the Eighth Prince had informed her of various classified matters. At that time, she had thought that they were not keeping any secrets from her and that they had regarded her as one of them. So, she had always kept this information close to her heart, hoping that one day she could be of use to them. Who would have known that now, this was actually a boon to herself. All of that classified information also included the secret inside the Shen fu. Jiang Lis greatest error was to presume that she, who was unfamiliar of her surroundings, could only obediently stay in the room to wait for someone to find her. Unfortunately, no matter whether it was in her past life or in this present one, she would always remember the structural blueprint of the Shen fu. Chapter 45 - Meeting The Youth in Black Once More In her previous life in the palace, the one thing she did not lack was the endless time. She had diligently tried to pass her days a little more meaningfully. But whenever Jiang Quan and the Eighth Prince told her things, she would willingly and repeatedly ruminate over those words during those sleepless nights. The Shen fus structural layout was exactly identical to the one in her memories, therefore, today she was able to walk around without the least bit of effort. Turning round and passing the long corridor, she took a detour through a path by herself and approached a small room which was at the side, behind the garden. She then pushed the door open and entered. The room was decorated very simply, almost as if it were an abandoned study that had not been used for a very long time. There were a few bound volumes of travel notes haphazardly placed on a study table. Jiang Ruan moved around to the front of the study table. Hung overhead on the wall was a drawing of a bamboo forest in the breeze. She stared at it for a short while and then reached out to lift it up. What was revealed behind the picture scroll was a smooth wall. Jiang Ruan reached out her hands and traced her fingers along the snow-white surface of the wall as she slowly searched. Not too long after, her hands somehow pressed onto something. Hearing a crisp noise, the central wall in the room then gradually hollowed in, revealing a tiny hidden compartment. She paused for a bit and then extended her hand into the hidden compartment and took a cloth bag out. The cloth bag in her hands had quite a bit of weight, and from a rough estimate, it seemed to be something like a book. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, this was definitely the Shen fus special account book that Assistant Minister Shen kept in his home. For any official in the officialdom, it would definitely be unavoidable that they would have to often use bribery in their daily activities and dealings to help smooth various relationships. In peacetime, for an official to give an incentive to ones superiors, inevitably, there must be a source of that silver money. Assistant Minister Shen had handed these matters over to Shen furen to organize. As for Shen furen, to have this account book hidden in any random place would not suffice, therefore, she had simply placed it inside this abandoned study room. Thus, to have hidden it so recklessly and negligently behind the picture scroll, but of course who would naturally think that it was hidden in such a place. However, in her previous life, at the time when the Eighth Prince had met her in private, he had actually briefly touched on this subject. Assistant Minister Shen was also someone who was in the same camp as Jiang Quan, however, due to some unknown reason, they later came to have some divergent opinions. Furthermore, Jiang Quan did not seem to mind this at all since he possessed some information that could be used against Assistant Minister Shen. She had no idea how this account book had fallen into Jiang Quans hands. If all these accounts were to be revealed, the high ranking officials who would be implicated were plenty, and it would undoubtedly lead to a huge upheaval in the capital. Nonetheless, with this book now in her possession, todays trip was not in vain. Jiang Ruan safely hid the cloth bag inside her clothes. However, as soon as she turned around, she was immediately startled. Before the horizontally erect screen in the room, stood a person, who was presently staring at her. In the depths of his eyes, there were some inexplicable emotions. As she earnestly looked over, she noticed that the person was dressed in black and possessed exceptionally cold and distinct facial features. However, his appearance also seemed unexplainably familiar. He looked precisely like that youth dressed in black whom she had accidentally met that day at the temple while she was on her way back to the capital. Yet, she had never imagined that today, she would meet him here once again. She was unsure if this was a blessing or a curse for her. Jiang Ruan cautiously looked at him, yet, the other person simply stared at her chest. Jiang Ruan began to feel slightly annoyed when she suddenly heard her counterpart speak up, Account book. So, he was staring at the account book in her bosom. Jiang Ruan was a little stupefied and frowned, You want the account book? This young man who appeared out of nowhere, for him to actually want the account book too, he might probably not get along with the Shen fu as well. Jiang Ruans heart stopped for a bit. Then, taking the account book out from her bosom, she flung it far away in his direction. The youth dressed in black raised a hand to catch it and thoughtfully glanced at her. His expressions remained the same as before, cold and cheerless, which made one unable to decipher his emotions. In her heart, Jiang Ruan felt free and relaxed. Originally, she had merely intended to add a blockage to the Shen fu and coincidentally, cause Jiang Li to get into some trouble. However, if it truly came down to it, with this sort of thing kept in her hands, it was just a hot potato. At present, with her immature wings, stepping forth into many matters would be inconvenient. Since this person wanted to deal with the Shen fu too, then, why not grant him a favour. To be able to see the Shen fu not have any good days in the future, she would still be happy to see that from a near distance. The youth dressed in black was slender and graceful, and even while standing in the room, he seemed to add an ineffable layer of splendor to it. Yet, unexplainably, his handsome and bold facial features seemed to have an indescribable air of nobility. Drooping her head in ponderment, Jiang Ruan wondered. She was unsure of what sort of status this person had, yet innate elegance emanated from his head to his toes, making his identity really mysterious. Still, it was great that he did not have that murderous air he had had that night. In addition, it appeared that he did not have any ill intentions towards her, thus this was actually the merciful silver lining among all her misfortunes thus far. In any case, to have met him twice in these sort of circumstances, he could actually be considered as an acquaintance of hers then. Only, to appear whenever she was doing something ill-intentioned, she did not know what kind of fate this was. Seeing that the account book had already fallen into the other persons hands, it was not beneficial for Jiang Ruan to remain here any longer. She then prepared to leave while the other party remained unmoved and silently stood on the spot. Jiang Ruan suddenly remarked before she pushed open the door, On the beam of the firewood storage room behind the Shen fus inner courtyard kitchen, under the locust tree of Shen Ming Zhus backyard, under the rock garden beside the fus garden pond, all these places contain good things. Below the wooden floorboard under Assistant Minister Shens bed in the study, there is a hidden passage. There are many valuable things inside; I hope that this will be of assistance to your distinguished self, sir. The expression on the black-clad youths face faltered, however, Jiang Ruan had already unhurriedly pushed the door open and left. Once Jiang Ruan had left, a person leaped down abruptly from the beams of the ceiling and walked in front of the youth and bowed his head in reply, Master, that girls[1] words cannot be trusted. [1] T/N: Here, he says that girl deprecatingly. The di daughter of the Jiang fu. With droopy eyes, his long lashes hid all of the emotions in the youths eyes as he coldly stated, Investigate thoroughly. After Jiang Ruan had left the room, only then did she take a deep breath as she relaxed. The identity of the person inside the room was overly dangerous. Although she did not truly know what kind of person he was, with her many years of experience in her past life being immersed in the palace, she knew that a persons identity could be concealed but their magnificent mannerisms would remain unquestionable. For instance, even after her rebirth, all the maids and others around her would remark that she seemed like a noble lady that came from the palace. But, that was merely a habit, a learned behaviour cultivated from her past life. That individual in the room certainly must have lived like a prince, since from the depths of his bones, he revealed an inherent gracefulness. If she had not presumed wrongly, he should be a member of the heavenly family[2]. [2] T/N: Heavenly family here refers to the class of royalty; the emperors of China were said to be the human embodiment of the gods sent down to Earth, which is part of the rites and Mandate of Heaven; i.e. the right to rule. To have an ambiguous relationship with this sort of person would be unwise, however, Jiang Ruan still did so and had even deliberately divulged the Shen fus secrets to him. She knew that in her heart, she was unwilling. Even though she frequently admonished herself daily that she must remain steady and patient at all times, still, when all was said and done, her grievances from her previous life had been apparent through her every conduct and action, which was filled with resentment and anger. The enemy of her enemy would be her friend. Since that person wanted to deal with the Shen fu, afterwards, he would deal with Jiang Quan too. Whatever the case was, everything that would fall upon them would be something she favourably looked upon. Shaking her head, Jiang Ruan then pushed all of her wild imaginings in her heart aside. In short, she should first handle the matters before her anyways, since they had not reached a troublesome point yet. She then moved forward smoothly on her path as she returned without a hitch to the banquet hall. Shen Ming Zhu could not help but be alarmed once she saw Jiang Ruan. She cried out involuntarily, How come you are back? Jiang Su Su timely hid the surprise in her eyes, followed by standing up and looking baffled, she asked, Why did Da Jiejie come back alone, what about Third Younger Sister? Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Li niang urgently needed to go to the powder room, so she had me wait first. However, I was waiting for a long time and by some fortunate coincidence, I bumped into a young maid who then brought me back here first. A young maid? Shen Ming Zhu hastily asked, her voice was a little high-pitched and attracted sidelong glances from the surrounding furens and young ladies one by one. However, at this moment, she paid no heed to that and continued to question, Which young maid, what was her name? Perhaps you are trying to frame me? Jiang Ruan asked in astonishment, What kind of words are those, Ming Zhu meimei? If she isnt a young maid from your residence, then how could I return back here, perfectly fine on my first visit to the Shen fu? Moreover, I am unfamiliar with the grounds here. Jiang Su Sus eyes flashed, Thats true. Jiang Ruan chuckled too, However, I forgot to ask that young maids name, I only know that she looked lovely and clever. After she sent me ahead, she left. Chapter 46 - Settling The Shen fu was so big, it was indeed impossible to locate a little unnamed servant girl. Jiang Ruans statement was not without reason, but it irked Shen Ming Zhen and left her at a loss for words. She quietly cursed Jiang Li, then glared at Jiang Ruan and sat down uncomfortably. Jiang Su Su continued smiling unperturbed as she held her tea cup and sipped from it slowly. Her eyes quietly followed Jiang Ruan, whose expression had not flickered even for an instant. Tendrils of steam from the hot tea curled in front of her beautiful face, making it seem as if one were looking at a flower through the fog; her emotions were hard to discern. Jiang Su Sus heart lurched and she began to feel a general sense of unease. She could only pretend to be unaffected as she chatted gaily with the other young ladies around her. Jiang Ruans safe return meant Jiang Li had not gained any benefit. Shen Ming Zhen gestured for another servant to come over, who, after hearing her instructions, then left in a hurry. After a while, Jiang Li and Xiao Cui walked over to Jiang Ruans side. Jiang Lis face clearly showed her fury as she stood right in front of Jiang Ruan and asked angrily, How did you manage to come back first? Lin Zi Xiang could not tolerate the scene before her any longer. Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to reply, she said with contempt, Whatever the situation is right now, Jiang fu is the great household of a government official. How can there be no sense of social standing, where the shu meimei dares to treat the di jiejie with such flagrant disrespect? Her words were not spoken in a soft tone, so the furen from officials families in the vicinity each turned to look at them. Jiang Li immediately turned red and her anger boiled over. She heard Jiang Ruan smilingly say, Its nothing, we sisters do not observe that many social conventions, Li niang is just a little anxious, thats all. Lin Zi Xiang frowned. If this were to occur in my fu, that person would have been thoroughly disciplined. This time, Jiang Ruan did not say anything and only smiled faintly. There was no trace of anger in her features, and so, some people were unable to discern her intentions. Jiang Su Su stood up and laughingly said, Whats going on? Da Jiejie has just returned from the rural manor and is not clear on some things. Third Younger Sister is still young, Da Jiejie need not be bothered by her. It was not Jiang Ruans intention that Jiang Su Su should use this situation to her advantage. However, now it seemed that something was Jiang Ruans fault. Some of the surrounding furens and young ladies who were unaware of the inside story looked at Jiang Ruan with strange expressions, seemingly believing that Jiang Ruan had really been harsh with her shu mei. Jiang Ruan smiled and looked unblinkingly at Jiang Su Su. The mesmerising gaze of Jiang Ruans upturned eyes made Jiang Su Su feel numb, and her back subconsciously stiffened. In her heart, Jiang Ruan laughed bitterly. Jiang Su Su had always adopted a fairy-like persona to carry out her good deeds. Even in her previous life, just before the very last stage of her life, and before she had been condemned to prison as one who had brought disaster to the nation[1], Jiang Su Su was constantly comforting and advising her to be meek and patient. How did she become so different in this life, unable to remain calm, and even deliberately mentioning that Jiang Ruan had just come from the rural manor so that everyone would keep their distance? [1] Huo guo yao nu ( Ů ) C a beautiful woman who brings disaster or misfortune to the nation. Could it be that, just as her own personality was different in this lifetime, Jiang Su Sus personality had also changed? Or, had Jiang Su Su been like this all along, and it was her own trusting nature that caused her to turn a blind eye to Jiang Su Sus deadly words and intentions? Lin Zi Xiang eyed Jiang Su Su coldly. Her demeanour was haughty, and not only was she not trying to conceal her dislike for Jiang Su Su, she even snorted, What a fake person! Stunned, Jiang Su Su forced a smile, and did not speak. In this way, it appeared that Lin Zi Xiang was using her position to bully Jiang Su Su, who was happy to compromise so that everyone would benefit. Lu Zhu, standing behind Jiang Ruan, almost could not keep the smile from her face. Lin Zi Xiang was indeed amazing. In such a place, among such people, she dared to take Jiang Su Su down a notch so brazenly. Surprisingly, not a single person dared to call her to account. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly and said, Its all because I didnt make myself clear to Li niang earlier. Li niang, just now, I waited for you for quite a while but you did not return. I was afraid that Mother might be worried. I just happened to meet a little servant girl and she led me back here first. That little girl was supposed to go back and inform you of the situation. What happened? Didnt you meet her? Jiang Li huffed angrily. Naturally, she had not met the little servant girl that Jiang Ruan spoke of. However, it also seemed improbable that Jiang Ruan was lying, as it was her first time at the Shen fu, and there was no way she could have retraced her steps so easily. Thus, it happened that the machinations of Shen Ming Zhens camp were nothing but a fruitless thought. Shen Ming Zhen was provoked into unhappiness for no good reason, and Jiang Li was once again fiercely cursing Jiang Ruan silently. In a rather indifferent tone, she said, If Da Jiejie was unwilling to wait for meimei, then so be it. Saying all this is of no use. Jiang Ruan remained silent, and still smiling, sat again at the side. As the onlookers observed her conduct, their previous speculation was confirmed right then. This Jiang fus di daughter was nothing at all like the descriptions Jiang fu itself had propagated. After her return, she had failed to gain favour to the extent that even a shu younger sister would engage her in such a provocative and retaliatory manner. In all likelihood, she probably found the day-to-day life in the fu quite challenging, which in turn had honed her capability to be tolerant to such an exceptional degree. She was not at all petty and small-minded, as someone from the countryside might be. Neither was she weak and cowardly in the slightest, nor was she argumentative. Instead, she was magnanimous, very much befitting the demeanour of the eldest di daughter. Jiang Li did not expect that, today, not only would she not gain an upper hand against Jiang Ruan, she would even enable Jiang Ruan to enhance her reputation. In addition, Shen Ming Zhen was now angry with her, and thus her heart was full of hatred for Jiang Ruan. Just then, she looked up and saw Jiang Su Su with a slightly stiff expression on her face, and suddenly smiled. Jiang Ruans return to the Jiang fu was not a good thing for her, but it also affected Jiang Su Su. If not, her beautiful, goddess-like older sister would not have repeatedly lost her composure today. It was the very first time Jiang Su Su had lost out in terms of appearance. Among the sisters of the Jiang fu, although Jiang Su Su usually behaved like a fairy who considered herself above the general population[2], it was all done to cultivate her fame as the capitals most beautiful female. Now that Jiang Ruan had arrived, there were two beauties. And, having someone whom one was constantly being compared to, someone who was perhaps even more beautiful C no wonder Jiang Su Su felt put out. [2] Bu shi ren jian yan huo ( ʳ˼̻ ) C lit. not eating the food of the common mortals. After this train of thought, Jiang Li was slightly gloating in her heart. The day passed very quickly. Xia Yan brought the young ladies from the Jiang fu with her to make their farewells before returning to Jiang fu. Once back, the first thing she did was to report the days events to the Old Jiang Madame. With a smile, Xia Yan said, Ruan niang did very well today. All the ladies who were present praised the way she has blossomed. They said they had not noticed previously, but today, Ruan niangs outstanding beauty was apparent from just one glance, that she could even be awarded the appellation of national beauty''[3]. [3] Guo se tian xiang ( ɫ ) C an idiom, lit. meaning national grace, divine fragrance, i.e., an outstanding beauty. The Old Jiang Madames expression changed minutely. For a young girl to be too beautiful was not a good thing. It would be all right if she were like Jiang Su Su, refined and elegant, but for Jiang Ruan to be so vibrantly attractive could actually be a calamity rather than a blessing. In Ruan Ju, Lu Zhu brought Jiang Ruan a bowl of hot soup. Staying at the Shen fu for an entire day, although it was just to smile in an ingratiating manner and chit-chat, was still wearying, and Jiang Ruan was a little tired. Bai Zhi shut the door securely and brought over a silver basin of water to wash Jiang Ruans hands. She carefully handed a cotton handkerchief to Jiang Ruan to wipe her hands. As she did so, she whispered, Miss, I heard the servants in the fu say that Magistrate Qian from the rural town has been dismissed from his position by that person from the palace. Qian Wan Li? Jiang Ruan thought for a moment. Because of Imperial Censor Wang? I heard that the criminals in the prison were treated quite unjustly, thus, their relatives sent petitions to the capital on their behalf. As it so happened, they were received by one of the top-ranking officials[4], who immediately investigated and discovered a long history of misconduct of justice, as Qian Wan Li had taken many bribes[5]. The grievous cries of the prisoners for justice were so overwhelming that they could not be suppressed easily; the entire city was humming with the news. The emperor was so enraged that he immediately dismissed Qian Wan Li and even wanted to search his residence and confiscate all of his possessions. [4] Ming guan ( ) C Were assuming this was a ͢ (chaoting mingguan), a high-ranking official appointed by the Emperor who could escalate reports without being constrained by legal or administrative procedures. Information gleaned from Relationships between the Chinese Central Authorities and Regional Governments of Hong Kong and Macao: A Legal Perspective by Zhenmin Wang. [5] Hei xin qian ( Ǯ ) C lit. black heart money. As Jiang Ruan followed the rippling movement of the water in the silver basin, she could not help but think of the young widow she had met that day in the prison and hoped that she would receive compensation for the injustices that she had suffered. The heavens did indeed mete out appropriate retribution, and sometimes, it was not without reason. Chapter 47 - Scapegoat The days passed like the water of a swiftly flowing river. Jiang Li maintained her previously bossy and domineering demeanour. Thus, from time to time, she would utter a few provocative words, but Jiang Ruan simply ignored her. However, there was a subtle shift in Jiang Su Su and her mothers attitude towards her. She did not know if it was because, at present, she viewed people differently, or if Jiang Su Su and her mother had become unsettled and were unable to maintain their usual calm demeanour. On several occasions, their words to her had a retaliatory, tit-for-tat undertone. And, although the Old Jiang Madame neither favoured nor ill-treated[1] Jiang Ruan, she also did not make a deliberate effort to suppress Jiang Ruan either. Then, in the blink of an eye, it was time for Jiang Quan and Jiang Chao to return to the Jiang fu. [1] Bu xian bu dan ( ̲ ) C literally, neither salty nor bland. As it was nearly the close of the year, there were many social engagements in the bureaucratic circle. Initially, Jiang Quan had mentioned that he would be home a few days earlier. However, some complicated situations had occurred, which meant that as a result his return had been postponed until that day. Xia Yan was naturally extremely happy. She had already given orders for everything to be tidied up and to begin various preparations, only saying that they should have a lively reunion dinner[2]. As Jian Quan had worked hard for the members of the Jiang household for the entire year, he deserved a huge feast. [2] Tuan nian fan ( 극 ) C the night before the new year (according to the Chinese i.e. lunar calendar), family members gather to feast together. This is traditionally known as the reunion dinner, as family members from near and far make it a point to come home for the dinner (FYI, daughters who are married are considered a part of their husbands families). There is a lot of food at the reunion dinner . . . drool over some pictures and recipes . Jiang Li and Jiang Su Su were also very happy. Even though Jiang Su Sus expression was calm and moderate, she too could not stop smiling. Although Jiang Quan did not treat his di daughter with kindness, he was really affectionate towards Jiang Su Su. In her previous life, that he was willing to embrace the Emperor, who had offended the officials, was an inkling of how far he would go in order to protect Jiang Su Su. Jiang Su Su held the position of the one he was most proud of out of all his daughters. After all, not only did he lavish all his affection on Jiang Su Su, he even used Jiang Ruan to pave the way for Jiang Su Su. Now, upon looking back on this, she did not know whether to respond with sorrow or anger. It could only be said that Jiang Quan must truly love Xia Yan, and so, he correspondingly lavished much affection on their beloved daughter, which led Jiang Chao to behave in a similar fashion. On the other hand, Jiang Quan had never paid attention to Jiang Ruan or Jiang Xin Zhi. He had never beaten or scolded them, but had never treated them with warmth either, to the extent that they seemed like two insignificant outsiders. Even Jiang Li did not receive such treatment as the family connections of her mother, Second Yi Niang, gave Jiang Quan a good reputation. Only these two siblings were always neglected. On thinking about it, Zhao Mei and General Zhao had severed ties very early on, so being associated with her would have yielded no assistance in furthering Jiang Quans official standing. Also, it was Zhao Mei who had initiated the marriage arrangements from the very beginning. In terms of feelings and influence, Zhao Mei was already at a disadvantage. How could Jiang Quan view Zhao Mei with even an ounce of pity? The fact of the matter was that Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xin Zhi were to be used as stepping stones for Jiang Su Su and her siblings. On the other hand, if they became obstacles to the glittering future prospects[3] of Jiang Su Su and her siblings, they would be ruthlessly eliminated. [3] Kang zhuang da dao ( ׯ ) C lit. broad and open road; fig. bright future prospects. Lost in thought, Jiang Ruan forgot all about the tea she held in her hand, and spilled some in her carelessness. Bai Zhi, who was sitting beside her, hurriedly called out, Miss, do be careful. Jiang Ruan quickly recovered her senses and straightened the teacup. Has Father already returned? Lian Qiao walked in from the outside. Upon hearing Jiang Ruans question, she replied, He has just reached home and is currently talking to Old Madame. She looked quickly to both sides before lowering her voice to whisper, However, his expression was not good. It looks like something is not going well. Bai Zhi said, curiously, Perhaps its some official business. It was at this opportune moment that Lu Zhu came bustling into the room with a crafty smile on her face. Lian Qiao immediately reprimanded her. What do you think youre doing in such a heedless manner? Arent you worried youll disturb Miss? Jiang Ruan said, If you have something to say, then say it. Miss is truly all- seeing, Lu Zhu blinked and said. This servant has just gone to the front to make some inquiries, and I know why Master is unhappy. Lu Zhu was small in size, had a sweet tongue and was sharp-witted. Through her interactions with the people in the marketplace she had developed some degree of slyness, and thus, found it easy to ingratiate herself with the older servants. As a result, Jiang Ruan often sent her to gather information so that she would not be completely in the dark about the happenings in the Jiang fu. Lu Zhu, being intelligent, was always able to suss out information. After listening to her words, Lian Qiao forgot about reprimanding her and paid rapt attention. I heard that he quarrelled with Assistant Minister Shen for some reason; Assistant Minister Shen was exceptionally angry, and Master was also terribly enraged. The strange thing is, despite this quarrel, Miss Shen deliberately and of her own accord wrote out an invitation for Third Miss (i.e. Jiang Li) to visit Shen fu. However, Master is roaring furious. Not only does he refuse to allow her to visit, he even forbids her to leave the fu. Whats the meaning of all this? Lian Qiao asked with surprise. That day, Third Miss and Miss Shen did not seem to be on very good terms. Why didnt she invite Second Miss (i.e. Jiang Su Su)? Why only invite Third Miss? Lu Zhu smiled mysteriously. The servants are all spreading rumours about how the Shen fu has lost something, and suspicion has fallen on the head of Third Miss. The servants of Ruan Ju had many complaints about Jiang Li. She commonly adopted a high and mighty air, and always had a hostile tone when speaking with others. She was a far cry from Jiang Su Sus gentle manner of conduct, and all of the Jiang fus servants were somewhat fed up with her. Now that she was in trouble, plenty of people were gloating over her predicament. Bai Zhi said, If they are really suspicious of Third Miss, its no wonder that Master is so furious. If she did go, wouldnt it be the same as slapping ourselves in the face and admitting that we had stolen whatever it is? But, why did the Shen fu employ the method of asking Miss Shen to invite Third Miss to the fu? What would they have been able to find out? Even though the servants view Third Miss as being ordinarily quite domineering, they would not take advantage of this situation for personal gain. Theres something really fishy about all this. Besides, Master and Shen daren have such a deep relationship, it is highly unlikely that they would quarrel to this extent over a mere possession. What on earth did the Shen fu lose? What did they lose? Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, and unhurriedly lifted her teacup to take a sip of tea. It must be something really important. That the Shen fu was making such a big fuss more or less revealed that Assistant Minister Shen had discovered the fact that his account book was missing. That day, it had been the first time she, an outsider, had visited the Shen fu, so she would naturally not be familiar with the layout. In the midst of their visit, only Jiang Li had left the ladies area, and it would be difficult not to suspect her. However, Jiang Li had no reason to run off by herself to steal the account book, so it must have been Jiang Quans idea. Thus, it was entirely reasonable for Assistant Minister Shen to have entertained this train of thought. The relationship between the Shen fu and the Jiang fu involved a whole slew of mutual benefits and unclear interests. If Jiang Quan had gotten hold of information which could be used against Assistant Minister Shen, it would mean that Assistant Minister Shen would have to humble himself before Jiang Quan from now onwards. However, this deferential attitude would never be authentic, and thus it was no wonder that Assistant Minister Shen wanted to embarrass Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan had truly been wronged, as this situation had nothing to do with him. Jiang Ruan smiled. Human relations were always very fragile; from now onwards, Jiang Quan and the Shen fu would find it very difficult to maintain friendly appearances because of this account book. Todays matter would also be like a thorn buried deep in Assistant Minister Shens side. There would come a day when this thorn would break forth and grow. At that moment, the battle lines between Jiang Quan and the Shen fu would be made clear, signalling the rupture in their relationship. Jiang Li wanted to cause her trouble, but she had instead made Jiang Li the scapegoat. This could be considered meting out a small punishment in order to prevent bigger mistakes. From now onwards, the Shen fu would view Jiang Li as a thorn in its side. Jiang Quan would also not be happy about the whole state of affairs, for which Jiang Li had only herself to blame. In her previous life, Jiang Quan did manage to get hold of the Shen fus account book in the end, and used it to exploit the Shen fus key areas of weaknesses[4]. At that time, Jiang fu was already on its way to ascendancy, so the Shen fu could only humble itself and capitulate. However, in this life, it was still early, and the Jiang fu still required the Shen fus assistance on several matters. So, to have their alliance ruptured this early would only mean misfortune for Jiang Quan. [4] Nie zhe qi chun ( ߴ ) C literally, to squeeze/hold 7 inches. This arises from the idiomatic advice to squeeze a snakes body 7 inches away from its head (ߴߴ), which is where its most vital part is. Opinions differ on whether this is the heart or abdomen. Jiang Ruan patted her clothes and stood up. Since Father and Second Brother have already returned, we should visit them without delay, otherwise people will say we have no understanding of etiquette and are unfilial. Lets go. The Father and Second Brother whom I have not seen for five years C I wonder what they look like now. Chapter 48 - Father and Second Brother In the gardens reception pavilion, Xia Yan was dressed in a primly-coloured short-sleeved satin lined jacket and a cyan woven silk pleated flare skirt. The garments were tightly fastened around her waist without any ease to spare. Although she was already a mother of two, she appeared to remain slender; just like the young girls in the cusp of their spring. Her glistening, moist and supple skin was highlighted with the slightest adornments, bringing the main focal point to her beautiful hair accessories. When compared to the many concubines in the residence, she was precisely like a slender and elegant silhouette of a pure white lotus. On top of that, she had a faint image of a scholarly, literary lady and hence, seemed like an extremely rare, and beautiful woman. As Jiang Quans gaze fell upon her, it became rather gentle. As he said to her, Its been hard for you, his gaze was completely filled with tenderness. Left in the lurch as she saw this, the Second Yiniang could not put up with this scene any longer. As her shapely eyebrows, that had been meticulously drawn, rose, she deliberately cleared her throat softly, Laoye[1], we can finally welcome you home. [1] Laoye ( ү ) C (respectful) lord / master. In fact, the Second Yiniang was also a beauty. Only, her beautiful features were somewhat sharp and with a slimmer than average face, it only made her appear somewhat shrewd, unlike Xia Yan who seemed sentimental and tender. Moreover, with her attempt at acting submissively in order to ingratiate herself, Second Yiniangs actions seem rather forced. Therefore, Jiang Quan seemed to reveal a rather impatient visage and merely replied distractedly. Upon seeing this, Second Yiniangs hands artlessly wrapped around and clenched onto the hems of her clothes. Dressed in a faint blue coloured straight-cut decorative skirt, at the corner of First Yiniangs lips was a smile filled with humbleness as she quietly retreated to a corner. In stark comparison to the two servant girls beside Xia Yan, who seemed as delicate as flowers and as refined as precious jade, the First Yiniang, in contrast, had an appearance that seemed more like a second-tier servant girl. Jiang Quan did not even glance at her. Jiang Su Su then stepped forward with a smile, Father[2] has returned. [2] Die ( ) C informal way of saying father, like Dad in modern lingo. On normal days, as he went about his official business, Jiang Quan would constantly be stern, however, in front of Jiang Su Su, he had never shown such a visage. On his face, a trace of a smile seemed to have emerged as he reached out to pat her head, I brought some playthings for you; later, I will have someone bring them to your courtyard. Standing at the side, a flash of resentment, hatred and jealousy flared in Second Yiniangs eyes. Among the four daughters in the Jiang fu, the only one that would receive this sort of special privilege was Jiang Su Su. Jiang Chao, who was talking with the Old Jiang Madame, suddenly thought of something as he said, Didnt Ruan meimei just return home too, why have I not seen her person yet? Jiang Su Sus smile became heavy as Jiang Quan too suddenly recalled this. His smile faded and his brows furrowed. Seeing this, Xia Yan smiled and was about to speak when she suddenly heard a light girlish voice that came from the hall, Jiang Ruan greets Esteemed Father[3]. [3] Fuqin ( ) C formal way of saying father. This is in stark contrast with the way Jiang Su Su addressed him earlier, revealing the level of closeness each of them share with their father. Simultaneously, both Jiang Quan and Jiang Chao directed their gazes toward the direction of the voice, and then saw a young girl with beautiful demeanour, dressed in a crimson hemstitched double layered jacket, move forward. At the bosom, there were large rounded embroidery designs of eight flowers and plants colourfully embroidered, and her crow-black tresses were coiled up with a multi-coloured bead hairpin. Her clothes seemed simple yet extremely vibrant. Inversely, what seemed even more vibrant was her features. Snow-white skin and cherry red lips, her limpid and beautiful eyes appeared to contain a countless amount of passion. Yet, contrary to expectations, from the corner of her raised hoods, a faintly discernible aloofness and coldness welled forth. Therefore, her beautiful, calm looks were akin to both, the fiery fire as well as the icy cold. If Jiang Su Su could be said as one who possessed exquisite beauty that was found in the human world, then the extremely vibrant and charming young girl before their eyes was like the unearthly beauty that could not be found in the human realm. Her every movement made one unable to shift their gaze away from her. Step by step as she steadily came forward, her manner as she moved was gorgeously charming and in a gentle flutter, she stopped before Jiang Quan as she softly uttered, Father. At this, father and son both finally recomposed themselves. In disbelief, the two people could hardly take a measure of her; this was the eldest young lady of the Jiang fu that had just returned from the village manor? In comparison to herself from five years ago and now, Jiang Ruan seemed like a changed person. From inside and out, there was hardly any trace of the figure of the little girl of the past. Most of all, as she steadily moved closer, her eyes were filled with an impenetrable gaze that was indecipherable. At this moment, she seemed like someone foreign to them and in the depths of ones heart, it had made one feel a trace of cold shivers. However, as she stood before them, she smiled enchantingly, as if that cold and aloof gaze from before was merely an illusion. Jiang Quans probing gaze fell on Jiang Ruan as he delayed in deigning her with a reply. Jiang Ruan paused as she slowly raised her head and straightforwardly met Jiang Quans gaze. At that instant when she had looked at him, Jiang Ruan was, for a split second, distracted. In her heart, a trace of indecipherable emotion, that seemed like both sorrow and joy, emerged. Now, Jiang Quan was still in the prime of his life and had an appearance of a renowned and morally upright scholar. Yet, before her very eyes, Jiang Ruan seemed to see the image of Jiang Quans that she last saw in her past life. At that time, just like this, her own biological father ruthlessly had her dragged into the main Buddhist hall of the imperial mausoleum. In the full presence of all the civil and military officials of the imperial court, she had been labeled and prosecuted with the criminal charge of being a seductress that ruined the country. Lying face down on the floor, she could barely believe what she had heard as her eyes widened. In contrast, his gaze towards her was one of an extreme indifference and heartlessness. With that kind of debasing gaze, it seemed like he was looking at the one and only taint that had existed in his life. With such a penetrating gaze, in the depths of her heart, she felt a freezingly icy chill. After she had been imprisoned and tormented by Jiang Su Su, in addition to hearing news of her implicating the entire Zhao family, she had heard of her own fathers steady rise in officialdom. In his advancement, he had been promoted to the highest rank among the officials and ultimately, becoming recognised as the extended relative (an esteemed figure) of the Empresss family: the maternal uncle of the Nation. As he put on his official robes, had he ever thought of the blood of hers that he had spilled in sacrifice for his official seal[4]? [4] Gun yn ( ӡ ) C The official seal of a government official, this is the most important possession a person could have, official or otherwise. It represents the power and identity of the person, a form of recognition of a persons status. Here, Jiang Ruan is referring to how her father has used her crudely and harshly as a dead stepping stone in his path and greed for power. Moreover, Jiang Quan was precisely such a person. For Jiang Su Su, for Jiang Chao, for Xia Yan and most of all, for himself, he would have her and Zhao Mei, even the entire Zhao family become the paving stones to lay a road for his success. In her past life, or even now, had he ever truly regarded them as his family? If it could be said that in her past life, when she had been confined in that prison, what she had felt was despair and loss, then now, once again chancing upon these past faces of her family, nothing but hatred existed. Hate, how could she not be filled with hatred. When she had become a human swine that was completely non-ambulant because of Jiang Su Su, when she had personally seen her young child being abused by a powerful official, who could possibly be able to understand the extreme sorrow, suffering and anguish that one would feel to the very core of their bones? Hearing the news of her close relatives and their entire household being executed in collective punishment, yet, there being no way for her to seek for help[5]. Once again, how could she recount the grief and indignation she had felt for them? Since the underworld would not receive people like her and had made her return to the human world, then, how could she not resign herself to let these people have a taste of what it felt like to experience hell on earth. From the moment of her rebirth, she had already renounced all kinship with Jiang Quan and was bent on revenge. [5] Qi zh w mn ( ) C It means that Jiang Ruan wished to seek for others help in a matter, however, no such apt social connection or way of getting help existed to get intervention. As she lightly widened her large eyes, that pair of foggy eyes suddenly became a little clearer and brighter. Looking deeper, it was merely a layer of clarity and calm like the surface of a clear spring flowing through the mountains that did not have the least bit of impurity. Before them, the persons voice was as soft as the breeze and called out once more, Father? In a split second, Jiang Quan recovered. Yet, towards his own eldest daughters bright and beautiful smile, for no reason at all, it made one felt ill at ease. As he glanced at Jiang Ruan, he uttered, Its good that you have returned. After that, he did not express himself any further. With such indifference, it even caused Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi behind her to feel somewhat indignant. As though she was not aware of it, Jiang Ruan then turned to face him as she smiled at Jiang Chao, Second brother[6]. [6] rg ( ) C second brother. Jiang Chao still remained the same as he did in her recollection. He was gifted with a bright and cheerful appearance, and somewhat restlessly, he scratched his head as he replied with a grin, Ruan meimei. Yet, in his gaze, there was a hint of unclear overtones. Xia Yans two children were both people that were extremely adept in putting on masks to conduct themselves. At that time, shortly after Jiang Xin Zhis death, contrary to expectations, this Second Brother had been extremely good to her. Although Jiang Chao seemed to have an amiable and generous disposition, wherein it seemed he would still make some foolish mistakes and suffer some losses, anyone would be willing to become friends with this sort of person. Especially, Jiang Ruan who had just lost Jiang Xin Zhi, found that she too could find some of the lost warmth and affection from this second brother of hers. Yet, the heart of the matter was that this foolish and honest young man had eventually married the beloved daughter of the Right Chancellor at that period of time. And from that time on, the Right Chancellor became a part of the Eighth Princes faction. Now that she recalled, all of those fantasies that she had in her past life and her impression of Jiang Chao, they had all halted at the very scene when he had attempted to use his own charms as his means into the officialdom. When she had finally entered the palace, that could also be credited to this wonderful brother of hers. She still remembered the pledge that he had solemnly vowed, With meimeis extremely beautiful appearance, after entering the palace, meimei would definitely receive the pampering, favour and love of the Emperor. To have this utmost honor, respect and glory, that would be meimeis blessing. Chapter 49 - The Third-Place Youth Flower Snatcher Jiang Chao was attired in an indigo dyed straight-cut Changpao embroidered with gold stripes which, in contrast, made his usually high-spirited look seem more steady and brought about a hint of nobility to him. Although he deliberately tried to mask it in his manner of speech and his bearing, essentially, he had the air of a person from the bureaucracy. In Jiang Ruans eyes, this seemed shameless and disgraceful; however, in the eyes of the Old Jiang Madame, this appearance of his was extremely pleasing. The stern expression on her face also had a trace of an affectionate smile, After the passing of the New Year, Chaoer would then need to participate in the imperial examinations; did the teachers of Imperial Academy say anything? Indigo Chang pao (without the gold embroidery stripes) An enormous smile appeared on Jiang Chaos face, though he made an extreme effort to suppress it, as he replied, They did not say anything. Jiang Quan shot Jiang Chao a quick glance as he continued, Passing the imperial examination will not be an issue, its only uncertain how you would rank. Whatever the case, everything that should be put in order (bribes)[1] has already been settled. [1] D dian ( ) has been previously translated in other terms and meanings in past chapters. Here, it does not only refer to bribery, but it also refers to the use of money to take care of his son and lobby/to influence his sons ranking. As a glint flashed in her gaze, the Second Yiniang covered her lips and smiled, That truly is great. Both of furens children are alike, they are capable of creating literary works. At this exam, the Second Young Master would inevitably obtain scholarly honour. As qieshen[2] sees this, he would definitely be nothing but the top scorer then. Although the Second Yiniang did not like Xia Yan, still just for appearances while Jiang Quan was in the fu, she would always feign and put on a complete facade. Moreover, while she flattered and praised Jiang Chao, the Old Jiang Madame would also be happy. Therefore, saying such pretty words would unlikely put her at a disadvantage. [2] Qi shn ( ) refers to the deprecatory self-reference for concubine women and often means I, myself. This is phrased as such to emphasize referring back to oneself. In this case, it is Second Yiniangs opinion in her own dismissive, deprecatory way similar to how intensive/emphatic pronouns are used in English. As expected, the Old Jiang Madame remarked, Silly, this sort of talk should not be carelessly spoken. Yet, what appeared on her expression was a look without any condemnation and seemed rather joyful. Jiang Chao followed suit and smiled as Xia Yan gently pushed Jiang Quan. As every person in the room began to smile and laugh, they really seemed like a harmonious and affectionate family. Just at this time when everyone was in an amicable and friendly mood, abruptly, a voice interjected, What is everyone talking about, to actually laugh and smile this joyously? Jiang Ruans lips lightly curled and from outside the door, a beautiful married woman walked unhurriedly into the room. In contrast with Xia Yan and the other few yiniangs, she seemed to appear extremely youthful. Dressed in an absinthe green, thin cotton top with embroidered clouds and a goose on it, she had donned an embroidered skirt filled with butterflies flying in the mist and clouds. Combed into a topknot bun, her hair had been braided into a fancy layered pattern that seemed like numerous flowers bunched together. However, she did not accessorize it with a hairpin but merely had a branch of a light yellow plum blossom in it. With a faint smile gracing her face as she walked forth, she had a sort of misty-soft beauty. Unexpectedly, unlike the usual tenderness and suppleness of the furens of government officials, her delicate bearing did not have the slightest trace of artificiality and seemed as if it had been deeply engraved into her very bones. Image result for chinese traditional flower hair bun Layered top knot bun that seems like flowers (but without the accessories) Yellow plum blossoms The embroidered goose among clouds (similar to what may be embroidered) on the cotton top This precisely described the Fifth Yiniang, Hong Ying[3]. Regardless of any protests or obstruction given, Jiang Quan, a person who had quite a reputation, had stubbornly bought this star courtesan[4] from the Fireworks district[5]. Initially, he had wanted to gift her to a superior, however, she had eventually become the Fifth Yiniang in the fu. Due to this, considerable harm had been brought to Jiang Quans reputation. At that time, there had been rumours that Xia Yan had even made some noise over this with him, but finally, the matter had remained unresolved. Still, when all was said and done, Hong Ying had caused some seedlings of discontent to sow in between Jiang Quan and Xia Yan. Now, although this gap in between them seemed negligible, it still remained a vulnerable area that could be properly exploited. [3] T/N: ӧ Hong Yings name has the characters that means red and tassel, similar to how her beauty can be literally translated and described as a misty, vapoury beauty that has weighed down or hung down. Kinda like a red tassel that hangs and attracts your attention as a decorative element. [4] T/N: Ķ This refers to Hong Yings former status as a star courtesan, who had been sold as a slave and prized for her virginity or her skills in artistry such as in the art of dancing, singing, drawing, reciting and composition poems, the chess game Go or playing the guqin. This signifies that she is a prized possession of the pleasure house and essentially, the star performer and attraction there. In addition, she must have the appearance and the figure to match her status as a courtesan or as the trump card to lure in big-time customers, the matron would have a beautiful woman, who does not have much talent and still had her chastity, to sell her first time away. [5] T/N: ̻֮ء This is a euphemism meaning the prostitution area or the red light district, also commonly known there as the fireworks district. In her past life, by the time Jiang Ruan had returned to the fu, Hong Ying had already reached the point of being a rival to Xia Yan that could equally match up on par with her to the point that no one was able to look down on her in the fu. Nevertheless, due to Xia Yan being pregnant once more, Hong Ying had then bribed some servants to induce Xia Yan into a miscarriage. However, in the end, she was unsure of what happened but her plot had been exposed. Jiang Quan had become furious and then had Hong Ying confined to her courtyard. Yet, Hong Ying had, by her own accord, ultimately hung herself. Now that she thought about it, although matters had come to a head, Jiang Quan still had not had Hong Ying beaten alive but merely restricted her to her courtyard. In all likelihood, he might have some genuine feelings for Hong Ying then. Thus, it seemed rather suspicious that without rhyme or reason, Hong Ying had hung herself in the firewood storage room. One could not help but suspect that this could have been Xia Yans doing. In her past life, Jiang Ruan did not have much contact with Hong Ying due to the degree of absolute hatred and loathing Xia Yan had for Hong Ying. Now, it remained that Jiang Ruan herself still had no clue of what sort of person Hong Ying was. With Hong Yings presence, when Jiang Quans gaze fell upon her figure, the expression on his face slightly became gentler as he said, We were talking about some of Chaoers matters. Xia Yans gaze had become slightly sluggish that it was almost undetectable, however, Jiang Ruan had caught sight of it. Innately, Xia Yan had a deeply educated air and appearance. In contrast, for a woman that had come from the Fireworks district, Hong Ying possessed the charmingness that a young lady from an official family would not have. For men, this would aptly be filled with loveliness that was extremely attractive and mesmerising. Jiang Quan was fond of talented ladies, Xia Yan had talent and Hong Ying did not lack any either; she was capable and well-educated in the four arts (zither, Go, calligraphy and painting). While not as dignified and composed as Xia Yan, with her long worldly experience from meeting numerous people in the Fireworks district, she understood and knew far better than Xia Yan what Jiang Quan liked to hear. Therefore, ever since Hong Ying had entered the Jiang fu, the reality was that Xia Yan was no longer Jiang Quans only intelligent and charmingly understanding beauty anymore. Hong Ying faintly bobbed in curtsey towards Jiang Chao, I heard that the Second Young Master will be taking the preliminary rounds of imperial examinations in a few days. Qishen prays that Second Young Master will achieve top marks in the imperial examinations and in one stroke, seize an overall triumph. Initially, Jiang Chaos gaze towards Hong Ying was somewhat hazy but after hearing what she said, his brows could not help but smoothen out, Many thanks to Fifth Yiniang for your kind words. Jiang Su Su then smiled as she strode over and stood beside Jiang Chao, Why is everyone standing, why dont we move into the hall. Mother has already had delicious food prepared for quite some time now, we were only waiting together for Father and Elder Brother to arrive. The Old Jiang Madame clapped her hands too, Thats right, it is still the Second girl (JSS) that is thoughtful. Thus, the entire family then happily moved towards the hall. With distant eyes, Jiang Ruan swept a look around and waited until Jiang Quan had walked past her. Only then, did she lightly speak up, Why dont I see Third Younger Sister? The Second Yiniang who was standing at one side had suddenly paused in her movements as she turned around to forcefully mince out a smile, The Third Young Miss is a little unwell today, so she is in her courtyard, resting. Deeply troubled, Jiang Ruan then remarked, Surely a physician has been invited over? If it is of import, then we ought to have someone give a call, after all, today is the day that Esteemed Father has returned to the fu Its alright, Jiang Quan interrupted her and coldly stated, we will just have her rest for a few more days! Jiang Ruan immediately became silent while the Second Yiniang viciously wrung the handkerchief in her hands. Then, she slowly followed Jiang Quan who had advanced ahead. Jiang Ruan faintly smiled once more, without exception, everyone who had sat to have a meal together was in high spirits. However, that was merely what was shown on the surface, who knew what each and every respective person there was thinking or scheming of. After the meal, unexpectedly, Jiang Quan did not go to Yan Hua Yuan (Xia Yans current residence) but rather, to Hong Yings courtyard. Naturally, the Second Yiniang felt aggrieved and in a string of words, openly cursed Hong Ying as a vixen before she left. Yet, Xia Yan tenderly sent him off and did not seem even the least bit unhappy. That very evening in her residence, as she brought up this matter, Lian Qiao remarked, Furen is certainly hard to deal with. The master has gone to Fifth Yiniangs courtyard after he had just returned to the fu and she (Xia Yan) can still summon a smile. Bai Zhi stared at her blankly, What nonsense are you talking about. But have I said something wrong? Lian Qiao had always had a blunt personality and was unable to conceal her dislike towards Xia Yan, I just cant believe that from the depths of her heart, she would truly be this delighted about it? Lu Zhu had crouched on the floor to stir up the coal chunks in the brazier as she lifted her head and blinked, Of course, it was for the Second Young Master. Isnt furen wishing for the Second Young Master to become the top-scorer in the imperial examinations; what does Miss think, would the Second Young Master be able to pass the exam this time round? Unlike how she usually passed her time reading some books, Jiang Ruan had been sitting in front of the table. And who knew what she had been thinking about as, ever since she had returned, she had been thoughtfully staring at the teapot the whole time. After hearing the conversation between her maidservants, she faintly laughed, Second Brother is a human encyclopaedia. Ever since he was young, he has been unusually intelligent and has been personally guided by our esteemed father since the cusp of his childhood. Moreover, all of the grafts have been extensively and thoroughly given to those in the upper and lower echelons, there is no doubt about it. With all that, he ought to pass. Then, wouldnt that be terrible? Lian Qiao remarked in alarm, If the Second Young Master truly did pass the exams, then in the days ahead, those in the Yan Hua Yuan would not even give those of us here the time of the day. Im afraid that the Old Madame would side with the Second Young Master then. What is there to be afraid of, I only said that it was only natural that he ought to pass. Why, I say, the Second Young Master will certainly not be able to make the passing mark. Jiang Ruan faintly affirmed. In her past life, Jiang Chao had indeed passed the exam and although he was not the top scorer[6], he was still a true to honest third-place candidate, a Flower Snatcher scholar. At that time, with the emperor personally conferring his title to him, he was immediately pleased as punch with his success and the Jiang fus name had gained considerable fame throughout the capital. Thus, he had also gained the favor of the prime ministers daughter, having the completely perfect life filled with fame and a beauty by his side. [6] Zhung yun ( ״Ԫ ) & Tn hu ( ̽ ) C The first phrase zhung yun refers to the top scorer of the imperial examinations which is a triennial court exam, also commonly known as the metropolitan exam. These scholars that take the first place top thesis author ״Ԫ (zhung yun), the second place eyes positioned alongside (bng yn), and the third place flower snatcher ̽ (tn hu) named positions in the examinations are addressed as Mʿ, distinguished advanced scholars (jn sh j d). It is an important title since only the top three graduates of the national court exam could use this title. Furthermore, having a title of an imperial scholar (Mʿ jn sh) or a successful graduate, means that just passing the imperial exams, it was an equivalent to the modern Doctor of Literature degree or PhD. Therefore, these top scholars titles and ranks embody the prestigiousness and reverence that commoners used to have for them that they would even hold parades! However, in this new life, how could she bear to have him get what he wanted now? In this brief period of time ahead, she too would show him and give him a taste of just how someone, who was high in the clouds, could fall to the ground. Chapter 50 - Impoverished Grand Tutor The new year had just begun, and the days seemed to carry within them the hint of spring. The sun had actually shone brightly for a few days, and the capital was especially bustling with noise and excitement. An atmosphere of joy was everywhere. However, the students of the Imperial Academy[1] were in no mood to enjoy the happy atmosphere of the new year, as they were all preparing for the preliminary round of the imperial examinations[2] taking place in less than two weeks time. Within the academy, the students were busily discussing strategy, while in the courtyard outside, the Master of Records[3] was in conversation with the Chancellor of the Academy[4]. [1] Guo zi lan ( Ӽ ) C Imperial Academy, the highest educational body in Imperial China. [2] Ke kao ( ƿ ) C the imperial examinations, a civil service examination system in Imperial China to select candidates for the state bureaucracy. More info here. The origins of the open examination system are in the early Han dynasty when wise rulers figured out that the way to avoid officials building power bases from their family and friends was to appoint on basis of talent and intellectual merit and not on wealth or family ancestry. [3] Zhu bu ( ) C Master of Records, an ancient title for the government official who was in charge of the books, seals, official court documents etc, something like a secretary to the Emperor. Depending on the dynasty, he would have a fair amount of power. [4] Ji jiu ( ) C the title of an important government official; research suggests this was someone who would supervise the highest educational body. This lowly official thinks that there are several promising candidates in this round of the examination, Master of Records Song mentioned as he glanced within the building. Chancellor Chen was just forty years of age, but his hair was streaked with grey, giving him a sage-like appearance and poise. He stroked his beard and said, Come, tell me what you think. Mo Cong, Wang Zi Ling and Liu Min, replied Recorder Song. He muttered, almost to himself, These three have achieved exemplary results, whether it pertains to the Four Books[5], the Five Classics[6], the Law, or the Art of Mathematics[7]. [5] Si shu ( ) C lit., Four Books. Namely: the Great Learning, the Doctrine of the Mean, the Analects of Confucius, and Mencius. [6] Wu jing ( 徭 ) C the Five Classics of Confucianism. Namely: the Book of Songs, the Book of History, the Classic of Rites, the Book of Changes, and the Spring and Autumn Annals. [7] Shu shu ( ) or shu suan ( ) C probably the Ten Computational Canons, a collection of ten Chinese mathematical works compiled by early Tang dynasty mathematician Li Chunfeng (602-670), as the official mathematical texts for imperial examinations in mathematics. More info here. Upon hearing this, Chancellor Chen did not immediately reply. After a moments silence, Recorder Song looked carefully at him and asked hesitantly, Does daren think that this is inappropriate? Would it please you to share your thoughts? Chancellor Chen simply shook his head. Liu Min is not bad, but the essay he submitted to the Emperor on current affairs, giving advice on policy, was somewhat biased. His grasp of the current political situation in the dynasty is not sound, and thus he cannot help being rather extreme. This . . . Recorder Song also frowned. Liu Min is from an impoverished family, so it is no wonder that he is unclear of the current political situation. Chancellor Chen interrupted him. I think Jiang Chao is not bad. I have read his essay, and he attends to all aspects. He is talented. Recorder Song shook his head. He is too polished. He puts forward eloquent but empty arguments- which cannot be a good thing. Chancellor Chens gaze shifted slightly, then he smiled slowly. What you and I say is of no importance. In the end, it is the Emperors opinion that matters. Recorder Song also smiled in agreement. When the morning classes were over, the students walked out of the Imperial Academy in twos and threes. Jiang Chao was walking right in front. He was currently all smiles as he chatted with his two good friends walking beside him. Wang xiong[8] is becoming more proficient in his strategy and control, teaching his xiaodi[9] to feel ashamed of being inferior. A tinge of shame surfaced on his face as he said this. [8] Xiong ( ) C elder brother; also used to address males older than or close in age to oneself within the same generation. [9] Xiao di ( С ) C younger brother; also used to address males younger than oneself. Wang Zi Ling cupped his hands in greeting and said, Jiang xiong, you have no cause to be unduly humble. I cannot match you in your knowledge of mathematics. The young man in green on the other side smiled happily. If my two brothers continue to be so self-deprecating, we might as well just jump into the moat. This person was Mo Cong, who seemed to be in an extremely good mood. Waving his hand around, he said, Studying the past few days has made my brain hurt. Why dont we have some fun? I will be the host today; lets have a get-together at Dong Feng Lou[10]. What do you say? [10] T/N : theres a little pun here. Zuo dong ( ) is to play host, but it literally means to be the East (), and he suggests dong feng lou (¥ ) C lit., East Wind House C as their gathering place. When the young men around them heard his words, they smilingly clustered around him. Mo Cong, since you are the host, why dont you invite all of us as well? Its really too stingy of you. Mo Cong laughed uproariously. You actually called me stingy! All right, this time I will show my generosity and extend my invitation to all the gentlemen. Then, I wont lose the affection of my fellow students! The crowd of high-spirited young men walked out, smiling and chatting. However, behind them, a lone figure remained at the gate of the Imperial Academy. His figure was tall and slender, and he wore a blue garment which had been washed so often that the colour had faded. He was fair-skinned and his features were delicate. However, he gave off the aura of barely concealed resentment and isolation. He looked from afar at the backs of the young men in front of him, and disdain briefly flashed across his face. This person was Liu Min, whom Recorder Song and Chancellor Chen had been talking about earlier. He was unlike the other scholars preparing for the imperial examination in that he was not from the nobility. Liu Min came from an impoverished family background, and his only family was a widowed mother. Liu Mins mother had an old friend in the capital who was a member of the upper class, and she found a way to have Liu Min admitted into the Imperial Academy. Liu Mins mother had always had an extremely strong sense of self-respect, but for the sake of Liu Mins entrance into the Imperial Academy, for the first time in her life, she asked her old friend for help. When Liu Min entered the academy, he swore that he would excel in order to repay his mothers sacrificial love and nurture. Most of the young men from noble families in the academy were of the idle sort; all they had were their names and reputations, which they did not live up to. Liu Min despised them heartily. The only one that he thought was not too bad was Mo Cong, but he was from a rich family and did not associate with someone as poor as Liu Min. Thus, it was Liu Min who became the academys oddball, and hence, kept to himself. Liu Min returned to the academys study residence, where he was the only person in residence. All the other scholars were unwilling to stay there as the difference between it and their own residences was as wide as the distance between heaven and earth. Therefore, Liu Min had all the convenience of living by himself in a spacious residence at no expense. As he placed his textbooks on the table, he turned his head and was startled to discover that a letter had been placed on the table at some indeterminate time. The academys servants would only enter the study residence to tidy up, so he had no idea who could have left the letter there. After a moments hesitation, he picked the letter up and opened it. As he did so, a sheet of snow-white paper fell out. It was the commonly used xuan paper[11], which was rarely seen in the academy because the other scholars from noble families preferred the specially selected, top-notch pear blossom paper. Liu Min bent down to pick up the paper. When he unfolded it, he was greeted by a line of vigorously written, cleanly delineated characters: I heard that in the past, wise men governed the nation by emphasising honour, morals and customs, and the nation flourished. When these wise men departed, the nation declined. Therefore, the right way to govern a nation is by honour, morals and customs. However, others say that, while all these sentiments are good, they are not effective in controlling and managing the people. Balance must be achieved by means of law and order that all people adhere to so that the nation can experience prosperity and stability. This person is a foolish child who is still perplexed by this despite much thought, and I seek my gracious lords opinion (that is, which do you believe works better and why). Image result for ancient chinese xuan paper Xuan Zhi paper [11] Xuan zhi ( ֽ ) C a type of paper traditionally made in Anhui province which is preferred for calligraphy/ writing. Xuan paper is renowned for being soft and fine textured, suitable for conveying the artistic expression of both Chinese calligraphy and painting. More info here. Clearly, his advice was being sought. This was a common practice among the Academys scholars. If there was a topic or question which one could not understand and needed to discuss, then one would write a letter detailing ones doubts or queries. It could be considered an interesting method used by the scholars to address incomprehensible issues. However, because of Liu Mins low status, no one had ever taken the initiative to seek his opinion on any question. The letter was not signed, so he had no idea who had written it. He pondered over it for a while, but still did not have the slightest clue. It was said that ones character could be discerned from ones brush strokes. He once again looked at the line of writing which was confident, yet elegant. At first glance, it seemed entirely composed of sharp points and edges. However, on closer examination, the strokes were smoothly made. The overall effect was to hint at an underlying emotion that he could not quite grasp. In that moment, his competitive spirit was aroused. He took out a sheet of xuan paper from the writing table, ground his ink stone and set his brush into motion over the paper. When he had finished writing, he lifted up the xuan paper to blow on it. He was struck by a sudden difficulty C he did not know who had sent him the letter, and thus he had no idea who to give his letter to. After a moments blankness, Liu Min shook his head and laughed at how obsessed he was. He placed his letter into an envelope, thought for a bit, then placed it on the writing table, deciding to take the entire matter as something of a joke. He was not the only person writing. In the Jiang fu, Jiang Ruan set down her brush. Bai Zhi lifted the xuan paper from the table and blew on it, while Lian Qiao asked, Do we send it to the same young man? Jiang Ruan nodded. Send it a little later, when the day has almost passed. Miss, this is really not appropriate, Lu Zhu said with some hesitation. What would we do if others were to find out about it? After all, this young man is a stranger, and the letter is so private . . . What is there to be afraid of? I didnt sign the letter. Without the slightest concern, Jiang Ruan continued, Moreover, no one is going to make any connection between him and me. After all, we have never met. Lian Qiao asked, Even so, its still strange; since Miss has never met him, why are you writing such things to him? Jiang Ruan smiled faintly but made no answer. Liu Min must be reading her first letter at the moment. Jiang Ruan remembered clearly that in her previous life, the top three ranked scholars had been Wang Zi Ling, Mo Cong and Jiang Chao. Liu Min had only placed eighteenth. However, three years later, the news had broken that the principal examiner at that time had taken bribes. The Emperor, thoroughly incensed, had punished the principal examiner. In the end, after looking through the essays submitted for that year, Liu Min alone had caught his fancy. Liu Min, then a third-rank official, had been promoted steadily, until he finally became the Imperial Grand Tutor. Chapter 51 - Mo Cong’s Identity In her memory of her previous life, although Wang Zi Ling had garnered the top score in the imperial examinations, the Emperor had only appointed him to a previously vacant sixth-rank court position as Shi Du, one of the officials tasked with compiling, editing and reviewing the literature and history of the dynasty, in addition to tutoring duties. After this, for some unknown reason, he had made no further contribution or advancement. However, Jiang Ruan had once heard Eighth Prince say that, although this persons talent and learning were outstanding, it was also clear that his field of knowledge was rather narrow. Moreover, he was fond of seeking connections with those in power. Although, in the capital, the Wang family were considered members of the nobility, in truth, they no longer lived up to their name and were considered nothing but empty vessels. There was no need to talk about Jiang Chao. In contrast to him, Mo Cong was highly talented. His father, Mo daren, was the Minister of the Imperial clan[1], and Mo Cong was the youngest son. He was gregarious, excitable and inclined to have less regard for propriety, which could admittedly cause headaches for others. However, his opinions on political affairs were considerably advanced, and must have sounded fresh to the Emperor who had to constantly listen to the safe and conventional views of his gaggle of court officials. After Mo Cong placed second in the imperial examination, he was appointed as a fourth-rank junior minister in the Ministry of Horses[2], where he was only two ranks lower than his father. Mo Cong was friendly towards others, and he received favour from the different factions in the imperial court. With someone like this, it was difficult to ascertain which faction he supported, and it could be said that he was neutral. In her past life, he gave the Eighth Prince endless headaches. [1] Zong zheng ( ) C Minister of the Imperial Clan, one of Imperial Chinas Nine Ministers, who managed royal affairs (including managing unruly Imperial kinsmen and maintaining their genealogy). It was established from the Qin Dynasty and it usually was a close trusted relative of the royal family. Read more about the Nine Ministers. [2] Tai pu si ( ̫ ) C the office in ancient China responsible for the breeding, raising and training of horses. Of course, neither of these two could compare with Liu Min, who had managed to quietly surpass both of them. The Emperor[3], unlike others, did not believe that one became more muddle-headed as one grew older. He was highly suspicious by nature. Not only that, in order to maintain a firm grasp over his court, he often acted unpredictably. While Mo Cong and Wang Zi Ling had the support of their long-standing families, Liu Min was born dirt-poor. Moreover, he was upright and plainspoken when he interacted with others. This kind of person could be appointed to a position without cause for concern. Liu Min was also highly talented. Thus, this young upstart in the imperial court very quickly became the most trusted official by the Emperors side. If, in this lifetime, Jiang Ruan managed to win over such an important person, it would be tantamount to having someone speak on her behalf in the palace. [3] Jiu wu zhi jun ( ֮ ) C is nine (9); is five (5). In ancient China, numbers were divided into positive and negative numbers. Odd numbers were positive, and even numbers were negative. Among the positive numbers, nine is the highest and five is in the middle. Therefore, nine and five symbolise the authority of the emperor. Most importantly, during that earlier time, Liu Min had steadfastly supported the Crown Prince. He placed great importance on tradition, customs and ceremonies, and turned a blind eye to the friendly advances of Eighth Prince. However, circumstances would only be in Liu Mins favour in three years time, and a lot could happen in three years. What Jiang Ruan wanted to do was to help this future Imperial Grand Tutor, who was currently living in poverty, so that his golden opportunity would arrive sooner. Seeing that Jiang Ruan was still sunk in contemplation, Lu Zhu pursed her lips and spoke abruptly, as if she had suddenly remembered something. There is some good news. Zhou momo woke up today, and she looks like she is in much better spirits. From the time Zhou momo had fainted previously, Jiang Ruan had ordered Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao to look after her. However, she had not regained consciousness, and they did not know whether it was due to the recurrence of some old malady. On hearing this news, Jiang Ruans facial expression relaxed somewhat, and she said, That is indeed wonderful. I will visit her. * * * The night sky was full of lanterns which had been hung up to mark the passing of the year, but had yet to be put away. They brightened the normally pitch-black night with a warm, red glow. Ordinary people strolled along the streets, and the pavilioned stages temporarily erected by travelling performance groups could be seen in all directions. It was extraordinarily lively. In Dong Feng Lou, the purple and gold, pearl-beaded curtain separating the private room from the rest of the establishment was lowered. It concealed the doorway securely even as it occasionally flickered with dazzling brilliance. Within the room, a single person leaned against the window, indifferently looking down at the hustle and bustle of the crowds below. The lamp light shone on his profile, which was as elegant as a jade carving. His long eyelashes were lowered, so that no one was able to clearly read the emotion in his eyes. His clothes were as dark as night, but they were unable to conceal his cold temperament, or his innate grace and elegance. The curtain was abruptly lifted as a nobleman in green clothes walked in. He was handsome and upright, and his face was wreathed in smiles. To the young nobleman clad in black, he said, Aiya, I have not seen you for a long time. Why are you in such a rush this time? The black-clad youth made no move despite the others entrance, and only said, The Emperor does not know. You are the only person under the heavens who dares to flout imperial decrees so brazenly, the green-clad gentleman said as he sat at the table in the middle of the room. He poured himself a cup of tea and drained it in one gulp before sighing. If only youd arrived earlier, I wouldnt have had to eat and drink in the company of that bunch from the Imperial Academy. This person was Mo Cong. The black-clad youth shook his head, and asked, How was the preliminary round of the imperial examination? It was all right. I should be able to muddle my way into the top three. Contrary to what one might expect, Mo Cong was not in the least concerned. A sudden thought came to him, and he said, with pity in his voice, Ah, its a shame about Liu Min. Such talent and scholarship. If he were not so obstinate, I would actually consider befriending him. If I am reading Chancellor Chen correctly, I am afraid Liu Min is going to unfairly lose out to Jiang Chao. Jiang Chao? The black-clad youths brows knitted slightly. On seeing him like this, Mo Cong explained, He is the son of Official Jiang Quan in the Ministry of War. Jiang Quan is really amazing to have such a son who is this capable and spirited. Not a day passes when he doesnt vex me. And, I have no idea what Jiang Quan is teaching his son, but a few days ago the entire capital was abuzz with talk of the business regarding the Jiang fus di daughter, but Jiang Quan was still in the mood to fiddle with his sons affairs. Really amazing! The torrent of information that gushed forth from Mo Cong was met with no response, so he inadvertently glanced up at his good friend. He noticed that the black-clad youth was seemingly deep in thought, so he said, I heard Ye Feng say that you had asked him to make enquiries regarding a young lady recently. Teasingly, he asked, Which family is she from? Do I know her? The black-clad youth paid no attention to his teasing but his expression became colder. Mo Cong touched his nose. Although he looked embarrassed, he could not stop himself from saying, You dont have to be shy, there is nothing to be bashful about. When we talk about other things, you outclass me, but when we talk about the relations between men and women, you are my inferior. Another day, why dont I take you to a drinking party with female entertainers? That new girl at Cui Wei Lou is as elegant as the moon, and very gentle . . . While speaking, Mo Cong stole a glance at his good friends face. It looked as if the other party had not heard even a single word he had said, and he sighed again. With your personality, I honestly have no clue what kind of person would catch your discerning eye. As far as I can see, the capitals beauties are all too common for you. Only someone who shocks all of society will be suitable. On hearing this, the black-clad youths expression changed slightly. The memory of that night at the temple floated up in his mind; that young lady in plain cotton clothes, smacking of poverty, her appearance which was exceptionally splendid under the moonlight, and the satisfied smile with which she had surveyed the corpse-filled ground, in contrast to her ice-cold eyes. The next time they met, her red clothes were fluttering in the wind, and she was like a mysterious fireball with the Shen fus secrets within her grasp. From his investigations, Ye Feng had confirmed that it was this girls first visit to the Shen fu. There was absolutely no way she could have known about Shen fus secrets, but he did not know what remarkable ability she possessed. Rumour had it that the di daughter of the Jiang clan was weak and yielding, but he had seen for himself that this was completely untrue. Who was she, really? Mo Cong looked at him in surprise. What are you thinking of, that youd be so lost in thought? The black-clad youth came back to himself to some degree, and said indifferently, Nothing. Lao Ba[4] has been keeping close company with the Prime Minister of late. Theres a lot that is fishy about the preliminary examination- youd better be extra careful. [4] T/N : As explained previously, lao = old, but it is also a form of address for someone older than oneself (usually from the older generation), and denotes a degree of familiarity. It can be used derisively, which may be the case here, as I suspect Lao Ba refers to Eighth Prince. (ba = eight). The controls have tightened in recent days as well. The smile vanished from Mo Congs face, and his expression turned serious. My sister says that, lately, the Yang family has been behaving really overbearingly in the palace. Is this the beginning? Ah[5] Shao, why dont you transfer some Jin Yi Guards[6] to me; at present, something is not right in the Imperial Academy, and I am uneasy about Jiang Chao. [5] Ah ( ) C used in addressing those close to oneself e.g. someone named Ming Rui would be addressed as Ah Rui. [6] Jin Yi Guards () C = brocade, = clothes, = guard. The black-clad youth pursed his lips. All right. After a pause, he added, And keep a close eye on the Jiang family. Chapter 52 - Lantern Festival Day by day, as spring began, the weather became better and better. And, just like the weather, a persons mood would also seem to become better too. Jiang Su Su and Xia Yans treatment towards Jiang Ruan had become extremely courteous. Ever since she had been confined in her courtyard, there were no longer any sightings of Jiang Li anymore. Apart from the occasional encounters with 2nd yiniang and her frigid irony and scorching satire, the rest of her days were actually passed ordinarily and peacefully. It seemed like it should have always been this steady and calm. Lu Zhu poured a cup of red jujube and lotus seeds tea[1]. And in the tea, was some of Sophora japonica[2] (Chinese scholar tree) nectar that had just been delivered to the kitchen; its glistening colour was extremely appealing. Propping up her chin with a hand, Jiang Ruan carelessly flipped through the book in her hand. [1] Hng zo lin z ch ( Ӳ ) C Part of Chinese life is enjoying and drinking tea, and it is an integral part of life where it is believed that tea drinking promotes health. Hence, tea is a common ingredient used in folk remedies and often times, to aid in alleviating problems such as gastric distention and fatigue. Lotus seeds are believed to be beneficial to dry throats, eliminate fatigue, increase mentality, improve brain health and tranquilise the mind while Chinese red jujubes (or commonly known as red dates) are believed to replenish and nourish blood, thereby improving blood circulation and lead to better liver, digestive function, balance of inner body energy and improved immunity. [2] Hui hu ( ) C The Chinese scholar tree or commonly known as the Japanese pagoda tree, it is said to have antibacterial properties, moreover, is able to clear internal heat and numerous other healing efficacies. Miss should stop and take a break as our young lady has already read for half a morning already. Lu Zhu smiled, those who arent aware would have thought that our Miss was planning to become the top scorer in the palace examination. Bai Zhi laughingly scolded, you can even tease our young Miss, too. Youre becoming more and more unruly. Lu Zhu looked at Jiang Ruan and merely laughed, but it is actually true, Miss, did nubi[3] clearly say something wrong? [3] N b ( ū ) C This term is often used as a deferential term of address for ones self as a slave servant. This term is also similar to the status of serfdom in the feudal times wherein many peasants were under a condition of debt bondage to their masters. Often, these servants were considered property or chattel that could be bought, sold or gifted with their contracts. Becoming a nubi is also a legal punishment for committing a crime or failing to pay a debt, however, in some cases, some people become slave servants in order to escape crushing poverty during poor harvests and famines as a way to help their families. More information about this can be found here, as the medieval Korean, Japanese and Chinese societies had similar social caste systems and cultures in certain ways. Jiang Ruan looked upon her two quibbling servant girls before her and was about to say a few words but just then, she saw Lian Qiao walk in with a cold expression on her face. On a usual day, Lian Qiao would also be smiling without exception. To see this expression of hers, she definitely had encountered some problems. As expected, without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak up, Lian Qiao had already started to speak. Just now, nubi was walking by Yan Hua Yuan but was then called to a stop by furens trusted servant, Li momo. She said that our Ruan Ju was understaffed and furen had personally selected a few yatou, and after a short delay, they would be sent over. Bah! To even say that she had been content with her own position over these past few days, and sure enough, she has been uneasy instead and is harbouring bad intentions. So, she has decided to plant some staff in our courtyard. You, could you speak a little softer. Bai Zhi promptly urged, the walls have ears. Lu Zhu frowned too, this is truly too excessive then. Jiang Ruan chuckled and slowly picked up her cup. To borne such a banner of having good intentions and thoughtfulness for her, to slant such false pretences towards her, as of yet, she could not refuse such advances. One could not always brazenly harbour suspicions of the madam who managed the household; Xia Yan had always been like this. Wrapped around her presumptuous requests were, unfortunately, a shiny and bright packaged exterior, who truly knew what kind of vile and despicable intentions that she had underneath all of that? All of a sudden, as if it was whispered in her ears, she seemed to recall what Zhou momo had said, Eldest young lady, this old slave has something that must be said, even if one has to brave through death. At that time of furens death, it wasnt at all by chance and was definitely related to that woman from Yan Hua Yuan. This old slave wanted to stay in the fu to continue to find some evidence but who could have known that I would have now fallen to such a state. These words of mine, perhaps the eldest young lady may not believe but this old slave has been with furen for so many years. What furens body condition was like, this old slave was extremely clear. At that time, the way that illness of hers appeared was fishy and the master neither cared nor questioned either. Eldest young lady, furen was definitely harmed by someone! With fingers unconsciously gripping the handle of the fine porcelain cup tightly, Jiang Ruans gaze had turned chilly. Xia Yan had something to do with Zhao Meis death, these words of Zhou momos, she did not believe to be false. If Jiang Quan also knew of this matter and yet, had been excessively tolerant about it until now, then in the days ahead, he could hardly blame her for being merciless. As she thought of this, she then heard someone announce from outside, Young Lady, Du Juan jiejie from Gui Lan Yuan has come. Du Juan smilingly walked in, the old Madame has asked nubi to invite the eldest young lady to come over, there are some matters to settle. Jiang Ruan stood up and asked with a warm tone, I have troubled Du Juan jiejie to make a trip here, we will now leave at once. Does Du Juan jiejie know of what the matter could be? Du Juan laughed, Eldest Miss, please dont address nubi as such, nubi couldnt possibly be held in such regard. As to what the matter could possibly be, nubi is unclear too but can only notice that in these days ahead, the Lantern Festival should be taking place soon. The Lantern Festival. Jiang Ruans pupils abruptly contracted as her expression suddenly turned rigid. Her hands seemed to have stiffened up and she was unable to relax as if she were a stone that had been planted in an upright position in the spot where she currently stood. Bai Zhi worriedly looked on, Miss, whats wrong? At this, Jiang Ruan then recovered her senses and laughed, nothings wrong. Yet, her nails that had been secretly clasped in her sleeves were tightly fisted in her palm. Lantern Festival! Lantern Festival! In her past life, what had caused her to have a bad reputation back then occurred during that Spring Festival she had attended a few years after returning to the fu. From that day, everyones sneering and ridiculing gazes, the worry of Xia Yan and her daughter, Jiang Quans indifference, all of that was vividly etched into her mind. Although now that she could start her life once more, the days when she had returned to the Jiang fu had been a few years in advance of the present time. Thus she was unsure if those vile, repulsive days of despair that had begun with that festival would repeat themselves again once more. No matter, if they did or didnt, there was one thing that was already different now and that was how she could no longer be trampled upon nor taken advantage of like an idiot. For anyone who dares to cause trouble to her, she would then return it in a thousand, no ten thousand folds back to them instead! Du Juan had originally gazed upon Jiang Ruan smilingly and yet at that moment, in her heart, she could not help but be shocked. She had just felt that Jiang Ruans gaze seemed to be extremely oppressive and was actually similar to the mural that had been drawn on the wall of the temple; a semblance to one of the devils that was in the eighteenth level of hell. She even gave off a ghastly and terrible air. Yet in the next second, she saw that Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile and her pupils were as bright and limpid as streams by the mountains. In a supple voice, she remarked, we will go to zumus courtyard then. In Gui Lan Yuan, Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan had long since arrived. Seeing Jiang Ruan coming in with Du Juan, Jiang Su Su took the lead and hopped off the old Jiang madames divan. Her tone seemed to be irrepressibly excited as she spoke, Da Jiejie, in three days, itll be the Lantern Festival. Zumu has consented to us sisters in the fu going together to have fun on Ling Long Fang[4]. Da Jiejie has not gone there before, right, its pretty amusing. [4] Lng lng fng ( ) C This is likely the name of a large boat or an establishment in the story that has a business in this large boat. Lng lng refers to the onomatopoeic sound of the clinking of jewels or it can refer to the clever, or nimble. Thus, the name likely means Clever/Nimble Large Boat and conversely, this is why weve elected not to use its translated name. Xia Yan tenderly continued, Ruan niang has just returned to the capital and the Lantern Festival is rather lively- why not go together to have a look. It would be good to be infected by the cheerful atmosphere as well. Jiang Ruans eyebrow rose and in her heart, she coldly laughed. As expected, regardless of her past or her present life, that mother and daughter pairs wants and desire to frame her would never change. At Da Jin Chao, the Lantern Festival was an extremely special holiday, as for lovers, it was even more so. For those that had reached marriageable age, both men and women would go have fun on this day, and so many beautiful and romantic tales had been composed during the Lantern Festival. And on this day, the aristocratic sons and daughters in the capital would respectively have their own amusement. There were two large vessels[5]C both were carved with layers of stone, one was carved with a dragon, while the other had a phoenix- and both of the ships were decorated extremely gorgeously. The youthful, upper-class young ladies, aristocratic daughters and princesses would be seated on Ling Long Fang. The youthful, upper-class sons, wangye[6] and huangzi[7] would then board Qing Song Fang[8]. These two decorated vessels would then tour the lake, side by side, thereby ensuring close proximity between both ships without compromising the etiquette of the distance needed between men and women. [5] D hu chun ( 󻨴 ) C This refers to, in literal terms, a large and brightly decorated boat. However, to call this a simple boat would be an ill-used term, in feudal times, these extremely large vessels were often part of the crowning achievement of their time and often times, a colossal architecture made by the brains of the country. It was deeply entrenched in the feudal Chinese culture wherein only the upper crust would have these boats as part of their yearly celebrations for the Lantern Festival to wish for happiness, longevity and good health for their families. Otherwise, similar to a modern parade, these flower ships would also be a culminating part of the Lantern Festival festivities for the populace and nobilities alike wherein these ships would have beautiful courtesans to entertain guests and be part of entertaining the people down the lakes or rivers along the capital. [6] Wng ye ( ү ) C A common term used in these ancient Chinese novels, in the feudal times, this is an honorific title granted to someone with a noble title such as Duke, Marquis, Count, Viscount and Baron. Ordinarily, this term of address is used for all these noblemen who are only second in power to the nations monarch. But also, commoners, that have made great contributions, will be conferred such a term of address. It usually means that this wangye is a large landowner and is able to receive tribute from their land. However, this can also be referred to the current emperors brothers who are conferred with this title too. [7] Hung z ( ) C Another common term used in ancient Chinese novels, this refers to the princes of the current Emperor, his sons. [8] Qng sng ( ) C This means pine tree, therefore, Pine Tree Boat. Pine trees have great symbolism in Chinese culture and are also seen in Chinese literature. With its evergreen and verdant nature, the pine tree symbolises the moral ideal and integrity of being firm, loyal and steadfastness. The Lantern Festival vessels were, truthfully, just the upper-class and aristocracys venue for matchmaking. The young ladies would largely display their own talents in front of these gentlemen and if they were truly extremely talented, they would have many a noble admirer. After the evening has passed, by the next morn, their name would then be widely spread throughout the capital. Therefore, this day was also a competition to affirm ones status as these well-bred young ladies from prestigious houses would secretly compete against each other in hopes that they themselves would be able to gain good future prospects and a good future husband. Jiang Su Su had the title of the top lady in the capital and this was precisely due to the limelight she had gained annually at the Lantern Festival. It was a pity that in her past life, Jiang Ruan was completely unaware of the know-how for this event and was tricked by Jiang Su Su, resulting in her not only making a social gaffe on Ling Long Fang but also, having that sort of matter happening too. On the second morning, Jiang Su Su was no longer the most talked-about person from the Lantern Festival among the people as that position had been taken over by Jiang Ruan. After that days Lantern Festival, the gossip and rumours had spread all over the capital and Jiang Ruans reputation had taken a devastating dive, becoming the biggest laughing stock in the capital. If it was just all of this, this matter could be considered nothing. However, in her mind, there was one scene that was deeply engraved into her memories. That day, everyone had completely filled with jeers and sneers for her. Then, only the Eighth Prince, he was the only one who had gently spoken up in Jiang Ruans aid. At that time, she was merely blinded; to have stubbornly mistaken the mockery in those pair of eyes of his as care and concern for her. In this life, if she saw this old friend of hers once more, although things had remained the same, people had changed; she now knew of the mercenary designs of his under that gentlemanly exterior. The Lantern Festival that would happen in three days time, what sort of large present should she proffer up that would definitely be befitting for this new life of hers? Chapter 53 - Fifth Yiniang, Hong Ying Afterwards, everything was decided as thus: in three days, all of the young ladies of the Jiang fu would go onto Ling Long Boat. Everyone was well aware of what the Old Jiang Madame had in mind when she decided upon this. Jiang Su Sus expression remained the same, however, she was unable to conceal the slightest trace of excitement in the depth of her eyes as she must have believed that this would once again be her chance to propel herself greatly into the limelight. Meanwhile, contrary to what one might expect, Jiang Li had been given a way out by Jiang Quan and had her confinement removed. Moreover, when one saw her at Gui Lan Yuan, it seemed that she too had begun to curb her own arrogance and exercise much more restraint. Once Second Yiniang caught wind of this chance, she was naturally thrilled. Ill at ease, Jiang Dan stood on the same spot and on her face was an expression filled with timidity, so much so that she had no concerted idea of how she should have comported herself and her hands were frozen. Jiang Ruan could not help but glance at her a few more times. Due to her being in a state of feeling incomparably inferior in her past life, she did not particularly go out of her way to be mindful and take note of Jiang Dan. Now that she observed her, this youngest sister of hers in the Jiang fu was just overly timid. The Old Jiang Madame then spoke of some things that they would have to take note of and then waved her hand in dismissal as she permitted everyone to leave. Before leaving, Xia Yan especially stopped Jiang Ruan, Ruan niang, I have selected a few yatou on your behalf. Later, I will send them to your courtyard, and you can first have a look at these yatou and see if they would be useful. If you feel that they are unsuited for your needs, we can switch with some others instead. Jiang Ruan slightly smiled in thanks and did not seem the slightest bit angry. Xia Yans smile became increasingly abstruse and after the two people replied courteously to one another, they then parted ways. After waiting for a while for Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su to walk further away, Lu Zhu then commented, Furen seems a little too anxious, as if she would not feel at ease with herself if she did not cause another to be disgraced. If outsiders were to look upon this scene, they would all assume that it was done for me, this daughters benefit, and she would be beyond reproach, Jiang Ruan did not take it to heart. Lu Zhu had stayed with Lian Qiao for a long while now, so she no longer glossed over her words. As if she needed to make a clean breast of things, she spoke up, Who are these words of her trying to deceive, even nubi, this servant, can tell their train of thought. Here in this fu, who is not well aware of it. Although the Old Madame also does not say anything, still after being in this fu for such a long time, her temperament would be neither naive nor still. With a splutter, Jiang Ruan laughed. Due to Lu Zhu being a nubi from the rural residence and not a person of the Jiang household, her loyalty towards the Jiang fu was inferior to Lian Qiaos or Bai Zhis. When they were discussing the fus matters, it was as if she were casually talking about another familys matter. As Jiang Ruan laughed, Lu Zhu then recomposed herself and flushed, Nubi has gone overboard, I request for Miss chastisement. What you said is very true, Jiang Ruan remarked. Lu Zhu was not at all partial towards the Jiang fu and this, for her, was actually on the contrary a good thing. After all, what Jiang Ruan planned to do was in conflict in all regards to what the Jiang fus stance was. For Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi, it might perhaps be hard to accept such actions; therefore, some of these affairs, she could hand them over to Lu Zhu to manage instead. As they walked forth, someone ahead was striding in their direction. Leisurely, that willow waist travelled delicately and lovely swayed along with their pace. While that person had yet to arrive before them, still at the tip of ones nose, a whiff of faint sweet perfume travelled forward. That person was clothed in a short mint-coloured cotton lined coat and a light olive coloured long skirt, just like a gently swaying orchid in the wind. That person was the Fifth Yiniang, Hong Ying. As she saw Jiang Ruan, Hong Yings eyes curved as she faced Jiang Ruan and greeted her with a bow, Eldest Young Lady. Jiang Ruan lightly smiled, Fifth Yiniang is becoming more and more beautiful. Hong Yings charming face reddened, The Eldest Young Lady is truly jesting, these words, nubi does not deserve such praise. Jiang Ruan smiled even more amiably; Hong Ying was a discreet one, and, contrary to her expectations, especially sharp-witted. At the very least, she would not clearly refuse her expression of goodwill. She then grasped onto Hong Ying, However, these words of mine are absolutely true. With an elegant demeanour such as Fifth Yiniangs, its not surprising that Father extremely dotes on you. Her voice then lowered, Now that I have returned to the Jiang fu, the affairs in the fu are all foreign to me. As it turns out, with one look at Fifth Yiniang, I feel a sort of cordiality between us. In the days ahead, I have to request Fifth Yiniangs continued guidance and care. If some day, I have done something wrong and have stirred up Fathers anger, I hope Fifth Yiniang can still help me to say a few words. As she said this, she unflinchingly stared at Fifth Yiniang. These remarks were clearly said with significance and profound overtones, as if they were suggesting something. In a split second, Hong Ying was a little startled and as she raised her head, right then she saw that Jiang Ruans gaze was filled with smiles. Hong Ying slightly felt as if her gaze was covered with a layer of fog. Although it could be obviously interpreted as limpid and clear like a bottomless pool of water, what was unexpected was the feeling that is also made ones heart well up with uncertainty. As she reckoned in the depths of her heart for a few turns, a frightened expression revealed itself on her face, What sort of words is Eldest Young Lady saying- if I am able to be of help to Eldest Young Miss, then nubi would definitely spare no effort in doing so. Jiang Ruan slightly smiled, Then I will first thank Fifth Yiniang in advance. From what I can tell, in this fu, the only one that I can rely on here is exactly a person like Fifth Yiniang. With Fifth Yiniangs appearance, grace and poise, it truly is something that the primary wife, the furen of the Jiang fu, could not compare to either. As she heard this, in the depths of her heart, Hong Ying could not help but be surprised and tried to sound Jiang Ruan out as she looked to her and smiled, Eldest Young Lady, dont joke with nubi like this. Furen is like jade leaves on a golden branch, a blue-blooded nobility and a peerless beauty while nubi has a low and humble family background. Naturally, the difference between us is like a comparison between the clouds in the sky and the mud on the ground; the gap could not be bigger. Fortunes rise and fall, so will the times change. I believe Yiniang has heard of this before? Jiang Ruan remarked, Who could possibly be able to predict the matters of the future, so Fifth Yiniang shouldnt undervalue oneself and be unduly humble. Having a low and humble family background does not necessarily mean that there can not be good future prospects. Hong Ying paused and then lowered her head slightly as she lightly spoke, In three days time, it will be the Lantern Festival; Eldest Young Lady has gone to the Old Jiang Madames? For her to have suddenly talked about this with her, Lu Zhu who had been following behind her could not help but be somewhat surprised as she heard Jiang Ruan remark, Thats right, along with the rest of my sisters. Eldest Young Ladys is honest and generous. Its just that, for some things, its still best to be careful. Lately, the furen and the Second Young Lady have been rather strange. Eldest Young Lady Be sure to take care of yourself. Once she imparted these words, Hong Ying no longer lingered and without looking at Jiang Ruans expression, she hurriedly left. Her maid, Lu Zhu standing behind her looked on thoughtfully, Miss, there appears to be some hidden meaning behind Fifth Yiniangs words. Shes an intelligent person, Jiang Ruan continued, if only she could have brought this up and pointed it out to me in my past life too, how great it would have been. That last remark of hers was spoke in an extremely low voice and Lu Zhu could not hear it clearly as she stared on blankly, What? Jiang Ruan chuckled, Nothing, lets return. Once they had returned to Ruan Ju, just as Xia Yan had said, the newly sent over maids had already arrived at her courtyard. Upon seeing Jiang Ruans return, they uniformly stood in a row before her. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were the first-rank servant girls that personally served her while Lu Zhu was a servant girl of the second-rank. In the Jiang fu, every young lady had two first-rank servant girls, four second-rank servant girls, six third-rank servant girls. Yan Hua Yuan had sent over four maidservants and had even persuaded Jiang Ruan to personally pick the remaining servants a few days later. The four maidservants, that stood and formed a row, were without exception all good-looking young girls on the cusp of their maidenhood. Yet, even though Jiang Ruan had entered her courtyard, she did not spare them a glance and walked directly over to a soft divan and flipped through a book. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi did not say a word and quietly stood by Jiang Ruans side. Now and then, they would be of service and serve her hot tea. They had truly regarded those few young girls in her courtyard as thin air. Just like this, more than half of a shichen (two hours) had passed. Finally, someone could no longer endure it and one of the maidservants took the initiative to walk forward towards the divan and softly state, We, nubi, greet Eldest Young Lady. At this, Jiang Ruan then slowly raised her head; appearing like an extremely unruly, bold person, she swept a glance over these maidservants. Yet, those raised pair of charming eyes were filled with keen radiance as her gaze finally fell upon the face of the maidservant who had stepped forward. The maidservant had been gifted with the countenance of a flower and a face like the moon; she had beautiful features and also possessed a somewhat educated vibe. This added an extra flavour to her good looks. Moreover, her head drooped lowly, she completely portrayed an entirely humble, modest appearance. What is your name? Jiang Ruan lightly smiled. Nubi is called Shu Xiang. The servant girl agreeably replied. Shu Xiang, Jiang Ruan leisurely swallowed a mouthful of tea. She was the servant girl that had accompanied her into the palace in her past life. With a look at her modest and respectful appearance, she seemed good, honest and amiable. At that time, it was precisely because of her ability to read that Jiang Ruan had taken a fancy to her and then, had kept her by her side. Yet, her last impression of her was of that day, the very day before she had become a human swine. In the prison, Jiang Su Su had come forth to visit her and by her side, was Shu Xiang as her personal maid. Now, she had once more been sent back to her(JRs) side. Chapter 54 - Conspiracy The Great Jin Dynastys annual Lantern Festival was on the fourteenth day of the current month, and was eagerly anticipated, especially by the young people. A few days prior, all of the well-known clothes and jewellery shops in the capital became extremely busy, and the cosmetics stores even more so[1]. Early in the morning on the day itself, the capitals young talents[2] gathered at a wine shop to discuss who had drawn the long straw[3] to compete first in the Ling Long Boat festivities[4]. [1] Gong bu ying qui ( Ӧ ) C supply does not meet demand. [2] Xiu cai ( ) C could refer to scholars, people with fine talents, or specifically to someone who has passed to county level imperial examination. [3] Ba tou chou ( ͷ ) C lit. to pull out the first chip/ counter. In this method of drawing lots, which is common in China, a person is presented with a container of sticks made of bamboo, wood, ivory or other materials. Sometimes, the sticks have words on them. Pulling the short stick is considered unlucky, similar to the short straw in Western idiomatic language. The idiom can be used to refer to how a person is chosen to go first in a competition, and also can describe how someone has placed first in a competition. [4] Ling long fang ( ) C = exquisite, = boat. The translators are not entirely sure what this refers to, but, from what Jiang Su Su says later in this chapter, it seems the festivities on board include performances (by young ladies?), and there is possibly a competition to see who is regarded as the best performer. Jiang Ruan was awoken early by Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao. The two of them busied themselves selecting the clothes and jewellery she would wear that day. Lu Zhu, despondent that she would not be able to go with them, said resentfully, Tonight, Miss will stand out from the crowd because of your looks and charm; what a pity, this servant will not have the opportunity to appreciate such a wonderful sight. I wonder how many young men will be mesmerised by our Miss. Lian Qiao heard the sour note in her voice, and laughingly scolded her, What nonsense are you spouting? Why dont I let you take my place, and Ill just stay behind to look after the fu, all right? How can I do that? Lu Zhu pouted. Im not the one in charge of looking after Miss. Besides, the maids who have newly come to the courtyard are not easy to get along with. Since you all are not around today, let me take the opportunity to take them down a peg or two. Miss, Lu Zhu needs to calm down a little, Bai Zhi teased her in a rare display of humour. Dont scare off those cute little ladies. They are all just servants, what do you mean by calling them cute? Lu Zhu said with contempt in her eyes. Moreover, they are all black-hearted. Today, I noticed that girl, Shu Xiang, searching for something in the inner room several times. After she had left, I checked, and do you know what I discovered? That Shu Xiang had pilfered a handkerchief belonging to Miss! What! In the process of combing Jiang Ruans hair, Lian Qiao started, and could not prevent herself from crying out in surprise. She immediately ceased what she was doing. Why didnt you stop her? Jiang Ruans gaze wavered slightly and she looked at Lu Zhu. However, she did not seem to share Lian Qiaos impatience. Instead, she appeared calm and composed. Lu Zhu said, Miss has told us before to keep a close watch on these new servant girls, especially Shu Xiang. Where necessary, we should use our discretion and seize the opportunity to act, knowing that her loyalty lies with Yan Hua Yuan. From a young age, this servant has wandered the Jianghu[5] with human traffickers, and seen a lot. If it were only that Shu Xiang has light-fingered tendencies, that would be all right. The most problematic situation is if she is despicably base and unprincipled. Taking this handkerchief is not a small matter. If it happens to fall into someone elses hands, it could lead to the ruination of a young ladys innocence, and unreasonably cause her to be wronged for a lifetime. Miss was sleeping at the time, and if this servant had waited to report back to you, it would have been too late. So, this servant acted on her own initiative. [5] Jianghu ( ) C lit., rivers and lakes. Commonly it refers a section of society operating independently of mainstream society, out of reach of the law; (in late imperial times) world of traveling merchants, martial artists, itinerant doctors, fortune tellers etc. Jian Ruan looked steadily at her. What did you do? A gleam of satisfaction appeared in Lu Zhus eyes. When she went out, I took the opportunity to exchange the handkerchief belonging to Miss, which she had hidden under her pillow, with one belonging to Second Miss. Bai Zhi was stunned. How could you do that? Lu Zhu held up her head proudly. If she really wants to harm Miss, we dont have to worry about anything. If they really try to make a move against Miss, the one who suffers will be Second Miss. This is retribution. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. She said, You did very well, and looked at Lu Zhu with new eyes. At the beginning, she had been grateful when this servant girl was bold enough to testify on her behalf while she was residing at the rural residence. Later on, she saw that Lu Zhu had gained much experience as a result of her extensive travels, and would be able to help her in many ways. Thus, after that time, each day Lu Zhu had proven herself adept at gathering information in the fu. Today, she had shown both her quick mind and decisiveness in dealing with Shu Xiang, as well as her personality trait of having very well-defined likes and dislikes. Lian Qiao let out a long breath. No one from Yan Hua Yuan has a good heart. Lu Zhu, it seems that we have underestimated you. That youre able to give this kind of report on the hatred towards us is cause for delight. But, how were you able to procure Second Misss handkerchief? Bai Zhi asked. A few days ago, while I was crossing the garden to deliver digestive aids to Miss, I saw, with my own eyes, Second Miss carelessly leave her handkerchief behind. I originally thought of returning it to her when I had free time; who knew that it would come in handy today. This is a prime example of what goes around, comes around[6]. [6] Cang tian rao guo shui ( Ĺ˭ ) C this is part of a longer quote, ̧ͷĹ˭, which apparently first appeared in the 1979 film,ڽ(People of the Jianghu). The gist of it is that the heavens wont allow those who have done evil to others to take pleasure in their evil deeds for long. Lian Qiao snorted, and Bai Zhi laughed as well. On seeing this, Lu Zhu also joined in. Jiang Ruan had a smile on her face, but she was already turning the situation over in her mind. Xia Yan really wanted to drag her name through the mud, and even the methods she was using were exactly the same as those she had used in Jiang Ruans previous lifetime. In this lifetime, she had brought forward her plan involving the Lantern Festival by three years. Was it possible that she once again wanted Jiang Ruan to be totally defeated and experience a complete fall from grace? What would her reaction be, what kind of expression would be on her face when she realised that the person who would suffer such a fall in the end would be Jiang Su Su? * * * In Yan Hua Yuan, Jiang Su Su sat at a table, carefully drinking a cup of lotus seed and red date tea. Her posture was dignified and graceful, and the smile on her face radiated purity and innocence, just like an exquisite fairy. Xia Yan looked with satisfaction at her daughter, her own flesh and blood. Very soon, you will be a mature young lady, who will become even more charming and desirable. Who knows which outstanding young man will have the blessing of marrying our Suer. Jiang Su Su huffed with displeasure. Mother, what are you saying? I am still too young, and tonights Ling Long Boat competition is not an occasion to be looking at young noblemen. I have been practising the guqin for an entire month, and tonight is the time for me to reap the rewards for my hard work. You play so well. Even if I changed places with you, theres no guarantee that I would be able to display your level of skill. With pride in her voice, Xia Yan continued, When its time, recite the poem that I taught you. For sure, no one on the boat will be able to compare with you. Jiang Su Su smiled. Thats wonderful, she said, then suddenly frowned. This is Da Jiejies first appearance at the Ling Long Boat competition since her return to the capital, and her natural beauty will definitely draw peoples attention. Even though she did her best to conceal her emotions, her jealousy was still faintly discernible. Xia Yan noticed this and grimly stated, You dont have to concern yourself with her. She is nothing more than an inauspicious girl. Given the way your father treats her here in the Jiang fu, there is no way that she will be able to surpass you. Thus, returning to our original topic, tonight, there is no need for you to worry about her stealing the limelight from you. I have already made arrangements. Made arrangements? Jiang Su Su was momentarily stunned, before she broke into laughter. I knew that Mother loves me the most. Xia Yan touched her forehead briefly. In this fu, if someone cannot be of assistance to you, then there is absolutely no reason for her to remain, otherwise we may encounter setbacks in future. Jiang Ruans appearance is breathtakingly magnificent. I have been observing her these past few days; not only is she not stupid, but she is capable of deep thought. Looking at the way she dealt with Chen Zhaos family, she is clearly no fool. I dont know why, but she always makes me feel uneasy. Leaving her be would lead to disaster, so we should just settle her early. Mother wants to kill her? Jiang Su Su asked. Whats the point of killing her? Shes just returned to the capital, so Jiang Ruan cant do anything too obvious. However, after tonight, she wont be able to cause any more waves in the capital even if she wanted to. At this moment, if a casual passerby were to witness Xia Yans expression as she spoke, they would surely be cowed by the ruthlessness that clouded her usually gentle and amicable face. Mother, tell me your plan, Jiang Su Su said as she straightened up. Ive also always hoped for her to be shamed. The eyes of this fairy-like young lady gleamed with sheer jealousy. Xia Yan glanced at her daughter disapprovingly. I dont mind telling you the plan, but you have to remember, after today, she will be vilified by everyone in the capital as someone who is inauspicious and unchaste. It will not be worth your while to engage or quibble with her on any matter. To do so would be to lower your social status. Jiang Su Su coquettishly agreed. Xia Yan then sent out all the servants in the vicinity, leaving only a few confidants, and proceeded to explain her plan carefully to Jiang Su Su. Chapter 55 - Second Younger Sister Later that day, when the sun was in the west, it was time for the daughters of the Jiang fu to leave for the Lantern Festival. The rest of the Jiang fu would also go with them, but they would not board the Ling Long Boat; they would admire the entire capitals lanterns from the restaurant on the shore. The coachman was at the entrance early. Jiang Su Su took the lead and got into the carriage, calling out to Jiang Ruan and the others to follow her. Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were in the same carriage as Jiang Ruan and Jiang Su Su. Several of the Jiang fus bodyguards also accompanied them to the banks of Yongding River, where the Ling Long Boat had been moored earlier on. Although it was said that the Ling Long Boat was spontaneously organised by the capitals noble ladies, the truth was that the yearly expenses were borne by the palace. Not by the Empress, however, but by the currently favoured and untouchable[1] Shu Fei Niang Niang[2], the birth mother of the Eighth Prince. Shu Fei received the Emperors unstinting favour and regard, and her status in the palace was such that even the Empress feared crossing her to some degree. Her own family was rich and arrogant, and she magnanimously covered the expenses of the Ling Long Boat as well as the Qing Song Boat during the annual Lantern Festival, for the silver ingots concerned were but a pittance. She said she was merely seeking excitement, though it was impossible to discern if she had a deeper intent. [1] Zhi shou ke re ( ֿ ) C lit. burn your hand, feel the heat; fig. a mighty figure no one dares to approach. [2] Shu fei niang niang ( ) C the Decent Consort, possibly the highest ranking Imperial Concubine (status depends on which dynasty the story is set in). More info . The carriage moved slowly along the capitals roads. As Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were shu daughters, this was the first time they were participating in the Lantern Festival. Jiang Dan timidly looked down without speaking. Jiang Lis expression betrayed her impatience; if she were not so apprehensive about how Jiang Ruan and Jiang Su Su would react, she would have already pulled aside the curtains and stuck her head out for a look. Jiang Ruan had closed her eyes to compose herself when she suddenly heard Jiang Su Su asking, What talent will Da Jiejie present? Just as expected. Jiang Ruan laughed grimly to herself, but her voice took on a tone of astonishment as she looked up and said, I have nothing to display. Why would Second Younger Sister ask this question? Da Jiejie does not need to be so humble. Pretending to be angry, Jiang Su Su said, Is it possible that you are still shy when we are all sisters from the same family? Perhaps Da Jiejie is not aware, every year, on the Ling Long Boat during the Lantern Festival, the daughters from each family will all put on a display their talents to determine who the best is, and the person who wins will be awarded the most beautiful lantern on the boat. Jiang Ruan lowered her head and muttered, almost to herself, That really sounds interesting, but I truly wont be able to participate. How is this possible? Jiang Su Su said, When Da Niang (Jiang Ruans mother) was around, whether it was the zither, chess, calligraphy or painting[3], she was proficient in all of the four arts. Thus, I cannot believe that you were not taught anything about them at all. Her tone was innocent, for all the world like a frank and sincere young lady, so that no one could possibly take offence to her words. When Zhao Mei first came to the Jiang fu, everyone recognised that she was a well-respected daughter born into a military family, but who was willing to be trained in the four arts for the sake of Jiang Quan. Yet, she did not receive his favour. Moreover, her level of achievement in those genteel skills, she did force herself to learn for Jiang Quans sake seemed puerile, like that of a little girl who has just learned how to write, in comparison with those of the foremost talent in the capital. Jiang Quan greatly preferred Xia Yan and had her accompany him whenever the occasion allowed it, so her grace increasingly contrasted with her crudeness. At least, this was how it was perceived in the eyes of the general population. [3] Qin qi shu hua ( 黭 ) C known as the four arts, or the accomplishments of a well-educated person. Literally, = zither, = chess (Go), = books/ calligraphy, = painting. Jiang Su Sus sarcasm was obvious as she raised the topic of Zhao Meis proficiency in the four arts. Im afraid Second Younger Sister is wrong, Jiang Ruan said with a smile on her face. Surely Second Younger Sister wasnt solely and personally taught by her mother? Naturally, this could not be the case. Father must have invited tutors for Second Younger Sister. However, I was at the rural residence, and did not have the good fortune to have any tutors. Jiang Su Su choked and had to pause briefly before saying, But, I see that Da Jiejie is so intelligent, and cannot be someone without any special skills. Moreover, this situation also has a bearing on the reputation of our Jiang fu. Da Jiejie, why dont you give it some thought. If you have any talent which is passable, that will do. In Second Younger Sisters point of view, what am I able to do? Jiang Ruan asked. Jiang Su Su eyed her with some suspicion. However, Jiang Ruans gaze was level, as if she really wanted to hear Jiang Su Sus opinion. Thus, she said, Calligraphy, playing chess and painting cannot be practised to a proficient level in a short period of time, and Da Jiejie has also not learned how to play the zither. Why not consider dancing to a song? Even at the rural residence, there must have been dance performances. If you could just master a few of those dance movements, that would be fine. Jiang Ruan nodded. This is indeed a good suggestion, Second Young Sisters insights are helpful. Jiang Li, who was sitting at the side, scoffed and said, Just dont make a fool of yourself in front of the experts. Although these were her words, her eyes flashed with a hint of schadenfreude. In contrast, Jiang Dan, on the other side, shyly smiled at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan leaned back. If thats the case, then I should think carefully about what dance to perform. I believe Da Jiejie will surprise everyone and be the object of their envy, Jiang Su Su smilingly said. Jiang Ruan closed her eyes, appearing to be deep in thought, but she suddenly had a moment of clarity. The young ladies of all the noble families would be on the boat, and their talents would be exceptional. Jiang Su Su was suggesting that she perform a dance from the rural residence, a dance that was suitable for the common stage. If she really did perform it, then, tomorrow night, she would become the laughingstock of the entire capital. Jiang Su Su was still using the same methods she had used in Jiang Ruans previous lifetime, but, this time, she would not achieve the effect that she desired. After travelling for an indeterminate length of time, they heard the carriage driver shouting outside, and the carriage swayed to a stop. A few servants standing outside the carriage pulled aside the curtains, and the passengers exited the carriage slowly and in an orderly manner. Jiang Ruan was the last to exit the carriage. Just as she was about to step onto the grassy bank, as soon as she beheld the scenery before her eyes, she could not help falling into something like a daze. During the journey, the sky had darkened. Countless sky lanterns[4] glimmered against the backdrop of the deep and serene night sky. The capital was indeed a splendid sight, and the flowing water of the moat, murmuring under their feet, was also brightly lit. All kinds of lanterns were spread over the surface of the entire river, and, at a glance, together they gave the impression of a moving river of light. The two ships at the forefront were carved with dragons and phoenixes, and were decorated with many exquisite lanterns. Green smoke curled upwards in spirals, and the pleasant sound of conversation and laughter could be heard. [4] Kong ming deng ( ) C miniature hot-air balloons used during festivals. These were Qing Song Boat and Ling Long Boat. Jiang Ruan took a deep breath and heard the voice of a little boy servant calling long and loud, The Jiang young ladies have arrived . . . The sound of laughter and chatter stopped abruptly. On both boats, from all directions, people turned their gazes one by one towards the big windows, until they converged on a common point C the young ladies who had arrived late. Since Jiang Su Su was acknowledged as the most beautiful woman in the capital, she naturally relished the attention. Today, she was wearing a silver squirrel gua paired with a long, narrow skirt in silver patterned with white plum blossoms. Her hair was done up in the flowing cloud style, and a white jade hairpin in the shape of a plum blossom was by her temple. As she walked, her snow-white cloak rippled with her breeze. She was like an exquisite, incomparable fairy who had descended to the earthly world. However, peoples eyes only glanced at her for a moment before moving to rest on the young lady behind her. The young ladys entire body was enveloped in a bright crimson overcoat patterned with cranes, in sharp contrast to her fair skin, as pale as jade. This caused people to entertain wild and fanciful thoughts about the gentle and graceful woman wrapped up in the crane overcoat. Her eyes were like limpid autumn water[5] and her eyebrows were like ink-black brushstrokes. Under the lights, her expression was delicate and dainty. Her upward slanting eyes harboured a faintly discernible hint of something cold and unfeeling, her red lips were curved, and some of her long, crow-black hair was simply swept up behind her head into a small bun, allowing the other strands to fall freely. In contrast to the exquisite and refined fairy, she was charming, bright and colourful, evidently well-behaved, and she had the appearance and air of one who was a born aristocrat. She seemed not to realise her attractiveness, which in itself was seductive. She walked towards the crowd step by step and those watching her could not help but hold their breath, for they could not determine whether this bewitching demon of a young woman was a dream, or real. [5] Qiu shui ( ˮ ) C apparently this is a traditional description for a girls beautiful eyes. She was so beautiful that it was terrifying. Chapter 56 - Coming Across Old Friends As was the case for the last outing, which took place at the Assistant Minister Shens residence, most of the young ladies who attended the banquet were the capitals officials daughters. However, they fell short of todays high-ranked misses. For many people, this would be their first time seeing the di daughter of the Jiang fu. It has always been said that Jiang fus Jiang Su Su was renowned for both her talent as well as her beautiful, fairy-like appearance. Therefore, they were all brimming with curiosity about this young lady who grew up in the countryside. Who would have thought that she had such a magnificent and graceful bearing? The Qing Song Boat and the Ling Long Boat were in close proximity to each other. Both boats were moored side by side at the pier. Each and every move of the Jiang fus young ladies, from the shore to get on the boat, could be seen by all the people aboard the Qing Song Boat. Jiang Dan and Jiang Li were naturally ignored in favour of the Jiang fus di daughter. In the past, all eyes fell on Jiang Su Su, but tonight they were focusing on Jiang Ruan. Aboard the Qing Song Boat, an infatuated official familys young master dressed in resplendent brocade, muttered, A beauty from the city, and a beauty from the country. Jiang Ruan walked steadily. However, it felt somewhat ironic. In her past life, she also stepped onto the Ling Long Boat the same way, but unfortunately, she did not receive such amazed gazes from people. At that time, their eyes were filled with sneers and ridicule, as if they were watching a low-class person who trembled with fear upon entering the upper echelons of society for the first time. In this life, why had it turned out this way? She was not aware that in the past life, what Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan had instilled into her daily, in addition to the way others looked down on her due to the many years in the countryside, made her grow into a timid person riddled with an inferiority complex. Upon returning to the Jiang fu, Xia Yan had pretended to treat her on such intimate terms to the point of spoiling her silly. In reality, it was a killing by overpraising tactic. She never called a teacher to teach her to read or how to play the guqin, nor was she taught any feminine arts. Also she was left to her own devices in terms of her etiquette. For those noble families in the capital who observed rules and customs, she became a laughing stock. Besides appearance, one could earn merit through personal conduct and manners. However, in her past life, she was timid and submissive. No matter how superior her appearance was, given such behaviour, she failed to live up to the expectations. Later, in the palace, in order to shape her into a perfect chess piece, the Eighth Prince naturally made her work hard on the guqin, chess, calligraphy and painting. Unfortunately, cultivating elegant demeanour worthy of the palace was not something that could be studied. In the past, all the people present there, without any exception, scrutinized her manners with malicious eyes and tried to nitpick even the slightest mistakes. The lessons of the past lifes blood and tears therefore added a mysterious air to her. Now her leisurely movement and gorgeous appearance automatically attracted peoples eyes. Jiang Su Sus smile was still warm, but when carefully observed, it was not difficult to find the stiffness beneath it. When she stepped on the boat, she was immediately called by an acquaintance, Miss Xue, from the Left Assistant Censor-in-Chiefs fu. Jiang Su Su took Jiang Dan in one hand and Jiang Li in the other, and walked towards her, intentionally or unintentionally, leaving Jiang Ruan in place. Both Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi, who were standing behind Jiang Ruan, knitted their brows. Jiang Ruan gently curled her lips. After all, Jiang Su Su was still young and did not know how to endure it. Nevertheless, when compared to other girls her age, she had a deep scheming mind and possessed a competitive streak, wanting to win every battle. Thus, once her position was threatened, she couldnt keep up her charade. She was left all alone. All the people on the Qing Song Boat saw it clearly. Among these people, a young master dressed in blue said angrily, How can they bully a delicate and pretty little girl like this? These women went too far! He was the young master of the Commander-in-chiefs fu. At the same time, another young master echoed. Indeed. Thats really too much. If there is no precedent, I would really like to ask her to sit next to me. However, he was not the only one feeling compassionate towards her. Before Jiang Ruan could decide where to sit in the Ling Long Boat, she heard a familiar voice calling her, Jiang Ruan, come here. When she turned around to see, it was indeed Lin Zi Xiang. Jiang Ruan walked over to her and sat down beside her. Lin Zi Xiang looked at her attentively. Then she nodded and said, You look much prettier than your younger sister. The red colour is also more pleasing to the eye than her hypocritical white. Jiang Ruan was speechless. Lin Zi Xiang pulled her hand again and told the people sitting around the table, This is Miss Jiang from the Prime Minister Jiangs fu, Jiang Ruan. She is Jiang Su Sus sister. There were many small groups on the boat. The young ladies of the noble families, who were already familiar with each other, were sitting at the same table. Even though Lin Zi Xiang had also been isolated earlier at the Shen fu, she had her own friends in the capitals young ladies circle. Lin Zi Xiang also introduced to her, This is Miss Dong of the capitals Inspector Generals fu, Miss Xu, the young lady of the Chancellor of the Hanlin Academy, Miss Wen from the Regimental Commanders fu, and Miss Zhao, the daughter of the Assistant Marshal. Dong Yinger, the young lady of the Inspector Generals family, had a pretty and adorable round face. She told her generously, So you are Jiang Ruan. Just now I was looking at you in a bit of silly manner. Little did I know that there is such a beautiful girl in the world. Her words were innocent and frank, without deliberate flattery. It gave people a good impression of her. Wen Fei Fei and Zhao Jin Jun were both from military families, and their actions also carried heroic spirits. Zhao Jin Jun laughed and said, If I were a man, I would go to your manor tomorrow to propose marriage. Exactly, Wen Fei Fei quipped. You already have such a beautiful appearance. In a few years, all the ladies in the capital will have no face to go out. Jiang Ruan also smiled, These elder sisters deliberately embarrass me. Today my eyes have been opened. There are girls in the capital who have a similar temperament and appearance. If I were a man, I would be fickle and marry all the sisters and hide you all away. The whole table of people broke into laughter again, looking joyous and harmonious. Lin Zi Xiang looked at Xu Ruoxi, Why are you so absent-minded? Xu Ruoxi was the di daughter of the scholar in charge of the Hanlin Academy. She was normally a noble and proud person. Just as she was about to speak, a long and dragged out sound was heard from outside, Jin Ying Wang has arrived Eighth Prince has arrived C Xu Ruoxis vigour was instantly replenished and her face turned scarlet. On the other hand, Jiang Ruan became stiff and tried to keep her mind steady so as to not spill her tea. She followed the crowds gaze to look toward the shore, only to see a person in white quickly approaching. That man looked cultured and refined, and just like in her past life, he was slim and graceful with an elegant bearing, his face wreathed in smiles while walking toward the boats. The river was crystal clear, reflecting the hustle and bustle of the throng of people. Coming across old friends again on this extraordinarily lively night, it seemed as if the blue sea had turned into mulberry fields (i.e., time brings great changes). The conversation and laughter on the Ling Long Boat came to an abrupt stop, but Xu Ruoxis glance did not waver from the Eighth Prince. The person behind the Eighth Prince was clad in black from head to toe. His brocade robe was embroidered at the hem with golden qilins. He wore a jade belt and a pair of greenish black boots. The youth was elegant and outstanding, his heroic spirit domineering. His eyes were as indifferently cold as snow, and he moved with a natural grace like moving clouds and flowing water. His charm was unexpectedly superior to that of the Eighth Prince. Xu Ruoxis voice trembled with excitement, Its Jin Ying Wang... Jiang Ruan wrinkled her eyebrows slightly. She had seen this young man in black twice. Unexpectedly, he was the outstanding and famous Jin Ying Wang of the Great Jin Dynasty. Chapter 57 - Xiao Shao Makes His Appearance The people on Ling Long Boat were all young ladies of noble families. On seeing these two remarkably talented and handsome young men[1] board Qing Song Boat, all of the young ladies blushed and chattered away furiously. [1] Ren zhong zhi long ( ֮ ) C lit., they are dragons among men. How is it that Eighth Prince and Jinying Wang are here this year? Zhao Jins suspicion-tinged voice was heard. While there were princes and noblemen aplenty on Qing Song Boat during the annual Lantern Festival, Eighth Prince and Jinying Wang had never attended the festival before. Firstly, there had never been talk about these two looking for a wife or concubine. Secondly, neither of them had expressed any interest in relationships with the opposite sex. From the time she had glimpsed the two men, Jiang Ruans brows had been deeply furrowed. It was bad enough that seeing Eighth Prince had stirred up a complex net of thoughts and emotions which were difficult to describe; discovering the identity of the black-clad youth had left her reeling in shock. When the music of the pipes plays nine times, the legendary phoenix will appear[2]. The current Jinying Wang, Xiao Shao, had an extraordinary existence in the Great Jin Dynasty. [2] Xiao shao jiu cheng, feng huang lai yi ( ()ؾųɣ ) C either the author has made a mistake, or has deliberately substituted (the black-clad youths surname) for (an ancient Chinese instrument, similar to the panpipes). The original quote comes from 顤 (a reference book used by the ministers for the rites and such) and refers to the beauty of the music, which reaches such heights that the phoenix C a legendary bird, and auspicious symbol C appears. It seems that Jiang Ruan is thinking about the mysterious black-clad youth. She views the fact that he has appeared before her several times as an auspicious omen. There is a possible pun (or author error) as (music of the pipes) has become (the youths name). He was born into an aristocratic Wang Jue[3] family. His father had once led his troops in a rebellion, which had been put down, but the Emperor had surprisingly not said anything about it. When Xiao Shao was ten years old, the previous Jinying Wang had led a military force to attack the Xirong[4]. He had taken it upon himself to spy for the expedition and died in the battle. Xiao Shaos mother had hanged herself in order to follow him in death. Thus presently, the only member of the family remaining in the huge fu of the Jinying Wang was Xiao Shao. [3] Wang jue ( ) C appears to be a noble title granted by the Emperor, which can apparently be passed down to future generations. This title is just below the Emperor himself in status/ rank. [4] Xirong ( ) C the Xirong, an ancient ethnic group of Western China, from the Zhou Dynasty onwards. Xiao Shao himself was exceedingly outstanding. At such a tender age, he was already in charge of 300,000 Jin Yi guards of the Great Jin Dynasty. The Emperor and the Empress Dowager were highly indulgent towards him, even allowing him to dispense of formality when with them. Initially, the Emperor had intended to make a change by designating Eighth Prince as the Crown Prince, but Xiao Shao had categorically opposed this in front of the entire imperial court. When the officials discussed imperial matters, they avoided this taboo topic. Strangely, the Emperor himself said nothing about the situation, and the proposal to designate a different Crown Prince was dropped. Among the people, there were those who speculated that, in order for Xiao Shao to be able to behave in such a way without qualms in front of the Emperor, he must certainly be in possession of some dirt on the Emperor and was threatening him. Added to all this was the fact that the previous Jinying Wang had led a rebellion against the Emperor. Hence, Xiao Shao had earned himself the reputation of a rebellious scoundrel. However, no matter how much the people gossipped, Xiao Shaos status in the imperial court was still formidable, no matter what his reputation was. He willfully refused to take sides or gather supporters, and seemed to be of a totally different species. In Jiang Ruans previous life, Eighth Prince had expressed goodwill towards him several times, but Xiao Shao had flatly rebuffed him every single time. At the time when the old Emperor died and Eighth Prince had ascended the throne, Xiao Shao had been with his troops, dealing with the Xirong, and Jiang Ruan had no idea what had happened to him thereafter. In her previous life, Jiang Ruan had only seen Xiao Shao once, in the distance at a palace banquet where she had caught a glimpse of a person clad in black. However, at that time, she had been totally focused on the Eighth Prince, Xuan Li, and had no place in her heart for anyone else. According to the current time frame, Xiao Shao was barely out of his twenties. When the people on Qing Song Boat saw Xiao Shao and Xuan Li arriving, a chorus of greetings arose. A nobleman clad in green stood up and walked over to Xiao Shao. Smiling, he said, This is the first time Ive ever seen you attend the Lantern Festival. Could it be that youve taken a fancy to some girl? This was Mo Cong. Xiao Shao looked at him coolly, and, without speaking, found a seat by the window and sat down. On the other side, Fifth Princes eyes grew wide as he noticed Xuan Li. Lao Ba[5], what wind blew you here? [5] Lao ba ( ϰ ) C = old, also used as a term of familiar address for an older male; = eight, referring to Eighth Prince. Xuan Li smiled politely and said, Our imperial father commanded me to get out and about. He realised that Ive spent so many years in the capital, but have never once observed the elegance of the Lantern Festival. So, here I am. Naturally, to Fifth Prince, these words had a deeper significance. It was common knowledge that the Emperor was inclined towards Eighth Prince. That he should give such an order, coupled with the fact that Ling Long Boat was full of ladies from high and noble families, could perhaps indicate that the Emperor intended to give Xuan Li a helping hand in finding a consort. Fifth Princes smile had hidden depths of meaning as he said, Thats wonderful. Tonight, youll have to take a good look around. Every single one of our Great Jin Dynastys ladies is outstandingly beautiful and charming. Having said this, he smiled vaguely at Xuan Li, who responded with a warm smile of his own. Meanwhile, Ling Long Boat was experiencing turbulence on no small scale. This year, the arrival of Eighth Prince and Jinying Wang had stirred the ladies to great excitement, leading to many secret resolutions to strive fervently for fame on Ling Long Boat. Wen Fei Fei shook her head and commented, Really, its just two men. To get carried away to such an extent is simply ridiculous. She had spoken without thinking, but she then noticed Xu Ruo Xi turning pale. It was only when Zhao Jin shoved her gently that she hurriedly gathered herself to say, Ruo Xi, Im not talking about you, Im talking about those girls who are really lacking in manners . . . Since she was from a military family, it was not surprising that she had no clue what she should say, and her explanation was phrased awkwardly. She could see Xu Ruo Xis face becoming even more pale. While Dong Yinger felt somewhat helpless, Jiang Ruan smiled and said, softly, Wen Jiejie is right, but todays situation is a horse of another colour. Jinying Wang and Eighth Prince are both remarkably talented young men. To be able to see their noble visages today is indeed an incredible blessing[6]. To be startled thus by their imperial graces into doing something that one does not customarily do is certainly pardonable. In any case, these actions were inspired by the imperial family, so it does not matter one jot whether they are to be considered silly, or not. [6] San sheng you xing ( ) C lit. the blessing of three lifetimes She had equated admiration for the young men to respect for the imperial household, so Xu Ruo Xis face gradually regained its colour. Wen Fei Fei looked at Jiang Ruan gratefully, but Jiang Ruan herself was looking a little pensive. The current situation had shown beyond doubt that Xu Ruo Xi liked Xiao Shao. However, in her previous life, she had never heard any rumours about the girl whom Xiao Shao liked. Thus, she was worried that Xu Ruo Xis affectionate heart would be misplaced. At the same time, she was a little suspicious. In her previous life, she had never seen Xiao Shao during the Lantern Festival. How was it that he would suddenly appear in this life? Could it be that some situations were quietly changing because they were a few years ahead of the original timeline? As she pondered the matter, everyone had boarded Qing Song Boat and Ling Long Boat. The boatmen called out sharply, and the boats set off, moving slowly towards the middle of the moat. The water reflected the myriad coloured lantern lights on the boats. The lanterns lit up the space between the heavens and the human world with dazzling light, making it seem as if one were living in a time that had long passed. The two boats sailed along next to each other, so Jiang Ruan was able to have a good look at the people aboard Qing Song Boat from her position on board Ling Long Boat. Xuan Li was entirely clad in white, like snow. Time seemed to have turned back for Jiang Ruan. In her previous life, it had been on precisely this boat that she had met this modest gentleman, warm and gentle, like jade, and offered her life to him. Xuan Li, currently seated and drinking tea, felt an icy-cold gaze upon himself. When he turned his head to look at Ling Long Boat moving in line with them, the young ladies on board the boat were all talking and laughing softly. Not a few admiring glances were cast his way, but none had the intensity he had previously felt. He shook his head, silently berating himself for being overly sensitive. However, he did not notice the girl in a red dress sitting by the window, bowing her head in a seemingly disaffected manner in order to hide the gleam in her eyes. A young noble lady on Ling Long Boat suggested, This year is the same as in previous years. Since we have already reached the centre of the river, lets start the competition. The person who wins will have the most beautiful lantern on the boat. Her charming tone was persuasive as she stole a glance at the people on board Qing Song Boat, but the deeper meaning behind her words was hard to discern. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. As she did so, she observed Jiang Su Su, who was sitting on the other side, involuntarily sit upright, a faint smile upon her face. Jiang Su Su would not let go of this opportunity, especially as both Eighth Prince and Jinying Wang were in attendance that night. A hint of a sneer flashed across her eyes. At the beginning, she had never considered the fact that she and Jiang Su Su were both di daughters of the Jiang fu. So, how was it that back then Xuan Li had taken notice of her alone, she of the bad reputation, and completely ignored the devastatingly beautiful Jiang Su Su. On thinking about it now, it was all simply a joke, and one that was not particularly brilliant. Chapter 58 - Competition The one who had spoken was Princess Rongya of the Grand Princes fu. She was beautiful and gentle. Her eyes carefully drifted toward the black-clad young man aboard the Qing Song Boat. Another woman echoed, Exactly, I dont know whos going to get the rabbit lantern this year. Princess Rongya smilingly replied, If thats the case, then Ill start painting first. The noble women surrounding her were in agreement. Maidservants brought Anhui ink[1] and sheets of Xuan paper. Princess Rongya was considered a talented woman. However, as she knew that she would not be able to beat Jiang Su Su today, she took a different approach, as painting a picture only took a moment. Soon after, the maidservant slowly revealed what was painted on the Xuan paper as Princess Rongya put the brush aside, Ill embarrass myself. [1] Huimo ( ī ) C Anhui ink (known for its quality). Hui ink sticks have distinct features and unique production techniques. There are many advantages in the use of top quality Hui ink in traditional production; for example, some are as firm as a jade, distinct in texture and always durable, some are full of ink aromas while grinding. Some are made of pine soot and glue and are very strong, others are as solid as a stone, distinct in texture, and deepest black, which are invaluable. . She had painted spring plum blossoms. A tree trunk in the snow-covered ground. The trunk was enveloped with dense snow. Two butterflies perched on the trunk C perhaps they were attracted by the fragrance of plum blossoms hidden within the snow. Her painting skills were not at all special, but the concept was outstanding and the composition ingenious. When the scroll was unfolded, it elicited everyones admiration. There was a flash of triumph on Princess Rongyas mien. She took a stealthy glance at the black-clad young man on the neighbouring boat but found that the man just bowed his head to drink tea and did not look her way. She felt disappointed again. On the Qing Song Boat, Fifth Prince rested his chin on his hand and exclaimed to Xuan Li, Princess Rongyas painting is interesting, and she also has a very lovely character. This remark might be subtle and ineffable, but in fact, it was meant as a probe. Princess Rongya was the apple of the Grand Princes eye. If one received Princess Rongyas favour, the Grand Prince was bound to become a helping hand that could not be underestimated. Xuan Li smiled weakly and shook his head. Is that so? But I think the painting is a bit superficial. Fifth Prince narrowed his eyes and said meaningfully, Eighth brothers eyes are always lofty. After that, the surroundings fell into silence. In the past, each and every noble woman volunteered to display her skills. Because of Jiang Su Su, they did not strive to be the best, but if they could seize the opportunity to make a name for themselves, it would be a very good deal. This year, however, because of the Eighth Prince and Jinying WangC one an aristocratic prince that could not be provoked, while the other was a very outstanding yet cold noble- the ladies seemed bashful and nobody took the initiative to speak up. Jiang Ruan simply sat by and watched. Just then, she heard a delicate and timid voice ring out near her, Now that Princess Rongya has taken the lead, Ill go next. The person who had just spoken was Xu Ruoxi. All of the people seated at her table were astonished, except for Jiang Ruan. Xu Ruoxi was usually proud and virtuous. She had no interest in jumping around like a clown in these competitions for fame and fortune. Why would she take the initiative to make such a suggestion today? Only Jiang Ruans eyes glimmered with understanding. Xu Ruoxis appearance must be motivated by her desperate admiration for Jinying Wang. Women always want to show their best in front of their sweethearts. Xu Ruoxi usually acted noble and virtuous, still, she was an ordinary girl in front of the person she liked. Jiang Ruan admired Xu Ruoxi a little when she thought of this. Not all women have the courage to let go of their pride in front of their sweethearts, only wishing to blossom for him. Xu Ruoxis action was somewhat surprising to the ladies around her. They were all frequent visitors to the Ling Long Boat. Xu Ruoxi had never participated in the previous years. This years participation was very sudden. It made people feel odd. Princess Rongya smiled, What does Miss Xu want to compete in? There were no set rules on talents. The men on Qing Song Boat were not interested in rabbit lanterns so such competitions were held only amongst the women. The noble ladies on the Ling Long Boat performed their best skills. In the end, the one who received the most praise from the people on the Qing Song Boat would win. Xu Ruoxi blushed and felt somewhat uncomfortable. But, she exerted every effort to maintain her cold and frosty expression. Since its a celebration, I will just pen a few words. Xu Ruoxi was the daughter of Hanlin Academys Chancellor. She came from a well-known literary family and had been immersed in books since childhood. Her handwriting was quite good. She was still young. When her maidservant came over with the Xuan paper and a writing brush, she started writing without the slightest hesitation. She wrote without stopping. Her writing style was very natural, like moving clouds and flowing water. Her expression was also very focused. Xu Ruoxi was born delicately beautiful. However, she was usually too proud and aloof, making people overlook her facial features. When she wholeheartedly immersed in her world of writing, her iciness lessened and there was only gentleness in her expression. She looked especially beautiful and gentle. Many people on the Qing Song Boat had begun to pay some attention to her. Some young noblemen said, Shes talented and beautiful, coming from a literary family indeed. When Xu Ruoxi put down her brush, her maidservant displayed her handwritten work in front of everyone. It was only a simple luck[2] character, written in a rounded style. It was simple and neat. Jiang Ruan, suffering a lot in her last life at the Eighth Princes hands, didnt believe in the saying seeing a word was like seeing a person. But when she saw this one character, she couldnt help but praise it in her heart. Even though the handwriting was old-fashioned, it was just and magnificent. Xu Ruoxi was just like this character, a person who dared to love and dared to hate. [2] Fu ( ) C good fortune / happiness / luck All the people present were literate. Naturally, they understood whether her writing was good or bad. They all applauded and praised her. Zhao Jin spoke, Ruoxis character (writing) has improved again. As far as the eye can see, in the whole capital city, only the Eighth Prince is comparable (in skills). What is this talk? Dong Yinger was wreathed in smiles, We are all women, the Eighth Prince is a man. Comparing a mans writing with a woman, isnt Eighth Prince getting an unfair advantage? People laughed happily. In the midst of these admiring compliments, Xu Ruoxi stealthily glanced at the Qing Song Boat once more. Her brows immediately creased and her eyes turned dull. Jiang Ruan saw that, similar to her past life, Jinying Wang was the dream man of every female in the Great Jin Dynasty. Unfortunately, Xiao Shao was a romantically insensitive blockhead. Thus, many young womens hearts were broken. Xu Ruoxi returned to her seat. Her action had caught the attention of many young noblemen on the Qing Song Boat. However, she had been depressed since she returned to her seat. She ignored those admiring eyes and betrayed their goodwill. After Xu Ruoxis performance, another noble lady smiled happily and asked who should be next. But with the outstanding Princess Rongya and Xu Ruoxi before them, no one dared to follow and be the humiliated person. In the silence, a cautious and solemn voice rang out. Second Sister, arent you excellent at playing the zither? Dan niang would like to hear you play the guqin. Jiang Ruans eyes were a bit restrained. She looked at the speaker. Jiang Dan looked at the corner of her clothes anxiously, seeming somewhat afraid. But thats what she said just now. Jiang Su Su, sitting beside her, looked at Jiang Dan with some surprise, then blushed slightly. Dan niang, how can I play the guqin? Her eyes were uneasy, making people feel moved as if they were seeing a frightened fawn. Chapter 59 - A Recurring Mockery Why, how could the Second Jiang Miss possibly say so? Princess Rongya was still smiling wholeheartedly, Everyone knows that your guqin skills are unmatched. Why dont we have you play a piece for us today? Previously, when Jiang furen had become renowned throughout the capital due to her mastery of the guqin, it was such a pity that we never got the opportunity to see her. With you playing a tune today, wouldnt it be fortuitous for us to be able to see something spectacular? At the time, Xia Yan had been the most talented young lady in the capital. Her mastery over the guqin was truly something of perfection. Now, she had handed this guqin of hers over to Jiang Su Su, who was also renowned all over the land for her talent; this was undoubtedly decorating something that was already perfect. It wasnt that Princess Rongya wasnt envious of this. Only, she had always been crafty and shrewd, and therefore, understood that men were not fond of watching over the sinister and envious machinations of women; so if she could, why would she not try to appear more magnanimous in spirit? In addition, Jiang Su Sus talent was truly incomparable to anyone else, and with that, this years rabbit lantern would steadily and rightfully land in her hands. The noblewomen around them all echoed her request as some were hoping to see a lively show, some were offering some ingratiating flattery while some were truly hoping to hear her play. Wen Feifei frowned, Indeed, she truly can play the guqin. Ruan meimei, have you heard your Second Sister play before? Ive not heard her before, Jiang Ruan had a smile on her face as she continued, however, her playing ought to be heavenly to hear; the sound cant help but make one feel relaxed and refreshed. Lin Zi Xiang merely cold snorted, Its nothing much, just an act! Dong Yinger could only helplessly smile towards Jiang Ruan but Jiang Ruan did not deign to reply. What was taking place now should be happening at the Lantern Festival in a few years, where Jiang Su Sus guqin piece had a lofty, artistic mood, which was incomparably exquisite and elegant; that had truly been an extremely eye-catching performance. Moreover, with her own sorrowful figure and manner that served as a foil to Jiang Su Su; between the two daughters of the Jiang family, one was like a pure and maidenly snow fairy, while the other seemed like muddy soil, extremely dirty. With that, such rumours were then quietly spread among all the nobility in the capital. At this moment, Jiang Su Su was dressed in white clothes and adorned with simple yet elegant accessories- all these served to highlight that neat and elegant little face of hers, making it seem exceptionally dainty. Therefore, among the numerous young ladies present, she seemed unusually virtuous. With a smile bursting forth from her face, she said, since everyone has agreed, then I will show my poor skills and can only hope that it will not sully everyones ears. With her sort of modest attitude, it immediately aroused a stretch of praise from everyone. Subsequently, a maidservant delivered an exquisite and precious guqin to her. Jiang Su Su then sat in front of the zither, closed her eyes and began to play[1]. [1] Kish fnxing ( ʼ ) C In the ancient Chinese era, playing an instrument often meant lighting incense to begin creating a tranquil mind and serene environment. This is derived from the belief that the action of doing this creates a spirit and body that is one with the heavens. Therefore, in the original text, there is a use of beginning to burn an incense here. On the Qing Song Boat, all eyes had fallen on this remarkably stunning and beautiful woman. Mo Cong lightly nudged Xiao Shao, That would be the di daughter of Jiang Quans fu. Now in the entire capital, one cannot find anyone that can compare with her either in looks or talent. What do you think? Xiao Shao indifferently shot a glance towards Ling Long Boat and his expression remained cold and cheerless. Mo Cong was unable to evoke a satisfactory reply and feeling embarrassed, turned his head around to continue looking over Jiang Su Sus performance. Zheng! With that one sound, the sounds of the zither pierced through the skies as if similar to an unsheathed sharp sword. Jiang Su Sus eyes fluttered open and her slender and beautiful fingers flew across the strings. Like a spotlessly snowy-white butterfly, the sweet sounds from her zither trickled into everyones ears. What she was playing was a piece called Serene Orchid[2]. [2] Serene Orchid: you can listen here. The sounds from the guqin were worldly and melodious, and as it flowed, there was not even the slightest trace of pause, thus, the music seemed even more tranquil and distant. With her dressing in white attire today, in the dazzled gazes of the audience, they seemed to feel as if they had seen an elegant and refined orchid perched upon a mountain ravine that was expressing its faint worries and grievances. All this could not help but make one feel tender affection in their hearts. The intentions behind choosing this tune were brilliant; firstly, it had highlighted the lofty and unsullied fairy-like temperament of Jiang Su Sus and secondly, it also made the audience attach some importance to her and her worth as an individual. Who wouldnt be fond of such a girl that remained unchanged and unsoiled from all the turmoil and temptations from the secular world? Xu Ruoxi slightly frowned; all of the people present had been deeply immersed in this guqin tune of the Mountain Ravine Orchid. Yet, Jiang Ruan was the only one who had leaned against the window as she gazed upon the flowing river outside. Indeed, Jiang Su Su had her name resounding across the capital just like it happened similarly in her previous life. However, she was unsure if she (JSS) could truly bear such a huge recognition upon her shoulders. As expected, just after one song, there were some youthful gentlemen in the Qing Song Boat that had taken the initiative to applaud, This song should have only been possible to hear and exist in the heavens, it is a rare chance to hear such a piece on earth! Everyone echoed in agreement and for a moment, Ling Long Boat too had been aflutter with compliments. Jiang Su Sus charming face had reddened and once more, she had returned to her seat. With narrowed eyes, the Fifth Prince glanced at Jiang Su Su and a trace of dazzlement flashed through those pupils of his, The Second Young Lady of the Jiang family has a good appearance and in addition to that, has this sort of matchless talent. Truly a woman of elegance and purity like an orchid. Xuan Li had given rare praise. The Fifth Prince had glanced at him, Lao Ba, if she is to your liking, then why dont you have Father Emperor give an edict and marry her home. Xuan Li shook his head, People can only admire lotuses from afar, but should not so lightly dally with them[3]. [3] K yun gun b k xi wn yn ( Զ۲ ) C From an essay called The theory of the love of lotuses by a neo-Confucian scholar, it describes through a prose about how lotuses should have the universal love by everyone and how it is a lofty and pure flower. It also describes how girls would always somehow have a spot of them unchanged and would be able to preserve the purity of the heart. In addition, it also refers to how girls hearts are hard to predict. Therefore, admiring a girl from afar is when she is the most beautiful, however, when one plucks her down out of the desire to possess, this would then destroy that beauty and become unattainable. The Second Young Miss of the Jiang family is indeed the prettiest lady in the capital. The Fifth Prince remarked, If one does not plan to get a headstart and have her set in ones own sights while shes still young, perhaps she might even be snatched up quickly since the quick-footed climb up first. This sort of young woman, even if it was just to place them in ones home to admire, that too would make one perfectly contented. Princess Rongya spoke smilingly, With this piece from the Second Young Lady of the Jiang family, my sisters[4] and I, if one were to compare, would truly be ashamed to meet people with our own skills. [4] Jimimen ( ) C Sisters. A general affectionate term for women of the same generation. Jiejie is jesting with me. Jiang Su Su said, Sisters are all being gracious on account of my young age, and cant bear to have me embarrass myself and therefore have sung such praises about me. Look, look, look, Princess Rongya covered her mouth as she chuckled, this mouth of yours is truly so sweet, however, we certainly did not yield to you, you truly did play extremely well. However, with such skills of yours on the guqin, the person that goes next will truly be at a disadvantage. So is there anyone who wants to go next? The noblewomen on Ling Long Boat looked at each other but they did not speak a word. At this point of deadlock, Jiang Su Su suddenly tilted her head slightly, looked towards Jiang Ruan and commented, Da Jiejie, you are superb at dancing right, today is your first time coming to the Lantern Festival after returning to the capital. Why dont you let everyone get to know you and show your dancing skills, how about that? Everyone gradually turned their gazes towards Jiang Su Su then suddenly, returned back to Jiang Ruan. On Qing Song Boat, Mo Cong doubtfully said, Sigh, how could the Second Young Lady of the Jiang family let that big sister of hers who has just returned from the countryside dance, wouldnt she be making a fool of herself? Although she has a pretty good family background, she probably has not learnt the four arts before. Jiang Ruan turned around and with a slight semblance of a smile, she looked at Jiang Su Su in the eyes, Dance? Thats right, the large boat was travelling along the river and occasionally, there would be bumps. Although the hull of the ship was spacious, still if one were to dance on the ship, the vessel might have only been rocking but one would very easily fall into the water. In her previous life, Jiang Su Su had also made an open and candid suggestion to have Jiang Ruan dance. However, it was such a pity that she had been completely unaware of the rules in the capitals aristocratic circle and truly thought that a dance from the countryside could be shown off on stage. So she had then danced to a song in front of everyone. The hull shook and rocked; with one tragic dance that one couldnt bear to watch, it made the audience sneer incessantly. Finally, to top it off, till this day she was unsure who had stepped onto the end of her skirt and with one stumble, she had slipped into the water. That incident had made her become a huge mockery and a joke to everyone. Adding onto that, when she had been fished out of the water, she was still drenched, however, the icing on the cake for all this was the handkerchief with a mans love poem written on it that fell out of her clothes. Through and through, it had truly been a joke. Now, Jiang Su Su was planning on making her reenact this mockery once more, right? Jiang Su Su could feel that she had been stared at by Jiang Ruan with that charming pair of eyes of hers. She felt that the intentions she seemed to have did not remain unknown and concealed to her sister and subconsciously, she retreated a step backwards, Da Jiejie? At the next second, Jiang Ruan had already recovered her smile and indifferently answered, My dancing is no good. Since ermei wants to see, I could just dance for ermei alone, wouldnt that be great? This comment of hers was truly baffling. To ones surprise, that stance of hers was certainly incomparably brassy and in comparison to Jiang Su Su who evoked ones feelings of pity for her, Jiang Ruans beautiful and alluring appearance possessed its own regal flavour. Many peoples gazes were thus attracted by that attitude and posture of hers. On Qing Song Boat, when Xiao Shao heard her voice, he too slowly fixed his eyes on her. Chapter 60 - Crown Pressures The Capital T/N : Im suspecting the chapter title refers and alludes to JR winning over JSS as the champion, like having a crown of sorts for the winner, and being renowned over the capital with the news. Jiang Ruans posture was elegant and after saying those skillful words, she stood up and repeated them once more with a smile, Since ermei truly wishes to see, then I will dance for ermei, its no bother either. Hearing this, all the noblewomen around them began to whisper, Perhaps this person has been possessed. After all, how could she possibly, of her own accord, try to make a fool of herself? Surely, she must have stayed too long in that countryside village and does not know the severity at hand here, she truly believes that one dance of hers could ruin cities. A sense of mockery could really be felt in these words of the audience. For Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi, who stood behind her, their hearts were in a fluster; they had been living with Jiang Ruan ever since she was little. Whether Jiang Ruan really knew how to dance, both of them were extremely clear. Although, in the eyes of servants under their command, a masters every word and action were all wonderful. Yet, as maidservants, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi were extremely clear about the rules in the aristocratic circle. They were deadly afraid that Jiang Ruan had fallen for Jiang Su Sus trap and would commit a breach of etiquette in front of all these famous and prestigious families in the capital. On the Qing Song Boat, the Fifth Prince narrowed his eyes, Born with good looks, yet, what a pity, she seems to be a fool. Where do these words stem from, Fifth Brother? Xuan Li lightly chuckled. The talent of Second Young Miss of the Jiang family is already peerless, yet, the Eldest Young Miss is trying to seize her limelight away. How can that even be possible, but after all, she is a woman that was raised in the countryside, so how could she know any better? In between those words of his was the faintest trace of scorn. Momentarily, everyone on the two boats had their tongues wagging and without exception, everyone remarked that Jiang Ruan was short-sighted and delusional to be pulled into a comparison between Jiang Su Su and herself. Jiang Su Su flashed a trace of ecstasy in her eyes, but on her face was a gentle smile as she said, Then Su niang is blessed, and I request Da Jiejie to perform a dance for everyone. To perform a dance for everyone. Lin Zi Xiang furrowed her eyebrows and yet these seemingly innocent words of Jiang Su Su had made Jiang Ruan out to be regarded as one of those dancing entertainers that one would call for at will. For a moment, this had made some people around them cover their mouths in an insulting sneer. Without batting an eyelid, it almost appeared as though Jiang Ruan had not clearly heard what Jiang Su Su had just said. In her past life, Jiang Quan and Xuan Li had her do such things for the purpose of having her gain divine favor and surviving in the oppressive environment of the palace. This sort of comment to perform a dance for everyone, all of the imperial consorts around her had always requested as such. Therefore, just like a dancing clown, she had racked her brains to perform a dance. However, in the end, it had merely given her a nickname of an idiotic beauty. Nodding her head in assent and without anyones leave, Jiang Ruan had walked to the bow of the ship. The set up of the Ling Long Boat was very unique; for the convenience of being able to freely admire the moon during the Lantern Festival, the bow of the boat had been designed to be extremely spacious and smooth. As a matter of fact, this design had also made it a suitable area for dancing. Extending her hand out, she had effortlessly pulled out the hairpin behind her head that had been pinned into her coiled hair. Immediately, like a flowing waterfall, her head of fine black hair hung down to her waist, emitting an enchanting luster. Nipping on to the two-noded hairpin that she held in her hands in between her lips, her charming eyes, that held much passion, had swept a glance over everyone on the two large vessels. Then, softly, her lips moved. Unexpectedly, that two noded hairpin was actually an elaborate tube-shaped whistle. Under the reflective contrast between the beautiful landscape and herself, the first note that overflowed from those red lips was clear and melodious. At first, one felt that the sounds from the whistle were dull and ordinary, as if one had used plain water to boil porridge that would have made one feel that its taste was dry as dust and tedious. Yet, her figure did not move and quietly stood on the same spot without the slightest movement. Then, some people on the vessels began to show evident expressions of ridicule and merely remarked that this Eldest Young Lady of the Jiang family who had just returned to the capital was trying to exhaust her limited abilities and even went so far as to boast shamelessly and propose to dance for everyone. Xuan Lis expression had slightly stiffened, he knew that the piece that this young girl had played was Guangling Verse[1]. In this very piece of Guangling Verse, the contents were about Nie Zhengs revenge for his father during the Warring States period and his historical deed of assassinating the Han Wang. This was exactly a story about revenge, so why would the Eldest Young Miss of the Jiang family chose such a musical composition filled with such a murderous and combative mood at this moment when there are lovely flowers and a round moon, wherein everything is wonderful and everyone is feeling cheerful. [1] Guangling Verse C Video link. Here is some background about this piece, it is a grand Guqin piece of ancient China, originated from the piece Nie Zhengs Assassin of Lord Han. The whole piece is divided into 45 paragraphs, and the music is bold and exciting, full of rebelliousness as it pictures the exciting scene of one of the most famous assassins on Chinese history. Therefore, it is very difficult for Jiang Ruan to use a flute/whistle to play this alone instead of using a zither. Although these one or two sections appeared to be ordinary and made everyone remark on her mediocre skills, yet, Xuan Li knew that in these two sections, there was turbulent undercurrents and if one were not genuinely in that deliberate state of mind (where one feels such emotions), then that person would be unable to play the piece out. As for him, from this piece of hers, he could hear the forbearance and loneliness that seemed to span for several centuries. Apart from Xuan Li alone, there were others who had felt this way as well. When the music note had barely just echoed, Xiao Shao who had been sitting alone before the window had then slightly raised an eyebrow as his gaze fell upon the young lady who was performing a tune all by herself. After those few sections, Jiang Ruan then unhurriedly began to move. As those red clothes moved in the spry and lively dancing, it was like an alluring phantom that had fallen to the mortal realm, extremely evil yet, extremely beautiful. Spins, standing on tiptoes, lifted arms and kicks, as for what she had executed; never was one movement more graceful, more moving and was just so glamorously stirring that it had made one unable to take their eyes off her. Gradually, everyone began to take back their gazes of scorn and could barely cover up the wisps of amazement in their eyes. That was the span of countless decades of her quiet endurance and grief; of the premature departure of her mother and her elder brother that had left her on her own in the world. It was the portrait of how her father had impatiently exchanged her for the imperial edict and had her sent into unfathomable depths of the palace. It was for the man who had become the reigning monarch, her loved one whom she had thought was warm and considerate to her; and yet, was the one to proclaim herself as a calamitous beautiful woman who would ruin a nation. It was for her di mei[2] who had caused her to become a human swine and had made her watch with despair as her young son had been intimately trifled with until he died. [2] D mi () C This refers to the younger legitimate sister, or here, Jiang Su Su who has the privilege of being part of the legal family and therefore, the perks of noble peerage and access too. Her dance was sorrowful as if in the very next second she would ride the winds and return, and without knowing why, it had caused others to call to mind a mournful scene in their hearts. Gradually, for some people who had been watching, their eyes had welled up in grief and sorrow. Once the slow-moving dance had passed, the whistling sound in her mouth had begun to hasten expediently as if a powerful army had tread forth and brought forward a fierce, blood-thirsty and imposing manner. Abruptly, her movements sped up, so swiftly so that some of the audience could not see her movements clearly and could only feel that that robe of red clothes seemed like blood; under the moonlight, it seemed astonishingly beautiful. Yet, the sounds of music were impassioned and every tone seemed like a sob. Naturally, that was the sorrow of hers that had reached the pinnacle of pain she had to endure. It had transformed into an unforgettable hatred that had been carved into her bones and engraved into her heart; it was a demand of a spirit filled with vengeance that had crawled out of the depths of hell for the people who owed her a lifes debt. It was simply a demand for their lives, a hidden ruthlessness and viciousness that could not allow them to get away with it. It was an indifference that demanded one to stand upon the peak to overlook every living being. In the shining moonlight, as it was reflected upon her little face that seemed sparkling and translucent like snow, her eyes were astonishingly bright. However, contrary to expectations, not the slightest bit of a smile was reflected in her gaze. What remained was only a deep-rooted indifference and mockery as if she was an Asura[3], but at the same time, she seemed like a goddess; a beautiful woman that was wilfully heedless of all living things. [3] Asura C A malevolent spirit in Indian mythology. That vengeful music composition was still resounding and that vengeful dance still continued on. This dance had already made everyone feel fear and trepidation since they had never seen a person dance this beautifully; so beautifully that it made people frightened. As if she was the person in the music piece, a hatred that had been filled and hidden in her chest for her want to avenge; even if she would not hesitate at all to pay any price for it. Even if she needed to enter the abyss of hell once more, then she too would drag someone to be buried with her. Yet, it seemed she was indifferent to squandering her life. This was an enchanting woman that had been born solely for revenge. Intimately and softly, low and tender, just like a pair of children, our gratitude and grudges are like intimate whispers between us. Suddenly, there comes a majestic and reverberating sound that brings to mind how the brave warriors charge forth into an enemy battlefield. Like floating clouds soaring in the broad and distant world, the willow catkin float as if without root or stem. While a hundred birds gayly chirp away, suddenly above them all, a lone phoenix could be heard. Yet even as the steep precipice of the cliff pressures one downwards that makes it difficult to climb up even an inch, to abruptly lose momentum would be a fall of a thousand zhang (like loose rocks falling into an abyss). Oh but a pity, like everyone else, I have a pair of ears that are inept in appreciating and understanding music. Hearing by mine ears Monk Yings playing (at times, supple yet at times, firm), thou rouses a highly capable person to experience through the rises and falls of it. In a flurry, mine fingers reach out to shelter from and grasp hold of the qin, alas, these moist tears of mine have long since surged up and welled in mine eyes. Oh Monk Ying, thines skill is truly exceptional, wouldst thou not torment my bosom with the ice and fire? [4] [4] This entire poem Hearing Monk Ying Play the Qin was written by the Tang dynasty poet, Han Yu. At that time, Monk Ying was a Buddhist monk that had been extremely adept at playing the qin and had previously requested some poets to listen and create some poems in praise of it; there are numerous poems of various poets with each their own feelings and differing thoughts about his playing. Through the poem, one can tell that Han Yu had experienced happiness, fear, grief and joy while listening to it. The music had made many abrupt changes, with all sorts of feelings welling up in ones heart that remain inexpressible. Thus, this poem aids one in understanding the turbulent emotional highs and lows that everyone present had experienced while sitting through Jiang Ruans dancing and musical performance. As the piece lingered at its end, the red clothes that had been fluttering in the wind abruptly became pinched. Yet, as she raised her head with that fine black hair of hers that fell to her waist like a waterfall, it seemed as glamourous and mesmerizing as satin. Her charming complexion seemed as bewitching as a siren and with a raise of those charming eyes of hers that almost seemed to have not swept a glance over Jiang Su Su, she raised her hand towards her own neck and made a beheading gesture. Jiang Su Sus body had stiffened and Jiang Ruan smiled sweetly. As a beauty smiled, it was as if in just one night, the spring flowers in Great Jin Chao had piled up, layer by layer, and blossomed. It was so beautiful that it made people feel that to take even one more glance would have been sacrilegious. Xiao Shaos elegant and handsome face remained as cool and frigid as before, while those long lashes of his had covered up the slightest traces of contemplation in his eyes. ? MerakiTranslations tranzgeek.wordpress.com. This translation belongs to tranzgeek.wordpress.com. If you are not reading this from tranzgeek.wordpress.com then this has been posted without consent of the translator. Chapter 61 - Setting Off Lanterns Jiang Ruan stood completely still at the ships bow as if she was not a part of this world. For a moment, everyone was silent and feeling absolutely captivated by what they had just witnessed. The whole time, the young masters, who watched with silly expressions on their faces, were mumbling, Theres such an unrivalled beauty among mortals. Having a glimpse at her today, I have no regrets even if I were to perish. Sitting upright inside the boat, Jiang Su Sus complexion was ashen. Her usual smiling face now contorted into a fierce look. Jiang Li too had not only gripped her hands fiercely but also clenched her pearly white teeth until they were almost broken into pieces. The Fifth Prince opened his mouth to speak as his eyes flashed with greed. She is an equal match to the the Second Young Miss of the Jiang family Xuan Li had a complicated look on his face. Somehow, he felt that there was something about this young girl that attracted him profoundly. He really wanted to examine the girls appearance more carefully. The crowd was silent for a full quarter of an hour. The young master from the Generals fu took the lead in shouting, Both beauty and skills are exceptional! Its not an exaggeration to say that youre the capitals number one beauty! Jiang Ruan turned her head. She smiled faintly, seemingly grateful to him. The young masters face blushed when he glimpsed her dazzling beauty. His gaze was suddenly obsessed. Jiang Su Sus expression was even more unsightly after she heard that remark. She couldnt understand why Jiang Ruan, living in the countryside and having never had any teachers, was able to dance and play the whistle so well. She had always been conceited about her own talents, but she knew that she wouldnt be able to match Jiang Ruans level in performing that dance. Besides, how could she dance so steadily and not fall when the ship was tossing about? Jiang Su Su would never know that since Jiang Ruan was not favoured by the emperor while living inside the palace, she was often bullied by the favoured concubines and was taught to dance at the imperial concubines birthday. She trained so much that her feet hardly seemed to touch the ground. Even after a lifetime had passed, she would never forget it. She could even dance in the palm of ones hand. What could this swaying boat count as? The crowd echoed that remark. They gave much more praise to her in comparison to Jiang Su Su, since people always prefer shiny new toys. Admittedly, Jiang Su Su was excellent. However, she had occupied the title of the capitals most talented woman for many, many years. On top of that, she had the appearance of an innocent fairy who was not well-versed in the ways of the world. Now, Jiang Ruan, the Eldest Young Lady of the Jiang family, had a completely different demeanour. As long as Jiang Ruan was more outstanding, even by a tiny bit, peoples attention would gravitate toward her. The men praised her highly, but the womens faces were not so good. Originally, the Jiang clan only had Jiang Su Su. Now, Jiang Ruan had appeared. Werent all the excellent men in the capital about to become fascinated by those two? When Jiang Ruan returned to her seat, Lin Zi Xiang remarked. So, actually, you can dance. People cant help but have a newfound respect for you now. Zhao Jin Jun and Wen Fei Fei had an unrefined temper. They also nodded. Youve dazzled our eyes. But, your whistle was truly excellent. Can you teach us? When I was living in the countryside, I didnt have any musical instruments. So, I simply played it when I was bored. Jiang Ruan explained in such a way that sounded reasonable and made people feel a little more pity for her. Dong Yinger took a look at her. But, why did you choose the Guangling Verse? Most noble ladies would not choose such a tune for todays occasion. Jiang Ruan smiled. I can play only this. Xu Ruoxis complexion was somewhat wan. She hung her head without speaking a word. Everyone knew that she was upset and pretended not to see her in order to avoid embarrassing her. Soon after, several noble ladies went on to perform, but it was nothing but a mere formality. After Jiang Ruans Guangling dance that shook the audience to their core, they werent interested in watching the flat and insipid performances that followed. At this years Lantern Festival, a dark horse appeared from the Jiang family. They all said that this years rabbit lantern must fall into Jiang Ruans hand. Aboard the Qingsong Boat, people were discussing and comparing Jiang Su Su in her former days to todays Jiang Ruan. After the performance, it was time for everyone to go toward the bow of the boat to float the lanterns into the river. These floating lanterns were all exquisitely made. After all the young masters and the young ladies had written on slips of paper and put them inside the lantern, they pushed their floating lanterns personally into the river. Jiang Ruan also followed the crowd to the bow of the boat. Her smile was very moving. In her previous life, the scandal broke out before she could float her lantern. When she was hiding inside the boat, shivering with cold, it was the Eighth Prince, Xuan Li, who came over with a lantern and spoke to her. What do you wish for? His tall body blocked her from peoples contemptuous glances. At that very moment, she just wanted to latch on to the man in front of her who gave her so much warmth. She put her cherished hope in that lantern- to be by his side. Alas, her wish eventually turned into a conspiracy through and through. As Jiang Ruan recalled, the person she hated the most was not actually Xuan Li. Compared to him, Jiang Su Su was the one who had deprived her of more things. However, Xuan Li was also wrong. He shouldnt have given her hope. He had made her, who fell into a desperate strait, think that she had grasped a life-saving straw. It resulted in the mallet of death. After having received care and warmth, she was told that everything was a sham. Bai Zhi handed her the lantern while Lian Qiao passed the paper and writing brush to her. Jiang Ruan thought for a moment. She took the paper from Lian Qiao but did not write anything on it. She rolled the paper up and put it inside the lantern. Jiang Su Su, who had been watching all her movements, saw this action and came approaching. She asked, Da Jiejie, why didnt you write anything on the lantern? Jiang Su Sus voice was deliberately loud. Jiang Ruan was now put on the spot. Immediately, people from both boats turned their gazes toward her. I have nothing to ask for, so I have nothing to write. Jiang Ruan replied indifferently. Jiang Su Su smiled. How can Da Jiejie have nothing to ask for? For instance, requesting Fathers health, winning titles for Eldest Brother, making our Jiang fu prosper, or having our mother give us a younger brother? In short, how can you have no requests? Her words were equivalent to accusing Jiang Ruan of disloyalty, being unfilial, cruel and unjust, and without any thoughts for the Jiang fus welfare. This kind of accusation made Bai Zhi and Lian Jiao frown. Jiang Ruan listened with a sneer. Father? How was Jiang Quan a father? He would sell his son and daughter to pave the way for Jiang Su Su. Mother? Her mothers bones had already turned to ashes, and there was no one else in this world. Elder brother? Recently, there had been no news of him. It was unknown whether hes still alive or already dead. Jiang Su Sus remarks were like adding salt to the wound. Ermei had no idea. Jiang Ruans voice was gentle as if she had no anger at all. Father is in good health. Otherwise, how can he serve in court? About the matter of Second Elder Brother getting the top-scorer title in the examination, we also cant help him with that. Who can help Mother to have a little brother, if not Guanyin[1], the Goddess of Mercy? How is it related to us? Kuan-yan bodhisattva, Northern Sung dynasty, China, c. 1025, wood, Honolulu Academy of Arts.jpg[1] Guanyin C Guanyin is short for Guanshiyin, which means The One Who Perceives the Sounds of the World. Guanyin is a bodhisattva C a person who is motivated by supreme compassion and is a potential Buddha in training. She is associated with Mahayana Buddhists. She is commonly known as the Goddess of Mercy, and her main aspect is compassion. Guanyins mixture of male and female characteristics led her to become one of the most widely beloved Buddhist figures. According to the ancient followers, she had powers to make miracles happen. Her lips were raised up slightly. In the world, what really matters is your own efforts. The heart is sincere, but the future, after all, is still up to us, isnt it? Her voice had a trace of melancholy. I used to worship Buddha, but in the end, my mother passed away and my elder brothers whereabouts are unknown. Tell me, what a request from the heart can really achieve? It all depends on the person. This remark was heard by the crowd. Mo Cong burst out laughing. Seeing Xiao Shao looking at him, he quickly said, I only thought Jiang familys Eldest Misss speech was indeed wonderful . Cough. The birth of a child is really not something that they can control. Jiang Ruans speech was humorous, without preaching. Hearing about her pitiful life, people were filled with sympathy. Jiang Su Sus expression turned menacing but she had to pretend to be happy. After everyone had put down their lanterns, Jiang Ruan also bent down to put her lantern into the river. When she was about to stand up, Jiang Su Su, without any changes in her expression, quietly stretched her foot out and tried to trip her. Chapter 62 - To Accidentally Expose a Love Affair Jiang Su Su extended her leg to trip Jiang Ruan. Seemingly not noticing anything, Jiang Ruan continued to get up, but inadvertently leaned to one side and managed to avoid Jiang Su Sus leg in the process. However, with this movement, she accidentally collided with Jiang Li who was standing to one side. Unable to avoid the impact, Jiang Li staggered forward a few steps and just happened to bump into Jiang Su Su. Jiang Su Su had no time to react, and immediately fell head first off the boat. At the same time, Jiang Ruan let out a startled exclamation and swiftly grabbed hold of Jiang Li, who was on the verge of following Jiang Su Su into the river. There was the sound of a splash[1] and Jiang Su Su vanished from sight. [1] T/N C The Chinese version of splash is the onomatopoeic (dong). Just for interests sake, did you know that dogs dont woof in Chinese? They go (wang). And sheep go (mie). Jiang Ruan asked Jiang Li, who was still in a state of shock, Is Third Younger Sister all right? Jiang Li shook her head. How did I lose my balance just now? There were so many people on the boat and she had had her back towards Jiang Ruan. Naturally, she did not know who had bumped into her. A sudden realisation struck Jiang Ruan and she called out loudly, Help, Second Younger Sister has fallen into the river! On hearing her, in rapid succession, the people turned to look at the river. There was a figure bobbing up and down in the midst of the undulating waves, and it was indeed Jiang Su Su. She was totally soaked, and water kept filling her nose and mouth. Throwing decorum to the winds, she yelled, Save me! There was no shortage of young noblemen on board the Qing Song Boat who could swim. Upon witnessing a beautiful damsel in distress, they were all eager to take action. But, if they really did rescue Jiang Su Su from her watery predicament, it would be tantamount to sullying her innocence, and they would definitely have to marry her thereafter. However, Minister Jiang was currently at the peak of his career, and Xia Yans family was also on the rise. If the young man was not considered to be a good match, Minister Jiang would not be willing to marry off his daughter in this way, and so it was not certain that this would be a done deal. It was perhaps with this in mind that some of the more thoughtful young noblemen simply stood back on the deck and watched. But, what sort of person was Jiang Su Su? She was the capitals most talented young lady, and had been acknowledged as the capitals most beautiful lady for many years. Naturally, some di son of the upper class whose social status matched with Jiang Su Sus and who treated her with adoring devotion would not be able to stand by idly and watch the failing strength of this belle; he would take on the mantle of the hero and jump in to rescue her. Thus, it was at this time that a pu dong[2] was heard after someone from the opposite side jumped into the water out of the blue. He appeared to be an excellent swimmer and reached Jiang Su Sus side in no time. With one arm holding her up, he pulled her along as he swam to the boat. [2] Pu dong ( ͨ ) C onomatopoeic sound for something jumping or falling into water. Louder than a splash (, dong). Jiang Ruan first joined the others in helping to pull Jiang Su Su onto the boat. As she had struggled in the water for quite some time, she was rather dazed and only half conscious. After she was safely pulled onto the deck, everyone trained their sights on the young man who had rescued her. He was 17 or 18 years old, with tanned skin and an upright demeanour. It was his eyes, however, that hinted at a hidden understanding. Jiang Ruan stayed by Jiang Su Sus side. In a mild tone, she said to him, Noble sir[3], many thanks for saving Miss Jiangs life. When we return tonight, the Jiang family will definitely show you our gratitude with gifts . [3] Gongzi ( ) C son of an official / son of nobility. The young man replied, rather impetuously, Why would I want your gifts? Quickly, check and see if shes all right! After saying this, he made as if to stride forward. Of course, his actions gave rise to incessant speculation. For a moment, everyone looked at the young man with probing eyes. Someone on the Qing Song Boat could not hold back any longer and burst out with the question, Who are you? Jiang Ruan frowned and once again blocked his way by staying in front of Jiang Su Su. Unflinchingly, she said, Noble sir, your kindness in saving Miss Jiang will always be engraved in the Jiang familys hearts. However, Miss Jiang is a young lady who is yet to be married. For you to come so close to her is a breach of propriety. Jiang Ruan was solely thinking about Jiang Su Sus welfare. As she had the bigger picture in mind, and her words were appropriate and elegantly worded, all the onlookers nodded in approval. The dark-skinned youth said, impatiently, She and I are in perfect harmony with each other. What nonsense is this about being too close? In future, I will definitely marry her. Jiang Ruan smiled sweetly, but her voice was entirely frosty. What is noble sir saying? I respect noble sirs ability to act heroically for a just cause, but your actions are giving me cause for unease. Miss Jiang has always shunned immoral and evil influences and her talent is outstanding. Moreover, she has never uttered an unpleasant word. I fear that noble sir will find it difficult to match her. You must know that not just anyone can marry the Jiang fus daughters! She was not in the least cowed by this robust young man. In truth, from the time this dark-skinned young man had spoken such words, no one on the boat believed him. Jiang Su Su was in a class by herself, above even the creme de la creme. Whether in public or in private, there was no way she would take a second look at such a boorish fellow. During this time, Jiang Su Su was lying flat on the deck, listening groggily to the words of the people around her, with no idea about what was happening. The dark-skinned youth showed his annoyance. In a fury, he grasped an embroidered handkerchief hanging from his waist and shook it out in the face of the onlookers. If you dont believe me, then see for yourself! This is the handkerchief she gave me. I, Zhou Da, have been in the capital for so many years, how can I possibly be lying? The handkerchief fluttered in front of everyone. The upper corner was embroidered with orchids, which seemed to exude a faint fragrance. In the lower left corner, the character for Su was embroidered delicately in silver silk thread. Jiang Su Sus personal maid, Hu Die, stood in shocked silence, with her mouth agape. She exchanged a glance with Qing Ting, and they saw the alarm in each others eyes. Everyone had gone quiet. Although there was no way Jiang Su Su and this Zhou Da could be together, it was inevitable that such a beauty could make occasional mistakes. In addition, at the present time, Jiang Su Su was still young, and it was possible that she had been deliberately seduced. In the face of such evidence, the crowd started to waver. Jiang Ruan intoned furiously, How much weight can you place on one handkerchief? Its not possible to ascertain what method you used to steal Miss Jiangs handkerchief. Hu Die never imagined that Jiang Ruan would speak on behalf of Jiang Su Su. At that point in time, uncaring of the consequences, she immediately added on to Jiang Ruans words and said, Its true, our young ladys handkerchief went missing a few days ago, and we have not been able to find it. So, it was you who stole it! Zhou Da was only human. On seeing this scene unfold before him, he flushed and said angrily, She is a young lady from the house of a government official, and I am but a commoner. How on earth would I be able to steal her handkerchief? Is it possible that a young lady from an officials household would be mingling with the crowds like a commoner, waiting for her handkerchief, such a personal item, to be stolen by me? Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. This Zhou Da really did not disappoint her. His ability to adapt and respond was superb. What a pity for Xia Yan that this young man whom she had taken so much trouble to find was now dealing with her own daughter. She could not imagine the expression on Xia Yans face when this news got back to the Jiang fu. Zhou Da continued, If you dont believe me, look at her waist. You will find a green jade piece; thats my family heirloom which Ive given to her as a token. Green jade piece On hearing this, Qing Ting gave a sigh of relief. Our young miss has no such jade piece, what nonsense are you spouting. Princess Rongya, who had been standing by the sidelines watching the situation unfold, rolled her eyes and walked to Jiang Su Sus side. With an expression of grave concern, she said, Why dont I check? Since Miss Jiang is innocent, lets prove it, so this foul thief who is attempting to besmirch Miss Jiangs reputation has nothing to say. Hu Die was about to stretch out a hand to stop her, but Princess Rongya had already reached for Jiang Su Sus waist. Jiang Ruans eyebrows were slightly raised and her eyes momentarily gleamed as she pondered the situation. She had not expected that Princess Rongya would take action, but it certainly simplified matters for her. The onlookers were looking with curiosity at Princess Rongya, while Hu Die nervously squeezed her hands together. After quite a while, Princess Rongya looked up with a strange expression on her face. She lifted her hand. Swinging from the tips of her exquisitely white fingertips was a string of green jade beads. Everyone was silent. The eyes looking at Jiang Su Su had, in an instant, become pregnant with meaning. Jiang Ruan lowered her head slightly. See, no matter how much time passed, the ways of this world and that of the past were exactly the same: rumour and suspicion, malice and slander. Its just that, this time, the person experiencing it is Jiang Su Su herself. Chapter 63 - Help From A Nobleman In the midst of the silence, Jiang Su Su coughed a few times and slowly awakened. Seeing how everyone was glancing at her with an inscrutable meaning, she looked down at her dripping wet body and her heart began to pound. Jiang Li rejoiced in her misfortune. Its great that Second Elder Sister is awake. What happened? Jiang Su Su rubbed her forehead. At the moment, her white dress was completely soaked and clung tightly to her elegant curves. Her long hair was pasted to her clothes. Her unadorned small face looked like a lotus flower, making people who looked at her feel pity. But at the thought of the dark-skinned youth, peoples original pity immediately turned into contempt. Jiang Su Su, with her keen perception, became aware of peoples different attitudes towards her. Jiang Dan, who had been silent for a long time, suddenly spoke, Second Elder Sister, how could you have a secret affair? Also gifting your personal token to others? Wont it be embarrassing once Father finds out about it? What did you say? Jiang Su Su was shocked and her voice unconsciously raised. Who has had a secret affair with another? Jiang Dan took a step back, frightened. Its its backed by solid evidence. Nonsense! Jiang Su Su was in a panic. From the moment she woke up, she knew something was wrong. It was Jiang Ruan who was supposed to fall in the water but in the end, she herself fell in. The plan had gone awry! It was all messed up! What should she do now? In her impatience to refute, her voice became shrill. The usual composed and dignified conduct of an influential familys young lady disappeared. Looking at Jiang Dans very frightened look, a suspicion was born in everyones hearts. This was the way things were in the world. When she was seen as a fairy, everything naturally looked good. However, once her image was stained, in an instant, she became a promiscuous minx in the eyes of others. Everything about her was bad. Jiang Su Su grew even more anxious when she saw that everyone was silent. Disregarding her drenched body, she stood up and rebuked the dark-skinned man. Why do you want to ruin my innocence? I will ask my father to investigate this carefully and put you in prison! The dark-skinned youth, however, looked as if he was struck. He murmured, You clearly did not say so at that time. Were all those promises in the past false? He spoke indignantly, You are abandoning me like this. Will I, Zhou Da, be discarded because you say so? Jiang Ruan almost laughed inwardly. She pitied her cowardly self in her previous life. At that time, she was in a complete shambles, much worse than Jiang Su Sus eloquent reply. Naturally, she had no way to appreciate Zhou Das acting skills. Jiang Su Su felt a vicious hatred toward Jiang Ruan when she heard the youths reply. Naturally, she knew the matter of Zhou Da. But how could she be the one falling into the water? Jiang Ruan was the person that Zhou Da should be dealing with. At the moment, she was at a loss as to what to say in order to justify herself. Usually, Xia Yan helped to plan and plot for her. However, at this moment, there was no one who could speak up for her. On top of that, she felt uncertain. Since her previous calm and careful planning had vanished without a trace, how could she even think of a countermeasure in the moment? Jiang Ruan didnt give Jiang Su Su time to think. She told Zhou Da, Young Master Zhou, this is not at all the time for disputes. The wind is cold right now. If Miss Jiang catches a cold, you wouldnt like for that to happen either. Why doesnt Young Master Zhou come to visit the Jiang fu some other day? Jiang fu will definitely give you an explanation. While Zhou Da was hesitating, Jiang Su Su screamed again. No, its not me. I havent done anything like that at all. Its him who is slandering me! Jiang Su Su was not a fool. She knew that if the matter was handled as Jiang Ruan said, even though it might be calm at the moment, it would be seen as a tacit agreement of the affair. Tomorrow, there would be numerous rumors circulating in the capital, and it would be too late. The Commandery Princess[1] Rongya sneered. Her amiable and pleasant looks had changed. Human testimony and material evidence all exist. I wonder why you are refusing to admit it and still want to save face? [1] Junzhu ( ) C Translated as Commandery Princess. It was usually granted to the daughter of a qinwang (first-rank prince) or to a female of the Imperial Family by the Emperors decree. Earlier, we had simply mentioned it as Princess Rongya, but this is the accurate translation since this is one rank lower than gongzhu (princess). You! Jiang Su Su glared at her. Her mood shifted, she simply stopped refuting. She turned her small face upward and bit her lower lip in silent tears. Her appearance made some people at the Qing Song Boat feel compassionate. But in the end, the female guests on the Ling Long Boat had started gossiping, I didnt expect that she could be such a person. She usually looks like a fairy. Its beyond my expectation that shed do such a dirty thing. Minister Jiang has completely lost his face thanks to her. Its ridiculous that she wants to continue denying it, even though the love token is in front of us. Under such pressure, Jiang Su Su was unable to remain calm. On the Qing Song Boat, the Fifth Prince frowned and looked at Jiang Su Su with displeasure. Still very young, yet does not know how to cherish her good name. Shes offending public morals! The Eighth Prince, Xuan Li, was thoughtful and silent. Mo Cong nudged Xiao Shao, then shook his head and sighed. How could this fairy-like beauty be so confused and fall for such a coarse man? How odd! Xiao Shao did not reply, but Ye Feng transmitted a message secretly from his hiding place. Master, Jiang fus Second Young Miss was at the Baoguang Temple five years ago. Hearing this, Xiao Shao frowned slightly and looked up at Jiang Su Su again. At the moment, the dark-skinned man was insisting. This wont do. You rich people look down on commoners. I, Zhou Da, cant be sent away easily. I demand an explanation for todays humiliation. The butterflies and dragonflies were not in a hurry. Jiang Su Su also felt a little desperate, seeing that there was no hope. Just then, she heard a cold voice from the Qing Song boat. The green jade bead was a gift from this Lord[2] to Jiang fus Second Young Lady. I dont know what it has to do with you. Jiang Ruan was stunned, only to see the handsome young man in black, brilliant as brocade, standing with hands behind his back with a cold look. That pair of eyes were like cold stars, sweeping around lightly, making people feel great pressure. [2] Ben wang ( ) C lit. this prince; illeism for titled princes. When Xiao Shao, Jinying Wang, uttered those words indifferently, he provided immediate relief to Jiang Su Su. At once, everyones eyes were focused on Xiao Shao and Jiang Su Su. People were speculating. Did Jinying Wang and Jiang Su Su have some kind of relationship? Otherwise, why would Jinying Wang, who had always been cold, help her out of trouble for no reason? Jiang Su Su was stunned at first and didnt know why Xiao Shao wanted to help her. When she saw Xiao Shaos peerless face, she was taken aback. Infatuation flashed in her eyes. She paid respect to him gracefully. Many thanks to Wangye[3], for speaking out for me. If it wasnt for you today, I wouldnt be able to clean my name even if I jumped into the Yellow River. [3] Wngye ( ү ) C way of addressing prince / nobleman; Your Highness. Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao in a trance. Her heart churned. It was difficult for her to calm down. She had never heard of any relationship between Xiao Shao and Jiang Su Su in her past life. Xiao Shao wasnt a man who had tender, protective feelings toward the fairer sex. How could he help Jiang Su Su today? Was Jiang Su Su destined to be lucky in both the past as well as the present life? Even if she met some hardships, there would be some noble person to help her. Was God so unfair? Feeling a piercing, bone-chilling gaze on his body, Xiao Shao looked up. He couldnt help but feel a bit startled. Under the moonlight, he saw the girl in red on the opposite boat looking at him coldly. Her eyes were full of hatred, just like Asura[4] from Hell. [4] Xiuluo [ ] C Asura, malevolent spirits in Indian mythology. Chapter 64 - Exposing Lies Zhou Da never would have thought that in the middle of the journey, Jinying Wang would appear. Jinying Wangs identity was such that he would never dare to offend. However with the current situation, it was difficult to continue on nor could he back out halfway[1], therefore he did not know what to do. [1] Qhnnxi ( ﻢ ) C an idiom meaning if you ride a tiger, its hard to get off ; fig. refers to doing something which is difficult to continue on and yet impossible to stop halfway. Once Xiao Shaos words left his mouth, joy was written across Jiang Su Sus face, while Commandery Princess Rongya and Xu Ruoxis faces turned pale. Mo Cong looked at Xiao Shao with surprise, unable to decipher Xiao Shaos words. Fifth Prince narrowed his eyes, It is unusual that Xiao Shao would take the initiative to help the Jiang fus Second Young Miss out of her situation. Xuan Lis eyes shone with profound meaning, Perhaps it really is Jinying Wangs green jade bead. Jiang Ruan retracted her gaze and suddenly said to the stupefied and distracted Zhou Da, So it is you who is lying, that green jade bead is obviously Jinying Wangs. Then, where did Miss Jiangs handkerchief come from? Hearing Jiang Ruans words, Zhou Da thought of something- the green jade bead was indeed Jinying Wangs, but the handkerchief that he had in his possession was also real. If he admitted to it, he would surely have to face severe consequences, however, if he chose to continue holding on and not admitting, he might get away without trouble. Zhou Da had no principles therefore he was good at playing dirty tricks. He laughed coldly, loudly saying Everything I said is true. Even if its an influential and noble person, they cannot use power and influence to bully others. The handkerchief was something that Ruaner gave to me; she personally gave it to me as a token of love! As soon as those words were spoken, everyone was shocked.. Jiang Ruan glared at him, Who is the Ruaner you speak of? Zhou Da spoke with certainty, Who else can it be? Of course it is the Eldest Young Miss of Minister Jiangs fu! Pu Chi, Jiang Ruan looked like she had just heard something very funny, her eyes full of laughter, You claim that Miss Jiang had long exchanged love tokens with you and just now you even sacrificed your life to save her. I am not sure if you are aware who she is exactly? What do you mean?, Zhou Da felt an uneasiness in his heart, feeling that something was not right. In response, Jiang Ruans cold voice said, What you have said was indeed convincing, but I am Jiang fus Eldest Young Miss. The Jiang Ruan in your eyes is actually Jiang fus Second Young Miss, Jiang Su Su. The moonlight shone on her alluring face, bringing about more resolute coldness, Young Master Zhou, is it possible that your forgetfulness is so great that you cant even recognise the one who had a romantic affair with you? As they watched this event unfold, the surrounding people were clear on the twists and turns. The people present were all from noble families, thus they understood the scheme very clearly. Obviously, this Zhou Da was full of lies, and he was acting on someones order, wanting to ruin Jiang fus Eldest Young Misss reputation. Yet somehow, Jiang fus Second Young Miss was implicated by accident. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi were relieved, on the other hand, Jiang Ruans expression remained the same. Just now, she kept calling Jiang Su Su Miss Jiang, her intention being to mislead Zhou Da. Once Zhou Da opened his mouth, the surrounding people were all smart, they naturally understood the crucial point within. Jiang Su Sus expression was unreadable. Although Zhou Da had spoken truthfully, it still proved her innocence. However, because people would definitely speculate about the identity of the person who wanted to harm Jiang Ruan, she and Xia Yan would inevitably become the subjects of discussion among others. Jiang Ruan looked at Zhou Da, her voice gentle, This matter is confusing, it has really caused me a headache. However, because this concerns my reputation it cannot end just like this. Young Master Zhou, perhaps you should explain this matter clearly to the patrol guards[2]. [2] Xunbu ( Ѳ )- it refers to the police in olden times. Zhou Da, seeing the situation turn unfavourable immediately wanted to jump into the lake, planning to escape, but imperial bodyguards appeared from all four corners, subduing him. Xuan Li unexpectedly stood out, smiling politely, Bring him to the patrol station[3]. [3] Xunbufang ( Ѳ ) C it refers to the police station in olden times. Jiang Ruan took a quick glimpse at Xuan Li- he appeared coincidentally today, was it because he wanted her to be grateful to him? Jiang Su Su immediately felt panic as she naturally understood what had happened with Zhou Da. If he landed in the patrol guards hands, Zhou Da would expose the person behind the scenes. At that time, what could she and Xia Yan do? While she was thinking, Jiang Ruan had already walked in front of Zhou Da, who was being subdued. She bent forward slightly so her eyes were level with Zhou Das, then gently said, Young Master Zhou, I heard that the patrol station has one thousand ways of torture, every method making a person feel better off dying than living. This incident is complicated. Young Master Zhou must think this through, you must not make irresponsible remarks. With that said, she smiled charmingly at Zhou Da, her smile more radiant than the lanterns in the rivers heart. Xuan Lis imperial bodyguards quickly dragged Zhou Da away. Tonights Lantern Festival was basically already ruined, with the unforeseen twists and turns on the boat. So, no one had an interest in continuing the festivities any longer. Also, because something like this had happened to Jiang Su Su, Jiang Ruan could only bring her back as soon as possible. The boat reached the shore and as Jiang Ruan was bidding farewell to everyone, Xuan Li walked over. He put the coat in his hand over Jiang Su Sus body and in a warm voice said, The weathers turing cold and windy, take care not to catch a cold. The lanterns reflection added an exceptional warmth to his originally handsome face. Jiang Su Su raised her head and looked at him, then shyly bowed and in a small voice said, Many thanks to Eighth Prince. Jiang Ruan raised her lips demurely. In her previous life, Xuan Li was warm to her, yet in this life Jiang Su Su fell into the water, so had the recipient of his concern now changed to Jiang Su Su? Although Xuan Li was talking to Jiang Su Su, his gaze kept following Jiang Ruan. He felt that Jiang Ruan was not willing to look at him, that while her expression was clearly gentle, he could distinctly feel her indifference. This type of feeling made Xuan Li inexplicably unhappy. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, and coincidentally saw Xiao Shao walking over from the opposite side. Suddenly, she said, Regarding todays matter, many thanks to Wangye for helping out and defending the innocent. Though her voice was neither high nor low, it was loud enough to let the surrounding people hear everything clearly. The crowd recalled the words Xiao Shao had spoken earlier. Though Jiang Su Su was innocent, the green jade bead was something Xiao Shao had purposely claimed to help her. Yet, there was some mockery in Jiang Ruans words. Xiao Shao looked at her coolly, his expression still indifferent. Dressed in black, his figure was tall and sturdy. His aloof and noble aura very quickly attracted the surrounding women. Even if they were puzzled by his actions just now, at this moment, they couldnt care less. Jiang Ruan felt stuffiness in her heart. She decided to give up and turned her back to him, no longer acknowledging him. However, she saw a young master dressed in blue walking towards them from another direction. Standing firmly at her side, he asked with hesitation, Miss Jiang, the sky is already dark. Ill order a few imperial bodyguards to protect you on your way back to your fu, is that good? Though this young master looked only fifteen or sixteen years old, there was some probing in his words, and his gaze held a look of unconcealed anticipation. Jiang Ruan recognised him, he was Young Master Gu from the Commander-in-chiefs fu. She smiled slightly with joy, naturally and unrestrainedly saying, Many thanks to noble sir for his goodwill, if Ruan niang refuses it would be impolite. Her action made Xuan Li and Xiao Shao, who both still stood there, seem dazed. Jiang Ruans attitude towards Young Master Gu was extremely gentle; in contrast, her attitude towards them was really not friendly. Xuan Li not knowing why, had a peculiar feeling. It was as if something which originally belonged to him was being taken away by others. Xiao Shaos dark eyes only stared at Jiang Ruan, his expression pensive. Among the three people, only Gu Yi was overjoyed- he did not expect the beauty to be as gentle as a flower. For a moment, he only knew how to stand rooted to the ground and smile to himself. Chapter 65 - Devising A Strategy After sending Jiang Su Su off to the carriage first, Gu Yi, who had been standing a few paces away from the window seat of the carriage, looked at Jiang Ruan with a somewhat flushed face. Jiang Ruan went over and gently spoke, Many thanks, Young Master Gu, for your protection. There is something that Ruan niang wanted to say to Young Master Gu. Actually Ruan niang has a request. Gu Yi was startled at first, deeply concerned, If Miss Jiang has any troubles, if there is any way to help, Gu Yi would definitely spare no effort in aiding you. Contrary to what one might expect, this person, Gu Yi, was someone with tender and protective feelings for the fairer sex. Jiang Ruan nodded her head slightly, Presumably, Young Master Gu is aware of a few things that have happened in Ruan niangs home. Actually, this thing ought not be said, however, upon seeing Young Master Gus utmost sincerity and an extremely kind and honest character, I believe that with this matter, only Young Master Gu would be able to help. Thus, Ruan niang has decided to thicken ones skin to seek such a favour. After hearing such flattering words from her, Gu Yi was carried away, and so, his thoughts towards Jiang Ruan were much fonder and indulging. He listened to Jiang Ruan speaking in a low voice, Ruan niangs eldest brother left the fu to serve in the army five years ago, and since then, I have lost all contact with him. Ruan niangs mother met with an early demise and Eldest Brother is the only blood-related relative left in the world. All these years, Ruan niang has always tried to ask about him but has still ended up empty-handed. Her voice was gentle and there was a slight smile gracing her face. Even so, one did not know how it was possible, but unexpectedly one could hear a trace of worry in that soft voice. However, this sort of strength and forbearance made one feel a sense of pity and tenderness towards her. Gu Yi soothingly replied, Do not feel broken-hearted Miss Jiang, Heaven helps the worthy, your esteemed older brother would definitely be alright. Only, with this matter, Im not sure how I could help? Ruan niang has heard that darens, General Guan and General Chen, have an extremely good friendship between them, Jiang Ruan gave a slight smile, five years ago, after my elder brother had joined the army, he happened to meet with General Guan and General Chen by chance while they were recruiting soldiers. Ruan niang has considered that perhaps my elder brother is in General Guan or General Chens camp. Since Commander-in-chief daren has a good relationship with these two Generals, perhaps he could lend a hand and make some inquiries for Ruan niang about my elder brother. Gu Yi patted his chest, How could this be difficult. When I return, I will talk to Father about this matter. Please be at ease, Miss Jiang; once I hear some news about your esteemed older brother, I will get someone to inform you about it. Jiang Ruan solemnly gave him a formal bow, This kindness and grace that Young Master Gu has given, Ruan niang is unable to return the favour, and it can only be engraved on my heart. Someday, if there is an opportunity, I will definitely repay you. Gu Yi was surprised and waved his hand in dismissal, Its only an effort similar to lifting ones hand, there is no need for Miss Jiang to be this polite. Now, can we be considered as friends? Jiang Ruan smiled, Naturally. After bidding goodbye to Gu Yi, Jiang Ruan then entered the carriage. Jiang Su Su, Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were all waiting in the carriage. Upon seeing Jiang Ruan enter, Jiang Su Sus eyes were full of fury that was difficult to restrain while Jiang Li merely gave a mocking laugh, Vixen! Only Jiang Dan timidly smiled towards her in a cowardly manner. However, after experiencing tonights affairs, Jiang Ruan had a deeper understanding of her; how could she possibly believe that she (Jiang Dan) was truly like her appearance- timid and afraid of getting into trouble. She was only afraid that in this fu, there was another that had concealed herself deeper and would not have found out about them in their daily life. The few people sitting in the carriage were all silent as it travelled all the way back to the Jiang fus entrance. Upon seeing the additional and unfamiliar Imperial bodyguards following the carriage, both the guards at the entrance and Steward Zhang were extremely surprised. After Bai Zhi had supported Jiang Ruan down from the carriage, Jiang Ruan smiled slightly to those Imperial bodyguards, Many thanks today to everyone, please do help to express my thanks to Young Master Gu. After hearing Jiang Ruan say this, Lian Qiao was all smiles as she stepped forward and passed on an embroidered purse of loose silver into the hands of one of the bodyguards, Please do take this little bit of silver and have a drink with everyone. With no other alternative, the bodyguards looked at each other and left wordlessly after bidding a proper farewell. Steward Zhang had stayed in the fu for quite some years now and in one glance, he understood that these bodyguards were under orders from their master to protect Jiang Ruan. Upon seeing Jiang Ruans calm and dependable demeanour, in the depths of his heart, he could not help but be doubtful. Is it possible that this Eldest Young Lady had actually obtained some favour during tonights Lantern Festival gathering? Meanwhile, Qing Ting had hurriedly hopped from the carriage as she helped an utterly drenched Jiang Su Su down. While doing so, she urged, Quickly call for the physician, the Second Young Lady has fainted. At first glance, Steward Zhang turned pale with fright and hastily asked someone to find a physician. As he left instructions for the servants, he also had someone notify Xia Yan as he asked, What has happened to the Second Young Lady? In her heart, Jiang Ruan chuckled. To have fainted as soon as she returned to the fu, this method that Jiang Su Su had thought of was rather convenient. However, how could she possibly have everything go as she (JSS) wished; how would she be willing to let things go if she did not stir up even more obstructions to hinder Jiang Su Su? Shooting a glance at the outer jacket from Xuan Li that was draped over Jiang Su Sus body, Jiang Ruan worriedly remarked, Ermei fell into the river and then even had her innocence defiled by a villain. For now, its best if we wait for Ermei to wake up. Later, we can have matters investigated at the patrol house and once Father returns, we can make a decision once more. What she said was ambiguous and when Steward Zhang heard that wording: patrol house and her innocence defiled by a villain, his heart leapt. Cold sweat had begun to creep all over his back and at that moment, he did not bother to ask and clarify the matter thoroughly. He merely knew that this time, something big had happened. Yet, once Jiang Su Su who had fainted heard Jiang Ruans words, her forehead twitched as her palms clenched tightly together. Jiang Ruan sighed, Today, I too am tired. To have such things happen, I will return to my residence and rest first. Let Mother carefully console and comfort Ermei as this cannot be blamed on her either. After saying this, she brought Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao with her as she returned to Ruan Ju. At the other end, Xia Yan had quickly rushed over. Immediately upon seeing Jiang Su Sus sorry figure, she was rather alarmed. Jiang Quan had yet to return to the fu and upon seeing Xia Yan, Jiang Su Su no longer feigned passing out. Seizing a grasp on Xia Yans hand, she panicked, Mother, what should we do? That Zhou Da was sent to the patrol house, what if he recognises us? Dont worry, Xia Yan replied calmly, I had Li momo find someone unrelated to the fu to instruct Zhou Da. In any event, we can not be implicated. Rather, as for you, how did you suddenly fall into the water? I do not know either, Jiang Su Su replied with a bite of her lips, but Im sure that Jiang Ruan is unable to escape any responsibility for it! What happened this evening was clearly something that she had thought up but now that my reputation has been entirely ruined, what can we do now? It was me that has underestimated Jiang Ruan. However, now that we have the Eighth Prince and Jinying Wang on our side, we dont need to worry. Nevertheless, how do you have an association with Jinying Wang? I am not sure either. Jiang Su Sus face flushed, Perhaps. perhaps he could not put up with what he saw. He isnt that sort of person. Xia Yan decisively refuted, I will take note of this matter. Jiang Ruan, that manipulative person, for her to have schemed against you in this manner, in the days ahead, I will definitely have her pay the price a hundred, thousand-folds! After saying this, there was an extremely prominent dark and sinister look in her eyes that was no longer like the virtuous and docile demeanour she usually portrayed. In Ruan Ju, Bai Zhi was holding onto the white rabbit lantern as she walked over. Lu Zhu remarked curiously, This lantern was made so exquisitely! Where did this come from? Bai Zhi took a glance at Jiang Ruan and replied, The Eighth Prince had someone to send it over; its said to be a good omen on Ling Long Fang and that our Miss had forgotten to take it with her. Jiang Ruan side-eyed that lantern and replied indifferently, This lantern can be gifted to Mei Qing Yuan and say that it is a gift to Ermei for receiving such a shock. Lu Zhu felt that it was somewhat a pity. Lian Qiao handed over a cup of hot tea to Jiang Ruan, Miss, now that Zhou Da has already been caught, although it can be said that it had been a command from that side, it might not be enough to have them confess or be lured out. Will this matter be settled just like that? Lian Qiao saw clearly; now that Xia Yans maternal family was becoming more prosperous with each day, the patrol house still had to give her face. Thus, one could dare say that Zhou Das matter would be heavily placed into importance but also be lightly handled. If matters were truly settled in this way, then it would be such a waste to squander away the effort and time that Xia Yan has taken to arrange this. She lightly took a sip of tea, How could I possibly let her down? Chapter 66.1 - The Top Scoring Youth (Part I) The Lantern Festival held in the Great Jin Dynastys fourteenth year had passed in a more lively fashion than in previous years. Within the space of a night, Jiang Ruans name was known throughout the capital. For a time, everyone in the capital was talking about the newly returned Eldest Miss of the Jiang fu, her stunning appearance, her incomparable talent, her regard for etiquette, and her noble manner. In fact, she was not inferior to the Jiang fus Second Young Lady. When Jiang Su Su awoke early the next morning, she saw an exquisite white rabbit lantern on the carved wood cabinet by her bed. She stared blankly at it for a moment before she suddenly burst forth in fury and called out in a shrill voice, Servants! Qing Ting, Hu Die! Hu Die ran into the room swiftly. Miss, what has happened? Jiang Su Su pointed at the white rabbit lantern and said, Who put this here? Hu Die was also shocked to see the lantern. I did not see it this morning; how did it suddenly appear like that? Upon hearing this, Nuo Nuo, a third-ranked servant girl who was standing behind Hu Die, came forward to say, It was the personal maid of Eldest Miss, Bai Zhi, who sent it here. This servant saw that the lantern was adorable so i put it here. And who allowed you to act on your own initiative? Jiang Su Su sneered. Take her away. Two elderly yet robust maidservants immediately entered the room, seized the servant girl and dragged her out. In great alarm, that servant girl pleaded for forgiveness. Second Miss, this servant was at fault. Second Miss, forgive this servant, this servant does not dare to do it again! The sound gradually faded away. Hu Die carefully placed a cup of tea in Jiang Su Sus hands and said, Miss, drink some ginger tea to warm yourself. Jiang Su Su flung off Hu Dies hand. With one move, she grabbed the rabbit lantern off of the bedside cabinet and fiercely ripped it to pieces. In a fit of anger, she threw the remains onto the ground and stomped on them until nothing could be discerned of the lanterns original shape or appearance. Jiang Ruan, that slut, clearly shes doing this deliberately. Does she think that shes so high-and-mighty now that she has achieved the lantern? Still, this is something that should not be disclosed to others. Jiang Su Su sat on the couch and said, There will come a day when she will be just like this lantern, bullied and humiliated by my hand. With the charged atmosphere, Hu Die did not dare make a sound or movement. At this moment, Jiang Su Su seemed like a devil, nothing at all like her usual gentle and innocent self. It was precisely at this time that a greatly agitated Qing Ting ran in and said, Miss, bad news! Jiang Su Su was already in a bad temper, so she said in annoyance, Why are you being so careless and haphazard? What is it now? This servant heard that the talk in the capital, early this morning, was all about that Zhou Da; that he was an assassin hired by furen to deliberately besmirch the reputation of Eldest Miss, but yesterday, he accidentally caused trouble for Second Miss instead! What? Jiang Su Su immediately stood up, unable to take it all in. She queried, Where did this talk originate from? Did Zhou Da confess? Thats impossible! This servant is also not sure, Qing Ting said hurriedly. Now, the entire capital is talking about this as if it is the truth. Jiang Su Sus face turned white. Mother clearly said that the matter of Zhou Da would not be a problem. Who on earth has spread such talk? This is not good, I must see Mother. After speaking, she donned her coat. Lets go, quickly, Mother will think of a way to help me. In comparison with Mei Qing Yuans chaotic[1] situation, Ruan Ju was an oasis of leisurely calm. [1] Ji fei gou tiao ( ɹ ) C lit., the chickens are flying and the dogs are jumping (because they have received a shock). Lu Zhu carefully placed a bowl of pearl and crystal jade tang yuan[2] on the table, and took out a small dish of rose cakes from the basket. These dianxin[3] are a reward from the Old Jiang Madame. She says that Miss did very well last night, and bid Cai Que jiejie to send them over. Image result for Բ Tang Yuan [2] Tang yuan ( Բ ) is a Chinese dessert made from a dough of glutinous rice flour mixed with water, rolled into balls, cooked and served in either sweet syrup (e.g. sweet ginger syrup) or boiling water with fermented glutinous rice, or deep fried. Tang Yuan can be in different colours, and have different fillings (such as sesame or peanut paste). (zhen zhu fei cui, literally pearls and crystal jade) tang yuan are green and white balls. For more information see here. A variety of dianxin. [3] Dian xin ( ) is a style of Chinese cuisine featuring bite-sized portions of food served on small plates or in small bamboo steamer baskets. The food can be sweet or savoury. Examples of common dianxin items are fried radish cake, barbecued pork buns, shrimp dumplings. See here for more information. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. The Old Jiang Madame had made no mention of the matter concerning Jiang Su Su. This attitude was certainly food for thought, and it appeared that Xia Yan had not been able to give a satisfactory explanation for the situation in front of the Old Jiang Madame. As Lu Zhu watched Jiang Ruan sample the dianxin, she said, Miss, today, a lot of wild rumors are circulating outside. They are saying someone intended to frame Eldest Miss, but caused misfortune for Second Miss instead. She paused and looked at Jiang Ruan, saying I should think Mei Qing Yuan must be under a lot of pressure[4] at the moment. Miss, after doing this, you must feel a great sense of relief after all that oppression. [4] Jiao tou lan e ( ͷö ) C lit, to be badly burned around the head (while trying to put out a fire). Lian Qiao was sitting to the side, embroidering. On seeing Lu Zhus face, she could not stop herself from saying, It is a relief, however, Lu Zhu, make sure everything that you do is absolutely safe. Just dont cause Miss any more trouble. Jiejie, you can rest assured, Lu Zhu said, pleased with herself. All I did was to find thirty children in the market, as well as some beggars at Dongcheng Gate. Whats more, I used copper coins. There is no way they will be able to trace the source. Jiang Ruan sipped at the tang yuan soup and said, You have done very well. Apart from this, did you say anything else? How would this servant dare to forget Misss commands? Lu Zhus face held a trace of hesitation. However, was phrasing it this way really good? That persons status . . . Whoever helps Jiang Su Su is my enemy; how can I not make him pay the price. In any case, I was merely returning a little courtesy. He did cause me some unhappiness. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly as she replied. The storm of rumours swirling around the capital had not only reached the Jiang fu, but also the Jinying Wang fu as well, where the elderly Steward Lin tugged at his long beard until it was standing in all directions. What do we do? This rumour is getting more and more outrageous. Who on earth started spreading it? If I find out who it is, that person will have to pay the consequences. The person standing opposite him was Ye Feng. He moved his lips as he pondered, but still remained silent. Within the span of a night, about the same time the rumours started spreading regarding Xia Yan having hired people to tarnish Jiang Ruans reputation, another rumour had sprung up. This one was claiming that Jinying Wang, Xiao Shao, had a deep affection for Jiang Su Su, which is why he had unhesitatingly lied the previous evening to help her out of her predicament. This rumour was so vividly and realistically detailed, describing clearly how Jiang Su Su and Xiao Shao were each others sunshine, that when Steward Lin heard it he was so agitated he almost lost his head. He knew exactly what kind of person his master was as he had watched him grow up. He had never heard Xiao Shao mention Jiang Su Su before; if it had not been for this rumour, Steward Lin would probably not even know who Jiang Su Su was. Just who is it that wants to sully wangyes pristine reputation? What kind of person is this Jiang Su Su, what deep affection? Go to hell! Steward Lin had always been known for his explosive temper. Although he was getting on in age, he was still like a child, saying what he thought without hesitation. Ye Feng was used to him by now and simply looked to the heavens, feigning ignorance. It was at this time that they heard Xiao Shao calling from within the residence, Ye Feng. Ye Feng hurriedly replied, in a grave tone, Master, before dodging into the residence. He saw Xiao Shao standing in front of a table, playing with the elaborate dagger in his hand as he asked, Did you find out who it was? It seems as though it was a servant girl from the Jiang fu, but the Jin Yi guards are still checking. Or, it could have been the Second Miss of the Jiang family? Ye Feng tentatively asked. From his point of view, Xiao Shao was good looking, charming, and outstanding. Jiang Su Su may have been spreading the rumour herself, hoping that it would strengthen her possibility of marrying Xiao Shao. If the rumour did get around, then Jiang Su Su would have no choice but to marry her. Its not her, Xiao Shao said. Master thinks it is . . . ? Ye Feng had his misgivings, and could not help asking the question. The memory of the previous nights scene played out once again in front of Xiao Shaos eyes, and he remembered the young girl clad in red who looked at him with such deep resentment in her eyes. He collected himself and said, coldly, Investigate the Eldest Miss of the Jiang family. The winds of rumour swirling around the capital reached many places, but naturally, there were also places that could not be reached. For example, Liu Min in the Imperial Academy, had no clue about what had transpired the previous night. He had spent the past few days preparing for the preliminary rounds of the imperial examination that would take place in a few days time, and that person who never revealed his name was still in contact with him. Every day, he would place his reply on the table, and the other party would never take it, but another letter would appear. It was as if the person did not have to look at his reply to know what he would say. Over the short period of time of their interaction, Liu Min had discovered that this person was exceptionally talented, and that even when they had contrasting opinions, this person was always able to persuade him, one step at a time. Moreover, the grounds for justification were sufficient, which caused him to have confidence in this person. Liu Min had no other friends in the Imperial Academy so he had started to view this anonymous person as an intimate friend. Today, there was another letter on the table, as was customary, but it did not discuss academic issues with him. Instead, there were only two characters: Good Luck. This was offering him best wishes for his success in the upcoming round of the imperial examination. Liu Min smiled, and kept the letter safely. He turned and walked out of his room. Just as he stepped over the doorstep of the Imperial Academy Library, he heard people talking. I never could have imagined that the recently returned meimei of Jiang xiongs family would be such an amazing person, and of such high calibre. Last night, with one dance, she dethroned the Second Jiang Miss. Liu Min kept silent, walked to his seat and sat down. Of course, he knew that they had to be discussing something that had happened on the Ling Long Boat during the Lantern Festival. He himself came from an impoverished background and so did not qualify to participate, therefore he had no idea what exactly had happened, nor did he care to know. Furthermore, the Eldest Jiang Miss life has been very bitter. She was sent to the rural residence at a young age, and she returned to the Jiang fu only to provoke such a dastardly move by the Jiang furen. Its so pitiful. Yet another young nobleman shook his head, his voice tinged with sympathy. Jiang furen and Second Jiang Miss usually seem very gentle and amiable, how could they do such a thing? Hey, one can know a person for a long time without knowing his or her true nature[5]. Didnt you see the way Second Jiang Miss and Jinying Wang behaved last night? There must be something between them. This person had barely finished speaking when another scholar, opposite him, said, You speak in such a sour tone of voice; you must indeed hate yourself for not being Jinying Wang, unable to announce that youre marrying such a beauty? [5] Zhi ren zhi mian bu zhi xin ( ֪֪治֪ ) C lit., know the person, know the face, but dont know the heart. Everyone burst into laughter. At this time, someone walked in through the door, wearing a rain silk brocade jacket and with his brows tightly knit. It was Jiang Chao. With his entrance, the discussion came to an abrupt halt, but the eyes that followed him still harboured some ridicule. Naturally, Jiang Chao understood the intent of their glances, and an indescribable fire immediately ignited in his heart as he felt that they were all looking at him like he was some kind of joke. As a result, he entered the room with big strides and as he walked past Liu Min, he bumped heavily into his table. Unexpectedly, the inkstand on Liu Mins table flipped over and the ink fell on Liu Min. Jiang Chao turned back fiercely. A few drops of ink had also landed on his brocade jacket. He had already been raging silently, and now that the ink had stained his clothes, he did not wait for Liu Min to speak but moved forward to grab and then yank him out of his seat. What are you doing! In the Imperial Academy, Jiang Chao had always shown himself to be gentle and warm. Although he was not close to Liu Min, he would never intentionally provoke him. Todays behaviour was a result of his sullen mood. The scholars in the Imperial Academy were generally from the noble families, so he was unable to give offence freely. Considering the people around him, Liu Min was the only person he could use as a punching bag as he wished. The others were watching him without saying anything, and no one would come to Liu Mins aid. Jiang Chao had yanked Liu Min up by his collar. Liu Min was neither as tall as Jiang Chao nor as sturdy as hims, so he merely fixed his clear, unyielding eyes on Jiang Chao and remained silent. Jiang Chao became unutterably furious when he saw no trace of fear in Liu Mins eyes. Taking a deep breath, he smiled abruptly and said in a tone laced with malice, You have dirtied my clothes. What do you think we should do? Liu Min usually held himself aloof as he went around the Academy. If he had met with situations like this one in the past, he would have vociferously defended his rights, preferring to die than to give in. That Jiang Chao would speak in such a manner was a grave insult to him, considering his excellent sense of self-respect, and everyone was waiting for the fireworks to start. However, to everyones surprise, the usually obstinate young man inclined his head slightly and said, I apologise. Everyone was rooted to the spot in shock. Somehow, in that split second before he gave in to his impulses, Liu Min had suddenly thought of that anonymous person who kept sending him letters. In one of those letters, the other party had debated with Liu Min whether one should submit to those in higher and more influential positions. Liu Min preferred death to submission, but the other party thought otherwise. He said, as long as ones heart and character were upright and honest, it would be prudent and sensible to comply with the ways of the world. For example, the bamboo trees in a bamboo grove were seldom broken off, because the bamboo could bend with the wind, yet still maintain its upright shape and form; it would never be blown down or blown away by the wind. On the other hand, the unyieldingly upright, lone trees, and the wildflowers that grew by the roadside, were the ones most easily snapped by the wind. The former did not know how to bend, and the latter did not know how to remain upright. Everyone should be able to exhibit some degree of compliance and perseverance. An intelligent person who is able to master these capabilities would be able to do whatever he set his mind to. It was at this time that Liu Min suddenly recalled this paragraph in the letter. The other party had said that, in this worlds affairs, it was perhaps much harder to bend over than to persist. He eyed a rather listless Jiang Chao and repeated, I apologise. Jiang Chao came to his senses. He had never imagined that this impoverished, haughty person would apologise in front of him, but he was definitely not happy. Although Liu Min had said these words, he could see from his eyes that Liu Min was just as haughty as before, and was seemingly mocking his juvenile behaviour. For a moment, the rage in his heart flared even hotter. He sneered, Do you think a verbal apology is good enough? If you dont lick this clean for me today, dont even think about leaving this room! The other scholars could not stop talking amongst themselves as they saw this scene unfolding before them. Although they also regularly bullied Liu Min, when it came down to it, they were all scholars, and should not be willing to participate in or initiate such degrading behaviour. In addition, the fact that someone as gentle and warm as Jiang Chao was behaving in such an aggressively imperious fashion caused them to be contemptuous of him. Jiang Chao was totally unaware of the views of those around him. The only thing on his mind was to make things as difficult for Liu Min as possible, so that he would be reduced to begging in front of him. If he refused to beg for mercy, even if he managed to get out of this current situation, he would have plenty of trouble in the future. After all, he had a bed-ridden mother. Liu Min squeezed his palms together. A hint of annoyance crossed his naturally delicate face, but he suppressed it very quickly. He took off his faded outer jacket and said, softly, If this is what Master Jiang wants, then Liu Min can only do as he says. After saying this, he knelt down in order to lick off the ink drops from the corner of Jiang Chaos clothes. Everyone held their breaths. Todays events were indeed too odd. Firstly, that the ordinarily cordial Jiang Chao would become so overbearing, and secondly, that the usually solitary, arrogant and candid Liu Min would bend the knee and exercise forbearance. Jiang Chao still stood in the same spot, his heart filled with an indescribable anger. Initially, he had intended to use Liu Min as a means to vent his frustration, but he never thought that Liu Min act like a totally different person. It was like punching on soft, velvety cotton. What had clearly been intended as a move to demean Liu Min had somehow, with one look from Liu Mins clear, haughty eyes, reversed the situation such that Liu Min seemed to be the person with the noble status, looking down on him. Jiang Chao could not bear the thought and moved to stamp on Liu Mins body. Who knew, just as he raised his leg, something struck his knee so that he was rendered immobile. Mo Cong stepped forward. He said, Where it is possible to let people off, one should spare them. Jiang xiong, is it necessary to make a fuss over an item of clothing? Liu xiong did not do it intentionally, so is it necessary to upset his mood just a few days before the preliminary round of the Imperial examination? Let xiaodi give you an item of clothing in compensation, and Jiang xiong can stop making things difficult for Liu xiong. Liu Min eyed Mo Cong, never having thought that he would speak on his behalf. Jiang Chao was also astonished, but Mo Congs status was such that he could not freely act against him. Thus, even though he was still in a towering rage, he could not express it. He shook out his sleeves and snorted as he left the room with big strides, not once looking back. Once Jiang Chao had left, Mo Cong told Liu Min, Its all right. Liu Min stood up and lightly brushed the dust off his body. He did not seem concerned about the ink all over him as he thanked Mo Cong and resumed his seat to silently peruse his scrolls. His movements were confident and relaxed, without any hint of suppressed frustration, as if the altercation had not even occurred. Mo Cong observed him and a deep thought flashed in his eyes. The Imperial Academy scholars were used to wrangling in this fashion, but they did not realise that the situation that had just played had been witnessed by two people C Master of Records Song and Chancellor Chen, who were both standing by the door. Master of Records Song was slightly angry. Jiang Chao is too unreasonable. What does he think the Imperial Academy is, that he can come here and display such unreasonable behaviour as he likes, just because he is from a noble lineage? This brings such dishonour to scholars! His heart was full of anger which he could not control, Chancellor Chen said. They too had heard of the previous nights events, and naturally knew why Jiang Chao was behaving abnormally. No matter the reason, he should not have treated a colleague this way! Master of Records Song said in annoyance. Liu Min surprised me today; he actually knows how to yield. If it had been in the past, I dont know how big the storm would have been. If it had been in the past, with Liu Mins temper, it was indeed bound to become a big mess. Even though, logically speaking, Liu Min had just cause, Minister Jiang was extremely prone to shielding someone by hiding their faults despite knowing that they were in the wrong, especially his di son and di daughter. In the end, the person to suffer would still be Liu Min. That he knows how to bend and yield is the most terrifying aspect. Chancellor Chens gaze deepened. Previously, we thought little of him, but this boy can bend and stretch. If he is able to enter the Imperial Court, he will definitely become someone very capable and highly valued. The difference between him and Jiang Chao is considerable. Master of Records Song was accustomed to Chancellor Chen not thinking highly of Liu Min. That he would actually spontaneously praise Liu Min at present, and hold the same view as himself, caused Master of Records Song to feel relieved. He said, in an agreeable manner, Indeed, Liu Min is utterly sincere, and is always upright and forthright in his conduct towards others. Truly, a rare talent. Chancellor Chen smiled and did not say anything else. Chapter 66.2 - The Top Scoring Youth (Part II) Jiang Chao rushed home to the Jiang fu in a fit of rage and charged towards Mei Qing Yuan. Lin Lang noticed the ill-tempered expression on his face and hastily said to him, Second Young Master, furen is speaking to Young Miss at the moment. Out of the way! Jiang Chao shoved Lin Lang aside. As he entered the room, he saw Jiang Su Su lying in Xia Yans arms sobbing unceasingly as Xia Yan attentively comforted her. As Jiang Chao observed Jiang Su Su crying, his emotions and thoughts were thrown into an even greater turmoil. He said, What are you crying about? You have done something like this, making it impossible for me to hold my head up in the Imperial Academy, and all you can do now is cry? Jiang Su Su was shocked. In an aggrieved tone, she said, Why are you being so fierce towards me? Is it possible that I would be happy? Right now, my reputation is in ruins. Second Brother, youre not consoling me, and even heaping criticism on me. What do you think youre doing? Enough. Xia Yan frowned as she looked at Jiang Chao and said, Chaoer, whats wrong with you? Suer, you are the younger sister, how can you speak to him this way? Jiang Chao took another look at Jiang Su Sus beautiful, tear-stained little face and felt his anger dissipate slightly. He sat at a small table to the side and said, Im not criticising her. Its just that, today, the entire city was full of rumours about what happened last night and I could not hold my head up in the Imperial Academy. Mother was being painted as a malicious woman, and younger sister had become a joke. As a result, I feel extremely vexed. Xia Yan gritted her teeth. Zhou Da clearly said no such thing while in prison. Someone must have deliberately spread the rumours to sully my Suers reputation. Whoever it is has such an insidious mind! Who could have done this? Jiang Chao asked angrily. Show me where to find them, and I will skin them alive. Jiang Su Su snorted coldly and said, Who else could it be? Apart from that slut, Jiang Ruan, who else would do this? Jiang Ruan? Jiang Chao asked doubtfully. In his eyes, Jiang Ruan was just a young, motherless girl. How was it possible for her to have such deceptive, tricky ways? How on earth would she be capable of doing something as big as this? Jiang Su Sus fingernails dug into her palms. You are simply underestimating her! I too think its odd, Xia Yan said as she frowned. It was clearly supposed to be Jiang Ruan falling into the river, how did it become Suer? That business with the handkerchief was also very queer. Whether or not she was involved, Jiang Ruan cannot be allowed to stay. She felt, although Jiang Ruan looked so unremarkable, she always gave people the chills. Mother, you must avenge me, Jiang Su Su cried. She must fall completely from grace and be utterly ruined. Dont fret. Xia Yan laughed, but there was no humour in her eyes. I have already told your father about this situation; I only said that you fell into the water, but that there was something strange about the whole situation. In the next few days, you should work hard to gain your fathers favour. I have a thousand ways to destroy this slut. As for Jinying Wang, you should compose a message within the next few days, saying you would like to visit him at his fu to express your gratitude for his help. Then we can find out what his intentions are. When Xiao Shao was mentioned, Jiang Su Sus pretty face immediately turned red. She shyly bowed her head and did not speak further. Jiang Chao contemplated for a moment before saying, If Jinying Wang really likes younger sister, then he will be able to help me in the future when I become a court official. Second Brother, what are you saying? Jiang Su Su was somewhat embarrassed. Xia Yan also frowned as she said, Watch your words! How can you bring up your sisters good name and talk about it so freely? She paused, then continued, Right now, you should be studying hard so that you can grab the first place in the preliminary round of the imperial examination in a few days time. By that time, Suers situation will most probably be forgotten in the rush of events, and your father will also be happier. At that time, Jiang Ruan will still be nothing but a little ant, and you can then deal with her as you like. Hearing this, Jiang Su Su immediately said, Second Brother, dont disappoint us. Jiang Chao waved his hand. Dont worry, everything is in order, and I have made sufficient preparation. I will definitely be able to achieve a good rank. When the time comes, my rise to success is going to be meteoric. I will definitely become a distinguished person and those inferior people wont be fit to even carry my shoes! Having said this, his eyes clouded over as the memory of Liu Mins aloof gaze flashed across his mind. Xia Yan patted his shoulder. My son, Mother will pray for you. When Lu Zhus discreet inquiries at Mei Qing Yuan unearthed this conversation, she immediately reported it to Jiang Ruan, who merely smiled faintly. Lu Zhu took note of her indifferent attitude and asked, with some impatience, Miss, it will be the preliminary round of the imperial examination in a few days time. Second Young Master obviously has a well thought-out strategy. If he really does achieve the top ranking, wont that be disastrous for us? He has no talent and no morals, how will he achieve the top rank? Jiang Ruan looked over the painting she had just completed and put down her brush. Lu Zhu moved closer to take a look. Painted on the scroll was a moonlit scene; the moonlight shone brightly on the mountains, and the faint light from the fireflies glimmered within the forest. Miss has painted this beautifully, Lu Zhu said in praise. Should we hang this up? No need, send it to the Imperial Academy, Jiang Ruan said. A painting? Lu Zhu asked in shock. Miss wants to send a painting? Not a letter? He will understand, Jiang Ruan said as she rolled up the scroll. Moonlight and fireflies C the one whose light was brighter would shine forth and illuminate a greater area. Fireflies were only able to fly to locations within a short radius of several metres, and their light could only illuminate a small area. On the other hand, the moon was so high in the sky that it could illuminate mountains and rivers, lakes and seas. The higher the position, the wider the area of illumination. If one wanted to help more people, then one required even more power. It is only with the highest position that one could have the freedom to do as one wanted. It would be impossible for the intelligent Liu Min to not understand this principle. Although Lu Zhu did not understand why, she still took the scroll as Jiang Ruan whispered additional instructions to her. Lu Zhus face expressed her surprise, but she nodded and went out. In the following days, all was quiet. On the surface, nothing of note occurred. However, new rumours had started making the rounds in the capital that after the Emperor had appointed Zhao daren of the Imperial Hanlin Academy as the Chief Examiner, Zhao daren had started accepting bribes and gifts from the candidates. When this matter had become widespread talk among the people, the imperial censors had, one after another, petitioned the Emperor to investigate the matter thoroughly. The yearly preliminary round of the imperial examination was of such great import that the Emperor had been incensed upon hearing the news and had ordered another examiner to take over while he suspended Zhao daren and placed him under investigation. When the news of Zhao darens suspension was made known, it was said that Jiang Quan did not return to the Jiang fu for two days, and when he did, he was in a raging temper. Mei Qing Yuan was a complete mess, and Jiang Chao was black-faced as he dealt out punishments to quite a few servant girls who were guilty of minor infringements. The Jiang fus servants were on tenterhooks all day long; only Ruan Ju was as peaceful as it usually was. It was at this time that Jiang Su Su sent a message ahead of herself to Jinying Wang fu, declaring her intention to visit Xiao Shao in order to express her gratitude for his help on the night of the Lantern Festival. Who knew that Xiao Shao was not there. Instead, Jiang Su Su encountered Jinying Wang fus 61-year-old loyal steward who heaped a torrent of verbal abuse upon her, leaving her to rush home in a fury. Lian Qiao and Lu Zhu were simply dying to enact Jiang Su Sus angry and embarrassed appearance for Jiang Ruan, who could not help but feel a little more at ease as a result. In addition, Zhou momos condition had improved greatly with careful nursing. She was able to carry out simple tasks in Ruan Ju, but she tied a strip of cloth around her eyes in order to not frighten the other servants. As for the servant girls that Xia Yan had sent to Ruan Ju, Jiang Ruan had left them alone. Lian Qiao was rather hot-headed, so she had set out to manage these servants until they were obedient and submissive. Although Bai Zhi looked gentle, in reality, she basically did not like getting close to people. Thus, these servant girls were treated in an offhand manner while at Ruan Ju, and consequently always felt unsettled and at a loss as to what to do. The only exception was Shu Xiang. She did her work neatly and proved herself to be quick-witted. She was also gentle and always behaved in a proper manner, such that Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi could not find fault with her at all. Meanwhile, the rumours in the capital pertaining to the mother-daughter pair of Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su had been superseded by the talk of the chief examiners acceptance of bribes, so it could be said that they had profited from this disaster. On the day of the imperial civil service examination, overseen by the Ministry of Rites, Jiang Chao was not very happy when he returned to the fu. This was because the Emperor had appointed the upright and unyielding Zhi Chen as the chief examiner who gave absolutely no room for negotiation. Everyone waited nervously for the day the results were to be released. Surprisingly, Jiang Chao only managed to place 458th, and did not even achieve the gongyuan[1]. Jiang Quan shut himself in his library and refused to see anyone; the previous days action of taking Jiang Chao to social events around the capital now seemed to be one big joke. Jiang Su Su was extremely disappointed. Xia Yan wanted to comfort and advise Jiang Quan, but, for the first time, he lashed out against her. Lin Lang could only stand to one side, not daring to open her mouth. Image result for Ԫ [1] Gong yuan ( Ԫ ) C it seems this is a plaque which the candidate who came in first in his province/county could display outside his residence, something like a medal of honour. When Jiang Chao received news of his failure, without a word, he immediately walked out of the fu. He spent the next few days in public houses drinking himself into a drunken stupor. He did not go home, and seemed to be in a pit of depression. Lu Zhu recounted all of this to Jiang Ruan in a voice full of pent-up anger. So, it turns out that Second Young Master was just talking big when in reality he was totally lacking in ability. They say he has been drinking everyday. Today, Master sent people to accompany him back home, intending to teach him a good lesson according to family rules. Jiang Ruan took a sip of her tea and said, Hes proud and arrogant, and values face more than his life. Naturally, he is not able to accept failure. This servant thinks that Second Young Master is not as good as Miss; Miss is way more intelligent than he is. Lu Zhu pursed her lips. Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes and remained silent. Over the past few days, she had sent Lu Zhu to the marketplace to spread the rumour that the chief examiner was taking bribes. In her previous life, the truth about Zhao darens acceptance of bribes had only been exposed a few years later. Now that she had revealed the truth early, the Emperor was bound to appoint a new chief examiner. In order to be prepared for any eventuality, the new appointee was an upright and plainspoken person, a member of the qing liu[2] who did not take part in the power struggles. Although Jiang Chaos essay was alright, it was also excessively slick and evasive. Thus, someone from the qing liu would definitely look down on this kind of essay. So, even if he had not failed, he was not going to achieve a good ranking. [2] Qing liu ( ) C historically, this refers to the group of uncontaminated people who were concerned with politics but held themselves aloof from those in power. On the other hand, Liu Mins upright and solitary temperament would definitely pique the chief examiners interest. Moreover, at the court examinations (the top grade imperial exam) presided over by the Emperor himself, because of the letters she had written him subtly influencing him to change his perspective, he would definitely leave a good impression on the Emperor. Liu Min, Liu Min, Jiang Ruan thought with a wry smile, dont disappoint me. Sure enough, three days later, when the results of the court examinations were released, the Emperor awarded Liu Min the highest rank (zhuang yuan), Mo Cong ranked second (bang yan), and Wang Zi Ling ranked third (tan hua lang). The top three rankers rode horses in a parade through the streets. All three of them wore their new officials gowns and rode high on their horses, looking for all the world like the fine young talents they were. Many young ladies stole out from the womens quarters to sneak a look at them. The person who attracted the most attention was the zhuang yuan lang, the top scoring youth. His features were already exquisite, but the red officials gown lent him a more kindly and gentle appearance, while also emphasising his lofty and unyielding nature, as one of the qing liu. When his white horse went by, the bolder ladies threw silk flowers to him. Liu Mins heart still harboured some suspicion, as he still remembered the question posed by the Emperor in the court examination: I heard that in the past, wise men governed the nation by emphasising honour, morals and customs, and the nation flourished. When these wise men departed, the nation declined. Therefore, the right way to govern a nation is by honour, morals and customs. However, others say that, while all these sentiments are good, they are not effective in controlling and managing the people. Balance must be achieved by means of law and order that all people adhere to so that the nation can experience prosperity and stability. Gentlemen, what is your opinion?[3] [3] T/N: Refer to Ch 50 for context. The instant he heard the examination question, he was shocked to the core C it was exactly the same question the mysterious person had posed in the first letter to him. Immediately, he was thrown into confusion. Previously, he had believed that one should rule a nation by emphasising honour, morals and customs. However, the other party had argued that these must be integrated with law and order so as to rule the nation. He had reason and justifiable grounds, and thus had been convincing. When the question was recreated in the court examination, Liu Min had settled his state of mind and argued frankly, just as if he had been arguing with that mysterious person. Honour, morals and customs are just as important as law and order. Ruling by honour, morals and customs, the nation would have everlasting peace; ruling by law and order, the nation would be strong and prosperous . . . He had been somewhat uneasy at first, but the more he spoke, the more fluent he became, and the more impassioned as well. His initial hesitation was tossed to the wind as, for the first time, he spoke with confidence about his aspirations. After he had finished speaking, he had bowed before the Emperor and said softly, This is the humble opinion of this scholar. There was silence all around for some time, before laughter was heard from the person in the highest seat. Clapping his hands, that person said, Good, well said! I am extremely gratified to see that Great Jin has such an esteemed talent! In a haze after the Emperor had bestowed the title of zhuang yuan lang on him, Liu Min still could not believe that this was happening. Mo Cong came over to congratulate him. Liu xiong, your perspective is really new and original, and it is very different from Liu xiongs view in the past. He responded courteously, but his heart was increasingly suspicious. If it were not for the fact that he knew the Emperor had no such indulgences, he would have almost wondered if the mysterious person was the Emperor himself. However, when all was said and done, if this person was not the Emperor, then who could it be, who would know the examination question beforehand, and why would this person help him? Liu Mins feelings were confused. All his life, he had been straightforward and upright. He had never used this kind of dishonourable method to achieve anything. However, for the time being, he did not want to volunteer any information about the situation. The minute he spoke out, the person who had been secretly helping him would also be implicated, and all that he had achieved would go up in smoke. He recalled the painting that the person had sent him C the higher the position, the greater the ability. The young zhuang yuan lang was pleased as punch with his success. However, he failed to notice a face within the dense crowd of people, shrouded in gloom, looking at him with eyes full of bitter rancour. Thoroughly intoxicated, he stared at the zhuang yuan lang whose star was rapidly ascending. His standing was even higher than before, and his arrogant eyes seemed to barely tolerate other people. Jiang Chao clenched his fists as he asked himself, why? He turned and disappeared into the crowd. That day, the whole of the Great Jin Dynastys capital city turned out in full force to steal a glimpse of the graceful bearing of the zhuang yuang lang. However, there was a person who stole into the residences at the Imperial Academy. Liu Mins room had yet to be tidied and was in its usual state. Xiao Shao, in deep black brocade embroidered with refreshing decorative designs from head to toe, stood in front of Liu Mins table. He reached out to take hold of the letter on the table. There were only five words in the letter: Many thanks. Who are you? Xiao Shao raised his eyebrows. Mo Cong had said that Liu Min was a totally different person when compared to his previous self, and the difference had been even more marked when he shared his opinion during the court examination. A persons long-held beliefs could not be so easily changed and Liu Mins temperament was entirely unsuitable for being a court official. There was definitely something odd about him being selected by the Emperor as the zhuang yuan lang. For example, this letter. Liu Mins family only consisted of a sick, bed-ridden mother, and he had no close friends in the Imperial Academy. This who are you was indeed intriguing. Xiao Shao opened the cabinet in front of the table to reveal a stack of books. When he extracted the book right at the bottom, a wad of letters spilled out. He saw the words on the topmost letter. It looked like an ordinary exchange of opinions between two scholars. The brushstrokes were sharp yet reserved, and did not look overly polished and sleek. At first glance, the style was very similar to that of the Eighth Prince, Xuan Li. But this person was definitely not Xuan Li. Xiao Shao looked at the letter at the bottom of the pile, where it was clearly written: I heard that in the past, wise men governed the nation by emphasising honour, morals and customs, and the nation flourished. When these wise men departed, the nation declined. Therefore, the right way to govern a nation is by honour, morals and customs. However, others say that, while all these sentiments are good, they are not effective in controlling and managing the people. Balance must be achieved by means of law and order that all people adhere to so that the nation can experience prosperity and stability. He was slightly taken aback, and a severe expression flashed across his cold eyes. This was the question in the court examination, and, from the looks of this, someone had written this letter to Liu Min way before the court examination. Who on earth was this person? It must be someone close to the Emperor. Could there be a hidden traitor within the ranks? However, Liu Min was merely a scholar from the common class; there was nothing to gain from helping him. Perhaps Zhao darens acceptance of bribes a few days ago had something to do with this. Xiao Shao thrust the letter into his bosom and said, Guards. Master. In a flash, there were two black-clad men in the room. Send a group of Jin Yi guards to keep a watch on the Imperial Academy and follow the messenger who delivered these letters, said Xiao Shao. The two of you monitor Liu Min. Yes, sir. Xiao Shao nodded. His elegant face, full of heroic spirit, just happened to notice the painting hanging in front of Liu Mins table, where the moonlight shone brightly on the mountains and lakes, and the gleam of fireflies dotted the forest. He looked at it for a moment, then turned and walked out of the room. The graceful bearing of the zhuang yuan lang won the admiration of many young ladies yet to be married, who were still sequestered in the womens quarters. That evening, Jiang Ruan did not read her books. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi exchanged glances before Lian Qiao said, Today, many servants in the fu were saying that the zhuang yuan lang is very good looking and extremely graceful and elegant, truly a man of talent. Bai Zhi glared at Lian Qiao. What kind of nonsense are you spouting in front of Miss, and without the least bit of shame? Can it be that you are suffering from unrequited love? You wretched hussy! Be surprised if I dont tear out your lips. Lian Qiaos face turned red as she laughingly heckled Bai Zhi. Right now, Im very happy. The more satisfied zhuang yuan lang is, the more dispirited those people in that place will be. When I think of this, I cannot help but be happy. These words cannot be said too carelessly. Bai Zhi cast a glance outside the door. Dont forget that there are others outside, and the walls have ears. She was speaking of Shu Xiang and the rest. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. Second Brother is probably feeling that the situation right now is intolerable, and will likely make his way to a tavern to drink. Yesterday, a new one opened in the east of the capital, and it is near the biggest brothel in the capital, Bai Hua Lou. It just so happens that today is the deflowering ceremony for Miss Mu Dan. Second Brother has been disappointed by the imperial examinations results so he needs to gain satisfaction from the affairs of the heart. However, Miss Mu Dan comes at a considerable price. Second Brother is rich and arrogant, but it is not certain that Jiang fu has the silver necessary to pay the price for this beauty of Second Brothers. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi looked at each other and saw the surprise in the others eyes. Jiang Ruan was a wise and virtuous lady who kept to her chambers, yet she spoke of the brothel in a relaxed and magnanimous fashion, which caused them to feel uncomfortable and tense. At this point, Lu Zhu entered the room. When she saw Jiang Ruan looking at her, she walked over to half-squat by Jiang Ruans side. She whispered, Miss, its done. This servant sent Da Niu to accompany Second Young Master to the tavern, and deliberately mentioned that Miss Mu Dan admires talented scholars the most. I think nothing will go wrong. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. The capitals Bai Hua Lou was a money-squandering establishment, it had already taken possession of silver from the children of many of the prosperous families. Miss Mu Dan was the main draw of Bai Hua Lou. On normal days, it was her skills but not her body on offer, and she had both natural talent and natural beauty. Today, as it was her deflowering ceremony, there would be many people hoping to fulfill their desire to be her intimate guest[4]. [4] Ru mu zhi bin ( Ļ֮ ) C lit., a guest () who is able to enter the curtain/ screen (Ļ). Rooms in a house were usually separated by curtains, and, in a brothel, the performers were usually separated from their audience by a curtain, too. Only special guests would be invited to go beyond the curtain to a persons private room; in the same way, only those guests recognised or admired by the performer would be allowed to actually meet her. Probably, the implication is that many of the brothel guests wanted to be the first to deflower Miss Mu Dan (go through the curtain). Miss Mu Dan had an addiction C she really liked talented scholars. If someone was particularly talented and received her direct favour, naturally, his luck with women was good. Jiang Chao had failed the examination, and he had just witnessed the zhuang yuan lang, flushed with success. He was likely to be upset and indignant about the entire situation, finding it unbearable. Becoming Miss Mu Dans intimate guest would probably be the only thing that would soothe his heart. While Miss Mu Dan said she liked talented scholars, in the end, she was still in the flesh trade. It was not unusual for her to earn thousands of pounds in gold a night, let alone this first night. Many young masters from upper class families were fighting for the opportunity to be the one, so how could Jiang Chao stand out? In her previous life, the right to participate in Miss Mu Dans deflowering ceremony had been bought by Li Yang, the eldest son of the capitals powerful minister, Senior Marquis Li Dong. Li Yang had bought the first night of Miss Mu Dan with 10 hu[5] of precious gems and 5000 liang[6] of gold. As a result, Miss Mu Dan enjoyed the fame, throughout the capital, of being its most expensive courtesan. In this life, she was not sure if Jiang Chao had the resources to challenge Li Yang. [5] Hu ( ) C an ancient dry measure, equivalent to 50 litres; [6] Liang ( ) C a tael, a unit of weight equivalent to 50g (which means Li Yang paid 250 kg of gold and 500 litres of gems). Li Dong . . . Jiang Ruan smiled coldly. She would never forget how, in her previous life, Peier had died under him[7]. Li Yangs appearance at this time marked a new beginning. The death knell had sounded; her vengeance was finally starting. Chapter 67.1 - A Ceaselessly Lustful Nature (Part I) Among the twelve brothels of the capital, the most alluring one was Bai Hua Lou. The magnificent Bai Hua Lou was located in the most prosperous Ruyi Alley on West Street. The ladies of Bai Hua Lou all had their own fortes, which compelled men to indulge in their pleasure and neglect their own families. To say they earned thousands everyday was no exaggeration. Miss Mu Dan from Bai Hua Lou was its most famous attraction. She had an elegant and proud demeanor and was extremely charming. Due to her having some western blood in her, her exotic features were striking and stunning, thus adding to her seductiveness. She did things daringly and resolutely, yet was good tempered and talented. All kinds of contradicting qualities enhanced her charm. Many people had offered a large sum of money, wanting to capture the beautys heart and body, but regrettably, Miss Mu Dan made a living through performances and not by selling her body. Yet tonight, for the first time in the three years since she had entered Bai Hua Lou, she offered to sell her body. At this moment, Bai Hua Lou was extremely crowded and the main hall with the beaded curtains was filled with several rich young masters from noble families. Everyone wanted to be Miss Mu Dans guest of honour. A young master in green, seemingly in his early twenties, was sitting in the middle. His appearance was considered good-looking except for the bruise at the bottom of his eye which made people feel disgusted. Obvious at first glance, it was caused by overindulgence. He fanned himself with one hand and in a subtle flirting tone he said, Why is Miss Mu Dan not out yet, making everyone wait for so long. A young lady in a thin, pink skirt was standing at his side. Her jade-like hands were holding a small wine cup as she gently assisted the young master in green, Mu Dan jiejie is currently getting dressed. Young Master Lis words have deeply hurt nujia[1], could it be that only Mu Dan jiejie is recognised? [1] Nujia ( ū ) C your servant (humble self-reference by young female) The young master in green was the eldest son of the capitals Senior Marquis Li Dong. Li Dong had two sons in total, the eldest son, Li Yang, had neither talent nor knowledge. He went womanizing everyday, taking after Li Dongs lustful nature. The younger son, Li An, on the contrary, was intelligent and gifted. At a young age, he was already accomplished in his path to being an official. Tonight, it was Li Yang who had come to Bai Hua Lou, wanting to claim Mu Dans first night. At a seat not far from Li Yangs, there was also someone with a drunken gaze. There were liquor stains all over the young man dressed in blue. Behind him, was a tall and sturdy manservant and at his side, a tender and pretty lady was pouring wine for him. He was none other than Jiang Chao who had already drunk alcohol before coming here. Jiang Chaos gaze was hazy. He pulled the lady pouring wine into his embrace, asking I heard that Mu Dan from your lou loves talented scholars the most? For the lady to be suddenly pulled into his embrace was an opportunity for her to act bashful, yet she did not expect Jiang Chao to ask something like this. Nevertheless, the ladies in the brothels knew how to observe changes in expression. Although she was puzzled by his question, having noted Jiang Chaos dressing she was able to conclude that he looked like someone from an affluent family, so she did not dare to brush him off. She said in a soft tone, Its not completely true, it is only that more than half of the people Mu Dan jiejie selects are scholars. She gave a warm laugh, And looking at young masters appearance you must be a genuine scholar, endowed with great talents and very knowledgeable. She had been better off without making additional comments as once she said those words, Jiang Chaos expression changed. It was as if Liu Min, sitting on a horse of great stature with a leisurely attitude, appeared before his eyes. At once, he pushed the lady aside, coldly picking up the wine cup and taking a sip. She did not understand why Jiang Chao suddenly flew into a rage, but only able to curse him with an unlucky sentence in her heart, she gave an apologetic smile and left. At this moment, a clear and melodious voice from upstairs rang out, Miss Mu Dan has arrived. Instantaneously, everyone was simmering with excitement. Li Yang, who was fanning himself, heard the announcement and squinted his eyes at the level above to see. They only saw a lady with her face obscured by a veil appear above. She was wearing a small, phoenix style garment in jade green with a Confederate rose floral design and detailing on the collar from the Shu province. It was matched with a long winding skirt made from silk, and her thick, lustrous hair was coiled into two loop buns that pointed towards the sky. This hairstyle made her look distinguished and unique. A copper hair ornament with a rose-shaped torsion ribbon was inserted into the painstakingly styled, cloud-like hair. She wore agate bracelets on her smooth and soft wrists, and there was a silk knot attached to her waist with a fragrant perfume sachet hanging from it. She had on a pair of embroidered shoes with a connected twin lotus flower design. Her whole look was radiant like spring flowers, in fact, even more gorgeous and touching than flowers. Confederate rose (hibiscus mutabilis) As she was covered by the veil, the crowd could not see her looks clearly. However, seeing that gentle and graceful demeanor, they already felt their hearts itch unbearably and they yearned to rush up there and take off the veil. That lady was magnanimous, she was standing on the second levels small stage, leaning against the pillar when she suddenly laughed softly. That voice was like silver bells, crisp, clear and pleasant to the ears, yet, it had a hint of ambition in it. She extended a pair of tender jade-like hands, gently removing her veil. At once, revealing that bewitchingly attractive face. To speak the truth, while Mu Dans facial features were beautiful they werent the national standard of beauty; for example, she definitely could not compare to the Jiang fus Jiang Su Su or Jiang Ruan. However, she was victorious in that exotic style. Her skin was slightly tanned, yet it did not come across as unstylish. Her azure eyes were like sapphire and when she mildly took a glance around, most of the men present already felt completely hooked. Li Yang mumbled, This type of natural, rare beauty, if obtained it is inevitable for one to be completely immersed in pleasure. Mu Dan, I definitely want her! Although Jiang Chao was usually not as lustful as Li Yang, he was still a man after all and he had drunk some liquor. The alcohol had already taken effect and Mu Dan was a rare beauty, therefore, a ball of fire was growing in his heart. Mu Dan was also an expert. In this capital, every man wanted to trifle with her, yet in the end who was toying with whom was still unknown. She gently threw the veil downwards and immediately, all the men rushed forward like a swarm of bees to snatch it. A young man, who with great physical strength, managed to snatch the veil, put it under his nose and mildly sniffed at it, his gaze revealing infatuation. Li Yang frowned, but Mu Dan stood upstairs gently smiling and said, Young masters, Mu Dan is here. Now, the bidding can begin. Her body posture showed boldness and excitement, immediately inciting the people below the stage into a frenzy. Li Yang stared at her fixedly, Such a beauty, I wonder how much pleasure she can give in bed. He signaled the manservant by his side with a wave of his hand and the manservant promptly went to sign up to be a part of those who were bidding. Li Yang was quite assured because in the capital, in terms of riches and fortunes, the Li family was second to none. His father Li Dong had also done this sort of bidding for a lady in a brothel. Money to them was a small matter, as long as they could own the beautys heart and body. Although there were many young masters below the stage, most of those who came to the brothel to bid had neither talents nor knowledge, and even if they had a little capability, they were somewhat afraid that the elders in their families would find out. Therefore, the money they used was personally their own and ultimately they were timid. However, he did not want any secrets or a wife, nor was he scared that his father would find out. Perhaps his father, upon hearing about this, would want to come another day to experience that unrivaled beautys taste. Li Yang was pleased with himself. The people bidding were competitive at first, but gradually it slowed down because the price was no longer something that normal rich families could afford to pay. Mu Dan smiled brightly, watching the taels[2] gradually increase. [2] Tael C a former Chinese weight based monetary unit. At the end, there were only two people still bidding. One of them was Li Yangs manservant and the other was a tall and muscular man. Li Yang waved his hand to summon the manservant back to his side. Seeing that the price had already reached three thousand and fifty gold, he lazily stretched out four fingers and said, Four thousand and fifty. The tall and muscular man retreated to Jiang Chaos side and in a low voice said, Young master, that fellow is clearly trying to provoke. Jiang Chaos indignance was hard to contain, originally he was determined to win Mu Dan no matter what, and although he was tipsy, deep down he still knew that four thousand and fifty gold was no small sum. He did not have so much silver at all. However, upon hearing Da Nius words about that person provoking him, Liu Mins arrogant and haughty expression with a hint of scorn appeared in Jiang Chaos eyes. He gnashed his teeth and said, Five thousand and fifty! Once those words were said, the surrounding people were all shocked because before this day, there had been no courtesan with a marked price of five thousand and fifty gold a night. Li Yang snorted, he seriously looked at Jiang Chao, seeing that although Jiang Chaos clothes were not cheap, it could not compare to his own. He was certain that the other party was forcing himself to continue on despite difficulties, therefore he without care, waved his hand and said, Six thousand and fifty. Seven thousand and fifty. Jiang Chao gritted his teeth. He felt that the other person had changed- he was the current zhuang yuan lang who was flushed with success, urging his horse on while parading through the streets like a hero. He only had one thought, continue competing, he must continue on competing with him. Eight thousand and fifty. Li Yang said angrily. Nine thousand and fifty! Jiang Chao smashed a tea cup. Li Yang was furious, he could see that this person was intentionally going against him. He said, Add another hu[3] of valuable jewels. [3] Hu ( ) C ancient measuring vessel / fifty liters. Jiang Chao, seeing that he no longer only bid with gold, looked at his small wine cup and suddenly became clear-headed. Nine thousand and fifty gold was something that he could never pay out. Not only that, once Jiang Quan knew of this matter, he would surely beat him up till he couldnt get out of bed. However, under the publics gaze, must he dejectedly abstain and give up his winning chances? At this moment, his competitive nature was evoked and his actions tended outweighed reason. He raised his head and coincidentally saw Mu Dans gaze towards him on the second floor. That gaze with a slightly cheery smile, it was like a warm encouragement, and yet, a soundless mocking. He felt his heart skip a beat and he said fearlessly, Ten thousand and fifty! There was complete silence. Everyone looked at him like he was an idiot, yet Jiang Chao only stared at Li Yang. In his eyes, Li Yang at this moment was like a flustered and exasperated Liu Min, insistently having no means to deal with him. Although Li Yang was someone with a luxurious lifestyle and dressing, he deeply understood the rules of the red light district. Beautiful ladies were wonderful, but ten thousand and fifty was too expensive, ten thousand and fifty could already buy a few beautiful, exotic young ladies with clean bodies. Thinking of all the other prospects, it was really not worth it. He felt extreme anger in his heart, but he still smiled, Since it is already like this, then this young master shall not snatch the person, Miss Mu Dan, though it is a pity. With that, he cupped his hands in farewell and turned around and left. However, he still felt indignant and once he reached the door, with maliciousness and ruthlessness in his eyes, he ordered the manservant by his side, Thoroughly check out that person just now for this young master! Dare to snatch a woman from me, I must surely teach him a lesson so he regrets it forever! After Li Yang left, Mu Dan laughed softly, Young master is willing to spend money freely for Mu Dan, Mu Dan feels touched. I must trouble young master to pass the silver certificate to the mama downstairs to manage, then come to Mu Dans boudoir to meet in private . Silver certificate? Jiang Chao suddenly reacted and upon seeing Mu Dans gentle blue eyes, unknowingly, his body broke out in a cold sweat. Naturally he knew that he did not have enough silver to pay Mu Dan, but in the capital Bai Hua Lou was not without backing and if things got out of hand what would he do. At this moment, the tall and sturdy manservant at his side, Da Niu, said, My young master left the house in a rush today and he forgot to bring enough silver. Everyone laughed at those words. He specifically came to buy Mu Dans first night yet did not bring silver, wasnt saying this giving everyone something to laugh at and ridicule him for. Mu Dan looked at him with great interest, But Bai Hua Lou doesnt have the custom of buying on credit. Why doesnt young master go get the money first and then we can have a proper discussion? The words were said with ridicule, and Jiang Chao was seething with rage. He had already had wine, therefore, did things without restraint. Seeing Mu Dans face full of disdain, he immediately jumped up and scolded, You are only a whore working as a prostitute! Greedy and easily tempted by money and you dare to say that you love talented scholars, youre just putting on airs! Slut! Mu Dans expression changed and instantly, there were bodyguards with knives and sticks rushing out from all four corners. Mu Dan usually socialised well and had a wide range of connections, dignified officials and people born of noble status who were willing to give her a reputation. These bodyguards were sent by noble people, and were in charge of protecting Mu Dan. Currently, with Jiang Chao tightly surrounded, Mu Dan coldly said, It looks like young master is here to cause trouble, or maybe to use causing trouble as a distraction to repudiate the debt? Bai Hua Lou punishes those who deny their debts following the traditional custom. She nodded her chin to signal people to go to him, Does young master wish to keep the left hand or the right hand? Jiang Chao panicked and went to rush forward, his foul-mouth swearing, I want to kill you slut! How could the guards allow him to do that; they subdued him on the floor within a few moments. Da Niu seeing the situation, said with alarm, Miss please show mercy! My fus young master was not planning on denying the debt. Miss, please bring people to the capitals Jiang fu, my young master is the Minister Jiangs Second Young Master, miss can bring young masters token to collect the taels. The people were again in a wave of discussion, Minister Jiang had clear and upright moral values, yet surprisingly, he gave birth to a son that was on this level of shamelessness. The crowd could not help but think of the rumours regarding Jiang Su Su at the lantern festival a few days back. They thought in their hearts, it is really true that one may know a person for a long time but not understand his or her true nature. The Jiang fu, it seems, was not as honourable and upright as they appeared to be. An idea formed in Mu Dans head, Since it is so, Mama, please bring a few people and make a trip to the Jiang fu. Everyone present please be my witness, this young master spent ten thousand and fifty on Mu Dan to buy Mu Dan for tonight. When Young Master Jiang brings the silver, Mu Dan will of course have a long talk throughout the night with Young Master Jiang. Finished speaking, she could not bear to spare Jiang Chao another glance and left with a brush of her sleeve. In the capital, although Mu Dan was a lady from the brothel, she was associated with wide and numerous influential connections. She knew many high dignitaries and many people still wanted to sell her a reputation. That night, Jiang Ruan closed her books and was prepared to rest, when she faintly heard a crying voice come across from outside. She rubbed her temples, What is this about? Bai Zhi stood up to serve her warm water, Im not sure, it just happened. Lu Zhu has already gone out to enquire. Just as she said this, Lu Zhu ducked into the room. Seeing Jiang Ruan and Bai Zhi looking at her, she said, It seems like people from Bai Hua Lou and they claim that Second Young Master owes them money. They actually came to the fu to demand silver. It was hard for Bai Zhi to disguise the despise in her words, towards a place like Bai Hua Lou, she had conflicts in her heart. Furen and master had a very fierce argument, Lu Zhu gave a cunning laugh, Furen wants to give them money to redeem Second Young Master, however, master says that there isnt that much money. Then furen started crying and argued with master. Jiang Ruan laughed, Furen really wronged him. Jiang fu indeed did not have ten thousand and fifty gold taels. The fu looked magnificent and splendid, yet in the end, it was only an empty shell. Not to mention, a few days ago, in order to bribe Zhao daren for Jiang Chaos exam, Jiang fu offered a large sum of money. Although in the end he did not reap any benefit, and the money was already spent. Something so big happening in the fu, how could one as a daughter not have a look. Jiang Ruan stood up, Let us go and see. Lu Zhu and Zhou momo were sleeping in the room next door, and Jiang Ruan did not wake them up. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi draped a coat and cloak over her. They had just walked to the courtyards door when they saw Fu Rong supporting Jiang Dan out. Jiang Dan saw her and jumped out of her skin. She hurriedly saluted her and asked with great caution, Da Jiejie also heard about Second Brothers matter? Jiang Ruan nodded, Although I am unsure of what has happened exactly, I must still at least go and observe. This was what I thought too, Jiang Dan shyly lowered her head, After all, we are all siblings from the same family. Jiang Ruan looked at her and did not say anything further. Both of them rose and walked towards the main hall. They had just entered the main hall when, as predicted, the first thing they heard was Xia Yans wailing. Jiang Ruan raised her eyebrows, seeing a few yiniangs at the scene. Jiang Li was standing with a look of gratification at her misfortune and Jiang Su Sus face was extremely pale. Observing closely, one could see the panic in Jiang Su Sus eyes. First Yiniang was currently carefully advising Xia Yan, Furen do not cry anymore. What should we do if you cry too much and harm your body? Xia Yan did not bother to look at her, she only tightly grabbed onto Jiang Quans arm and complained tearfully, Laoye, he is our flesh and blood, are you really planning on not caring about him anymore? Jiang Quan pursed his lips and lowered his head and glanced at Xia Yan. Xia Yans hair strands were slightly messy and the cheeks that were usually brimming with a scholarly spirit were dripping with tears, appearing even more elegant and beautiful. After all it was his beloved woman. Jiang Quan helped her up with one hand and sighed, Its not that I do not wish to save him, it is really because the fu does not have that much money. We can go borrow money. Xia Yan was in a bit of a frenzied state of mind, Laoye, dont you know many bureaucrats, just borrow from them. We do not need to for long, I can later borrow it from my maternal family. Laoye, Chaoer cannot land into their hands- you know what sort of place Bai Hua Lou is! Nonsense! Jiang Chao retracted his hand, his gaze hardening and becoming frosty. Borrow money from bureaucrats! Do you take my Jiang fus reputation as something that can be easily trampled on? Father, what has happened? What place is Bai Hua Lou? Jiang Ruan asked. Only then did the onlookers notice that she and Jiang Dan had come. Jiang Quan furrowed his brows, What are you doing here? Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao curled their lips, all the yiniangs in the fu had come, purposely not calling Jiang Ruan and Jiang Dan, this was truly taking them as invisible. Jiang Ruan said, It is the middle of the night and I heard voices arguing. I was deeply concerned so I came to take a look. But what has happened? Her expression of concern did not appear forced though Jiang Quan stared at her with a complicated emotion in his eyes. Under the lights, Jiang Ruan looked alluring, wearing a satin mantle with a prosperity symbol, enhancing her whole person to be as exquisite as a jade carving. He too, had heard rumours about the happenings at the Lantern Festival a few days ago and he had suspicions about Jiang Ruan in his heart. The girl before his eyes was tall, slim and graceful, and upon observing carefully, she had a bit of Zhao Meis appearance from the past, in fine clothes and riding a well groomed horse. He was absent-minded for a few moments, however, Xia Yan saw Jiang Ruan and her eyes lit up. She threw herself towards Jiang Ruan and said, Ruaner, Mother knows you are the most soft-hearted, you are a kind child. Now, something has happened to your Second Brother. The dowry that jiejie left for you, can you take it out at once to save your brother? In a few days Mother will return it to you. Chapter 67.2 - A Ceaselessly Lustful Nature (Part II) Xia Yan looked expectantly at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan quietly watched her. Was Xia Yans brain spoiled, to actually beg for help from her? Unfortunately, she slightly smiled, Mother, what words are these? If I really had money, naturally it would be taken out to save Second Brother. However, as Mother knows, five years ago I went to the countryside residence and the evil servants there bullied their master. The dowry my mother left for me has long been snatched away by those immoral servants. She sighed, Ruan niang truly has the heart to help but no means. Xia Yan loosened her hand, blankly staring at her. Jiang Ruan had a tranquil gaze as she maintained eye contact with her, wondering if Xia Yan at this moment was filled with so much regret that her intestines turned green. After all, it was she who had sent her to the village in the first place! She only had herself to blame for today! In the past, Zhao Mei, in order to marry Jiang Quan, broke off all relations with the Zhao family and therefore had little dowry. However, she was born and raised in that family and had saved some money, adding to this her old jewelry and valuables, it was at least worth about one to two thousand. Xia Yan, in order to maintain her gentle and virtuous facade, never thought of snatching the dowry away. In truth, the items that were taken away at the countryside residence had long been returned when Imperial Censor Wang handled this grievance of hers. It was just that Jiang Ruan had Lian Qiao convert everything to silver certificates, just in case that if one day Xia Yan asked about her dowry, she could righteously refuse. Xia Yan looked as if her whole body had been hollowed out, and her whole person became limp and feeble on the floor, mumbling, My Chaoer, is he really at a dead end? Jiang Su Su, seeing her in this state could no longer bear it and ran to her side, and the mother and daughter wailed together. Jiang Li frowned, Second Brother is really causing too much trouble. The fu truly does not have this much money, moreover, he even enraged father. Second Yiniang immediately covered Jiang Lis mouth as she understood that now was not the time to add fuel to the fire. As expected, Jiang Quan glared at Jiang Li harshly. Hong Ying, seeing the situation, walked towards the front, Furen, since it is already like this please do not only think of crying; the fu may not have ten thousand and fifty gold, but it should have a few thousand. Why dont you get someone to go retrieve it now and then negotiate with the people from Bai Hua Lou. Ask them to let Second Brother go immediately. On hearing this, Jiang Ruan laughed in her heart and glanced at Hong Ying. Hong Ying was born in a brothel, it was impossible for her to not know the brothels rules. The more popular a lady was, the higher her price would be, and therefore, she wasnt someone just anyone could afford to offend. If someone owed a large sum and was unable to pay it, then he would have to pay back with his life. If he could not fully pay off the debt, there was no buy on credit custom. If the people from Jiang fu went to talk to the people from Bai Hua Lou tonight and were only willing to pay a part of the money, it was equivalent to admitting that Jiang fu was unable to bear responsibility for the rest. Then, according to the regulations, Jiang Chao would have to leave a part of his body there. This Fifth Yiniang seemed tender and elegant, she was born in the marketplace, and yet, her methods were even harsher and more vicious than hers. Jiang Quan looked at Xia Yan and her daughter crying themselves hoarse and his heart softened, finally saying, Dont cry anymore, Steward Zhang, go to the storehouse to retrieve the taels and find a few people to make a trip to Bai Hua Lou. Xia Yan stopped her wailing and temporarily let out a sigh of relief. Jiang Quan saw Jiang Ruan and others at the side again, All of you staying here have no purpose, go back to your courtyards and dont casually walk about. Jiang Dan timidly and hurriedly responded, Jiang Ruan nodded and walked out of the main hall together with Jiang Li though Jiang Lis courtyard was not in the same direction as Jiang Ruans. Before leaving, Jiang Ruan said to Jiang Dan, I never thought that Second Brother would make such a huge mistake, if zumu found out about this, I dont know how angry she will be. Jiang Dan was stupefied for a moment and Jiang Lis footsteps also paused, then quickly left. Jiang Dan asked, Da Jiejies meaning is that zumu still does not know of this matter? Did you see any trace of zumu tonight? Jiang Ruan said, Since she was not seen, naturally, she does not know. She slowly walked, with a usual smile on her face. She was not sure if when Old Jiang Madame woke up the next morning and found out that half of the Jiang fus savings were used to pay the debt for Jiang Chaos impulse, whether she would go crazy with rage. As for Jiang Chao, he was destined to not be able to come back intact. That night, Jiang Ruan slept very soundly and when she opened her eyes in the morning, there was already sunlight shining into the room. Bai Zhi saw that she was awake and laughed, Miss slept very well yesterday and surprisingly woke up late. Mother did not order me to do the greetings, being late does not cause any harm. Jiang Ruan chuckled. How would Furen be in the mood to make Miss do the greetings when she is so busy and can barely cope. Lian Qiao served her warm water and was tending to cleaning Jiang Ruans face while saying, There is a huge disturbance in Mei Qing Yuan. Jiang Ruan accepted the handkerchief, What is the situation now? The little finger of Second Young Masters right hand was cut off. Lian Qiao said, When he came back he was bleeding so much it frightened everyone. Stopping for a moment, she continued on, Now the rumours have started spreading saying that Second Young Master went to Bai Hua Lou and spent money like water, but his pockets were actually empty. Our fu was unable to take out so much money and only gave five thousand and fifty, therefore, the people from Bai Hua Lou didnt take his life and only chopped off Second Young Masters little finger. Jiang Ruan finished wiping her face and passed the handkerchief back to Lian Qiao, What else? Miss, you really are good at analyzing things. Lian Qiao said, Not sure how Old Jiang Madame found out about this but she is enraged and Furen and Second Miss have both been confined. She herself was so angry that she fainted and now the physician who had just finished seeing Second Young Master has to do a pulse diagnosis for Old Jiang Madame. Third Younger Sisters actions are fast. A ghost of a smile graced her lips, Has this story already spread in the capital? Naturally. Lu Zhu came inside and on hearing Jiang Ruans words, she casually added, Now everyone knows the story of Second Young Master spending money carelessly for a beauty at Bai Hua Lou last night and, in the end, even getting one of his fingers chopped off. Everyone is saying that the Jiang fu is actually very poor. After speaking the last line, she went to peek at Jiang Ruans expression with a little embarrassment. However, she saw that Jiang Ruan did not take her words to heart in the slightest and instead asked about other things, How is father now? Master was so angry he could not bear it and if not for the fact that Second Young Master is lying on the bed unconscious, he would have rushed up and hit him. It looked like something serious happened to him. Jiang Ruan lowered her head to take a sip of the tea handed by Bai Zhi. After last nights ruckus caused by Jiang Chao, the Jiang fus dignity was considered to be as good as gone. For someone like Jiang Quan, who placed great importance on reputation, this was a huge blow. After this incident, the Imperial Censors account book would not leave out any details pertaining to him in the report to the higher authority. This would definitely hinder his official career. Of course, the most important thing was being in conflict with the capitals Li family. With last nights reckless spending, and since Jiang Chao won the title, it was inevitable that he had offended Li Yang. This person, Li Yang, was known to be narrow-minded so why would he simply leave it at that? Jiang Ruan gazed outside the window. Let it go on this way- Jiang Chao had forcefully occupied the position of the Jiang fus di son for so many years. The public seemed to have forgotten that the Jiang family still had a Jiang Xin Zhi. This debt, let her take it in place of Jiang Xin Zhi. Jiang Chao, youre in agony just by this, there is only one step from heaven to hell, but this is just the start. In the study room, Xia Yan looked at Jiang Quan with alarm, Laoye, you cannot confine Chaoer. Why do you not want him to go to the Imperial Academy anymore? Unfilial son! In a burst of uncontrollable anger, Jiang Quan said, Just hear what everyone outside is saying about my Jiang fu; he learned from others and went to Bai Hua Lou to spend money like water. My Jiang fu seems to have raised him all these years for nothing! He failed his imperial examination and all he knows how to do is drink wine everyday. What a good son you have raised! Laoye, I know that you are furious, Xia Yan knelt down, but Chaoer is young and ignorant and who hasnt had times when they make mistakes. Chaoer is also the son that Ive carried for nine months, however, when he was young he was scolded as a bas**rd. Nevertheless, everything Chaoer does is all in the hopes of helping the Jiang family receive glory. This time he failed the imperial examination and felt extremely awful, thats why he made such a huge mistake. And, after all, he has already been punished, hasnt he? Chaoer has already lost a finger, I beg laoye to pity him. Jiang Quan looked at Xia Yan who was kneeling down on the floor and took a deep breath. This was his beloved woman, however, he had made her wait painstakingly for a few years before she became his main wife. When Jiang Chao was born, he already had the status of an illegitimate child, and no matter how he tried to make amends, it would still be in vain. Xia Yan said again, Laoye, could it be that you dont want your only son anymore? Jiang Quans heart jumped repeatedly. Jiang Xin Zhis life and death had been unknown for a long time- for at least five years- and he took it as if he never had that son. What Xia Yan said was not wrong, Jiang Chao was his only son now. He sat in front of the study table, his tone despondent, I am doing this for Chaoers own good. Yesterdays event caused him and the Young Master of Grand Councillor Lis fu to have bad blood. If he does not hide until it blows over, I fear that Li Yang would not easily let him off. Xia Yan was dumbfounded for a second, Grand Councillor Li and Li Yang, who are they? How did Chaoer get into a disagreement with them? Jiang Quan sighed and told all the ins and outs of the incident to Xia Yan. Even so, there was one thing he didnt tell Xia Yan, Li Dong belonged to Eighth Princes faction and currently he (JQ) wanted to ingratiate himself with Eighth Prince. However, he had offended Li Dong for no reason and if Li Dong decided to purposely hinder him, then in the future Eighth Prince, this big tree, would not tolerate him. Xia Yan, on hearing Jiang Quans words, said in a low voice, Laoye, since you have said this, you do not wish to have a hostile relationship with the Li family? Having connections to the Li family is beneficial for the Jiang family, Jiang Quan shook his head, I originally wanted to find a chance to build a connection with them, however, I did not expect Chaoer to do this and instead cause resentment. Xia Yan remained silent for a while, just then, a thought appeared in her mind. She said, Laoye, do you know which type of relationship is the steadiest? Jiang Quan looked at her. Xia Yan said, What if we manage to have a marriage alliance with the Li family? Lier does things too openly and Daner is too young. Jiang Quan knitted his brows, Dont let your imagination run wild. Xia Yan shook her head, Lier and Daner are both shu daughters after all and their status do not match, therefore, they cannot be the official wife. Dont tell me you are thinking of Suer? Jiang Quan frowned? What type of place is that Li family that there is even a matter of the father and son associating with the same woman. Even if I want to please the Li family, I will still not send Suer into that abyss of suffering. What is laoye talking about. Xia Yan took a few steps towards Jiang Quan, nestling against him and a pair of jade-like hands gently massaged his shoulders? Suer is my flesh and blood too, why would I think of her. What I mean is Ruaner. She looked at Jiang Quans stupefied expression before continuing, Ruaners personality is stable and reliable, although I am worried, but the Li family still has a younger son and that son is smart and capable. If he takes a fancy to Ruaner, his status matches with hers and isnt that a good chance to form a connection. This way, we can apologize and that Li Dong will not make things difficult for us anymore. Hearing those words, Jiang Quan was enlightened, I actually forgot about Li An. What you said is not wrong, Li Ans prospects for success is immeasurable, if Ruaner marries him, Jiang fu will also have an additional helping hand. However, he hesitated, this marriage is so beneficial, but you do not think so for Suer? Ruaner has lead a bitter life, Xia Yan said gently, Suer at least has me to worry for her but Ruaner is a child without a mother. They are all Jiang fus daughters, will I purposely harm her? Not to mention, I still wish to keep Suer by my side for a few more years, therefore, there is no need to rush her marriage and we can slowly pick. Jiang Quan looked at Xia Yans smile and his attitude became warm. He embraced her and said, I know you are a person who takes everything into consideration, marrying you in this lifetime is my fortune. Rest assured, I will definitely find Suer a good marriage and will never let her suffer in this lifetime. Xia Yan faked a smile in return and the two of them chatted for a while, then Jiang Quan said, Since it is like this, I will invite the Li family over to the fu soon. Xia Yan beamed, Then I shall not disturb laoye anymore, Ill go check on Chaoer. Then, she walked up to the door and her smile instantly disappeared as she left. She walked through the corridors towards the courtyard where Cui Yu was looking after Chaoer. Upon seeing her enter, she hurriedly retreated to the side. Jiang Chao was lying motionless on the bed. Xia Yan sat down beside him and took his hands which were covered in white bandage and pressed them to her lips, gently saying, Chaoer, rest assured, mother will take revenge for you. Lin Lang who stood at the side, asked, Furen, you really want to matchmake Eldest Miss and Second Young Master Li? How could it be, Xia Yans smile was ruthless, I want her, in this lifetime, to only be able to be a small concubine by Li Yangs side. As for the official wife, she better not think about it. I want her to be ruined and only be able to be a play toy for the Li familys father and son. I want her to marry into the Li family and suffer for a lifetime! Lin Lang could not help but shiver with fear, then she heard Xia Yan laugh lightly, Second Young Master Lis official wife? Dream on! * * * The issue regarding the capitals Bai Hua Lou was spread like wildfire, within a night it seemed like it was spread through all the streets and alleys. These few days, the Jiang family became the capitals hot topic, but it was all about ridiculing them. At Jinying Wangs fu, a young man wearing a black cloak with rain flower designs and an embroidered crane on it stood at the window. The attire complemented his look, making him appear even more tall and studious. A snow white pigeon flew from outside the window and landed on his palm. He retrieved a slip of paper attached to its legs through a red string. The pigeons red bean-like eyes looked at him and he stretched out the tip of his finger and stroked the pigeons head. The pigeon chirped once joyfully before flapping its wings and flying into the sky. Xiao Shao opened the slip of paper to read it before gently furrowing his eyebrows and knocking on the table. Suddenly, two people dressed completely in black appeared from inside the house. Master, one of them starting speaking first, we have checked it out. This subordinate followed the Imperial Academys page boy. The letter came from the capitals Jiang Quans fu, the sender is Jiang fus Eldest Young Ladys servant. However, we did not manage to check whether the two have any connection. I understand, youre dismissed. Xiao Shao said indifferently. The silence resumed inside the house, Ye Feng stood behind Xiao Shao and after thinking for a while, said, Before, the rumors were also spread from this Eldest Jiang Miss. Master, this Eldest Jiang Miss has a suspicious identity. She isnt our enemy. Xiao Shao said. When he first investigated that it was Jiang Ruan, he was astonished too. Those who knew the question to the final imperial examination were usually only the Emperors people. Jiang Ruan was a young lady who stayed in her boudoir, and no matter what, it was impossible that she was an enemy agent from the palace. However, she had many unfathomable things about her. For example, last time at Assistant Minister Shens fu, she actually knew of their most hidden secret. He had three hundred thousand Jin Yi Imperial Guards under him and he never had any information that he couldnt find out about. However, towards this Eldest Jiang Miss who appeared out of nowhere, he couldnt find any suspicious points. It was as if she was supposed to know those secrets. He heard about yesterdays event that took place in Bai Hua Lou as well. Recently, the Jiang fu continuously being in trouble seemed to all have started since the day this Eldest Jiang Miss returned to the fu. Facts were proved when one of his Jin Yi Guards found the manservant following Jiang Chao at Bai Hua Lou. He admitted that he took someones money and purposely tempted Jiang Chao to go forward. The last spearhead pointed towards Jiang Ruan. He couldnt help but crease his eyebrows, There is something wrong with this matter. Continue to investigate, see how she is connected to Eighth Brother. If she was indeed Xuan Lis chess piece, she would be treated differently. Ye Feng thought about it then said, What about that Second Jiang Miss, a few days ago she came again and Steward Lin chased her away. Theres no need to be concerned about it. Xiao Shao said indifferently. Ye Feng shrugged his shoulders and stopped talking. * * * When Li Dong who was at home received Jiang Quans invitation, he also shook his head and said, Thats strange, what does Jiang Quan want? Usually we have no relation, yet he suddenly issued an invitation, whats the purpose. Li Dongs belly was protruding, the beautiful woman by his side was feeding him grapes while saying, Maybe he wishes to build a connection with laoye. Li Yangs lustful eyes were sizing up Li Dongs latest woman and on hearing these words he said, Its not going to work. Yesterday, it was Jiang Chao who made me lose face. I must definitely find a chance to settle scores with him. That is enough, Li Dong said, Your younger brother is returning to the capital in a few days, dont create trouble for him. Who is that Jiang Chao, to be worthy of you to bear grudges. Li Yang was about to say something more, when the beautiful woman giggled, Nu[1] does not know who Jiang Chao is, but before nu entered the fu, nu has heard that the Jiang family has two daughters and both are unrivalled beauties. [1] Nu ( ū ) C Slave. Upon hearing this, Li Yangs eyes immediately lit up, What you said, is it true? It is naturally true, nu does not dare to lie to Young Master. That beautiful woman smiled, Eldest Jiang Miss is extremely charming and alluring, Second Jiang Miss is beautiful and elegant. Both also possess talents that are unmatched, this is a fact that everyone in the capital knows. Come to think of it, Eldest Young Master usually does not bother with rich young ladies, so you must not have known. I never thought that Jiang Chao would have this sort of two younger sisters. I wish to have a look at their graceful demeanors. A spark of interest lit up Li Yangs eyes, Father, when is Jiang Quans invitation for? It is tomorrow. Li Dong looked at his sons gaze and was well aware of it, Why, do you wish to go to the Jiang fu too? This type of beauty, I definitely want to have a glimpse of their elegance. To see whether the people in the capital are lying. Li Yangs laugh was somewhat vulgar, Jiang Chao caused me to lose Mu Dan, if his two sisters are pretty enough, I will not settle scores with him. You better make your intentions clear, Li Dong said, The reputation of the Jiang Misses is not something you can toy with as you wish. I see that youre not young anymore, you should be getting married already. Just in time, tomorrow, when you go to the Jiang fu and if you see anyone you fancy, just marry her into the family. I still do not wish to marry. Li Yangs face fell and after thinking for a while, he asked the beautiful woman again, How is the relationship between these Jiang fus two daughters? Eldest Jiang Miss recently returned to the capital, therefore, shes not familiar with certain things, but I heard from others that she has her own demeanour of doing things, she seems gentle and unrestrained. That woman smiled, Second Jiang Miss is naive and romantic and she is also unworldly, everyone in the capital knows about this. In terms of temperament, both of them are not too bad. Jiang Chao licked his lips, If I really want to marry, I might as well marry more than one. It is also a wonderful thing. Chapter 68.1 - To Reap What One Has Sown (Part I) The next morning, Jiang Ruan rose up very early and ate the green rice[1] congee that Bai Zhi had brought. When Lian Qiao noticed Shu Xiang at the door peering inside the room, she asked, Whats the matter? Image result for green japonica rice [1] Bigeng ( ̹) C Bigeng rice is a kind of high-quality rice. Its origin is in Yutian County, Hebei Province. It is a tribute in the Qing Dynasty. It has the characteristics of slender grain, slightly greenish, and is fragrant when cooking aka Japonica rice, sometimes called sinica rice, is one of the two major domestic varieties of Asian rice. Just now, nubi came across Second Miss, Shu Xiang smiled. She received several bolts of satin and invited Eldest Miss to come visit her courtyard and pick out two bolts. I see, go and return to your work now. Lian Qiao told her. After Shu Xiang left, Lian Qiao told Jiang Ruan the whole story. At last, she asked, Second Miss is really strange. Now that Second Young Master is still laid up in bed, she has such a mind to invite Young Miss out. Thus Im afraid that we have to be prepared, Jiang Ruan said lightly, fiddling with the embroidery in front of her. Lu Zhu, go ask around to see if anyone else is coming today. Jiang Su Su wouldnt invite her over without any reason, especially at this very moment. Since the pit was clearly meant for her, it was better to calmly deal with it. Lu Zhu returned after a short time. Miss, this maidservant asked others in the courtyard. Today, the capitals Grand Councillor Li is coming for a visit. She watched Jiang Ruans expression with unease. This maidservant feels that it is strange. Do you want to decline it, Miss? There is no need, Jiang Ruan replied before Lu Zhu could finish speaking. She looked at Jiang Ruan in astonishment, only to see Jiang Ruan smile with her alluring eyes narrowed slightly. Such an old friend, I have long wanted to pay him a visit. She spoke in a cheerful tone, but somehow, Lu Zhu felt cold all over. She took another look at Jiang Ruans bottomless eyes, but they were fuzzy like looking at flowers in the fog. After a pause, Lu Zhu asked, In that case, would you like to freshen up, Miss? Naturally. Jiang Ruan smiled. Lian Qiao, Bai Zhi, you two stay in the courtyard to embroider on my behalf. Call Shu Xiang in. In Yan Hua Yuan, Jiang Su Su was dressing up meticulously. Last night, she learned from Hu Die about Xia Yan being a matchmaker for Jiang Ruan. She didnt understand why Xia Yan would introduce such a good marriage to Jiang Ruan. Grand Councillor Li was considered to be an important minister in the imperial court, while Li An was a young talent. She thought that if Jiang Ruan could marry into the Li family with ease while her own reputation was ruined, what kind of life she would have in her future husbands family. Jiang Su Sus heart was filled with resentment. Today, she was determined to wear her best attire. She had never met the legendary Second Young Master of the Li family. If she could make him fall for her instead, thus destroying Jiang Ruans marriage, she would be extremely thrilled. While tying Jiang Su Sus hair into a knot, Hu Die said, Miss, youd better not go out. Furen gave an order for you to stay in the house today. If something goes wrong Who let you speak like this to your mistress? Jiang Su Su was impatient. I know my own business. I will send you away if you speak out of turn again. Hu Dies hand stilled and she spoke no more. Li Dong and his son had arrived at the Jiang fu and were currently inside the main hall talking to Jiang Quan. Xia Yan also came out to greet them. Li Dongs eyes roamed all over Xia Yan in an intimate fashion while speaking in an ambiguous tone, Minister Jiang is fortunate in his love affairs, having such a lovely wife. Xia Yan was startled and forced herself to smile in reply. Jiang Quan was furious, but Li Dong was known as a dissolute man. Unfortunately, he had no other alternative. While enduring his anger, he welcomed them, Im taking the liberty of inviting you today. Its a pity that we have never gotten together after being colleagues for so many years. Alright! Li Dong leaned back. The small eyes on his meaty face narrowed ferociously. An honest man does nothing underhanded. Perhaps Minister Jiang has something to discuss today. What is it about, I wonder? Jiang Quan didnt expect that the other party was truly obstinate and would speak in such an ill- manner. He had a high self-constraint, but he had never met such a person. As he must not offend him, he couldnt spit out his frustration and was unable to speak for a moment. Xia Yan saw this situation and promptly stepped forward to mediate with a smile. Its not for a special thing, actually. Weve heard that both the young masters in Minister Lis fu are handsome as well as talented. Our fus daughter is no longer young. Wed like to arrange her marriage, and so felt it important to let them see each other. Jiang Quan couldnt help but look at Xia Yan when she spoke so bluntly. It was uncomfortable for him to believe that this woman, who had always been as lofty as a lotus flower, would say such shameless words now. He was somewhat uneasy. As soon as Li Yang, sitting on one side bored stiff, heard this, he grinned. Furen, so you want to pick a match for your fus young lady? Since Xia Yan had already spoken out, Jiang Quan was resigned to the fact that the Jiang fu had no face in front of the Li family. He simply clammed up and refused to talk. Xia Yan shot a glance at him and smiled. Exactly. Li Yang followed with a smile. I wonder which one of us Furen prefers, me or my second brother? Second Young Master Li is a young talent, while Eldest Young Master Li has a stately look. Of course, both are a good choice. Xia Yan smiled and pulled a lock of loose hair behind her ears. But now that Eldest Young Master Li is here, its predestined to be with Eldest Young Master. Li Dong stared at Xia Yan closely. Furen, you were born with a gilded tongue, you can speak so well. I wonder if the young lady looks as beautiful as a flower, like you? Xia Yan turned stiff upon hearing the flirting underlying his speech. It was the last straw for Jiang Quan. Just when he was about to lash out in anger, suddenly a delicate female voice rang out. Mother! Li Yangs eyes immediately brightened. He turned to see a beautiful girl standing at the door. Her goose egg-shaped face was rosy. She wore a V-neck silk sleeve shirt with yellow Camellia pattern interwoven with golden branches, a floor-length pale white moonlight pleated skirt, with different colours on each pleat, draped in primrose jacquard, and jade brocade with patterns of plums, bamboos, and chrysanthemums. Her black hair was elegantly styled in a loose bottle gourd bun. A delicate silk bat flower ornament was inserted into her beautiful cloud-like hair. Her lily-white wrist was adorned with a coral bracelet, while a wavy half-moon sash was tied on her waist with a pouch of scattered flowers motif hanging upon it. She looked like a fairy, unrivalled in her beauty. Camellia pattern Image result for bat flower Bat flower (Tacca chantrieri) She lowered her head shyly as if having just seen a stranger in the hall. After mulling over it a bit, she stepped inside. Her fair-complexioned little face was suffused with a red glow at the moment. Walking closer, a cinnabar-like red mole was visible below those limpid eyes. She truly looked like a goddess descending into the world. Father, Mother, she paused, Suer didnt know that we have guests. Since the moment Xia Yan saw Jiang Su Su, her body was rooted in place. She turned to look at the Li father and son lifelessly. As expected, their mercenary gazes fell on Jiang Su Su. Seeing those hungry wolf-like eyes- Xia Yan couldnt help but shiver. She decided on the spot to rebuke her, Who taught you such manners? Go back to your room! Her tone was too harsh, making Jiang Su Su frightened. Her eyes were brimming with tears while looking at Li Yang in a daze. When he was stared at by those eyes, he felt that half of his soul was lost. He immediately spoke out. Miss Jiang didnt mean it, so why should Furen punish her. My father and I are not strangers. He spoke in a presumptuous manner. Therefore, on hearing his words, Xia Yan became very anxious. Jiang Su Su frowned, only to hear Li Dong say, Shes just a child. Dont worry too much, Furen. Jiang Su Su sensed perceptively that something was wrong. She took another look at Jiang Quan and Xia Yans expressions and felt timid. Alright, Suer will leave first. As soon as she finished speaking, she ran away in a hurry, ignoring those peoples expressions. Only when Jiang Su Sus figure left their view, did Li Yang withdraw his gaze. That must be the Jiang fus Second Young Lady. Sure enough, she looks more beautiful than the rumours. Suer is still young. Jiang Quan blocked him. We havent thought about her betrothal for the time being. I am talking about Ruaner. Xia Yan quickly chimed in. Exactly. Suer is naughty. In fact, Ruaner has the best temperament and looks. Li Dong and his son looked at each other. Li Yang then remarked, There is no hurry. I see that Second Jiang Miss is indeed a rare beauty. Xia Yan was extremely anxious. After saying a few words absent-mindedly to the Li father and son, they had lunch. Warmed with the wine, Jiang Quan and Li Dong talked about some imperial court matters. Li Yang and Xia Yan both withdrew from the room. Li Yang proposed to stroll around in the garden. Although it was not in line with the rules, it was their family who had the most power, so she acquiesced. Xia Yan called Lin Lang, Go find Shu Xiang and bring Jiang Ruan out. A trace of ruthlessness flashed in her eyes. For my Suer, Ill let you suffer this lifetime grievance. Jiang Ruan was dressed in a brand-new long one-piece brocade robe etched with yellow Camellia flowers with pipa lapels. Lu Zhu covered her with a scarlet floral jade brocade cloak. Her hair was casually arranged in a tassel bun, even a thin silver hairpin with inlaid jasmine flowers was worn. A little powder was applied, making her skin look bright. Shu Xiang told her with a smile, Miss is really beautiful, just like a fairy. A fairy? Jiang Ruan smiled gently. Im definitely not from the heavens. She was an evil spirit coming back from Hell. All she had to do was destroy the fairy in front of everyones eyes. How could she be a fairy? Shu Xiang didnt understand her words, but Lu Zhu spoke, Miss is dressed too grandly. Are there any distinguished guests coming today? Because Second Miss is just resting in her courtyard. Shug Xiangs heart beat faster. She looked up furtively at Jiang Ruans expression. However, Jiang Ruan looked normal. Its just that the weather is very good today and the mood is lively. There are no distinguished guests in the fu. Even if there are guests, they wouldnt be in a young ladys courtyard. Shu Xiang lowered her head a bit deeper. However, she felt some uneasiness in her heart. Jiang Ruan looked at her and continued with a smile, Neither I nor Lu Zhu has ever been to Su Xin Yuan (Jiang Su Sus courtyard). You should know it well since you are usually running errands outside. Jiang fu was neither too big nor too small. Since returning to the fu, Jiang Ruan had never been to Jiang Su Sus courtyard. However, Shu Xiang didnt know what Jiang Ruans words meant. She was trying to remain calm so that Jiang Ruan wouldnt have any doubt. After a pause, Shu Xiang replied, This maidservant has been there once or twice and will likely remember the way. Jian Ruan smiled. Then Id like you to lead the way. Shu Xiang suppressed the strange feeling in her heart and made a curtsy. Please follow me, Miss. Shu Xiang led the way while Jiang Ruan and Lu Zhu followed behind. Lu Zhu stayed close to Jiang Ruans side while staring vigilantly at Shu Xiangs back. On the other hand, Jiang Ruans demeanor was perfectly calm and her smile was tranquil. When they arrived at the gate of Su Xin Yuan, Shu Xiang stopped. This is Su Xin Yuan. Jiang Ruans gaze swept across the courtyards gate. Even without entering the room, she could feel the difference from her own residence. Not only was Su Xin Yuan spacious, but the stones were also meticulously arranged in all parts of the garden. At a glance, it was very refined and tasteful. Jiang Quan was really favouring one and discriminating against another. Compared with Jiang Su Sus Su Xin Yuan, Ruan Ju was not even as good as a servants room. Jiang Ruan followed Shu Xiang to a room in Jiang Su Su Sus courtyard. She pushed the door and saw that it was a small room. There was a teapot and several teacups on the small table. Hu Die stood in place and apologized. Miss just went out and hasnt come back. Please wait a moment, Eldest Young Lady. Maidservants will go to rush her back. Theres no harm, you can go. Jiang Ruan smiled politely. Shu Xiang, Lu Zhu, you dont have to stay here. Go follow Hu Die to find Second Younger Sister. Shu Xiang was stunned. She looked doubtfully at Jiang Ruan who spoke with a smile, Are you afraid that Ill run away? Dont worry. Ill stay here. Shu Xiangs heart quivered. For some reason, she always had some inexplicable fear in front of Eldest Young Lady. A mere glance from those beautiful eyes made her feel as if all her thoughts were as plain as daylight. It was extremely uncomfortable. Lu Zhu cast a worried look at Jiang Ruan, then the two of them withdrew. After the three maidservants left, Jiang Ruan stood up. Her smile disappeared and she gently pushed the door open. Su Xin Yuan was extremely quiet. There was no one inside. She held the vermillion pillar in front of the room door with a faint smile. Unexpectedly, Xia Yan had sent all the people in Su Xin Yuan away. Did she truly want her to be in an extremely painful situation and unable to survive? Unfortunately, it was enough for her to taste despair and helplessness once. With a cold smile, she turned and walked into another room. A moment later, she heard disordered footsteps outside. The footsteps were feeble, the sound of a drunkard staggering in. Jiang Ruan opened the door and stood still. Li Yang had drunk some strong wine. He happened to see a good-looking maidservant while strolling in the garden. He wanted to get closer and cuddle up. He didnt expect the girl to break free and lead him all the way here. When he was in front of the courtyard, the maidservant disappeared again. He drank until he was a little drowsy and could only vaguely see the scenery in front of him. He saw the refined and elegant layout of the small courtyard with Su Xin Yuan written on the top. His heart swayed, forgetting where he was. He only knew that it was a young ladys bedroom. Suddenly, his lips curved into a smile and he staggered forward. But at this time, Li Yang saw a young girl in red standing at the door. Her slim stature stood ramrod straight. Her face was not clearly visible, but he could tell instinctively that she was an unrivalled beauty. At present, Li Yang could not care about anything. He shouted, Little beauty The girl in red turned around and went into the room. Li Yangs heart was fluttering. He immediately followed her, calling out, Dont run away, Beauty! Chapter 68.2 - To Reap What One Has Sown (Part II) Stepping into the room, a sweet smell lingered at his nose. He was stunned to see the cloud of smoke all over the place, making him unable to see clearly. He spoke anxiously, Beauty, where are you? Eldest Young Master Li, youre scaring Suer. A gentle voice echoed in his ear. Li Yangs heart was shaken. Jiang Su Sus beautiful face floated before his eyes. He was so giddy with joy that he promptly embraced her. Suers being so proactive, its really making me feel moved. The girl in red regarded him calmly. Li Yang strived to open his eyes wider, but her face was still fuzzy. Yet, he didnt care. He just wanted to get close to her and kiss her fiercely. Unexpectedly, the girl suddenly laughed. Eldest Young Master Li, Suer has a gift for you. When Li Yang heard this, he felt that even though he had met countless people, he had never encountered such an interesting woman. Obviously, she looked like a fairy, but took the initiative to act like a slut. His interest was piqued. What kind of gift? The girl whispered, The gift is go to hell. As soon as she said this, she ruthlessly smashed him with a flower vase that was tucked behind her back. Li Yang did not expect the beauty to suddenly become a life-stealing Asura. Thus, taken by surprise, he was heavily wounded with blood gushing out immediately from his head. His body swayed and fell down. Jiang Ruan looked at Li Yang lying sprawled on the ground with a cold smile on her lips. She crouched down, fiddled with the broken china pieces, and suddenly softly smiled . Li Dong and Li Yang were the most disgusting people. This father and son pair committed inappropriate and illicit acts in the Grand Councillors fu. This was widely known to everyone of all ranks in society. Reputation was not the most important thing in dealing with such a brazen person. Before she died in her last life, she only knew that Li Dong had violated Peier, but she had no idea if Li Yang also had a share in it. Even if it was not so, the fathers debt must be repaid by the son. It was not too much. She slapped the piece of china on Li Yangs face. Young Master Li, I gave you a gift. Isnt it your turn to return the favour? A short time later, Jiang Ruan left the room. Just as she reached Su Xin Yuans gate, she heard a young manservants voice. Young Master! Where are you, Young Master? It was the manservant at Li Yangs side. Jiang Ruan paused. It was too late to hide. Her mind kept turning, but she still couldnt come up with a solution. Then, all of a sudden she heard the young manservant screaming in shock, and then there was nothing. After hesitating for a few moments, Jiang Ruan walked out of the gate and saw the young manservant lying face down a few steps away from the gate. It seemed as though he had fallen down and fainted. Jiang Ruan frowned. She looked around. Seeing no one, she went around the unconscious manservant and left in a perfectly composed manner. Up in a tree, a young man in black played with the stones in his hand. His long eyelashes drooped, covering his contemplative eyes. He had come to the Jiang fu to investigate Xuan Lis matters but came across an unexpected scene. It seemed that the Eldest Young Miss of the Jiang fu and the Eldest Young Master Li had old scores to settle. It was very shocking to see the ruthless way she acted against her enemy. Shu Xiang had been waiting in the garden but then walked towards Su Xin Yuan. While still halfway, she saw Lu Zhu running over in a panic. Shu Xiang asked hurriedly, Whats going on? You look so anxious, did something happen? No, nothing. Lu Zhu masked her expression. Go back to Ruan Ju first. I still have some things to do. After saying this, she left in haste. Seeing this, Shu Xiangs heart was set. After some thought, she went in the other direction. Jiang Quan and Li Dong had finished talking about the official matters, so they casually strolled around the Jiang fu, talking about the marriage between the two families. Although Li Dong was lecherous, he was also cunning like an old fox. He was being vague with his words. Xia Yan, keeping them company, sneaked in a few words, but Li Dongs attitude was obscure, saying it depended on Li Yangs wishes. As they walked, they got closer and closer to Su Xin Yuan. At this exact moment, suddenly a pretty servant girl rushed out from the other direction, looking frightened. When she caught sight of Xia Yan, it was as if she had seen her saviour. She knelt down and cried, Please help, Furen! Please help my Eldest Miss! After she spoke, she looked up and was stunned as if just now realizing that Li Dong was present. Xia Yan looked at the servant girl in surprise, her brows knitted. What does this mean? What happened to Ruaner? The servant girl seemed frightened, looking submissive and not daring to speak. Xia Yan was more and more impatient. What on earth has happened? As soon as these words were uttered, a womans scream from within Su Xin Yuan was heard. The cry was so shrill that everyone present couldnt help but shiver. Xia Yan was stunned. She didnt speak anymore and rushed quickly to Su Xin Yuan. Lin Lang followed her closely. When they reached Su Xin Yuan, it was extremely quiet; there was no one in the courtyard. Xia Yan went to the small guest room first. The room was tranquil, the teapot and the teacups on the table were in the same position as before, undisturbed. Both Lin Lang and Xia Yan stared blankly, only to hear another scream. This time, it was loud and clear, coming from Jiang Su Sus bedroom. For a second, Xia Yan could not help wonder why the location had changed to Jiang Su Sus room. But then, a foreboding feeling rose inside her heart. She pushed Lin Lang, who stood in front of her, away and rushed into Jiang Su Sus room. As soon as she entered the room, she smelled the strong and nauseating stench of blood. Xia Yans eyes jumped at the startling sight of blood on the ground. A sound of weeping reached Xia Yans ears, making her feel as if struck by lightning. She took a few steps forward. Wasnt the one standing in the room crying Jiang Su Su? Li Yangs head was covered with blood at Jiang Su Sus feet. His former appearance couldnt be seen at all. Meanwhile her eyes were tightly shut, dreading the imminent disaster; knowing that there was no silver lining in the clouds that could save her. No - Xia Yans eyes widened. The sound of footsteps came from behind the door. It was already too late to stop them. She heard Jiang Quans voice, What happened? The voice stopped abruptly, and then there was a scream. My son! Li Dong stared with wide eyes as if he couldnt believe what he was seeing. He rushed to Li Yangs side and shook him. Son, wake up! Li Yang seemed to be unconscious. Li Dong lowered his head and looked down at Li Yangs lower body. The fine silk robe was bloodstained from his waist down. His gaze was fixed on the badly mangled thing nearby, then he let out a torturous howl. Whoever saw his own son castrated wouldnt be indifferent. Li Dong looked up again, his eyes were scarlet. Jiang Quan, I want you to pay with a life! Not me, not me. Jiang Su Su was trembling with fear and tears were all over her face. He was already like this when I entered the room. Not me, it really wasnt me. But no one could believe her words as the scene in front of their eyes unfolded. The most powerful hypothesis being that Li Yang was overcome with lust and wanted to commit an immoral act against Jiang Su Su, who then broke his head with a vase and castrated him in anger. Xia Yan defended her, No, it couldnt be Suer. She is timid and wouldnt treat Eldest Young Master Li like this. Minister Li, dont panic. The assassin must still be hiding inside the courtyard. Where is Ruaner? Suer, you are not with Ruaner. Where is Ruaner? She thought it must have been Jiang Ruans act of shifting the blame and Jiang Ruan probably hadnt left the courtyard yet. Li Dong raised his head. However, before he could speak, he heard a soft female voice outside. Father, Mother, what has happened? Why is everyone in Second Sisters room? Xia Yans whole body immediately stiffened when she saw Jiang Ruan standing at the gate of the courtyard. She was wearing red from head to toe, sultry like fire. Today, shed even put on some powder. She looked extremely beautiful. By comparison, Jiang Su Su Su, who was in a teary mess, cut a sorry figure. Ruaner, werent you picking bolts of satin with Suer in the room. Why did you go out? Xia Yan asked eagerly. I waited for Second Sister but she was late. I thought it would be better to take the initiative to find her. But unexpectedly, I couldnt. Jiang Ruan explained, So I asked Lu Zhu to pick some red plum flowers in the garden with me, thinking that they would look good in the vase. As she spoke, in her raised hands, there were indeed a few branches of plum flowers. Xia Yan was paralyzed on the ground. Jiang Quans forehead throbbed painfully. Looking at Li Yang unconscious on the ground, a trace of cruelty flashed across Li Dongs face. He yelled, Slut, pay back my son with your life! Before people could see his movements clearly, a sharp piece of broken china was already in his hand. Jiang Su Su jumped back in fear. Li Dong was fat and not particularly nimble. Jiang Su Su was able to dodge, but she felt a scorching pain on her right cheek. When she reached out to touch it, her hand was soaked with blood. Jian Quan shouted, Impudent! The courtyards guard made every effort to pull Li Dong away. Jiang Su Su collapsed while covering her face and burst into tears. Looking at Jiang Su Sus bloody face, Xia Yans heart was in pain and she immediately fainted. Call the doctor! Jiang Quan said worriedly. Li Dong also dispatched people to carry Li Yang. Go back to the fu immediately. Before leaving, he looked at Jiang Quan maliciously. I will not give up this matter. Jiang Quan, I will make you pay the price! After Li Dongs party left, Jiang Quan rubbed his forehead. Because of concerns and worries about Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan, he left for Yan Hua Yuan in a hurry. For a while, Su Xin Yuan was restored to its former desolation. Lu Zhu stood silently at Jiang Ruans side. Amid the bloodstained ground, Jiang Ruan smiled and said softly, Shu Xiang, wont you come in? Shu Xiangs face was deathly pale. She seemed to have sensed the devil incarnate in Jiang Ruan. Earlier, she thought that the matter was finished when Lu Zhu had that look of worry, so she hurriedly reported back to Xia Yan. Who could have known that it would be Jiang Su Su who fell into the trap? It was too much to call all of this a coincidence. Youll remember the road to Su Xin Yuan now and never forget it in your lifetime. Jiang Ruan smiled at her. Right? Lu Zhu had a hard to conceal look of contempt in her eyes. Shu Xiangs back was covered with cold sweat. She knew that Xia Yan would not let her off lightly this time. The girl in red, however, seemed to be in harmony with the blood-stained ground. Her expression showed no signs of panic. With an indifferent smile, she turned around and left. This day was bound to be a momentous one for the capitals Jiang family. In a few short days, Jiang Chaos finger was cut off, Jiang Su Su was disfigured, Xia Yan fainted from anger, and Old Jiang Madame was bedridden. Such a big Jiang fu- it was unknown when it started showing signs of collapse. So subtle, but the rotten things were deep-rooted. One day, they broke through the ground and began to nibble away at this magnificent fu. Jiang Ruan sat at the table drinking tea. A little of the freshly made hundred flowers honey, sent from Zhuangzi, was allocated to each courtyard. To it were added a few petals of the freshly picked red plum flowers from the yard. This simple flower tea had a special taste when drunk. That afternoon, the mishap took place and in the evening Jiang Dan came to see Jiang Ruan. She looked at Jiang Ruan and asked anxiously, Da Jiejie, I was in the courtyard today and didnt go out at all. I heard that you were on the scene. Is it true that Second Sister smashed Eldest Young Master Lis head? Jiang Ruan smiled at her. Oh, Second Sisters news traveled swiftly. But, you dont seem to believe it? No, no. Jiang Dan quickly waved her hand. Its just that Second Sister has always been gentle. I just didnt expect that she would have the courage to hurt Eldest Young Master Li. As she spoke, she probed Jiang Ruans expression. Rabbits will bite when they are cornered. Jiang Ruan spoke in a slow and deliberate tone. People who normally look docile also have a fierce side, but we cant see it. Jiang Dan paused and then smiled. What Da Jiejie said is true. After talking for a while, Jiang Dan timidly said goodbye and left. Lian Qiao accompanied Jiang Dan to the courtyards gate. When she came back, she remarked, Fourth Miss is really odd. Furen does not treat her very well, yet she is anxiously inquiring about Second Miss. She shook her head. Wasnt she being excessively kind? Jiang Ruan smiled but kept silent. She was vague about Jiang Dans feelings. She only knew that since the death of Third Yiniang, Jiang Dan was raised at Zhao Meis side. At that time, Jiang Dan was not as cowardly as she was now. Although she was somewhat timid, she was always fawning over people and showing off her cleverness. Zhao Mei also liked her very much. Although sometimes Jiang Ruan was annoyed with Jiang Dans striving for favours. Ultimately she felt pity for her after losing her mother and understood her rush to fall all over others. But Jiang Xin Zhi, who had always been gentle, didnt like Jiang Dan very much. Although he didnt show it, he always had a kind of polite alienation. In the last life, Jiang Dan seemed to have been married out as a noble sons concubine. She was a daughter born from a concubine, never mind wishing to be the legal wife of a family of better standing. Also, she was also uncertain about the subsequent events, and didnt know whether Jiang Dan had contributed in making her the enchantress who brought calamity to the country. While they were still conversing, she heard someone talking outside. Lu Zhu pushed the door and entered. She stuck her lip out and said, Shu Xiang came back just now. I saw that her face was covered with slap marks and she was unsteady on her feet. Her face was really pale. Jiang Ruan smiled. Today, Shu Xiang had messed up so greatly, Xia Yan wouldnt let her go easily. However, she was still the chess piece placed in Ruan Ju, so Xia Yan was reluctant to kill her for the time being and spared her life. Miss, Bai Zhi asked, This servant doesnt understand one thing. That time, Furen gave you four servant girls. Why do you treat this Shu Xiang differently? You arent this careful toward the others. Perhaps, I have an old score to settle with her, Jiang Ruan whispered. Lu Zhu, besides the Li familys father and son, was there anyone else who visited the fu today? This servant asked many people, there was indeed no other visitor. Lu Zhu answered. Miss, was there a problem? Jiang Ruan shook her head. Li Yangs manservant wouldnt faint without any reason. If it wasnt an outsider, it could only be someone inside the fu helping her in secret. But that also meant that what she did today was discovered by another. The man helped her, but that didnt necessarily mean that he was a friend and not a foe. Who on earth was he? Jiang Ruan pondered. In Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan swept the one remaining celadon[1] teacup off the table until it smashed into pieces. The surrounding servant girls held their breath. Lin Lang came forward to advise. Furen, dont be angry. It will harm your body. Celadon teacup [1] Celadon : A term for pottery denoting both wares glazed in the jade green celadon color, also known as greenware, and a type of transparent glaze, often with small cracks, that was first used on greenware, but later used on other porcelains. Celadon originated in China, though the term is purely European, and notable kilns such as the Longquan kiln in Zhejiang province are renowned for their celadon glazes. Celadon wares were highly regarded by the Chinese Imperial court. The similarity of the color to jade, traditionally the most highly valued material in China, was a large part of its attraction. Thwack! Xia Yan slapped her with the back of the hand. Immediately, five obvious finger marks showed up on Lin Langs face. She didnt dare to move. The other servant girls around, seeing the most favoured Lin Lang being slapped, stayed in place, motionless. Xia Yan was about to explode in anger. Remembering the last words of the physician who treated Jiang Su Su, she felt even more emotional: Your daughter has a deep wound and lost too much blood. She is still alright now, but Im afraid it will leave scars later. Jiang Su Sus devastatingly beautiful face was now ruined. How could she marry into a wealthy and noble family in the future! She hated Li Yang for hanging between life and death in Jiang Su Su Sus boudoir. She hated Li Dong too for scratching Jiang Su Sus face. And she hated Jiang Ruan the most. She didnt believe that all this had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan! Obviously, it had been an infallible arrangement. As long as Jiang Ruan entered the small guest room and drank the tea on the table, Li Yang would come inside the courtyard and commit an act with Jiang Ruan. After Jiang Quan and Li Dong found them by accident and the truth came out, this matter would be over. Jiang Ruans reputation would be ruined, so she could only enter the Li family to be a low-rank concubine. However, it never occurred to her that Jiang Ruan would not enter the guest room at all and not drink the tea. Unknowingly, Li Yang collapsed in Jiang Su Sus room just when Jiang Su Su returned to the room! Now she was afraid that Li Dong fiercely hated Jiang Su Su. Even if she hated Li Dong just as much, Li Yang was badly injured and castrated in the Jiang fu. She had no idea what kind of method Li Dong would use to retaliate. At the thought of it, Xia Yan felt a lingering fear. No, I have to think of a way. Xia Yan walked around the room a few times, made up her mind, then went to her desk, and had Lin Lang grind some ink. Im going to write to my father and ask him to come up with an idea. At the same time, Jiang Quan rubbed his forehead in the study. In a mere few days, several threads of white hair began to grow at his temples. His favourite son and daughter were suffering from this kind of disaster. He was seized with anger, but the other side was Li Dong, Eighth Princes man. Hong Ying stood behind him, a pair of lily-white hands pressing his scalp gently while telling him tenderly, Laoye, be at ease. Second Young Lady and Second Young Master will get better. Jiang Quans eyes drooped dejectedly. His eyes that were always high-spirited were now filled with sorrow. The son and daughter that he had the most pride in were now bedridden and perhaps both would be disabled. He recalled Xia Yans words. With the only di son and di daughter in the fu being like this now, who would inherit Jiang fu in the future? I, Jiang Quan, have fallen to this extent. I was unable to protect my children. Hong Yings gentle words were in his ears. Laoye, thats incorrect. Dont we still have Eldest Young Master and Eldest Young Miss? Jiang Xin Zhi and Jiang Ruan. Jiang Quan was slightly shocked. Jiang Xin Zhi had left Jiang fu many years ago and it was unknown whether he was alive or dead. He called to mind Jiang Ruan that he saw in Su Xin Yuan today. She was a slender and elegant young girl, wearing light makeup. She had blossomed into an unparalleled beauty. Her red dress made him think of Zhao Mei when she was young. Compared to Zhao Mei, Jiang Ruan was less wilful and impetuous, more sweet-tempered and vibrant. He loathed Zhao Mei from the beginning because Zhao Mei fell in love with him. Since Zhao Mei was a young lady from a wealthy and noble family he had no alternative but to marry her, but he never loved her. Zhao Mei, a generals daughter, learned the four arts (zither, go, calligraphy and painting) for him. Since he didnt love Zhao Mei, he never showed any concern or care even for Jiang Xin Zhi and Jiang Ruan. Now, were Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Sus mishaps Heavens punishment for him? Li Dong wont leave the matter at that, Jiang Quan sighed deeply. Li Yang looks like that now. Im afraid he will ask to marry Suer. Hong Yings hands stilled. Asking for marriage? If Li Yang dies, the matter rests here. But if he doesnt, with that kind of appearance, Im afraid that no good family will consent to give their daughter to marry him in the future, Jiang Quan explained. Now, he hates Suer to the bone. If she gets married to him, she will be tortured in every possible way. Suer will barely survive there nor can she die, thus she will never be happy. Is Laoye willing to break off relations with Grand Councillor Li for Second Young Lady? Hong Ying inquired. No, Jiang Quan replied, the Jiang fu needs to ingratiate itself with His Highness, Eighth Prince, but in order to accomplish that it will be impossible to break off relations with the Li family. Then, Laoye is willing to marry Second Young Lady to the Li family? Hong Ying probed him. Suer is my most beloved daughter. I would never send her to a living hell. Jiang Quan said, Even if Li Yang was in good condition, I would not marry Suer to him, not to mention that he is just a waste now. What will Laoye do? Hong Ying had a faint guess in her heart and her voice became even more gentle. I dont want to send Suer to them. If I can compensate them with Ruaner, maybe I can pacify Li Dong and his sons anger, Jiang Quan told her. Ruaner, who is beautiful now, may look even more remarkable as she grows older. By giving them my innocent di daughter as compensation, perhaps, they will feel the Jiang fus sincerity. Even though she had guessed at this a little bit, Hong Ying was still shocked beyond words. Unexpectedly, Jiang Quan could think of causing Jiang Ruan a lifetimes worth of misery in exchange for Jiang Su Sus liberation. How could there be such a father in the world who treated his own flesh and blood so differently! Had she not heard it with her own ears, Hong Ying could never believe that these words came from Jiang Quans mouth. She couldnt help saying, Laoye, do you know what marrying Eldest Young Miss off means? It would signify that Jiang Ruan becomes a tool for the Li father and son to vent their anger. Li Yang and Li Dong would transfer their hatred for Jiang Su Su to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan would have to live a life of humiliation. Jiang Quan didnt open his eyes. I have no other way. Ruaner, as the elder sister, should love and protect her. He spoke as if this was proper and a matter of course. Hong Ying felt a chill in her heart and reluctantly smiled. Laoye, youd better wait until Second Young Lady wakes up to make a plan. We also dont know Second Young Master Lis situation yet. Jiang Quan was stunned. You are right, this matter will be discussed later. Now, we will wait until Suer wakes up. You can withdraw. Hong Ying hurriedly withdrew from the room. When she got out, she still felt a lingering fear. She shuddered to think of Jiang Quans words just now. Everyone in the capital had heard about the Li familys father and sons disgusting means. It was really chilling that Jiang Quan could propose marrying Jiang Ruan off to that family without batting an eyelid. Jiang Ruan once threw her an olive branch, but Hong Ying was always careful and did not ally herself with others easily. But she could clearly perceive that the course of events inside the Jiang fu had changed surreptitiously since Jiang Ruan returned. Eldest Jiang Miss looked gentle and pleasant, but during the mishaps that had occurred over these past few days, she was all safe and sound while the Xian Yan mother-daughter pair came to grief. Hong Ying was born in a brothel, she wasnt so naive to think that it was all due to Jiang Ruans luck. Chapter 69.1 - A Marriage Alliance (Part I) For the first time since the beginning of spring, it had rained. As the rain ran down the eaves of the roof onto the slabs in the courtyard, the gloominess of the weather seemed to be slowly descending to the earth as well. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Xia Yan had held up a spoonful of sweetened steam-curdled yoghurt[1] pudding and was bringing it closer to the young girl before her. [1] Tng zhng slo ( ) C There is no proper name for this commonly seen snack in Beijing. This local street snack, that is distinctive of the flavours in Beijing, is commonly made with fresh milk, sweet fermented rice wine, sugar and almond slices. The steps to making this sweet dessert are similar to pudding, using methods of straining and steaming. This is made to mitigate the summer heat. I dont want to eat. Jiang Su Su cast her head aside. That pair of movingly beautiful eyes were filled with anger. Although medicine had been applied on the right cheek of that spotlessly white as a jade face, the long cut of flesh that had begun just from her right eye downwards had gruesomely flipped over. By sheer coincidence, her skin had been slashed open right at the blood-coloured tear-shaped birthmark of hers. With one look, it made her seem similar to Asura. Suer, be good. Only when you eat something will the wound heal quickly. Xia Yan gently persuaded her. With one swipe, Jiang Su Su flipped the porcelain bowl in Xia Yans hands as she spoke in an agitated voice, What good will it be now, with these looks of mine that make me look like a ghost. In what way is it possible to become better? Its better for me to be dead. As she spoke to a point that made her emotionally upset, she could not help but cough twice, causing the right side of her face that had initially looked warped to appear even more frightening. Distressed, Xia Yan gently patted her back, If you say this, can it be that you are trying to make mother pained to death over you? Suer, be at ease, mother will definitely find the best physician who will not leave the slightest scar behind. Do you believe that I will be convinced by your words? Jiang Su Su looked at her with a face filled with disappointment, If not for your idea of having Shu Xiang lure in that Li Yang into Su Xin Yuan, then how would have matters developed to such a degree. Its all you! Its all your fault! Having spoken this last point, her gaze had become wild and her emotions were so intense that they were almost out of control. Enough! All of a sudden Xia Yan shouted in a low voice and swiftly spoke in a whisper, Are you trying to have everyone hear about this matter? Jiang Su Sus voice, which had become hoarse was now mute, but still she continued to glare at her. Xia Yans voice was unexpectedly severe, Put away that terrible look of yours, do you believe that you can change anything by staying in such a state, if Jiang Ruan were to see you in such a manner, she might even be thrilled. If your Father saw you in such a state, he would only be disappointed. If you want revenge, then restrain those tears of yours for me and listen to my words. Her strict tone startled Jiang Su Su for a moment but she slowly calmed down and asked, Then what should I do? Once Xia Yan saw that she was now behaving , she knew that Jiang Su Su had digested her words and spoke with a sigh of relief, Now that your Second Brother has lost a finger, this matter has become extremely suspicious. I do not know how this has happened to your Second Brother but this matter between you and Li Yang, Jiang Ruan is unable to shed off responsibility for it. She has actually played tricks on both you and me. I hate that I cannot peel off her skin and drink her blood. Jiang Su Su clenched her fists as her gaze became gloomy, She has harmed me till such a state, I cannot accept it! The Li familys power is too strong, however, no matter what I will not send you to them. I have already written a letter to your maternal grandfather[2]. If your maternal grandfather knew how you and your Second Brother were right now, Jiang Ruans peaceful days would be numbered. [2] Waizufu ( 游 ) C maternal grandfather. Jiang Su Sus eyes were alit, Maternal grandfather will avenge me. So now, you need to recuperate from your injuries properly. Xia Yan looked at her as she mildly continued, Later, when your wound is better, I will then arrange for you to take a trip to the Xia fu. Xia Yan was born from the second wife of the Marquis of Yongding, Xia Cheng. At that time, Xia Cheng was unknown, only a meagre county lord. Thus, with Xia Yans status, she could not marry Jiang Quan as his main wife. Who would have known that Xia Chengs elder di brother would die suddenly due to an illness a few years later and thus, the Marquis title landed on him, the shu sons shoulders. As the tide rises, the boat floats; with this change in station and in addition, with Zhao Mei severing relations with General Zhao, Xia Yans status became more fitting to the position of being Jiang Quans legitimate wife. Xia Cheng and Xia Yan, in general, were the kind of people who would defend their own despite knowing that they were in the wrong. If he knew that this pair of maternal grandchildren of his had such unforeseen events happen to them, who knew what sort of methods he would use to deal with Jiang Ruan. After speaking with Jiang Su Su for a while, Xia Yan then stood up and left. After she walked to the door, Xia Yan rubbed her forehead and asked, Chaoer, has he awoken? Lin Lang lowered her head in reply, Second Young Master woke up at noon. Only, he threw a huge tantrum once he woke up and had all of the maidservants in the residence expelled from his room. He is unwilling to see anyone. Xia Yan took a deep breath, Lets go, I will go see him. The weather continued to be cloudy and rainy, yet the atmosphere in Ruan Ju remained similar to how it was in the past; leisurely and relaxed. It seemed completely unaffected by this gloomy weather. Jiang Ruan stood before the desk practicing some writing as Bai Zhi was at her side, helping her to grind some ink. Miss, this character is developing well. You are illiterate, who are you to say that its good. From her side, Lian Qiao remarked. Bai Zhis face flushed, after all, her mouth was not as ferocious as Lian Qiaos and so could only mumble with a lowered head, Its because I see that it looks good. Jiang Ruan placed the brush aside, Do you want to learn to write? As the two of them heard that, without exception, they were both surprised and delighted as they looked at her. Lian Qiao replied, Naturally, we would wish to. Then in a few days, I will pick some simple books and you two will begin to learn how to recognise some words. Following her, being able to read would definitely be good. Generally, Lu Zhu was outside handling matters, therefore Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi ought to be able to help her with some matters in the fu as well. This servant thanks Miss. The two maidservants were naturally unable to contain their joy. For servant girls, being able to learn to read were things that only people of the upper echelons could do. For Jiang Ruan to allow them to learn to read, it was truly something they could not thank her enough for. Young Miss, to have Lu Zhu go out today and retrieve the banknotes that were deposited at the Si Hai money shop[3], why was this done? Lian Qiao asked. [3] Qinzhung ( Ǯׯ ) C The first of such an establishment was started in the Ming Dynasty (1368C1644 CE). It was in essence, a private local bank where one could change money, make deposits, make loans to traders, care for remittances, and in some cases issue their own scrip. Jiang Ruan glanced at her, these two maids, although they were loyal, their thoughts were overly proper. On the contrary, Lu Zhu had travelled extensively in the past and had seen enough unpleasant matters in the streets, therefore, when deploying her in such matters, she(JR) would not have any qualms nor worries. However, as far as these two maids, she still did not dare to put them to much use yet. Look at this rain. Jiang Ruan gazed outside the window, For a while now, it has rained and rained. Yet, no one knows when it will stop. Miss is cracking a joke, Bai Zhi spoke in astonishment, it is merely a shower at the beginning of spring. It might even stop tomorrow morning. Yet I feel, it wont stop. Jiang Ruan shook her head. In her past life, it had also happened in this very year. This shower of rain had pitter-pattered down and as it poured, it had gone on continuously for three months. The grains at the beginning of spring were unable to be sewn into the soil and the flood wreaked havoc and devastation everywhere. Many peoples houses and fields had been broken through and drowned by the large flood of rainwater and at once, the capital was filled with refugees. She had remembered this matter very clearly because, at the time, the rural residence had also been met with devastation by the flood. Due to the scarcity of food grains, Zhang Lans family had then had her expenses severely reduced until it was almost to a cruel state. Although her house had not been as bad as to have been flooded and destroyed, still it was always damp and moist. Yet every day, she had dragged her body that rumbled with hunger to do some heavy manual work and weary labour until one day, she had nearly been washed away by the flood. Fortunately, a rough labour servant had seen this and had saved her. She would never forget how Zhang Lans family had looked at her. At the time, their gazes had been filled with disappointment; as if it would have been a wonderful wish for her to have just drowned in the water. At that time, Jiang Ruan had thought that Zhang Lans family had disliked her for taking up a part of the food grains for herself in the residence and therefore, could not help but wish for her to drop dead. However, now that she thought about it, if she had died in that flood back then, Zhang Lans family would probably have received a large sum as reward from Xia Yan. At the time, large numbers of refugees descended on the capital and every family, naturally, was unable to be taken care of. The refugees had scattered all over the city and when they were unable to obtain food, they then resorted to stealing everywhere. Naturally, the poor families did not have much food surplus and so, these refugees aimed their sights at the noble and rich families in the capital. At the time, as part of the city garrison, her cousin Zhao Yi had led troops in suppression of these crimes. However, he was hacked to death by the refugees. Yet, as for that venerated Emperor, at this time, he gave an order to the Zhao family to fund the disaster relief. The Zhao family had put forth a sum of ten thousand and two hundred in silver, and in the process, emptied out all of their savings. From that moment, the Zhao family seemed to have begun its decline. When Jiang Ruan finally learned of this matter, it was only after she had entered the palace. During idle conversation, Zhao Yi had inadvertently remarked that the one who had made the suggestion to the Emperor had been Xuan Li, saying that General Zhaos family was prosperous and plentiful, and perhaps they would have the money to aid in disaster relief. Jiang Ruan had already asked Xuan Li about this matter and yet, Xuan Lis reply was: the people were of importance and money was merely a worldly possession. To be able to protect the lives of those refugees, this was a good deed. Now that she thought some more , after that matter had ended, Xuan Lis reputation and credit with the people had increased greatly while the Zhao family had weakened immensely. Or perhaps, this too was in his plans. As for Zhao Yis death, it was likely not as simple as it seemed. A grand and stately garrison guard from the capital, how could he have possibly been hacked down by an unarmed and defenceless rebel. Abruptly, her gaze became deeper. In this life, she had no thoughts of becoming estranged from the Zhao family C they were her backing and support that she needed to keep a close watch over- thus, there was no way she would allow them to suffer such humiliation. Even if this rain does not stop, why does Miss have to take out some silver? Bai Zhi questioned, Miss, while it is good to have some on hand at your side, presently, is there something that you would like to do? I have had Lu Zhu buy all of the grain in the capital, Jiang Ruan answered evenly. Miss, Lian Qiao looked at her wide-eyed, what is Miss going to do with so much grain? Right now, it was just at the beginning of spring and the new crop had yet to be delivered to the capital. All that was available was the old crop from the past year and if it were measured by value, it should not be too expensive. It would be sufficient to buy more than half of these crops with just two or three thousand pieces of silver. Just as the grain farmers were worried about being unable to sell all of their grain, seeing such a happenstance, they would definitely sell all of it to her. I am thinking that if this rain continues on continuously, then it will begin to flood. All of this grain would then become precious and valuable. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. Miss. Bai Zhis lips twitched but in the end, did not say anything. In Jiang Ruans words, there was never any room for rebuttal and she had a staunch will; once she had decided upon a matter, she would not be swayed. Thus, even if Bai Zhi had thought that this move of Jiang Ruans was truly too inconceivable, she could only follow suit with her wishes. Just at this moment, Lu Zhu pushed open the door and came in. Upon seeing Jiang Ruan, she smiled, Miss, the people that I have used have already bought all of the grain and delivered it all into a storehouse in the west of the city. The key is in this servants hands. She handed over the key to Jiang Ruan and continued, Since there was no one else buying all of the old grain over the past few days, most of the rice and noodles have also been bought by this servant. You have done well. Jiang Ruan fiddled with the delicate and exquisite silver key in her hands. However, Miss, as she suddenly recalled, Lu Zhu remarked, when this servant was close to the courtyards entrance, this servant saw Fifth Yiniang. She seemed like she wanted to enter but when this servant asked her, she left. Understood. Jiang Ruan muttered to herself irresolutely, Since this is the case, then we should go to Fifth Yiniangs courtyard for a visit. * * * Hong Ying had been embroidering in her courtyard while the weather was not exactly good so the visibility from the sunlight was not very clear. After embroidering for a short time, she felt that she was not very satisfied with what she had been embroidering. She was truly annoyed about it as she saw a servant girl step forward and speak, Yiniang, Eldest Young Miss has arrived. Eldest Young Miss? She frowned lightly as she had not thought that Jiang Ruan would come to her courtyard. Apart from Jiang Quan, no one had ever tread into this courtyard. As she stood up, Jiang Ruan happened to step into her room and smiled upon seeing her, So Yiniang had been embroidering, it truly has been done well. Following her gaze, Hong Ying glanced at the embroidery on the table. It was a pouch that she had been embroidering for Jiang Quan; what she had been stitching was a noble Siberian crane in the clear skies, the crane looking vivid and lifelike. In contrast against that lofty and artistic conceptualisation, the colours used had also been extremely appealing. It is merely embroidered for fun, Hong Ying smiled, if Eldest Young Miss likes, on another occasion, qieshen will embroider one for Eldest Young Miss. Many thanks to Fifth Yiniang then. Jiang Ruan smiled in agreement as her eyes made a sweep around the entire yard, Truthfully, everyone has said that Father dotes on Fifth Yiniang the most and I did not believe this to be true. Now that I have seen it, however, it truly is as others have said. The room had been arranged and decorated elaborately. When one saw the shelf of things placed before the table, not one object was not exquisite and precious. Presumably, Jiang Quan had put quite a bit of thought and effort into Hong Ying. Hong Ying was startled and smiled, Laoye naturally dotes on Furen the most, Eldest Young Miss truly is jesting. I never joke. Jiang Ruan chuckled, Today, Ive come to pay a visit to Fifth Yiniang, though truly, it is not for anything of importance. With gentle countenance she continued, Over these days in the fu, it certainly has not been very peaceful or secure. Moreover, Second Sister and Second Brother have similarly met with misfortune in succession. Thinking about this, I have been pondering if the next would not be Ruan niang. Upon hearing this, Hong Yings heart made a leap as she looked at Jiang Ruan and replied, Eldest Young Miss, where do these words stem from? Intuition. Jiang Ruan laughed, I have no person that I am close to in the fu and my mother[4] passed away in my early years. Although Mother[5] treats me pretty well, she already has both Second Sister and Second Brother Her voice lowered slightly, These words, I can only speak them with Fifth Yiniang. If Fifth Yiniang were the mistress of the fu, how good would it be. With a kind-hearted person like Fifth Yiniang around, one would surely protect Ruan niang in all aspects. Ruan niang would definitely repay Fifth Yiniangs kindness and the Jiang fu would surely be harmonious, becoming more prosperous with each passing day. [4] Ning ( ) C an informal term for mother. JR uses it for Zhao Mei. [5] Mqn ( ĸ ) C a formal term for mother. JR uses it for her official mother, Xia Yan. Pursing her lips, Fifth Yiniang was not sure why but her heart was racing furiously. As she closely looked at Jiang Ruan, that pair of charming and clear eyes that seemed to contain a smile looked back at her. Clearly, they seemed gentle like lukewarm running water, yet it was as if one was seeking flowers in the mist, that is, one could not clearly see the emotions within. With her lowly origins from a brothel, she had seen innumerable number of people of every description. As such, she was even more capable of understanding others motives and intentions. Yet, she could not fathom this young girl before her that was merely little more than a teenager. Chapter 69.2 - A Marriage Alliance (Part II) Eldest Young Miss truly thinks that qieshen has that right to be the mistress of the Jiang fu? Hong Ying could hear the faint tremor in her voice. Smiling as she took a sip from the teacup before her, Jiang Ruan pursed her lips shallowly, Why not? Hong Ying stared at her and suddenly revealed a smile, With Eldest Young Miss speaking this highly of qieshen, qieshen does not know what to do. Truthfully, even if Eldest Young Miss had not come to find qieshen today, qieshen would have definitely gone to meet Eldest Young Miss before too long. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly as she looked at her and Hong Ying continued, Qieshen was casually chatting with Laoye yesterday. Laoye had brought up the matter about the Li familys father and son. Eldest Young Miss is also all too aware of the matter between Eldest Young Master of the Li family and Second Young Miss. With Eldest Young Master Li like this now, Grand Councillor Li will probably not be able to tolerate Second Young Miss; yet Laoye does not want to shed all pretence of cordiality with Grand Councillor Li and thus, was then thinking of having Eldest Young Miss take the place of Second Young Miss to marry into the Li family. After saying this, she cautiously observed Jiang Ruans expression. Yet all she saw was that bright and gorgeous countenance, the expression remained unchanged; the smile on the edge of her lips stayed the same as if one had put on an absolutely perfect mask. Jiang Ruan lightly sighed, With Father loving Second Sister this dearly, it really makes me feel envious. Upon seeing this, Hong Ying remarked, Qieshens heart is anxious as well, this was clearly a matter stirred up by Second Young Miss, so how could one have Eldest Young Miss compensate for their loss instead? Moreover, that Eldest Young Master of the Li family presently could be considered a useless person. If Eldest Young Miss was truly to marry over, then Miss might not be able to bear the inevitable suffering. Jiang Ruan muttered to herself for a short moment before she shot a smile towards Hong Ying, Thank you Fifth Yiniang for your counsel, only, this is Fathers decision. I too am unable to interfere with it if he truly has decided upon such intentions, therefore, Ruan niang too can only accept as the daughter of the Jiang family. Hong Ying was flabbergasted for a moment, Eldest Young Miss is willing to be married over? I may consent, Father may consent, however, who knows if Li daren would? Jiang Ruan smiled lightly as she stood up, It has already been a while, I ought to return. Pausing for a second, her gaze fell on the embroidered thing on the table with a light laugh, Father loves Fifth Yiniang dearly, it is good for Fifth Yiniang to show such care for Father as well. However, Ruan niang would still like to remind Fifth Yiniang of a phrase: if there is no heir, then Fifth Yiniang would, in fact, be the same as Eldest and Second Yiniang. With a smile, she continued to finish up on her statement, Even if there were heirs, without any status or position, the fate of all the yiniangs and their children would be the same. After Jiang Ruan had been gone for a long time, Hong Ying still remained rooted to that same spot, lost in thought. Seeing this, the maidservant standing beside her questioned gently and cautiously, Yiniang? Waving her hand, Hong Yings expression was filled with weariness as she replied in a low voice, After all is said and done, what does Eldest Young Miss plan on doing? * * * In the capital, at Jinying Wang fu, Ye Feng stood before the desk as he spoke, We have received news from General Guan, they will be withdrawing troops from the front lines next month and return to the capital. Pausing, he then continued, Today, this subordinate was on duty and heard others discuss that someone has been unconstrained in buying up all of the remaining grain in the capital. One feared that this had something to do with his Eighth Highness and took note to ask around a little; apparently, this was the doings of the maidservant of Eldest Young Miss of the Jiang family. He frowned, However, one does not know what is the purpose of doing this. Turning around, Xiao Shaos heroically spirited eyebrows[1] were slightly raised as they augmented that elegantly handsome face of his, making it seem several degrees more stern and austere. He spoke, Continue to make some inquiries. Pay attention to the movements of Li Dongs fu. [1] Yngq de mi ( Ӣü ) C This is a phrase that gets lost in translation; a commonly used phrase to describe both men and womens eyebrows, it refers to angular shaped eyebrows that are basically in the shape of a swords blade. Here is a visual illustration of heroically spirited eyebrows. Grand Councillor Li? Ye Feng was startled, Master is planning to deal with him ahead of time? Xiao Shao shook his head, The Li familys eldest son is already at deaths door, and while this matter has something to do with the Jiang family, they do not want to incur the wrath of the Li family. If my assumption is not wrong, Jiang Quan will definitely take some action. Ye Feng pondered, Behind the Jiang family is the Xia family and the Xia family is also part of Eighth Princes faction, so perhaps, Eighth Prince will personally step in. After all, both the Xia and Li family were rare resources, thus Xuan Li would definitely not let this slip by him in vain. He suddenly chuckled, One is truly unaware; once Eighth Prince is aware of the nest of internal conflict between his subordinates under his control, what kind of mood would he be in. In short, it is truly great that the Li familys eldest son has met with misfortune. Second Young Lady of the Jiang family has done such a great deed too; in any event for her to have neutered Li Yang like this, the Li and Jiang family would definitely have enmity between them. Xiao Shao did not correct Ye Fengs words and recalled that very night, how Jiang Ruan had unflinchingly used the porcelain fragment to cut that plaything of Li Yangs so nimbly. She was clearly a young lady in the boudoir, yet did not have the slightest bit of shyness or embarrassment from seeing a mans genitals. In her gaze, there was only the cold stare of indifference. The gaze she had used to look at Li Yang was as if she had seen a damned pig waiting to be slaughtered. Ever since he was ten years old, he had accepted a role in the Jin Yi Guards[2], and had taken bloody steps to move up in strength. Were it not for the fact that he had seen this in person, he really would not believe that a young lady from the boudoir could possess a gaze similar to a murderer. [2] Jin yi wei () C Also known as another title ָʹ˾ or literally brocade-clad guards, it is the appellation of the imperial secret police that served Emperors of the Ming dynasty in China. It was founded to serve as personal bodyguards in the past for the Hongwu Emperor in 1368 but eventually became an imperial military body. These guards don a distinctive golden-yellow uniform with a tablet worn on his torso and carry a special blade weapon as a form of recognition. This eldest daughter of Jiang Quans, how exactly was she raised? A moment later, Xiao Shao moved on from his stray thoughts and remarked, I will take a trip to enter the palace. * * * In the northern side of the capital, there was an incessant sound of firecrackers at the gate of a large three-entrance courtyard residence[3]. In front of its vermillion gate pillars, there were two lions that were baring fangs and brandishing claws[4], and on the top there was a shining gold plaque, bound with some red flowers and etched with two large words: Liu fu. [3] Sn jn d zhi (լ) C A three-entrance courtyard residence, this phrase refers to a Siheyuan, a quadrangle compound that conforms with the symmetry of the north and south axis; the main house is on the central north-south axis, and the less-important structures are positioned on the west and east sides. These structures date from the 1045 -770 BC and have over 2000 years of history. They are a cultural symbol of Chinese traditional architecture. Based on the structural arrangement, every residence varies based on the size of the area that it is built-in and is often built based on the owners status. Depending on the arrangements, a courtyard may vary from two to five entrances. In general, a standard four-section rectangular compound leans to the north and faces south with an alleyway running from the east to west beside it. A residence of a wealthy merchant can span up to 6 major courtyards, 20 smaller courtyards and 313 rooms. Here is an illustration of what a siheyuan looks like and is often a reflection of how the women in the boudoir live an extremely sheltered and restrained life, often not being able to even leave for the outer courtyard. It is also a reflection of how the wealthy aristocratic society lived in comparison to the commoners in the past. More information can be found here. [4] Zhng y w zho (צ) C This means to make threatening gestures. This was the official residence that the Emperor had conferred to the top-scoring youth in the palace examination. Liu furen was only a few years more than thirty, yet her face carried the pallor of one who had experienced the hardships of life. The hair at her temples was already full of spots of white, as if she was fifty. Even so, she still wore a plain cyan straight qipao that had been embroidered with lotuses. Her hair was combed without even the slightest hair out of place and with a wide smile on her face, she gave out a little reward money to everyone. The four servant girls conferred by the Emperor were all full of smiles as they stood at the side. Many people had expressed their congratulations while receiving a monetary reward. Among them, there was no lack of their former neighbours. With this, Liu Min had become the carp who had leapt and transformed at the mystical dragon gate into a dragon. Henceforth, the Liu family had thus brought honour to their ancestors. After giving away all of the monetary reward, Liu furen asked the servant girl beside her, Why has Miner not come out yet? The servant girl smiled in reply, Perhaps he is in the room tidying, this servant will go to urge him. After saying this, she turned around and left. In the study, Liu Min was spellbound while looking at a painting hung on the wall. The residence that had been bestowed by the Emperor was spacious, abundant and beautiful, the study being at least twice the size of the previous one he had. Henceforth, he would certainly have ample space to stack up all those books of his. Yet to have arrived at this point, in the depth of his heart, he was somewhat dazzled. All of this, was this what he truly wanted? A few days ago, while he was at the Imperial Academys student residences, he had had something pilfered; what he had lost was the very letter that that mysterious person had sent him. Those letters of his had all disappeared without trace; as if they had never existed in the first place. Liu Min had asked the study attendant[5], and he had stated being unaware of it. However, as it happened, none of his other belongings were missing. He could not help but suspect that these letters had been taken away by that mysterious person themselves. [5] Sh tng (ͯ) C this refers to the male servant (who was a minor) from the family that attended school with his master and his other younger siblings. If it were not for this painting of the light of the fireflies in the moonlight before him, Liu Min would have almost thought that these days had been merely an illusion and that mysterious person was simply a character that his subconsciousness had made up. He closely scrutinized the painting before him, the lines in the drawing were elegant, confident and free; it truly showed off ones ability. Liu Min could not help but speculate, what kind of person could they be? After getting used to having another person to discuss with him some lines to debate about from a book, now that this very person had suddenly vanished, it made him feel somewhat lonely. Young master, furen urges you to hasten over. The cheeks on the newly-arrived servant girl were slightly flushed upon seeing the delicate, honest and scholarly young man. Taking another glance at the painting before him, Liu Min remarked, Let us go then. * * * There were two blooming flowers on one plant, each branch showed its own model[6]. [6] Hu ki ling du, g bio y zh (䣬һ֦) C A method to narrate a story or information in a long novel (one that had many chapters) during the olden times, especially from the Ming dynasty onwards, these novels would have a summary couplet heading each chapter. What it means is that in the storys progress, it has branched into two parts. Of these two parts (it can mean many as well), one by one, one would be related/narrated about first and then the other would be explained. Basically, it is a way to talk about two sides of a coin. In the Eighth Princes fu in the capital, Xuan Li had placed the letter in his hand down with a slight knit of his brows. Seeing this, the advisor who had been standing behind him, asked, Your Highness, has something indeed happened? Xuan Li took a quick look at the letter on the table, Marquis Xias fu has sent a letter; an issue has been raised with Grand Councillor Li. In his heart, it was difficult to suppress astonishment. If what had been described in Xia Chengs letter could be believed, it stated that Li Yang had been castrated by someone in the Jiang fu and now, Li Dong was seeking revenge on Li Yangs behalf. Thus, he would not let Xia Chengs granddaughter[7], Jiang Su Su, off the hook. Xia Cheng had written in this letter that Jiang Su Su had been framed by someone but also, did not mention who the perpetrator was. [7] Wi sn n (Ů) C The relation here is the daughters daughter, or rather this is describing Jiang Su Su who is Xia Chengs granddaughter through his daughter, Xia Yan; a granddaughter of a different surname. Xuan Li had briefly told Advisor Yu about this matter and the advisor crinkled his brows in deep thought for a while, Your Highness, Im afraid this matter was the doing of a person with aspirations. With something bad that has happened to Eldest Young Master of the Li family, Grand Councillor Li would bear some animosity towards the Jiang family and would similarly bear some enmity with the Xia family as well. This must be an extremely vicious motive of theirs to create a nest of internal conflict among the subordinates of Your Highness. Naturally, I am aware of this. Xuan Li continued, Li Dong is also personally aware that I am inevitably linked with him, however, I am unwilling to lose the Xia family either. In addition, Minster Jiang now has some considerable strength in the imperial court as well. If both sides were to raise a dispute, then this would only do more harm than good for me. Could it have been from Fifth Princes side? The advisor asked, Lately, Fifth Princes approval and opinion from the imperial court has been gradually rising; moreover, His Majesty has placed quite a bit of trust in him as well. I am clear of Father Emperors temperament. Xuan Li lightly snorted, With how Fifth Brother has rapidly leapt up now, then in the future, he will fall even more miserably. I actually do not believe that Fifth Brother could be this brilliant to pacify the people in the Jiang fu. Then, Fourth Prince? The advisor asked. On the surface, Fourth Brother does not seem to be in contention for the throne, however, one has no choice but to guard against him. I dread that it may be the Crown Prince. The advisor was startled for a while, The Crown Prince has flaws in both speech and virtue, even in government affairs, he does not seem to have any achievements either. Moreover, he seems rather stupid and naive, why would Your Highness be worried? If this was solely the Crown Prince, then indeed, it would be nothing to fear about. Xuan Li squinted, One can only fear that this was the intent of Father Emperor. In his earlier years, His Majesty had wanted to change the conferred Crown Prince, perhaps he has already grown a mind to spurn him now. But why would he handle this so? The advisor asked. Xuan Li commented, I fear that this may merely be a smokescreen. If not, you can see how after these many years, while the Crown Prince has made enemies of innumerable people in the capital, he is still towering over them without a fall. If this was not incited by Father Emperor on the sly, then Im afraid that he would have long been devoured without even having the remains of his bones left behind. This The advisor cup his hands in obeisance, This subordinate is truly unable to grasp His Majestys intentions clearly. With a disgusted glimpse at the advisor who had been kneeling beneath him, Xuan Li maintained his mild tone, I do not blame you, even after getting along with Father Emperor for these many years, I too have not been able to ascertain what he has been thinking in his heart either. The advisor thought for a while and then remarked, In fact, if Your Highness wants to consolidate power, there is still a method: it would be better to connect by marriage with the Jiang family. Xuan Li arched an eyebrow, The Jiang family? The advisor cupped his hands in salute, Now, what Your Highness needs the most is nothing else but the power and influence of the Xia and the Li family. Your Highness having a connection with the Xia family is too evident, but if it is a connection with the Jiang family, then that would be tantamount to roping the Xia family in as well. He paused for a while before he continued, Moreover, now with the Young Miss of the Jiang family still being quite young, it may be good to first fix a marriage. Someday in the future, if there are any changes in the variables, even then it wont be too late to change your mind. Xuan Li frowned, thinking of the rumours in the capital a few days ago that the Jiang furen had hired an assassin to frame Eldest Young Lady but instead through hearsay, had entrapped Second Young Lady instead. In addition to that, there was the matter at Bai Hua Lou where Jiang Chao had staked a thousand pieces of gold on one throw[8] yet had no money to settle the account and finally, had one little finger chopped off. [8] Y zh qin jn (һǧ) C It means to throw away money recklessly or to be extravagant. Unhappily, he remarked, The Jiang fu is in a turmoil. Besides, that Second Young Lady of the Jiang fu now has a bad reputation, how could I possibly marry her? Wouldnt this be inviting everyone under the heavens to make a mockery of it? Your Highness, the advisor replied, isnt there still an eldest young lady in the Jiang fu? This eldest young ladys biological mother is indeed a member of General Zhaos fu. Although it may only be in name, if Your Highness were to marry Eldest Young Lady of the Jiang family, not only with the Jiang fu, there would be a relation with the Xia fu and perhaps, Your Highness could even build up a connection with General Zhaos fu. Zhao Guang, that coarse fellow, Xuan Li answered, has always been a part of the Crown Princes faction, he would not easily defect. As for Jiang Ruan, a memory of that night at the Lantern Festival had surfaced in his mind- on that large boat, the indifferent smile on that red-clad young ladys face. Unexpectedly, there was a tight grip in his heart, resembling a feeling of caring a great deal about this. Now, it seems that the best solution is to connect via marriage. The advisor still suggested this, if Your Highness was to agree to a marriage with the young lady of the Jiang family, then at Grand Councillor Lis end, even if in some way he is discontented, he would not act blindly without thinking either. If Your Highness spared no effort like this to show grace and favour to the Jiang family, then the Jiang and the Xia family would strive their hardest to assist Your Highness too. What you have said is not wrong either. Once more, Xuan Li picked up the letter on the desk, Perhaps I should solemnly consider your words. In the letter, it was an invitation to Xuan Li to go to Marquis Xias fu to attend a gathering. He thought for a while and continued, Someone, come over. Reply on my behalf to the old gentleman, Marquis Xia, and send a message that I have received the old Marquis gentlemans invitation. In three days time, I will pay a visit and call on his home. * * * When Old Marquis Xia received the communicated message from the attendant at Xuan Lis side, he heaved a sigh of relief. Xia Furen looked at him and urged, What is the matter? Has Eighth Prince responded positively? He has, Old Marquis Xia answered her, go send a letter to the Jiang fu and ask Yaner to get ready and prepare Suer and Chaoer, then bring them over. Pausing, he then continued, Tell her to bring that Jiang Ruan along as well. Xia Furen nodded, Naturally, since she caused Su Su to ruin her looks, then this Jiang Ruan indeed has some ability. The eyes of Old Marquis Xia were completely clouded, I have yet to tell this matter to his Eighth Highness, however, Eighth Highness must have assumed that this matter was the doing of Fifth Prince and so would have some misgivings. Therefore, he has decided to involve my Xia fu and rope in some relation with my fu. Although it is so, nevertheless, it would be disastrous to keep Jiang Ruan around. Yaner has repeatedly met losses and miscalculations in her hands; rather, I would truly like to see what kind of demon this person is, to be this ruthless at such a young age! Chapter 70.1 - Without Any Sense of Shame (Part I) At noon on the second day, Xia Yan had Jiang Su Su accompany her to Ruan Ju. Jiang Su Su wore a white veil which completely covered the lower half of her face so that only her eyes were visible. Xia Yan had said, Ruaner, tomorrow we will visit your maternal grandparents fu. You ought to tidy yourself up. Your maternal grandmother[1] has not seen you both for a long time, and I fear she misses you terribly. [1] Waizumu ( ĸ ) C maternal grandmother. Behind her back, Lian Qiao eyed Xia Yan with disdain. Xia Yan spoke so affectionately, but in the end, these were Jiang Su Sus maternal grandparents who had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan. Of course. Second Younger Sister and Second Elder Brother have so much going on, it would ease their hearts to go out, Jiang Ruan said with a slight smile. On hearing her words, Jiang Su Su and Xia Yans faces immediately froze. Then, let us not trouble Ruaner any further, Xia Yan said gently. Ill visit your Second Elder Brother. Im afraid this situation is the result of someones entrapment, and he was also born under an unlucky star. Mother must advise Second Elder Brother well. He has been beset by setbacks after failing the examinations, which is a great cause for worry, Jiang Ruan said concernedly. Xia Yan froze once more and forced herself to smile. Second Elder Brother will be gratified to hear of Ruan niangs concern. After saying this, she stood up. Mother will not tarry any longer; Suer, lets go. When the mother-daughter pair left, Bai Zhi looked at their backs and said, Miss, why would you suddenly want to visit Marquis Xias fu for no rhyme or reason? Im afraid that some unforeseen mishap may occur. Although Bai Zhis way of thinking was upright and proper, she was by no means stupid. Jiang Ruan shook her head and said, I merely want to take advantage of the influence and power of Marquis Xias fu, thats all. As she said this, Lu Zhu entered the room and said, Miss, Master Gu has sent you a letter by way of his servant to say that General Guan will be returning to the capital next month. It may be that the resolution of Young Masters situation is just a matter of waiting. Jiang Ruans eyes lit up. She smiled slightly as she said, This is indeed good news. Next month is not too late. If Young Master returns, Master will presumably not treat you this way. The manner in which Jiang Quan treated Jiang Ruan was due to her only being a daughter, while Jiang Xin Zhi was the eldest di son. At present, Jiang Chao had wasted his slight advantage. It was to be assumed that Jiang Quan would once again give prominence to Jiang Xin Zhi, who would also protect Jiang Ruan from being bullied by others. Thats not definite, Jiang Ruan smiled coldly. My eldest brother and I are thorns in the side of those in this fu. You must not divulge the slightest hint of the news about him to anyone outside. Bai Zhi and Lu Zhu looked at each other in dismay, but they saw that Jiang Ruan was already frowning slightly, and her expression was more severe than they had ever seen before. In her previous lifetime, she had been in the countryside residence when she received news of Jiang Xin Zhis death on the battlefield. That time just so happened to coincide with the Xia familys rise in status. If one thought about it carefully, at present there were ulterior motives and hidden secrets everywhere. If Xia Yan had done some ruthless pruning for the sake of Jiang Chaos status, it was not improbable that she had secretly eliminated Jiang Xin Zhi. Perhaps Jiang Quan had even known about it, but, first, he had never had any fatherly affection for Jiang Xin Zhi and, second, he had to rely on the power of the Xia family. Thus, it was highly likely that he had given his tacit approval. Thinking of her gentle and kind eldest brother, Jiang Ruan clenched her fists. If Jiang Xin Zhi was still alive, she would expend all her energy to protect her beloved flesh and blood, no matter what the cost. What about Marquis Xias fu? Her eyes turned cold; there were some people there that she had not seen for a long time. Lu Zhu, for the next few days, you and Bai Zhi stay in the fu and keep watch on the activities and movements here, especially pertaining to Fifth Yiniang, Jiang Ruan said. Lian Qiao, you stay with me. Ask Shu Xiang to come here. Shu Xiang? Lian Qiao frowned. Miss, that girl does not have good intentions, she may cause us some trouble. If so, it will be her own trouble. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly as she said, Go on, I have made my own arrangements in these matters. Early the next day, Shu Xiang and Lian Qiao were waiting outside. Compared to before, Shu Xiang had clearly lost some weight, and when she looked up at Jiang Ruan, her eyes contained a hint of fear. When Jiang Ruan looked at this servant girl kneeling before her with her head bowed, she found it very difficult to associate her with the gentle and self-confident palace maid in her memory, who always appeared before Jiang Ruan with concern upon her face. She put on her outer coat, smiled and said, Lets go. Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan had already been waiting in the horse carriage for some time. When Jiang Ruan entered, she discovered that Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were also there. Jiang Chao was in another carriage. Jiang Li looked at Jiang Su Sus veiled face with derision, but, since Xia Yan was present, she did not dare to say anything. Jiang Dan was sitting right in the middle of the carriage and looked extremely uncomfortable. When she saw Jiang Ruan arrive, she smiled timidly at her. Jiang Ruan returned the smile and sat down next to Xia Yan. Xia Yan looked at her and smiled. This is Ruaners first visit to your maternal grandfathers[2] residence. The last time he saw you was five years ago. In the blink of an eye you have become a young lady. [2] Waizufu ( 游 ) C maternal grandfather. Jiang Raun smiled faintly. Ruan niang also misses maternal grandfather very much. The first time she had met Old Marquis Xia was when Zhao Mei died. As she knelt in the mourning hall in her white silk mourning robes, she had seen that elderly man with an amiable face move forward to chat with Jiang Quan. Not long later, Xia Yan became the legal wife. Later, when she entered the palace, she often saw Old Marquis Xia and his womenfolk at the palace banquets. The Xia familys utter lack of shame was vivid in her mind. At that time, the granddaughter of the Xia family, Xia Jiao Jiao, had entered the palace together with her. She had been conferred the title of Mei Ren[3], and had tripped up Jiang Ruan many times, both covertly and overtly. Ultimately, Xia Jiao Jiao had received the Emperors favour, and even though no one knew whether this favour was authentic, Xia Jiao Jiao used her power to humiliate Jiang Ruan continually. She could only remember, at the end, when she was disgraced and imprisoned, that Xia Jiao Jiao had emerged unscathed, and had been sent back to the fu by Old Marquis Xia. [3] Mei ren ( ) C lit., beautiful lady, one of the ranks of the imperial concubines. Depending on which dynasty this story is set in, mei ren could be a fairly high rank. As soon as Jiang Ruan said those words, Xia Yan felt an inexplicable chill seize her. She examined Jiang Ruans expression carefully, but was unable to decipher the meaning behind her words. She thus smiled and said, Then, has Ruaner already decided what present to give? Present? Jiang Ruan looked at her in puzzlement. Xia Yan broke into laughter. This child, dont you know that you must offer a token gift when you visit your maternal grandfathers residence? However, you are not to blame; you were at the countryside residence for so long without anyone to teach you the ways of the world. Jiang Li seemed to be smiling mockingly at her from the side, while Jiang Dan remained silent. Mother has spoken truly, Jiang Ruan smiled slightly as she said, Today, I will receive instruction; in future, when visiting, I will no longer give reason for ridicule. She paused before continuing, However, I have not prepared any gifts at this time. What have my younger sisters prepared? I have embroidered handkerchiefs for everyone. Jiang Su Sus face was veiled, but her eyes were just as beautiful as in the past. Although they are simple and crude, they are still hand-sewn and convey my affection. Jiang Li initially did not want to say anything, but she was afraid of Xia Yan, and she also wanted to show off. Thus, she said complacently, My gift is a facial powder sent by the palace. Just by applying a little, ones face will be incomparably fair, and no scars can be seen. Her words were said without deeper intent, but they caused Jiang Su Su to stiffen under her veil, and Xia Yan also squeezed her palms together. Only Jiang Dans voice was heard, saying, I, I have personally made a bottle of honey. My sisters gifts are all so wonderful, Jiang Ruan said in a low voice, but I did not prepare anything. Silly child, Xia Yan said as she patted Jiang Ruans head affectionately. How could mother forget you? I knew that you might forget about this courtesy so, this morning, I asked the kitchen to prepare a fresh basket of dianxin. Its so cold at the moment, the dianxin will last for several days. The dianxin is exquisite, so it will not lose out in terms of etiquette. Jiang Ruan was somewhat astonished and said immediately to Xia Yan, Mother has taken so much trouble over this and is so considerate to think on Ruan niangs behalf. Ruan niang is ashamed. You and I are mother and daughter, why would I mind that? Dont talk nonsense. Afterwards, when we meet your maternal grandfather, remember to present the gift yourself. Jiang Ruan nodded. Seeing her like this, Xia Yan relaxed and Jiang Su Su smiled without saying anything. Being impatient with their conversation, Jiang Li had earlier closed her eyes to rest. Jiang Dan saw Xia Yans expression and became more pensive. Marquis Xias fu and the Jiang fu were far from each other. The road was wet due to the rain, and the sky was gloomy. When they reached Marquis Xias fu it was not even evening yet, but because of the thick layer of dark clouds, it felt like it was already night. At the entrance, the elderly maidservant, Xiao Si, welcomed them and invited them in. As she walked with them, she said, Miss has finally returned, Old Master and Furen have been waiting for you in the hall for some time. Xia Yan was full of smiles and praise. When they reached the grand and glittering great hall of Marquis Xias fu, there was indeed a man and a woman awaiting their arrival. The man was beyond sixty years of age with a round, amiable face and a mouth that was continually uplifted at the corners, making him look like the Maitreya Buddha[4]. The woman looked to be in her early forties with a rosy complexion. She was bedecked with jewels, but also looked extremely cordial. [4] Mi le fo ( շ ) C Maitreya Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth in the future, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma. According to scriptures, Maitreya is the successor to the present Buddha, Gautama Buddha (aka ?kyamuni Buddha). The prophecy of the arrival of Maitreya refers to a time in the future when the dharma will have been forgotten by most on the terrestrial world. In some Chinese Buddhist temples, Maitreya Buddha is depicted as being bare-chested, big-bellied, and smiling. Standing to the side were another man and woman. The slightly older man was of average appearance, with a solemn expression. The woman by his side was, on the contrary, as lovely as a flower. This was the Young Master of the Xia family, Xia Tian Yi, and his wife, Shen Rou. There was another, younger pair. The man was handsome and bright, and the woman by his side, while not as pretty as Shen Rou, could also be said to be delicately pretty. However, she had a long face and thin lips, which made her look somewhat mean. This was the Second Young Master, Xia Tian Cai, and his wife, Yu Ya. There was yet another pair standing between the two previous pairs, a young man and lady. The young lady was dainty and wore a sky-blue skirt of soft satin, patterned with phoenixes and misty flowers, which gave her the appearance of a gentle and charming beauty. The young mans skin tone was slightly darker than was common, but he was still handsome. His expression was exactly the same as that of the Second Young Master. The young lady was Xia Jiao Jiao, born of the first wife[5]. The young man was Xia Jun, born of the second wife. [5] T/N C The first (legal) wife is referred to as the (main room), and the second wife is the (second room). At this moment, when everyone was standing in the great hall, Xia Furen was the first one to call out, Yaner. Xia Yan responded with a smile, Mother. Then, she nudged Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su and said, Why havent you greeted your grandmother? With a smile on her face, Xia Furen beckoned with her hand and said, Chaoer, Suer, come here and let Grandmother take a good look at you. Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su obediently stepped forward. Xia Furen patted their heads, but when she took in Jiang Su Sus veil and the gauze wrapped around Jiang Chaos right hand, her gaze darkened. Younger Sister-in-law is finally back, Mother has been constantly nagging over the past few days, Shen Rou, the wife of Eldest Young Master[6], took the lead to say. It has been such a long time since weve met; Suer has become even more beautiful. [6] Shaonainai ( ) C young lady of the house / wife of the young master. When these words were uttered, Xia Yan could not prevent her expression from stiffening, and within her sleeves, Jiang Su Sus hands clenched tightly. Xia Tian Yi glared at Shen Rou for a moment, while a hint of schadenfreude glittered in Xia Jiao Jiaos eyes. Xia Furen did not respond either, and it was Xia Tian Cai who said, How many days does Younger Sister plan to stay this time? Why dont you stay for a few more days? Ive just brought Suer and Chaoer home to visit Father and Mother, thats all, Xia Yan smilingly said. Suddenly, Old Marquis Xia, who had remained silent up till now, spoke. Isnt Eldest Young Miss also here? Which one is Eldest Young Miss? Xia Yan smiled as she said, Ruaner, come here and greet your maternal grandfather. It was only then that Jiang Ruan, who had been standing in the shadows, said softly, Yes, before moving forward slowly. Previously, in order to put on an obvious display of their power to the remaining daughters of the Jiang family, all the members of the Xia family had deliberately ignored everyone else, electing to speak only to Xia Yan and those identified with her. Now, with only a soft and gentle response, a young girl clad in red emerged from behind Xia Yan and slowly lifted her head. Red lips and white teeth- one had to linger to take it all in. Although she was still young, her appearance exuded elegant grace, without an iota of timidity or childishness. Like a well decanted refined wine, once the jar was opened, a strong fragrance drifted across the air. Xia Cheng narrowed his eyes slightly. Although there was a smile on his face, there was an inexplicable pressure making itself felt. However, the expression of the young girl before him did not falter. She continued to smile slightly, and it seemed as if no one could jolt her even the slightest degree from her erect bearing. Xia Cheng was flabbergasted. Currently, he occupied a high-level position, and his every act and movement carried with it the weight of his power and authority. Although he did not shake the earth with every step, an ordinary girl would at least be scared when she witnessed him in action. However, Jiang Ruan was acting as if nothing and no one of significance was present. Was she ignorant, or was this part of a carefully devised, formidable scheme? Remembering the words in Xia Yans letter, he gained a deeper understanding of Jiang Ruan and abruptly smiled. She is indeed Eldest Young Miss, such that our fus Jiao Jiao cannot compare. Chapter 70.2 - Without Any Sense of Shame (Part II) When Xia Jiao Jiao saw Jiang Ruan, she felt the heat of resentment arise in her heart. She herself was a natural beauty, but Jiang Su Su had always been more beautiful than her. It had been so difficult to have Jiang Su Sus appearance ruined, and now, she saw that Jiang Ruans looks were not in the least inferior to Jiang Su Sus. She had initially thought that even if the daughter raised in a rural village was impressive in appearance, her bearing would certainly be crude and vulgar. Looking at her now, however, Jiang Ruan held herself with the manner and appearance of someone of the highest rank of nobility, such that Xia Jiao Jiao herself, in contrast, was completely overshadowed. Xia Tian Cai smiled faintly as he said, Younger Sister, so, there is actually such a fairy-like person in your fu. These words were vaguely coquettish, such that Lian Qiao furrowed her brows minutely. Jiang Ruan, on the other hand, seemed not to have heard them, and there was no trace of embarrassment in her expression. This scene played out before the eyes of everyone in the Xia household, and naturally was also much food for thought. After conversing for a while, Xia Yan had the maidservant bring forward the prepared gifts. Of course, Jiang Su Sus handkerchiefs were well received by all, and Jiang Li and Jiang Dans gifts were also praised. Jiang Ruan gave Xia Furen the box of dianxin which Xia Yan had prepared for her, and Xia Furen ordered a servant to put it away. Out of the blue, as if she had suddenly remembered something, Xia Furen said, Since you have all returned today C last month, the fus ancestral hall underwent renovation, so why dont you go and offer incense to the Xia family ancestors? The Great Master who was invited here a few days ago said that the Xia family would suffer a great calamity this year, and this could only be averted if someone born in the fourth month prayed with sincerity for an entire night. Ive heard Yaner say that Ruaner was born on the seventh day of the fourth month according to the lunar calendar. I wonder if Ruaner would be able to help Grandmother with this, and pray at the Xia household for a night. Lian Qiao opened her mouth to speak, intending to put a stop to this. Jiang Ruan was not a member of the Xia family, and even if the Xia family was going to suffer a calamity, what did that have to do with Jiang Ruan? Apart from that, this matter of kneeling in prayer in the ancestral hall overnight C these days, the weather was bitterly cold. Even she could see that there was no good intention in this proposal. Jiang Ruans physical condition had already been poor during her earlier years at the countryside residence. If she had to kneel for an entire night, even if she did not collapse, she would definitely become seriously ill. However, before Lian Qiao had time to speak, she heard Jiang Ruan say, If it can be of any help, Ruaner will do her best Xia Furen smiled in satisfaction. Ruaner is really a sensible child. Jiang Dan looked at Jiang Ruan, and then at Xia Yan who was nodding her head, and then looked down in silence. After a few more words were exchanged, Xia Furen said she was tired, and asked everyone to go to their rooms first. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su accompanied Jiang Ruan to the ancestral hall to light a stick of incense for the Xia family ancestors. Thereafter, they left, leaving Jiang Ruan behind in the ancestral hall to spend the night in prayer alone. Xia Yan looked at her with a pang in her heart. Ruaner, this is really hard on you. If it were not that I have to take care of Chaoer and Suer, since they are still in ill health, Mother would definitely join you in kneeling overnight in prayer. Mother, what are you saying? Jiang Ruan said as she smiled faintly. Mother and I are mother and daughter after all. Besides, kneeling here overnight is also to pray on behalf of the Xia family. Perhaps the celestial deities will look with favour on my sincerity as I kneel in prayer and grant me all that my heart hopes for. She said this with all innocence, with no trace of humour in her face, as if she spoke with absolute truth. What does Ruaner hope for? Xia Yan asked with a smile. I hope Fathers political career will continue to ascend. The higher you climb, the worse you fall. I hope Mother will be in good health. Live healthily so that you can see all you manage slowly crumble, bit by bit, and experience the suffering and pain for a long time. Eldest Brothers reputation will spread far and wide. Everyone in the world will know his name, for he will be a target of scorn and insults. Second Younger Sister will marry an ideal husband. And then die at the hands of her beloved husband. Ancestors of the Xia family, ah, Jiang Ruan intoned softly with her hands together in prayer, if you can see this faithful devotees sincerity, then allow the Jiang fu and Xia fu to be like the Luoyang Peony[1], blooming in flourishing prosperity for a long time. 2020ĵʱ_ص_Ʊ_ͼƬ_ͨ·߼ס-ũ [1] Luoyang Mudan ( ĵ ) C ĵ is the tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa), which symbolises prosperity. Luoyang (in Henan province), the capital city of many ancient dynasties, is regarded as the birthplace of the peony and hosts a Peony Festival every year. You will rot, you will collapse, you will fall from the stateliest mansions to be trampled underfoot in the filthiest mud, you will face reckoning, you will suffer dissension, and at the end, you will die by your own hands. Oh, gods above, if you see Jiang Ruans sincerity, then let the Jiang fu and Xia fu be like the Luoyang peony; after a brief moment of initial prosperity, let them be unable to withstand the force of decay and slowly, very slowly, wither and fade away. Jiang Ruan pronounced each word slowly and deliberately. However, these outwardly bright and glorious phrases seemed, on the contrary, to be like black curses, transmitting the odour of death. Xia Yan looked at Jiang Ruans tranquil profile, and was suddenly seized with a sense of dread. She immediately stood up, repressing with difficulty the panic in her heart and said, So, all thanks to Ruaner for tonight. Mother still has some things to see to, and will leave first. After Xia Yan had fled the ancestral hall, Jiang Ruan slowly got up from the ground. Kneel? These were the scum of the Xia family; how could such a place be worthy to bear her knees? She glanced around at her surroundings. Just as Xia Furen had said, the ancestral hall had just been renovated. The ground was paved with the coldest flagstones, which also retained dampness, such that even a stove would be unable to remain functional. The hall was empty and frigid. Even the lamps were unlit, the only illumination streaming in from the faint moonlight coming through the windows. Moreover, there was a hole in the roof, which might have been Xia Furens handiwork. Icy rain fell through the hole, rendering anyone it landed upon even colder. In this dark and cold place, her only companions were the many ancestral plaques displayed before her, while the green smoke from the incense burner gave off a peculiar smell. Jiang Ruan took out her handkerchief and moved to stand by a broken window. There, the air circulated freely. She wetted the handkerchief and used it to cover her nose and mouth, frowning slightly. After a while, Lian Qiaos voice sounded from outside. Miss, your servants are here to bring you something to eat. The door of the ancestral hall opened to admit Lian Qiao, with a food basket in her hands, and Shu Xiang. Lian Qiao said, I took some steamed buns from the kitchen. Miss has not eaten anything since you arrived; you cannot mistreat your body. After saying this, she made use of the faint moonlight to take stock of Shu Xiang and said to her, Why are you standing there doing nothing? Come and help. Lian Qiao was a first-rank servant. When Shu Xiang had come to them, Jiang Ruan had appointed her to fill a vacant post as a second-rank servant, so she was a rank lower than Lian Qiao. Moreover, Lian Qiao was customarily forceful and bold in her manner, so, even if Shu Xiang had been flawless and did everything impeccably[2], she would still be somewhat fearful of her. Shu Xiang came forward obediently, knelt and opened the food basket. [2] Di shui bu lou ( ˮ© ) C lit. not one drop of water can leak out. Fig. of someone who does things very carefully; impeccable; flawless. While carrying out these actions, Shu Xiang did not look up at Jiang Ruan, and thus missed Jiang Ruans gesture to Lian Qiao. Shu Xiang was in the process of taking out the steamed buns when she felt someone grab her violently from behind and place a handkerchief over her nose and mouth. She was just about to yell when a pungent odour assailed her nose and everything in front of her went dark as she lost consciousness. Lian Qiao had worked in the rural residence for several years and was a lot more vigorous than common maidservants. She looked down at Shu Xiang who had fallen to the ground and said, Miss? Take off her outerwear, Jiang Ruan said. Lian Qiao swiftly removed Shu Xiangs outerwear and handed it to Jiang Ruan, who draped it around herself and stood up. Are we going to leave Shu Xiang here like this? In the end, Lian Qiao proved to be soft-hearted. If the Xia family has not cooked up any scheme, she is merely going to take my place in sleeping here for one night, Jiang Ruan said coldly. If they have other intentions, Shu Xiang also belongs to Xia Yan so let them sort out their internal strife. Lian Qiao thought this over, then said, Thats true. The Xia family is so evil, even making Miss kneel by herself in this kind of place overnight, with the clear intention of debilitating Miss through serious illness. Such poisonous minds! She looked at Shu Xiang, then continued, That this Shu Xiang should take the place of Miss to kneel in the ancestral hall overnight is not considered excessive in comparison to all that she has tried to do against Miss. Its a good thing that Miss instructed this servant earlier on to get a sleeping drug from the herbal medicine shop and keep it on her person in case of emergencies. So convenient. Jiang Ruan smiled a little. If the Xia family simply wanted her to fall ill from the cold weather, then of course Shu Xiang would emerge unscathed. Unfortunately, the Xia family would probably not think this way. She glanced at the green smoke emitting from the incense burner. Lets go to your room. In the night, one could only see two people dressed as maidservants walking out of the ancestral hall. One maidservants voice was sharp and clear as she said, angrily, Our Miss is really too pitiful, having to kneel like this in the ancestral hall overnight, she will definitely harm her body. Shu Xiang, you feel the same way, dont you? The other maidservant made a noise of assent. It was hard to see clearly in the dimness of night. As if someone had walked away, a rustling sound came from the forest surrounding the ancestral hall. In another room in the Xia fu, a veiled Jiang Su Su took a sip of tea and said to the young man before her, Biaoge[3], you have thought through it already, my eldest sister is one of the most beautiful ladies, and I think such a good person is extremely suitable for biaoge. Im just trying to give you both a helping hand. [3] Biao ge ( ) C older male cousin from the maternal line. Xia Jun looked at her. Although his expression was amorous, there was also a touch of arrogance as he said, Keep your schemes to yourself. Do you really think that I dont know about your intentions? On hearing this, annoyance flashed in Jiang Su Sus eyes. Biaoge, do you agree with this matter, or not? The person Jiang Su Su most feared in the Xia family was this young man, Xia Jun. Although he was quite young, he lived a wholly licentious lifestyle, and had long since been acquainted with the relations between men and women. Whats more, he was always rather sombre. Jiang Su Su had once hidden in Xia Juns room, thinking to play with him, but she had unexpectedly witnessed him having his way with his personal maidservant in a brutal manner. The maidservant screamed repeatedly, and Jiang Su Su, hiding under the bed, heard all this with fear and alarm. From then on, she was even more frightened of this cousin. Moreover, Xia Jun never treated her tenderly or gave her a sense of security, as most men did; he had always mocked and ridiculed her. Why should I agree to run this errand for you? Xia Jun bit back. Jiang Su Su clenched her fists, calmed herself down, and said, If Biaoge wants to miss this opportunity, then I can only feel pity for you. Suer knows that Biaoge has always appreciated women with special talent and extraordinary character, and this elder sister of mine is truly one in a hundred. In a few years time, who knows which family Father will promise her to, but, given her appearance and temperament, it is bound to be a rich noble family. If Biaoge does not want to seize this opportunity, it will be too late for regrets later. She gave a slight smile and continued, Why not think about it thoroughly? Xia Juns eyes were hooded as he recalled the red-clad young girl from earlier, who acted with an appropriate sense of propriety, but who also seemed to be fundamentally cold and detached. This gave rise to an involuntary urge to conquer her, to see if the flesh wrapped under those red clothes was as delicious as her appearance. He said, hoarsely, What are you thinking of doing? Jiang Su Su replied, Da Jiejie is kneeling in prayer overnight in the ancestral hall. Why doesnt Biaoge go over to keep her company? In this way, Da Jiejie will look upon Biaoge in a favourable light. Perhaps there will be some kind of tacit approval. Xia Jun observed Jiang Su Su and abruptly laughed. Many thanks for the instructions, Biaomei[4]. Having said this, he stood up. Biaomei should also rest early. Well meet tomorrow. [4] Biao mei ( ) C younger female cousin from the maternal line. After Xia Jun had left, Jiang Su Su sat at the table and pulled down her veil. Stroking the ugly scar on her pale skin, she murmured, Jiang Ruan, doing something so criminally despicable with another person in a place like the ancestral hall C tomorrow morning, l want to see how you cover up the truth! Hu Dies heart jumped. She said, Miss, have you discussed this with Furen? Why doesnt this servant go and ask her? Shut your mouth, Jiang Su Su said in reprimand. Mother always says she will exact revenge for me, but she has never succeeded. This time, I will do it myself. Outside, Xia Jun walked in the direction of the ancestral hall. Xiao Si, who was walking beside him, asked cautiously, Young Master really wants to go to the ancestral hall to comfort Miss Jiang? There is something strange about Second Misss words; I am afraid it is not that simple. Of course its not that simple. The corners of Xia Juns mouth lifted up. I know exactly what is going on in Jiang Su Sus mind. But, surprisingly, it is not a bad idea. I will comfort Eldest Jiang Miss well. The doors of the ancestral hall creaked open. It was already late at night, and the rain had gotten steadily heavier. With the moon hiding behind the dark clouds, the ancestral hall was in total darkness. Only the incense burner on the table gave off a few sparks, while the green smoke rose in spirals. The exotic fragrance was unlike any ordinary fragrance. Having been lit for a long time, the air in the hall was heavy with the fragrance. The minute Xia Jun walked in and smelled the fragrance, his body flushed, his palms were dry, and he unconsciously licked his lips. He slowly moved inwards, groping around, until he stumbled over a body under his feet. He froze, then crouched down to feel around and touched the warm, sweet-smelling body. He shook it gently but it did not move, as if the person had lost consciousness. He pondered for a moment, then suddenly broke into laughter. The fire in his body was becoming increasingly intense. Xia Jun undid two of his buttons, then took the liberty to reach out and grope the body in his arms. The room echoed with the sound of rendering silk. Chapter 71.1 - The Spring Scenery in the Ancestral Hall (Part I) The pitter patter of the drizzle went on for a whole night. As dawn broke, the official residence was shrouded amidst a misty rain. The black clouds hung heavily in the low altitude, as if they were about to destroy the entire city. The twigs and branches in the courtyard had become greener after going through the scourge of the nights rainfall and it was evident that they had become verdant, glistening and replete with moisture. There was a chill in the spring air and the maidservant that had gotten up early could not help but shiver as she pushed open the windows with a smile, Miss, it is almost time. The person nestled in the blanket only shot out an arm. Looking at that pure, white and perfect arm, it was tender and adorable. As ones gaze swept upwards from that arm, one could precisely see an incomparably clear and attractive complexion. However, when she tossed over and revealed her other side profile, there was a long scar that was quite ugly and fierce as if a large centipede had crawled onto it. The look on the maidservants face was faintly startled while Jiang Su Su had already begun speaking by questioning, Dawn has arrived this quickly? She laughed lightly as half of that ugly countenance immediately revealed a strange smile, I really cant wait to see this good show. Hu Die had found a pure-white blouse with detailed, golden embroidered water caltrops on its V-neck collar and tiny, hidden patterns on its blouse. The long skirt that almost touched the floor hada light yellow embroidery of a rounded design filled with scattered flower blossoms. Draped over her body, the coat had a discreet lotus pattern that was embroidered on the damask silk. With such quiet and light coloring, it contrasted with her looks, making her look exceptionally lucid and elegant; all of this set her apart except for that blemished face. A streak of hatred flashed through Jiang Su Sus eye as Qing Ting handed over the white muslin veil to her. Jiang Su Su put on the veil over her head properly and only after this, did she act to push the door, Let us go. The Marquis Xia fu was one-fold bigger than the Jiang fu and its garden had been renovated in an extremely refined manner too. In all aspects, the Xia fu thoroughly exhibited the owners noble position. The ancestral hall was in the last room at the very end of the gardens hallways. From its exterior, it looked rather tastefully and thoughtfully planned out. If one was in the garden, they would immediately be able to see it at a glance. In the early spring, there were still some decomposing remnants of the flourishing plum flowers left on the plum trees branches. Although the weather had been constantly overcast and rainy; with such an appearance, on the contrary, it still had a special charm to it. A few figures appeared in the garden, they were headed by a person dressed in fluttering white clothes whose figure was long and slender. To the side of that person was someone whose body build was slightly plump, an amiable smile graced their face. Also, around these few people, there were still two more figures, one was in black brocade clothes and the other was in a magnificently brocaded garment. Amidst the foggy mist, one could not see their appearances clearly at all. Presently Jiang Su Su was walking with Hu Die in the direction of the hall; during this journey, she had to pass by the garden. By chance, she met with a group of people that were walking towards her from the opposite direction. She saw Xia Cheng and from afar, greeted him, Maternal Grandfather. Xia Chengs complexion stiffened as the male in the brocaded clothes beside him immediately spoke up, So as it turns out, its Second Jiang Miss. Jiang Su Su was startled, as by now those people had come closer and she could clearly see their appearances. She could not help but feel great alarm in her heart because among the three remaining people she had yet to greet, there was one person that she did not recognise. As for the other two, they were Xuan Li and Xiao Shao. At the edge of his lips, Xuan Li had a cultured, refined smiling comportment as he looked at her with a smile. Showered with a glance from that pair of gentle eyes, Jiang Su Sus face, which had been covered by the veil, could not help but flush slightly. However, as she met the gaze of Xiao Shaos clear and cold eyes, she could not help but feel the violent palpitations of her thumping heart. Xia Cheng had initially wanted to reprimand Jiang Su Su, yet, after seeing the look on Xuan Lis face, that very thought ceased. Recalling those words in Xia Yans letter, his furrowed brows immediately unfolded as he smiled, Suer, arent you going to greet His Highness the Crown Prince, His Highness the Eighth Prince and Wangye. At first, Jiang Su Su had many suspicions about the identity of the male in brocade clothes. After hearing what Xia Cheng said, she could not help but be alarmed; she did not expect that the other party could actually be the crown prince. Lifting her head, she took a look at the male in the centre as she sized him up. She saw that the man had a youthful appearance of about 20 years old or so while also inheriting the good appearances that were a part of the Heavenly familys (the royal familys) lineage. Therefore, he could also be considered as handsome. Only, in comparison to Xiao Shao and Xuan Lis presence, he had fallen short by much more than the tiniest bit. In the eyes of the beholder, one could faintly see the fickleness and impatience that he tried to hide. Inwardly, Jiang Su Su could not help but be somewhat disappointed. As she thought of some of the matters in the Imperial Court that Jiang Quan had occasionally told her about, that colour of disappointment in her heart had gradually faded too. She then stepped forward and gave a curtsey, Jiang familys Su niang greets His Highness, Crown Prince, Your Highness, Eighth Prince and Wangye. The Crown Prince laughed out loud, Bengong has heard about Second Jiang Miss national grace and divine fragrance; truly an outstanding beauty. Why have you concealed your face, could it be that you are afraid of being eaten up by bengong? Hearing this, Jiang Su Su jumped in fright as Xia Cheng chuckled, Your Highness, a few days ago, Suer was injured by a kitten that had scratched her face and it left a scar. In fear of it catching wind[1], she has covered it with a veil. We would like to ask Your Highness to show leniency. [1] Jin fng () C A concept founded in traditional chinese medicine, wind is said to often carries environmental factors into the body, and wind causes disturbances, literally moving the pain from joint to joint. The characteristics of wind invading the body are sudden symptoms, pain that moves from one place to another and, in some cases, paralysis. Here, they are afraid of her injury becoming worse and scabbing over because of the wind. The Crown Prince frowned, If its thus, then its rather a pity. Who knows which familys kitten would act in such a reckless manner and scratch Second Jiang Miss face. Many thanks to Your Highness concern, Jiang Su Su spoke softly, that kitten has already been caught and put to death. Then that is good. Bengong has always had tender, protective feelings for the fairer sex, and to know that Second Jiang Miss face was damaged by a kitten like this, one would also feel distressed. Jiang Su Su lowered her head and seemed to have been bashfully taken aback, her face was flushed red by this absurd speech. While she was talking to the Crown Prince, Xuan Li had been constantly smiling as he looked at her. That smile was like a fresh spring breeze but upon a closer look, one would notice that it had yet to reach the depths of his eyes. Thats right, Maternal Grandfather. Jiang Su Su seemed to have suddenly thought of something as she continued, Da Jiejie has been kneeling and praying for blessings in the ancestral hall since yesterday evening, I am not sure how she is doing right now? If the maidservants had forgotten to call her out of the hall, then it would be extremely serious. Now that it is still raining, the ancestral hall must be doubly gloomy and cold. To have kneeled for an entire evening, Im afraid would be harmful for her body. It would be best that we go to see her now. With her deeply concerned expression and words that in all aspects, seemed to be thinking in consideration of Jiang Ruan, she truly seemed like a generally good and kindhearted younger sister. Xia Cheng was startled and afterwards, something came to his mind. After hesitating for a moment, he then remarked, There are guests present, it would be good enough to instruct some maidservants to do so. Maternal Grandfather, Da Jiejie is my elder sister, naturally I would feel distressed for her. Jiang Su Su earnestly replied, Even if you told me to leave in such a way now, I would still be concerned. Moreover, these esteemed Highnesses are all benevolent people and naturally, will not mind these matters. Moreover, once His Highnesses sees Da Jiejies sincerity whilst kneeling for a whole night in the ancestral hall to ask for blessings for the Xia family, would Da Jiejie not be the pride of our Xia fu? Xia Cheng wanted to decline once more, yet the Crown Prince seemed to be in high spirits as he commented, Your eldest sister is the Eldest Jiang Miss? That person who had danced astonishingly on Ling Long Boat? That is her. Jiang Su Sus voice seemed normal but the corner of her lips had stiffened under her veil. Then how opportune as bengong had wanted to take a closer look at her. Hearing you mention that she had kneeled in the ancestral hall for a night, this girls sincere filial piety is indeed something rare. Bengong wishes to take a look as well. He spun around to look at Xuan Li and Xiao Shao, Eighth Younger Brother, Ah Shao, you wont disagree to this, right? After saying this, he then laughed heartily as he looked at Xia Cheng, remarking, Old Marquis Xia, please lead the way then. Inwardly, Xia Cheng felt helpless. However, His Highness, the Crown Prince was exactly this sort of master that conducted himself insolently and from the start, it was absolutely out of the question to reason with him. Thus, he simply glared at Jiang Su Su as he gave a forceful feigned smile, Then, Ill be showing something unseemly to His Highness. Being glared at by Xia Cheng, Jiang Su Su felt somewhat guilty. Still, after thinking about what would be happening soon, she could not resist feeling somewhat excited. She had initially not thought that she might bump into Xuan Li and Xiao Shao in the Xia fu today and to even have the Crown Prince present. Now that these three people had come, this was the most opportune time to witness Jiang Ruans wretched appearance. Once Jiang Ruans unsightly appearance had been seen by foreign men, based on Jiang Quans temper, he would definitely have Jiang Ruan drowned in a pool. In Jiang Su Sus eyes, there was a flash of slight laughter. Jiang Ruan, you will be bringing along a slutty, wretched reputation to your death! The ancestral hall was not far from the garden and one could see only one young manservant guarding at the door at this moment. Seeing Xia Cheng and the other people coming behind him, he had been frightened until his legs were weak. Seeing this young manservant who usually served beside Xia Jun, standing in front of the hall, Xia Cheng was at first stunned but he soon understood. What kind of person was Xia Cheng to have obtained this position; at first, this was something that made people ponder over carefully . Becoming seasoned after many years in officialdom upon seeing Xia Juns young manservant, he seemed to have guessed what would be happening very soon. With another look at Jiang Su Sus gaze, there was not anything else that he could have mistaken this situation for. For Jiang Su Su to want revenge on Jiang Ruan was fine, however, she could not drag his only grandson into this matter. If something really happened today, then Jiang Ruan would be ruined. Yet, if this matter about Xia Jun doing this sort of thing in the ancestral hall was spread outside, then would this not be a damage to her(JSSs) own reputation too? Were it not for the presence of outsiders currently, then he truly would be itching to slap Jiang Su Su twice firmly on the face before letting the matter drop. He had at first thought that this granddaughter of his was intelligent and with just her talent and appearance alone, she would be able to help the Xia family build up a connection. Now that he was truly seeing her before him, he found that she was yet another dunce with a short-sighted vision, truly stupid beyond belief! Xia Cheng had yet to think of a good way to lead these few people away when Jiang Su Su suddenly cried out in alarm, Arent you a servant of biaoge, why are you here? On hearing this, Xuan Li and Xiao Shaos eyes flashed faintly and the two people looked towards the young manservant at the same time. Seeing Xia Cheng, the young manservant had already begun to uncontrollable shake in his heart. With how long his own young master took and had yet to appear, and now that the lord had come, he unclearly stammered, This servant this servant Jiang Su Su frowned and did not wait for him to finish his words; without consulting anyone, she stepped forward to push open the door, You are behaving very strangely, it couldnt be that something has happened to Da Jiejie right? Immediately after the doors of the ancestral hall had been opened, a burst of thought-provoking fragrance assailed everyones senses. The air was filled with an indescribable rare fragrance and as one inhaled it in, one felt a sort of drying sensation at the throat. Apart from this, there was a sort of fishy smell that made one feel disgusted. As Jiang Su Su stepped forward a few steps, she suddenly let out a sound of ah!. Alarmed and frightened, she then hurried out of the door. She seemed to have suffered from a huge shock as her shoulders trembled at once. When she ran out, she just happened to bump into Xuan Li. He reached out to support her as Jiang Su Su lay limply against him. Xuan Li gently called out, Miss Jiang? In his arms, Jiang Su Su then raised her head as her eyes were welling up in tears. Her entire body was shivering faintly, Da Jiejie Da Jiejie, she Xia Chengs heart sunk, the Crown Prince had already been stirred up entirely in curiosity by Jiang Su Sus actions and directly strode across the ancestral halls door. Having opened the doors of the ancestral hall a little wider, suddenly, the scene inside the ancestral hall fell before the eyes of the people at present. Yet, it was an extremely alluring tableau. On the ground, there was a pair of a man and woman sentimentally intertwined and were maintaining themselves in such a becoming position. They were actually entirely naked from tip to toe. The womans long hair was messy and the man had drawn her into an embrace on his chest. Spots of murky dark red traces were on the females body and with her back facing everyone, it was very clear that the night before had been rather wild. Jiang Su Su appeared to be extremely frightened, ashamed and embarrassed and regardless, she had hidden her head into Xuan Lis arms. Cooly, Xuan Lis brows slightly frowned yet he still reached out a hand to warmly pat her on the shoulders. In front of so many people present, Xia Cheng could no longer mask this situation and at once, he yelled in anger, Preposterous! To have done such a sordid and filthy thing in his own fus ancestral hall and to even be seen by the finest esteemed and honourable nobility in this capital, even if he did not feel any sense of embarrassment, he too could not help but feel like he had no prestige left. Da Jiejie, how could she have with biaoge? Jiang Su Su spoke in doubt and fright as she hid in Xuan Lis arms, This is the ancestral hall! Xia Cheng ruthlessly stared at Jiang Su Su now that his own plans had been entirely thrown into disorder. This granddaughter of his, she did not have the ability to do anything right and yet had more than enough faults to bring about a disaster! Unfilial son! Unfilial son! Xia Cheng was infuriated as he angrily pointed at the man and woman in the ancestral hall, To think that my Xia fu has raised you for more than ten years and for you to actually not cherish ones good name like this! To have done such a filthy and sordid thing in the ancestral hall, where has the sense of honour, propriety, justice and integrity that I have taught you gone to? To have no one teaching and becoming this uncultured! In the days ahead, how can the Xia fu rely on you to bring honour to our family! Repeating himself over and over again, he seemed to be finding fault with Xia Jun, but what he had implied inwardly and outwardly with his words were all about Jiang Ruan who had no sense to cherish her own reputation and ridiculing her for having no mother to teach her and thus, had this sort of wretched moral character. He had pinned all of the wrongdoings onto Jiang Ruan as the ways of this world had always been particularly more harsh on women. Raising his head to survey the expressions of everyone present, Xia Cheng knew that Xuan Li would still aid the Xia fu. However, he was unsure about Xiao Shao and the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince was somewhat curious and rather teasingly remarked, This is actually a first for bengong to see such a spring scenery in an ancestral hall. Old Marquis Xias fu has truly gone above and beyond, this is too amusing. While they had been speaking, the man and woman on the floor had yet to awaken. With a wholly unconcerned and careless posture whilst lying on the floor, the aforementioned gentleman who was naked from head to toe was taken into measure. Jiang Su Su could not resist but remark, Da Jiejie appears to have lost consciousness, why hasnt she awakened yet? Hu Die, go and find a set of clothes for Da Jiejie and have her brought back to the house. Accepting her orders, Hu Die left and Jiang Su Su ignored Xia Chengs knife-like gaze and murmured softly, This matter, I hope that Your Highnesses will not spread this out. In any case, my elder sister is also a well-bred young lady from a prestigious family too. As for now, she has yet to marry, if this was found out, then her life would be ruined. These words were clearly spoken in consideration for Jiang Ruan, yet it also reminded everyone present that Jiang Ruan was a young girl that had yet to reach a marriageable age[2]. However, at such a young age, she had already done such sordid acts, it truly was something that made one extremely disgusted with her. [2] J j () C This refers to a young girls 15th birthday as in Ancient Chinas customs, a young girl becomes a marriageable young lady at the age of 15 where they are conferred a coming-of-age ceremony where they will have someone of noble status and importance to help them put on a hairpin to signify their marriageable status. A fun fact: young ladies below the age of 15 arent allowed to use pins at all, they can only use ribbons or have their hair let down. Chapter 71.2 - The Spring Scenery in the Ancestral Hall (Part II) The expression on Xuan Lis face had been slightly perturbed, still, he had yet to speak before he faintly heard a voice. Second Jiang Miss has yet to see the females face clearly, thus how can you be truly certain that it is Eldest Jiang Miss? Stunned, Jiang Su Su raised her head as Xiao Shaos elegant, cold and cheerless side profile appeared right in front of her; yet in his tone, one could not discern any delight nor anger. On that day when he had helped her on the Ling Long Boat, at first, she had thought that Xiao Shao was on her side. However, later on, once Jiang Su Su went to Jinying Wangs fu, she had been given the cold shoulder numerous times at the doorstep. Therefore, she was rather uncertain about what this Jinying Wang had been thinking at the time. Now that she heard these words that seemed to be aiding Jiang Ruan, this made Jiang Su Su become even more suspicious. Then, right at this moment, she heard a soft and gentle voice come from behind her, Everyone, what could all of you present be looking for? Hearing this voice at that very instant, it was as if a bolt of lightning flashed across a clear sky in Jiang Su Sus head, her entire body stiffening in the place that she stood. Xiao Shao raised an eyebrow slightly as his gaze moved towards the direction of that voice. He turned only to see a young girl with black tresses and red clothes draped in the mornings clear dew on her shoulders. She was standing just amongst the cluster of flowers a few steps outside as she looked towards them with a smile on her features. She had yet to open her umbrella and the fluttering drizzle of rain had fallen gently on her body. One could see at present, in the midst of that pair of upturned charming eyes, there was merely indifference. Upon seeing that slight smile at the edge of her lips, one could not help but feel apprehensive. Da Da Jiejie? Jiang Su Su retreated two steps back. Unhurriedly, Jiang Ruan stepped forward, So it is actually Second Younger Sister. Im unclear as to why you have come this early in the morning to the ancestral hall, was there something the matter? With every step she took forward, Jiang Su Su took a step back as what remained in her eyes was alarm. Swallowing down with much difficulty the questions she had that were about to burst forth from her own mouth, she then replied, Da Jiejie, why are you here? Then then in the hall, who could that be? Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Oh, the person in the hall ah, that is one of my dedicated maidservants. At around midnight last night, she saw that my body was unable to endure and so volunteered to help me kneel for the rest of the night. Maternal Grandmother said that it must be someone who was born in the fourth month of the lunar calendar to pray for blessings. By lucky coincidence, this devoted maidservant of mine was also born on the fourth month of the lunar calendar. With an unphased expression, she lied smoothly and once finished, her expression became slightly astonished, Why, has something happened? Xia Cheng knew that Jiang Ruan was certainly spouting nonsense and it may be assumed that she had already known about Jiang Su Sus plan from the beginning. He then gloomily glared at her as he slowly said, There are people who have done illicit actions in the ancestral hall. I think, that between them, one of them is your maidservant. Jiang Ruan gaped as she shook her head, This maidservant of mine is definitely a pure and innocent young lady. Usually, she minds her own deeds and keeps out of trouble, and is honest to a fault. It is most unlikely for her to have done such an immoral thing. In all likelihood, someone must have compelled her. Even if she is just a maidservant, on her behalf, I still want to ask for justice. Da Jiejie, why do you say such a thing? It is obvious that the maidservant by your side is the one whose moral conduct is improper, how could this be blamed on someone else? Jiang Su Su questioned. If the maidservant beside them had improper moral conduct, then it would be inevitable that people would have some doubts about their master as well. Why would Second Younger Sister speak of such? Jiang Ruan smiled, This maidservant was one personally chosen by Mother herself for me, how could you harbour suspicions over Mothers judgement of character? Could it be that Mother had found such a person with immoral conduct to be by my side on purpose? You Jiang Su Su was at loss for words and in a split-second, she harboured a thread of malicious hatred in her heart towards Jiang Ruan. Xia Cheng narrowed his eyes slightly. Even before having the chance to say anything, he had already seen Jiang Ruan abruptly kneel before the Crown Prince, Even though because of this matter it seems as though Ruan niangs maidservant will have to suffer some hardships, but after deep thought, she has still helped Ruan niang bear some unexpected misfortune. If this were Ruan niang last night, now Ruan niang could only demonstrate her sincerity by dying. This villain is truly deplorable, Your Highness the Crown Prince would surely be able to see clearly even the downy feathers of autumn; perceptive of even the finest detail. Ruan niang beseeches His Highness to investigate this matter thoroughly and punish the hoodlum who is pretending to be an innocent person! With her kneeling as such, Xia Chengs temple was faintly throbbing as he could only complain in his heart about this ill predicament. When Jiang Ruan had arrived, she did not know who this man in front of her was. Yet, this Crown Prince had remained stubbornly contrary since birth; this man was temperamental and one could barely perceive with any certainty, his preferences. One could not say for sure that he would be really interested in this matter for any length of time, nor could one know if he would decide to punish Xia Jun. Xuan Li glanced at Jiang Ruans actions as a glimmer of radiance shot through his eyes. Yet, Xiao Shao stood quietly and watched with an unclear expression in his eyes. Full of spirits, the Crown Prince looked at her, You are the Eldest Jiang Miss? Jiang Ruan smiled as she looked at him, I greet His Highness, the Crown Prince. As expected, a charming beauty that is after ones heart. The Crown Prince followed suit and smiled, You want bendian[1] to take charge of this on your behalf? [1] Bn din () C It literally means this palace hall, but often it refers to a royalty (who owns their own palace, which in and of itself signifies immense status and power) referring to themselves. Once Xia Cheng heard this, naturally, he became endlessly anxious as he looked towards Xuan Li with a hurried appeal for help. Then suddenly, just at this moment, a maidservant hastily ran forward before him, Master, its terrible, Furen has fainted! What? Xia Cheng was in great alarm as he turned back to take a glance at the ancestral hall, Have someone sent out quickly, get them to call for the physician. After saying this, he gave a bow to the Crown Prince and his other guests, My wife has suddenly fainted; these matters in the ancestral hall can be discussed again more later. I request Your Highness to please extend your judgement a little longer. No matter, the Crown Prince laughed, this show today is truly wonderful. Now we will go together with Old Marquis Xia to have a look. Saying this, he then walked to Xia Chengs side. Xia Cheng had stiffened as he moved his feet towards the centre hall. Jiang Su Su promptly followed behind while Xuan Li smiled slightly as he went along and left too. Yet, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao remained behind. Expressionless, Jiang Ruan took a glance at Xiao Shao as she moved her body sideways to walk forward. She then heard Xiao Shaos voice from above her, How did you know that he was the Crown Prince? When Jiang Ruan had arrived, no one had told her who the Crown Prince was. Yet, when she had knelt down, she had called out extremely clearly His Highness the Crown Prince, it really was something that made one suspicious of her. Jiang Ruan was startled and inwardly rebuked herself for being careless; to have actually allowed this person to have a handle on her in his hands. Her thoughts abruptly spun for a moment as she looked directly at that elegant, heroically handsome appearance of Xiao Shao and coldly replied, The bearing between a dragon and a bug is naturally different. For example, the Crown prince has the bearing of a Crown Prince. She suddenly showed a bright smile on her face with a sincere tone, As for scum, they too would have a scum-like radiance. After saying this, with light footsteps, without looking at Xiao Shaos expression and without his leave, Jiang Ruan left. Once she reached the large hall, as expected, she saw a bunch of maidservants and old female servants surrounding her as the eldest wife of the young master and the second wife of the young master of the Xia family stood to the side. In the middle of this whole situation was a small collapsed figure- Xia Furens eyes were tightly shut with a wan face as a trickle of fresh and dark blood came from the corner of her mouth. Seeing this, Xia Cheng immediately hastened his pace forward as he lamentably grieved, Furen! Shen Rou and Yu Ya were standing at her sides as they looked upon Xia Furen rather fretfully. From their mouths, the words were repeatedly uttered, Mother! Maternal Grandmother, what has happened to you (spoken in a respectful tone)? Jiang Su Su pushed away everyone as she walked to Xia Furens side with her eyes immediately spilling over with two trails of tears. If she was to be taken seriously, she was extremely worried. Jiang Chao stood aside and spoke in a gloomy tone, Maternal Grandmother has only become like this just after eating that box of pastries. Astonished, Jiang Su Su looked at that pastry and then looked at Jiang Ruan, Arent those the ones that Da Jiejie gave to Maternal Grandmother? Jiang Ruan remained unfazed with a light smile on her face. She did not make any justifications for herself at all. Yet, Jiang Li seemed to be wishing for the whole world to be in chaos as she cried out, How could Maternal Grandmother become like this after eating Da Jiejies pastries, could it be that there was something wrong with the pastries? Xia Jiao Jiao had initially stood at Shen Rous side with her gaze appearing like she was somewhat at her wits end. Thus at this moment, once she heard Jiang Li and Jiang Su Sus words, she seemed to have thought of something as she remarked, What a great person you are, Jiang Ruan, my Xia fu has treated you with sincerity, how could you have poisoned my paternal grandmother like this! I fear that Biaojie has spoken ill, Jiang Ruan flatly replied, this box of pastries was not prepared by Ruan niang, it was Mother who helped Ruan niang to prepare. Ruaner, what are you saying? Xia Yan looked at her with a gaze filled with disappointment, How is it possible that I would cause harm to myself and poison my own mother? Ruaner, you are unaware of the rules in the fu and had forgotten to prepare a visitation present for your maternal grandparents. So, I thoughtfully helped you to prepare one on your behalf. Now that you have made false charges against me like this when all is said and done, what have I truly done wrong? Upon hearing this, now it seemed like Jiang Ruan was intentionally framing Xia Yan. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, However those pastries, they were prepared for me by Mother, right? Biaomei, these words of yours are wrong, Xia Jiao Jiao replied, even if they were prepared on your behalf by Paternal Aunt, this does not ensure that you might not have added some poison to the gift box. For you to harm Paternal Grandmother and to think of framing Paternal Aunt, this is truly your true colours right! Yu Ya frowned, If indeed, is it truly so? Jiang Ruan sighed, Since everyone has already said the reason this clearly, is there still a need for Ruan niang to say anything then? Yet, right at this moment, one could see a physician carrying a medical box on his back as he hurriedly came in. He had not bothered with anything else as he helped Xia Furen to check her pulse. After he gave a long sigh, he said, I will first give a prescription, hurry. Go to an apothecary to boil some for Furen to consume, at once! Some old female servants had lifted Xia Furen into the inner room as Xia Cheng ordered some servants to get the herbal prescription without delay. He then stepped forward, May I venture to ask this physician, how is my wifes condition? Seeing this appearance of hers, about eighty to ninety per cent is because she has ingested some poison, the physician touched his beard as he continued, the good thing is that the ingested amount was rather little and is unlikely to go as far as to take her life. After these words had been said, there was a silence in the room. Suddenly, a sharp voice resounded, Its you! Im sure that it was you who thought of harming my paternal grandmother! To have given her some poison! I beseech His Highness to pass judgement for my Xia family. Xia Jiao Jiao bowed her body low and her words were solemn and forceful as if they were truly justified. Jiang Su Su was startled and then glanced at Xuan Li who did not speak. With half of her face concealed behind a veil, she only revealed a lovely and pitiful set of eyes. At the moment if anyone looked at her, they could not help but make ones heart melt; even a person that seemed to be made of steel could not help but soften his attitude for her. Xuan Li took a mild glance at her and then looked at the young girl clothed in red in the middle of the hall whose expression remained unchanged. Even if there were a lot of people pointing out at her at this moment, her posture remained ramrod straight with a slight curl at her lips. It was as if she did not hear Xia Jiao Jiaos words. Jiang Ruan faintly smiled and amidst everyones wrathful gaze, she slowly walked forward and stood in front of that box of pastries. Reaching out, she broke off a small piece and moved in front of that physician, Daifu[2], without a doubt, did Xia Furen truly ingest poison? [2] Difu () C Physician Naturally, the physician replied without the slightest doubt. Jiang Ruan lightly sighed, It truly makes one puzzled, why is that for Xia Furen to have ingested poison, it must definitely be Ruan niang who has poisoned her? Wouldnt it be that Xia Furen had ingested the poison by herself? A bunch of nonsense! Xia Cheng indignantly flared, Without rhyme or reason, why would my furen ingest some poison! Da Meimei[3], you are still trying to quibble now, Maternal Grandmother has definitely fainted because she ate your gift of pastries. Without exception, there is human testimony and material evidence present. Jiang Chao spoke in anger. [3] D mimei () C Eldest (of the many) younger sister. So, Jiang Ruan thought for a bit and then placed that piece in her hand, Daifu, does this pastry have poison? You, what else do you have to say! Xia Cheng spat out, he then looked once more at the Crown Prince who was standing to the side[4], I beseech for His Highness to redress this matter on my furens behalf! [4] Zu b shng gun (Ϲ) C Similar to another Chinese phrase, it means to be a bystander and not bother to help. In the past, however, (though it may apply to this current scenario as well) it means one stands at a rampart (or at a barrier) while the two parties are fighting. The Crown Prince remained silent as he stared at Jiang Ruan as if he wanted to see what she would do. Then, he saw Jiang Ruan nip off a piece of the pastry in her hand and shake her head, If this is truly the case, Ruan niang truly has nothing to say. What is to be done, it seems it can only be to exchange ones life for anothers. Then, she lightly took a nibble of that pastry and unhurriedly swallowed it down. Everyone looked at her in shock as a trace of radiance flashed through Jiang Chaos eyes. In her heart, Jiang Su Su had, at once, a burst of glee. Xiao Shao observed that young girls action of chewing and swallowing and for some unknown reason, his heart had unexpectedly felt a shred of cold sweat for her. That physician had not expected that Jiang Ruan would be so brave, just a moment had passed and Jiang Ruan had already eaten that piece of pastry. Yet, nothing seemed to have happened. She blinked and Jiang Chao looked at her incredulously. In his heart, Xiao Shao felt a sigh of relief as Xuan Li frowned. However, the Crown Prince burst out into laughter as he clapped his hands, Amusing, truly extremely amusing! Jiang Su Su and Xia Jiao Jiao were left dumbstruck as Xia Cheng was blank on the spot. Suddenly, he looked at the pastry on the table and then looked at Jiang Ruan. Shen Rou and Yu Yas gazes were thoughtful as Jiang Ruan patted her hands and clapped the remaining fragments away. She then softly spoke, So as it turns out, this poison is also able to distinguish between people; I and Maternal Grandmother had the same piece of pastry so it ought to have the same identical poison. Maternal Grandmother had only eaten a little but has since lost consciousness. Yet, I have eaten an entire piece but remain unharmed. Indeed, there too is also a distinction between the nobility of a persons life. With such an identity like Ruan niangs even if its poison, after eating a small amount, it is no bother to me too. These words of hers were witty and adorable, they seemed to contain a sort of implication of mocking herself. Yet, it was precisely that each sentence of hers was probing and the provocative words exposed and criticised the thoughts and motives of the people around her. It had directly choked Xia Cheng so much that he could not speak. Jiang Ruan then cast her head in the direction towards the Crown Prince with a glance and a sudden laugh, her voice gentle as she spoke, Your Highness, I respectfully and certainly request for you to seek redress for Ruan niang. Chapter 72.1 - Shu Xiang’s Fate (Part I) The tables seemed to have turned. When Xia Cheng saw that the situation was not good, he immediately responded to the physician angrily, Quack! How dare you lie to us! No, my Lord. The physician took a few steps back. He didnt know what had gone wrong as everything was different from the expected scenario. All of a sudden, he broke out into a cold sweat. Theres no need for Old Marquis Xia to get angry. Perhaps, as Eldest Jiang Miss said, this poison had no effect on her. Even though Xia Cheng had no idea what the Crown Prince meant, it sounded like random nonsense. Nevertheless, beads of cold sweat started to appear on Xia Chengs back. No matter how muddleheaded and incompetent the Crown Prince was- having no talent and devoid of morals- he was after all a member of the royal family. How could he tolerate his subjects playing petty tricks before his very eyes? At this very moment, Xuan Lis voice rang out. Since its the quacks fault, just tie him up immediately. If theyre kept, such quacks will only harm peoples lives in the future. Then, he ordered his attendants to bind the physician. The physician didnt foresee this sudden misfortune and shouted, Its obviously Old However, before he could finish speaking, he was gagged and pinned down. Jiang Su Su glanced at Xuan Li gratefully. However, a trace of fury crossed Jiang Lis face. Jiang Ruan smiled, Your Highness the Eighth Prince, why did you have the physician tied up? This way its still unclear whether the pastry was poisonous or not, or whether Ruan niang is guilty or innocent. She actually didnt give Xuan Li a way out of this situation. On hearing her say this, Xuan Li was disappointed. He thought that the Jiang familys Eldest Miss was a smart person; when a wise man encounters this kind of situation, he should not continue to look into it. Did she still think that the people here would grant her justice, especially as the Jiang familys unfavoured daughter? It was better to settle the matter now, which would save a lot of trouble. Thinking along these lines, he glanced at Jiang Ruan. But he was stunned to see that Jiang Ruan was currently looking his way calmly. There was a kind of indescribable emotion in those beautiful eyes. He had seen that emotion many times. It was unforgettable. Hatred? Hatred? How could this Jiang familys Eldest Miss hate him for no reason? Because he spoke on behalf of the Xia family? Xuan Li paused and then took another look at Jiang Ruan but she had already turned away. It was as if the emotions in her eyes were merely his illusion. But, Xuan Li knew for sure that it was not an illusion. The girl across from him did have an inexplicable hatred for him. Just then, an indifferent voice suddenly broke the silence. In that case, Ye Feng, take my official seal and go to see the Great Physician Qiu. Everyones eyes were immediately focused on him, yet Xiao Shaos expression remained unchanged as he continued, Well bring the truth of this matter to light[1]. [1] Shulushch ( ˮʯ ) C idiom, as the water recedes, the rocks appear / the truth comes to light The Xia family couldnt help but ponder. Did this represent speaking on behalf of Jiang Ruan? It was strange that both Jinying Wang and the Crown Prince came here suddenly today. The Jinying Wang rescued Jiang Su Su aboard the Ling Long Boat. How come he seemed to be an ally of Jiang Ruan now? Jiang Ruan herself was also baffled. Xiao Shao suddenly helped her. What was his objective? Xia Jiao Jiao had been looking at Xiao Shao either furtively or deliberately since the moment he came in. When she heard what Xiao Shao had said, her pretty face turned pale. She bit her lower lip tightly, looking like she was about to cry. Xuan Li glanced at Jiang Su Su who was covered with a veil. Her eyes misted over with tears that wouldnt fall. It was really pitiful. Looking at the other members of the Xia family, several daughter-in-laws had precisely the same expression as that of Xia Yan. They were panic-stricken- three points due to restlessness while seven points were due to weakness. It was truly unbearable for them. Jiang Ruan, standing in the middle of the hall, had a completely different expression from them. Her face was wreathed in smiles while her gaze was cold and indifferent. Each movement was incomparably sharp. Unexpectedly, she wanted to put people to death cruelly. Xuan Li finally started speaking, Brother Xiao, why should you trouble Great Physician Qiu. It seems to me that the truth in this matter has been revealed. Its only harm caused by the quack. He misdiagnosed Xia Furens illness. The pastries on the table are not poisoned, and Eldest Jiang Miss is also innocent. In the end, it was just a misunderstanding. Youre all one family. Our Emperor Father has taught us from an early age that if the family lives in harmony, all affairs will prosper. His words were really fortuitous. Jiang Ruan sneered inwardly. If the family lived in harmony, all affairs would prosper. But whose family was harmonious and whose affairs were prosperous? It had nothing to do with her. With Xuan Lis words, Xia Cheng breathed a sigh of relief. Next he gave a meaningful glance to Xia Yan, who was momentarily taken by surprise. She then walked up to Jiang Ruan and said, Ruaner, its my fault. If Mother had been more careful, and not misled by the quacks words, you wouldnt have had to suffer this injustice. Now, Mother can only ask for your forgiveness by getting down on my knees. With that, she bent down and knelt down to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan moved aside slightly to avoid Xia Yans grand ceremonial gesture and spoke with a smile, Mother is joking. If she accepted Xia Yans kowtow today, the reputation of disrespecting her fathers di wife would spread out in the capital city tomorrow. She looked at Xia Cheng. Everyone here is one family. If the family lives in harmony, all affairs will prosper. His Highness Eighth Prince spoke really well. I had no idea; its as if Eighth Prince is a member of the Xia family. Xuan Lis expression turned stiff. Jiang Ruan spoke again, But, its a small matter for Ruan niang to suffer a little grievance. On the other hand, Maternal Grandmothers illness is a big matter. For no apparent reason, how could she lose consciousness after eating a piece of Ruan niangs pastry? Its really strange when you think about it. Its so strange that everything is still unresolved after much deliberation. She stood in the hall in the same posture and her face was wreathed with smiles. But today, I would like to thank Wangye (Xiao Shao) for speaking out and giving clarification on behalf of Ruan niang. Otherwise, the quack would be at large and perhaps Ruan niang would have to go to prison. The crime of plotting to murder Maternal Grandmother is not small. Ruan niang couldnt bear it even if I wanted to risk my life. In fact, this matter had nothing to do with Xiao Shao. Its just that in the roomful of people, she highlighted that only Xiao Shao spoke fairly, which was like slapping everyone in the face. The Crown Prince suddenly laughed. Eldest Jiang Miss is right. I too feel that this matter wouldnt happen without any reason. In the imperial court, misjudgments and wrong verdicts also come at a price. From what I see, the young lady of Xia family, two daughter-in-laws, Jiang Furen, as well as Jiang familys Second Miss and Second Young Master, all denounced Eldest Jiang Miss. Old Marquis Xia is advanced in age, so Ill let it pass. The rest wont be spared. Since Eldest Jiang Miss wanted me to make the decision for her, I will do this one thing. Since you have all accused her wrongly, lets have each one of you take 20 lashings as corporal punishment. What?! Xia Jiao Jiao cried out. Your Highness, how can you do this? Shen Rou pinched her arm in a hurry and spoke in dismay, This child is not sensible and only babbling nonsense. Your Highness, please spare her this time. Theres no harm, the Crown Prince laughed heartily. Bengong is always benevolent. Go ahead, I am here to watch you all receive the corporal punishment. Xia Yan was stupefied while Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su stared blankly for a while. Xia Cheng got so angry that the flesh on his cheeks trembled slightly. The Crown Princes move was like slapping him in the face! He had gone so far as to make all of the Xia familys womenfolk lie on the stools to be flogged, including the young girls who had not married out yet! Your Highness Xia Cheng still wanted to plead. Wangye! Xia Jiao Jiao fell on her knees in front of Xiao Shao. You are kind and generous. Since you have just helped Biaomei, please intercede for us and ask the Crown Prince for mercy. Please help us! Jiang Ruan watched her action. In the past, when she was in the palace, Xia Jiao Jiao always appeared tyrannical. She had never seen her in such a mess before. After all, its said that a dog threatens others based on its masters power. Before everyones eyes, Xiao Shao took a step back slowly. His elegantly handsome face remained unmoved, as cold as before. He spoke in an indifferent manner, What does it have to do with me? It was pure disdain. He actually showed no pity and tenderness toward the fairer sex at all. Xia Jiao Jiao turned stiff at his words. Her body started to shiver. She looked at Xiao Shao full of anguish and helplessness. Its a pity that the waterside flower sheds petals for love, while the heartless brook babbles on[2]. She shed her tears in vain. [2] Luhuyuy, lishuwqng ( 仨⣬ˮ ) C idiom, lit. the falling flowers are yearning for love, but the heartless brook ripples on; fig. one side is willing, yet the other one remains indifferent (usually of unrequited love). Are you questioning my decision? The Crown Prince was displeased. Xia Jiao Jiao was startled. Jiang Su Su cast a pleading glance at Xuan Li but he looked at her apologetically. In a scenario like this, he couldnt overtly challenge the Crown Prince. Jiang Su Su gritted her teeth. Its my fault. Su Su voluntarily accepts the punishment and asks Da Jiejie for forgiveness. After speaking, and without looking at the crowd, she walked straight towards the courtyard. The Crown Prince waved his hand. Set up the stool. Bengong will see them receive the punishment in person. Jiang Chao and Xia Yan looked at each other. They could only grit their teeth and follow towards the courtyard. Shen Rou and several others were very much unwilling in their hearts. However, seeing Xia Yan obediently step forward, they didnt dare to refuse. The young manservant in the courtyard soon found a stool and a wooden club to administer the punishment. The ones tasked for it were the Xia familys own old female servants. Originally, they wanted to show mercy, but the Crown Prince declared, If bengong sees anyone not doing the task according to the public duty, immediately, they will be dragged out and chopped up to feed the dogs. Upon hearing this, the servants promptly dispelled that idea from their minds. Xia Cheng was angry and distressed. Watching his children and grandchildren being punished in the courtyard, his heart was filled with resentment. All these years, his life was smooth sailing. He didnt expect that by framing a little girl today they would suffer such a great humiliation. The Crown Prince stood in the courtyard watching lazily. The old female servants were fat and strong. They struck without mercy. Those on the scene were all delicate-skinned and fair-complexioned daughters of a noble family. They had never received such a heavy punishment. Soon, their cries of utter anguish and continuous shrieks were resounding in the courtyard. Jiang Su Su laid on a stool with unbearable pain on her behind. She was more incensed about the humiliation than the pain. In front of Jiang Ruan and these royal princes and Wangye, she had no prestige left. Like a dead pig, she was tied to the stool and tortured. Right then, she made an oath. If this hatred was not avenged, she vowed, shes not human! Jiang Ruan stepped out slowly from the crowd and watched Xia Yans punishment. Was it painful? The agony they had inflicted on her was a hundred, even a thousand times worse than that. There was no one to offer help nor plead for her when she painfully struggled at deaths door. Xia family, this pain was just the beginning. Xuan Li walked up to her and asked, Eldest Jiang Miss, dont you think theyre pitiful? Those who are pitiful must have something hateful about them. Jiang Ruan smiled. Besides, the order is from His Highness the Crown Prince, Ruan niang is powerless. Xuan Li choked. It was almost within reach, but for some unknown reason, there was a weird feeling inside his heart. The Jiang familys eldest di daughter before him had never shown even an ounce of fear in the face of all kinds of situations today. It seemed that from the beginning till now, she had maintained a gentle and proper smile. At such a young age, either she was extremely cunning or she had foreseen all the possibilities that might happen today. Was it all within her grasp? Xuan Li immediately negated this idea. A myriad of things in the world were constantly changing. How could anyone control everything? He looked again at the smiling Jiang Ruan and doubted his guess just now. Jiang Ruan looked at what was happening in front of her calmly. Yesterday, she had ordered Lian Qiao to replace that box of pastries. She naturally understood what Xia Yan had intended. Moreover, the Crown Prince suddenly paying a visit to Old Marquis Xias fu today was also her handling. The Crown Prince had a subordinate who usually pretended to be a story-teller at the Dong Feng Lou. She had heard Xuan Li mention it in her last life. When Xia Yan came to inform her about going to Marquis Xias fu, Jiang Ruan told Lu Zhu to go to Dong Feng Lou, pretending to be Xia fus servant girl, and mention it inadvertently. The relationship between Xuan Li and Xia Cheng was a bit subtle. This matter was viewed as very sensitive among the princes. Once the news that Xuan Li was paying a visit to Xia Cheng was leaked, His Highness the Crown Prince would naturally come to the Xia fu to join him. However, she didnt foresee Xiao Shaos coming. As for the current Crown Prince, she had heard a lot about his conduct in her last life inside the palace. The Crown Prince had no political insight, moreover, his mind was not very deep. Early on, the Emperor wanted to change the Crown Prince, but his plan failed due to Xiao Shaos obstruction. Everyone thought that the Crown Prince was unfavored, but it was this unfavored prince who remained at the end when all the other princes in the palace were disposed of one after another by Xuan Li. It remained unknown whether the Emperor had anything to do with it. The Crown Princes main trait was actually considered to be his biggest shortcoming: his simple-mindedness. Similar to Jiang Ruan, the Crown Prince was a part of the royal family and found himself to be unfavoured in front of everyone. He was supposed to have a profound mind, but in fact he was rather simple-minded and emotional. Chapter 73 - The Bane of Others’ Existence Xiao Shao looked down at her. Jiang Ruan was young and although she was taller than most of the girls her age, she still only reached upto Xiao Shaos chest. After Xiao Shao heard her words, he did not get angry, but his long and slightly curved eyelashes hung low as he said, Xia Cheng will not let you off. In this world there are many people who will not let me off, Jiang Ruan looked straight into his eyes, Regardless, I am not dead yet. She gave a half-smile, Wangye is already busy with his own affairs, how come he has the heart to care for others? Xiao Shao was momentarily stunned. In the court everyone respected him, feared him and flattered him, yet, there were also numerous people who wished to harm him. His situation was very similar to this di daughter of the Jiang fu. However, he had never been afraid even if he was surrounded by murderous intentions, because he said indifferently, This prince has the capability to protect himself, do you have it? Wangye does not need to worry about Ruan niang, Jiang Ruan carefully kept a distance from him because once bitten, twice shy. After all, he had once saved Jiang Su Su, therefore who knew what motives he had. Furthermore, she did not hesitate to treat anyone who was related to Jiang Su Su as an enemy. Jinying Wang was no exception. Whether Ruan niang has the capability to protect herself or not, hasnt Wangye seen it clearly? She thought for a moment, then said, It is beneficial to sit on the fence but in the end, isnt it shameful. Since you have already chosen your side, dont easily change your mind; be careful or else you might offend both parties. With that, she directly headed out and no longer cared about Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao stood in the same spot. Just now he obviously understood Jiang Ruans words were an admonishment not to be someone who sat on the fence. Ye Feng, who stood at the side, said, This Eldest Jiang Miss is truly rude, Master helped her out of kindness, yet shes still being so sarcastic and mocking. Ye Feng. Xiao Shao interrupted him, Return to the fu. Meanwhile, inside the residence, Yu Ya was silently dabbing at her tears and Xia Chengs face was gloomy. After seeing Xia Juns ghostly white face, Xia Cheng couldnt contain his anger anymore as he pointed at Jiang Su Su, You evil girl, kneel! Jiang Su Su panicked and hurriedly went to Xia Yan to use her as a shield. Xia Yan protected Jiang Su Su in her embrace and with a small voice said, Father, what are you doing? Dont think I do not know why last night Juner went to the ancestral hall for no reason- wasnt it a trick that this evil girl came up with! Now Jiang Ruan has suffered no harm and yet your biaoge has been used to satisfy other peoples motives. How amazing! Xia Jun creased his eyebrows but Yu Ya let out a short shriek and the way she looked at Jiang Su Su instantly changed, Is this true? Jiang Su Su hid away from her own Aunts[1] piercing gaze, saying, Biaoge himself agreed to this matter, furthermore, I only asked him to comfort Da Jiejie. If he didnt have those types of thoughts, how would it have escalated into this situation? [1] Biao shen ( ) C refers to your mother/fathers brothers wife. After hearing what she said, Xia Juns gaze became gloomy and he coldly snorted, Comfort You put an aphrodisiac into the incense burner and you really thought no one would know? This was something he had figured out later on. At that time, the ancestral hall was heavy with fumes but he had merely thought that it was the ancestral halls incense. However, when he became rational, he was immediately able to pinpoint what was suspicious. Yu Ya could no longer contain herself and rushed up, pulling Xia Yan away. Pa!, a slap landed on Jiang Su Sus face. She had exerted a lot of force and thus Jiang Su Su was sent staggering. The veil obscuring her face fell down and revealed half of her hideous face. She gave a horrible shriek, covering her face while shouting, What are you doing? What am I doing? At this moment, Yu Ya had completely abandoned her image of a dignified and composed noble lady. She looked ferocious, as if she wanted to swallow Jiang Su Su whole, You schemed against Juner like that and even used an aphrodisiac, do you even have any sense of shame! Second Sister-in-law! Xia Yan shielded Jiang Su Su behind her, Youre too much. Juner, too, bears the responsibility in this matter, why then is Su Su being blamed for everything? Shen Rou was at a loss, she had never expected Jiang Su Su, daughter of a distinguished family, to use such underhanded methods. She had also not expected Xia Yan, who was usually a gentle sister-in-law, to act like a tigress on a rampage, baring her fangs and brandishing her claws. Shut up! Xia Cheng was pushed to his limits and could no longer endure. He pointed at Jiang Su Sus nose and scolded, Idiot, you are not even capable yet you want to learn from others and harm people. With just that little trick of yours, youre not scared people will laugh their heads off! Not only are you lacking in comparison to Jiang Ruans schemes, you were even out-schemed by her, you fool! Although Xia Yan was dissatisfied with the way Xia Cheng spoke to Jiang Su Su, she had always been fearful of Xia Cheng and therefore, did not dare to say anything at the moment. However, Xia Chengs sentence of lacking in comparison to Jiang Ruan really sparked something in Jiang Su Su and in the heat of the moment she carelessly said, Maternal Grandfather is right, I am indeed lacking compared to Jiang Ruan and do not have the scheming mind. But what about Maternal Grandfathers own trick, the pastries? Wasnt it also seen through by others and you even made a fool of yourself in front of the Crown Prince and Eighth Prince. Is Maternal Grandfather not stupid? Xia Yan was frightened. She quickly covered Jiang Su Sus mouth while Jiang Su Su ferociously glared at Xia Cheng, her gaze full of resentment. Xia Cheng was boiling with violent rage and one of his legs flew up and kicked Jiang Su Su to the side. While gasping for breath, he said, Evil girl, get out of here! Tomorrow morning, gather your Jiang family people and get out of my fu, I will take it that I never had you, this daughter and this granddaughter! Maternal Grandfather! Seeing the situation, Jiang Chao, who had had a frowning face throughout, hurriedly said, Younger Sister only panicked for a moment, she did not mean to purposely talk back to you. Ill ask for forgiveness from you on her behalf! Ever since Xia Cheng had achieved his current title, hed always received a lot of flattery, thus when had he ever been contradicted by people. Not to mention, Jiang Su Su had poked at his sore spot, and so he became livid from the shame and could not put up with the Jiang family people any longer. Without sparing a glance at Jiang Chao, he gave a scornful laugh, I am afraid that it is her who simply does not put me highly, this grandfather, in her eyes! Then, he left with a flick of his sleeve. Jiang Su Su was again kicked to the ground by Xia Cheng and she covered her face without saying anything. Only, her gaze was gloomy like a poisonous snake. Just then, Yu Ya stood in front of her and coolly said, This matter will not be resolved so easily. You have harmed my Juner, and now for the next three years he is not allowed to step into the officialdom. If you do not give me an explanation on this, I will definitely teach you a lesson and make you regret it for the rest of your life. At that time, dont say that this Aunt never gave you, my niece, any face! After that, she supported Xia Jun and walked out without looking at the mother and daughter pair. The event had escalated to this extent and it was not good for Shen Rou to continue staying. She smiled and said, Ill go take a look and see how Jiao Jiao is. She too left without any acknowledgement. The Xia familys two young masters were not there, otherwise, who knew how the matter would have evolved further. The house was empty without a single person and Jiang Su Su suddenly started wailing loudly with her face still covered, Mother, Mother , how could they treat me like this! Although Xia Yan was also furious that Jiang Su Su took things into her own hands and settled Jiang Ruan herself, Jiang Su Su was still her own flesh and blood. Xia Yan felt heartache at her sorry state and pulled Jiang Su Su into her embrace, It was Mothers fault, Mother originally wanted your maternal grandfather to help scheme against Jiang Ruan, but didnt expect Jiang Ruan to be this cunning. Su Su, Mother is wrong, Mother should not have left that despicable person alive in the first place. Five years ago I should have sent her and her short-lived mother to see Yama, the King of Hell[2], together, my Suer has suffered. [2] Jin yn wng ( ) C refers to when someone dies Eldest Younger Sister is really not simple. Jiang Chao, who had stood gloomily to the side, continued further, At this moment Maternal Grandfather is displeased with Younger Sister, and Second Aunts family feels enmity towards us, now that it is like this, what should we do? Do not panic, Chaoer do not panic, Xia Yan dried Jiang Su Sus tears, Mother still has her ways. I will definitely render that despicable person unable to change her situation for the better. In the other room, Jiang Ruan was drinking tea with Lian Qiao. She had brought two servant girls along with her and now that she was only left with one, it made people want to cry. Seeing Lian Qiao remain silent, Jiang Ruan said, Do you find me cruel? Lian Qiao was stunned and did not understand, Miss, why do you speak such words? Shu Xiang was harmed by me, and while I obviously had the chance to save her I chose to keep quiet, do you think I was overly cruel? Jiang Ruan asked. Lian Qiao paused and only understood Jiang Ruans words a moment later. She lowered her head and kneeled in front of Jiang Ruan, This servant has never had this thought. Although Shu Xiangs death was tragic, she only has herself to blame. If Miss did not do that yesterday, then today the one who died would possibly be Miss. This servants master is Young Miss, this servant will be someone who serves Miss for a lifetime, if Miss has any mishaps, this servant will never be able to live happily for the rest of her life. Her tone was relaxed and her words were decisive, every sentence and every word was straightforward, Young Miss is not cruel and please never think of yourself as cruel. This servant has clearly seen what the intentions of the Jiang family and the Xia family are. It is already a feat for Miss to continue living on, so why differentiate what methods are being used, as they are all used for self-preservation anyways. They are not kind in the first place so how can they blame Young Miss for being unjust. Please stand up. Jiang Ruan lightly sighed, The waters in here are too murky, I do not wish to pull all of you in. Its just that you have seen todays matter, and from now on, similar events like this will happen near me. Remaining diligent and taking precautions will be beneficial to both you and the others as well. Lian Qiao felt a lump in her throat as she noiselessly got up. Ever since Jiang Ruan had returned to the Jiang fu, many things were left for Lu Zhu to settle and it wasnt as if she didnt have her opinions about it. Lu Zhu was a second-rank servant girl, yet she seemed to be considered more trustworthy by Jiang Ruan than a first-rank servant girl. However, after really going through the matter involving the Xia fu and witnessing a true battle take place right in front of her, that little discontent in her heart immediately dispersed like clouds. She raised her head and looked at Jiang Ruan. She and the others had been living with Jiang Ruan since they were little; ever since Jiang Ruan was still an unworldly young lady from a wealthy family, they had already been accompanying her. Throughout the journey in which she experienced the pain of losing her mother, was bullied in the countryside residence, disliked by her own biological father, separated from her elder brother, everything took place before their eyes and they had seen everything. Yet, while not knowing exactly when it had started, that cowardly and meek young miss had totally disappeared, replaced by a ruthless, beautiful Jiang Ruan who was resolute in her attacks. This type of change led people to feel not only gratification but also heartache. Miss, they must have had another motive for coming to the Xia fu at this time. Lian Qiao continued, Since Miss has already become a thorn in the eyes of the Xia family. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, What other motives can they have. Eighth Prince was here and Xia Yan hurriedly rushed here. Obviously it was to beg Eighth Prince to be an intermediary and negotiate with the Li family on their behalf. Then, as of now.. Lian Qiao asked. Second Younger Sister has offended the Xia family people, the Xia family will not help the Jiang family to get even for the time being. A married daughter is like spilled water, therefore, will Old Marquis Xia be willing to give up his biological grandson for his daughters children? The Xia familys Second Young Mistress will be unable to let this go, after all Second Younger Sister took her son as a fool, how would she be content to let this go? Rest assured, the Xia familys Second Young Mistress is also not an ordinary person. This time, well be able to enjoy a good show. Lian Qiao thought about it, According to Fifth Yiniang, Master will marry Young Miss into the Li family; Miss has probably made plans long ago. What is there to be afraid of, Jiang Ruan indifferently said, If the Xia family does not say anything, Eighth Prince will not take the initiative to negotiate with the Li family regarding this. Even if Father wishes to personally settle this with the Li family himself, Li Dong is not that easy to dismiss. Moreover, after this period of time, I am afraid that Li Yang does not have the fortune to marry a furen anymore. Lian Qiao was frightened. Looking at Jiang Ruans increasingly cold expression, her heart abruptly skipped a beat, yet she still lowered her head and pondered silently. Jiang Ruan laughed, The Xia family personally invited me to their residence, but it was Mother who prepared a big gift for me. I myself have a huge present to give them too. Lian Qiao raised her head to look at her, Miss? Regarding Li Dongs matter, I must still trouble the Xia familys Eldest Young Mistress for a trip, she said. Then, she pulled out a letter from her bosom and passed it to Lian Qiao, Find a chance to stuff this onto Eldest Xia Young Mistress body. Although Lian Qiao did not understand, she still accepted it and nodded. Jiang Ruan gave a half smile, currently, the Xia familys manor was in turmoil. Now, it was time for Shen Rou and Xia Tian Cai to have their ending. The beautiful and touching Eldest Xia Young Mistress and Second Xia Young Master, who was filled with limitless romance and amour, Sister-in-law and brother-in-law. Jiang Ruan wondered whether Shen Rou would be extremely shocked upon seeing the letter. However, this chess piece would be better used when taken out later. Jiang Ruans gaze contained some regret, It is still raining today. Indeed, Lian Qiao complied with her words and added on, It has yet to stop. Rain during the Spring season should not have lasted for so long. It was getting closer and closer to the day of being exiled from the Xia fu and returning to the capital. The very next day, early in the morning, Xia Cheng really did order people to prepare the horses and the carriages. He had a demeanor of wanting to chase someone out. There were rumors that last night, Xia Furen woke up and begged Xia Cheng for a long time but it still did not make Xia Cheng change his mind. Perhaps, it was because he was so full of anger that he even vented his anger on Xia Furen. Therefore, the scene of their departure was extremely different from their arrival. Not one Xia family member was present to send them off. At this, Jiang Li was naturally upset and Jiang Su Su and the other two had ashen faces. Jiang Dan, as usual, silently kept to the corner, completely unfazed by the type of atmosphere they were in, and Jiang Ruan stood alone. * * * Before returning to the Jiang fu, Jiang Quan had long heard from Xia Yans messenger about the whole situation, from beginning to end. Although he was furious that Jiang Su Su had not only failed in her scheme, but had even further ruined things for them, he was even more furious at the fact that the Xia family did not bother to leave them any face. When Xia Cheng had yet to ascend the title, he would always try to curry favours with that son-in-law of his, Jiang Quan. Now that he had his title, he started putting on airs around them. He had also heard that Li Yang was looking to hire famous doctors at a high price these few days. Presumably, the Li familys di sons life was saved. However, this made things more difficult to handle. Thinking about everything, Jiang Quan felt only a headache. Seeing him like this, the manservant by his side comforted him, My lord, you have not rested for a whole night, do you want to take a rest? Jiang Quan waved his hand. At this moment he was too hard pressed, how could he be in the mood to rest. The manservant, seeing the situation, continued in a low whisper, Come to think of it, it is rather strange that ever since Eldest Young Miss returned to the fu, there has not been a period of time when bad news has stopped coming in. He spoke while stealing glances at Jiang Quans expression. Upon hearing this Jiang Quans whole body went stiff, his whole person seemed to be stupefied for a moment and he gradually creased his eyebrows. An instant later, he suddenly harshly beat the table, She is indeed like a cursed star[3]! [3] Sh xing ( ɷ ) C Its like a star sign, but this stars meaning is calamity and catastrophe. It is the star of doom. Therefore, it can be use as a expletive similar to saying harbinger of death The manservant was frightened and so he retreated to the side and stopped speaking. But Jiang Quan suddenly thought more. When Zhao Mei died, a wandering Taoist Monk, who was passing by, helped Jiang Ruan calculate her fortune. He said that she was an inauspicious person and she was born with the fate of bringing misfortune to her husband and mother. It was only that Jiang Quan was not an overly superstitious person and didnt care much about ghosts and superstitions. Except that, during this time Zhao Mei had just passed away not long ago and Xia Cheng had just succeeded the title. He had advised and asked when Jiang Quan would promote Xia Yan to the position of the main wife. Back then, he also had the heart to do such a thing as he felt that by being the shu daughter and son, Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao had suffered for so many years for no apparent reason. Therefore, he had complied with the Taoist Monks words and sent Jiang Ruan to the countryside residence. Primarily, to allow Xia Yan to ease her mind, and secondly, due to the fact that he couldnt stand the sight of Jiang Ruan. As long as he did not see Jiang Ruan, he would not be reminded of the irritating Zhao Mei. Now that the manservant had helped him remember, Jiang Quan suddenly reacted. Ever since Jiang Ruan had returned to fu, Jiang fu had indeed been in constant turmoil. First it was Jiang Su Su, who had inexplicably lost her reputation, then Jiang Chao also fell from grace and his finger was cut off by someone. Lastly, the Jiang family not only had to deal with a conflict with the Li family, now even the Xia family bore a grudge against them. All of these situations seemed to be slightly related to Jiang Ruan. However, based on her own ability, it was impossible that she had caused all of this. She did not have that type of scheming mind or the underhanded methods. Still, this whole matter was strange, the only logical explanation being, just as that Taoist Monk had said, she was genuinely the bane of others existence. Jiang Quan clenched his fist tightly. He originally thought that with this extra daughter, he would have a bargaining chip that could be used in some manner to help his beloved Xia Yan, Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao. Who knew that she would turn out to be like an evil spirit wanting their lives. Since it was so, he could only get rid of her! The manservant had followed Jiang Quan for many years and upon seeing his expression, quietly left the room and walked out without being asked to. After Jiang Ruan returned to Ruan Ju, the first thing she did was to dismiss the few servants that Xia Yan had previously sent to her. She said, Since Mother has allowed me to send all of you back, you can all return to Yan Hua Yuan by yourselves now. A few of the servant girls looked at each other in blank dismay, and one of them said with courage, Eldest Young Miss, Furen has let this servant come here to serve you, thus this servant wishes to follow you. Yet, Jiang Ruan acted as if she had not heard her words and assigned a task for Lian Qiao to do, Oh by the way, when you have time, make a trip to the Xia fu and help me put Shu Xiangs body in a coffin. After all, she served me before and should not fall to such a state that she is not even given a proper burial and just left to feed the wolves. On hearing this, some of the servant girls were shocked. Then they looked to Jiang Ruans side and indeed, there was no sign of Shu Xiang. They only heard Lian Qiao say, This servant shall save you the effort. Shu Xiangs death was horrible but Miss please do not take it to heart. It was all her own actions that led to this end. Jiang Ruan smiled and looked towards the few servant girls, asking, What did you say just now? Nothing much, that servant girl hurriedly replied. She lowered her head and no longer dared to look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan herself was left feeling pleased. * * * In Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan, who was weary from the journey, had just entered the room when Li momo came over and said, Furen, Wan Cai from Masters side has something to report. Let him enter. While receiving the tea from Lin Lang, Xia Yan sat down on a carved wooden chair. Wan Cai entered and said to Xia Yan, Furen. Xia Yan waved her hand, If you have something to say, get straight to the point. What is the progress of the thing I asked you to do? Only then did Wan Cai nod his head and said, It is already settled, Master believes that Eldest Young Miss is the bane of others existence, but he doesnt know what to do as of now. There was a ghost of a cold smile on Xia Yans lips, Since it is so, go tell Laoye that there will be a wandering Taoist Monk, who is very gifted and proficient, coming to the capital in a few days. Many things have happened to the Jiang fu in these few days. I invited this master to come here to perform a ritual for us, to get rid of the bad luck in the fu. An idea formed in Wan Cais mind, This servant understands. You may return. Xia Yan waved her hand wearily. After Wan Cai left, Li momo came forward to help Xia Yan massage her shoulders, she said, Furen, we are going to use the same method we used last time? We must find an excuse after all. Xia Yan narrowed her eyes in a smile, Many things have happened in the Jiang fu these past few days, thus, if we can push everything onto Jiang Ruan, everyones gaze will then stop always being on Suer and Chaoer. On the contrary, Jiang Ruans reputation will be ruined for eternity. This is also the best way to clean Suer and Chaoer reputations. Li momo also smiled, Furen is wise. No matter how brilliant Eldest Young Miss is, it would be hard for her to fight against the widespread rumors, which will confuse the public on the rights and wrongs. Furthermore, Master already feels suspicious about her so we can simply carry this out confidently. In order to prove that the words are not false, in a few days it is Old Madames longevity celebration; arrange for the Taoist Monk to pray for good fortune for Old Madame as well. If we prove that Jiang Ruan is a curse in front of everyone, then she can forget about having a comeback again in this lifetime. Xia Yan slowly said. But Furen, do we still look for the same monk from five years ago? Li momo asked. The hand that Xia Yan was using to press her temples paused, she laughed viciously, Naturally, the words of people whom you have come across before are the most persuasive. Five years ago I was able to send her to the countryside residence, five years from then, of course I will still be able to do the same. It was only that five years ago, Laoye asked me to hide that matter. Now I want everyone in this world to know that Jiang Ruan is the bane of others existence and is also a jinx to her mother and future husband! Five years ago, in order to find an extremely good excuse to send Jiang Ruan to the countryside residence, she bribed a Taoist Monk to make Jiang Ruans birthdate characters[4] align with an inauspicious cursed star. She originally wanted Jiang Ruan to die in the countryside residence, yet she did not expect her to live well and even return to the capital early. She already had a hidden trick up her sleeves, just in case things did not go smoothly, and she would then ruin Jiang Ruan with it. Afterall, Jiang Ruan had made Jiang Su Su suffer and would not get away with it. A few years back, Wan Cai had already started doing things for Xia Yan and putting casual advice into Jiang Quans ears was an easy job. Moreover, Jiang Quan was already extremely unhappy with Jiang Ruan, and with a slight wind, the grass would waver and the first person he would suspect would definitely be Jiang Ruan. [4] Bz ( ) C the character 8 / birthdate characters use a persons date of birth, based on the lunar calendar, the time of birth and how the stars align for fortune telling purposes. No matter how Jiang Ruan would try to scheme, it would still be the same. The reason being, she could not gain Jiang Quans affections, and thus, was destined to never have a winning chance in this battle! * * * Old Jiang Madame had just regained consciousness a few days ago and after nourishing her body, she was better. However, when one has reached the later stage of their life, ones health and vitality couldnt be compared to their younger days and bouts of illness were normal occurrences. It had only been a few days, yet she had grown wan and sallow by quite a fair bit. There were even signs of aging in her complexion. Du Juan carried the bowl of medicine in and gave a look to Cai Que who was keeping watch over Old Jiang Madame. Cai Que hurriedly stood up and smiled at Old Jiang Madame who was lost in thought while looking outside the window. She said, Old Madame, drink the medicine while it is warm. Old Jiang Madame retracted her gaze and looked at Du Juans bowl of medicine. She coldly said, Whats the point of still drinking medicine when I can tell that everyone in this fu cant wait for me to die to be happy! Cai Que jumped in shock and hastily said, Old Madame, where do these words come from, everyone is hoping that youll live a long life. For Second Young Master, you have to be healthy. Chaoer, Old Jiang Madames gaze suddenly deepened, He has his mothers nature. I thought he was good at first but now he is arrogant and conceited. He is exactly the same as his younger sister, both are shallow. Cai Que was stunned. Old Madame criticized both Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su like that in front of them and they did not know how to continue the conversation. Old Jiang Madame glanced at Cai Que and stretched out her hand to take the bowl of medicine from Du Juans tray herself. She raised her head and drank the whole bowl of medicine till the last drop and because the medicine was truly too bitter, she tightly shut her eyes and furrowed her brows. Only after a while did her expression gradually relax. Old Madame, your birthday celebration is in a few days, and Furen says that she wants to personally organise the event for you, Du Juan seeing her expression ease up, then carefully said. It is only a disguise to deceive people. Old Jiang Madame coldly snorted, Does she think that I do not know what ideas she has in her mind? Cai Que and Du Juan looked at each other in blank dismay- Old Jiang Madame was usually strictly self-restrained. However, after she fell ill this time, it was as if she had become a new person, especially with her being extremely unsatisfied with Xia Yan and the other two. They only heard Old Jiang Madame say again, But I am afraid that her plans will be in vain, Eldest Young Miss is no simple person. Cai Que and Du Juan both lowered their heads and remained silent, but they had their own opinions in their hearts. * * * For the next few days, there was the pitter-patter of drizzle in the capitals centre and the gray clouds seemed to never leave the capital citys skies. The dry food that the rich families fu stored was starting to grow moldy from the humid weather, and needless to say, for the poor families too. The capital citys newly built Top Scorers fu was washed by the rain water till it was shiny and gleaming. Even if the weather was gloomy, it could not dispense the great amount of joy present in the Liu fu. In the study room, Liu Min was standing at the window, staring at the water droplets that were dripping from the ledge, deep in his thoughts. The capital city had not rained like this for some time, and although it did not seem like heavy rain, it kept pitter-pattering non stop. The water level of the reservoir that protected the river from flooding had risen quite a bit. Even if it was the newly renovated Top Scorers fu, while staying at home, one could still feel a trace of cold dampness. The servant girl behind him considerately offered him a cup of ginger tea, Young Master, drink some to warm your body up. Liu Min turned around and accepted the cup of tea from the servant girls hands. He gently took a sip. Though he was not old, he still possessed a profound and distinct arrogance. Compared to the impulsive sons of the rich families in the capital city, he was like a piece of smooth, pure and pleasantly cool green jade. Looking at him caused others to feel admiration from the bottom of their hearts. He asked, These few days, did you receive any letters for me? The servant girl was dazed and shook her head, There is no letter. Immediately, a flash of disappointment passed over Liu Mins face. Ever since he was appointed as the Top Scorer in the imperial examination, he had never heard from that mysterious person again. At this moment, Liu Furen hastily walked in, holding a bronze invitation and said, Ah Min, why are you wearing such worn out clothes? Liu Min smiled and shook his head. Seeing the invitation in her hand, he asked, Mother, what is this? The furen of the capitals Minister Jiang has sent an invitation, inviting us to their Old Madames longevity birthday celebration. Liu Furen hesitated, I originally wanted to reject it, but now that you have entered into officialdom, having someone to look after you would be good. This invitation is written clearly, it is our first time going to a gathering in the capital city and it should be safe for us to pay a special visit to them. Mother has pondered over it, this is only a longevity birthday celebration and going there would be harmless. She appeared to have thought of something more and suddenly laughed, Furthermore, there will definitely be a lot of prominent young ladies attending this celebration. If you see one that catches your attention, mother will help you take note. You have grown quite old, you should start caring about the most important event in your life. Mother, Liu Min was somewhat helpless, This child only wants to establish his career, I have no wish to get married. Nonsense, Liu Furen glared at him, Mother still wants to carry a grandchild. After speaking she looked at Liu Min again and asked, But Miner, do you think Mother should go to the longevity birthday celebration or not? Looking at his mothers expectant gaze, how could he bear to refuse her. Liu Min laughed, Since Mother wishes to go, naturally you should go. Chapter 74.1 - Great Master Hui Jue (Part I) While crowds gathered at the door of the City East District official[1], the respendantly dressed man and his wife pushed a bag into the hands of the kind-hearted old monk. This one is grateful that Great Master is willing to exorcise our fu. Although these are merely worldly possessions, Great Master may find them useful when you want to build a golden Buddha[2]. [1] Dng yunwi ( Ա ) C This is a type of minister or official whose rank is bought (usually the rich people buy the title) but they do not have authority like appointed ministers. Their position at times means that they act as landlords and/or as a local overseer. [2] Golden Buddha C statues of Buddha covered in/made out of gold, made to show off wealth. The grander the Buddha, the grander the temple. That monk had a head full of white, eyebrows long and wispy, hands held together [in acknowledgement]. Amitabha. A crowd of people had gathered, joining in the fun, as they gossipped and pointed at the monk, who was the famous Great Master Hui Jue, said to know both the past and the future. Hed only arrived in the capital a few days prior and was already heralded for often helping the wealthy with prayers and exorcisms, which appeared to be extremely effective. After Great Master Hui Jue received the bag, he excused himself from everyone and walked away alone, then turned away from the busy street into a dark and narrow alleyway where there was a small house. He walked up to the door and knocked, and a child soon opened the door and bade him to enter. After Hui Jue entered the courtyard, the small disciple reported, Master, a few guests have arrived. Guests? The monk was surprised, after all, he didnt know many people in the capital. Although he didnt understand, he still entered with a calm expression. In the hall stood a young girl in green, dressed like a servant. That servant girl in green smiled when she saw him. Hui Jue stared blankly, then heard a smooth voice come from behind the servant girl, Great Master. Hui Jue looked over and saw the silhouette of a girl emerge from the shadows. The servant girl in green stepped aside. As light shone through, the silhouette soon revealed its features. This was a fresh young lady, about the same age as the servant girl in green. She wore a red mandarin collared top that was embroidered with swastikas[3] in white thread and a skirt decorated with flowers, so good-looking even the shadows couldnt conceal it. She smiled slightly at Hui Jue, as if facing a friend of many years, a pair of slightly raised eyes bright and moist, yet they inexplicably gave a sense that no one could see through her. [3] Wan zi bu duan tou ( ֲͷ ) : refers to a specific type of repeating pattern. This young miss is? Hui Jue asked in a low voice, the girl in front of him was unfamiliar to him in every way. Although Great Master doesnt know me, Ive long heard of Great Masters famous deeds. Today, Ive come to ask Great Master about my birthdate characters, she said. Miss is still young, why come alone to ask for a divination? Hui Jue asked. Life is rough, the road ahead unknown. Jiang Ruan only spoke these seven words. Hui Jue stared blankly, thought for a while, and said, Then, Miss, please write your birthdate characters. Jiang Ruan picked up the brush and began writing. When she lifted the brush, Hui Jue was also quietly observing her. Looking at this young lady with such excellent mannerisms, she must be some wealthy familys young miss. Therefore upon considering this pair when they first arrived, this young miss and the servant at her side, after a quick moment he had made a decision [to swindle her]. However, while he still couldnt quite ascertain her intentions, he could see that there was a bit of an evil aura in her expression. Jiang Ruan pushed the finished paper with her birthdate characters towards Hui Jue. Great Master please take a look. Hui Jue spread the paper, lifted his prayer beads from his neck without a word. After an hour, his brows gradually furrowed. With Lu Zhu watching, Jiang Ruan smilingly asked, Great Master, what are your thoughts? Hui Jue gazed at Jiang Ruan unspeaking for a while, shook his head, then let out a heavy sigh. Great Master can say. In contrast to his distressed mien, Jiang Ruan instead looked carefree, as if the divination calculations were being done for someone else. Hui Jue said, Miss future is ominous. Im afraid C Im afraid you bear the sign of the cursed star. Cursed star? While Jiang Ruan chewed over these three words, Hui Jue lowered his brows, looking like a compassionate bodhisattva. He then heard Jiang Ruan say, Great Master sees clearly, I am indeed born under the cursed star. My mother died like this in front of my eyes, my elder brother is missing, and theres no end to strange happenings in my household. Her voice was dispirited, sorrowful. Hui Jue opened his mouth to speak, Though Ive said this, Miss doesnt need to worry, this old monk has a way to rewrite your fate. Miss, take heart, this old monk will visit your household in a few days and discuss it with your relatives. Why would Great Master help me? Jiang Ruan asked. Hui Jue lowered his head, hands clasped, Amitabha, compassion is the responsibility of all Buddhist monks. Great Master is truly kind, not all monks are like Great Master. For instance, I have heard stories that a monk from Yuzhou, under the banner of an eminent monk, has been swindling others, and has amassed quite the sum. Hearing Yuzhou, Hui Jues two hands trembled slightly. He heard Jiang Ruans warm voice continue, This monk is a fox; he was adopted by a wandering monk as a child, and this wandering monk was the one who taught him his tricks. The wandering monk used him to make money at every turn but after the monk learned all those tricks and grew up, he personally killed the wandering monk and told everyone his master passed away. He then inherited the wandering monks possessions and continued to be a great master of deception. Talking up till now, she paused, then said, By the way, that monk from Yuzhou, his dharma name[4] is exactly the same as Great Masters. I dont know if youve heard this story, Hui Jue? [4] Fho ( ) C name in religion (of Buddhist or Daoist within monastery). Hui Jue was as stiff as wood, feeling cold sweat roll down his back. Hed never told these secrets to anyone, and it happened so many years ago. This girl hadnt even been born then, so why was she so clear on those past events? He raised his head and saw that the girl opposite to him had a playful smile on her face. Where did all her sadness go? Hui Jue heard his raspy voice reply, This old monk has never heard this story. Many things occur in the world, Great Master wouldnt necessarily have heard it all. Ive heard about some interesting events and can tell Great Master about them. For example, the young boy who let us in earlier reminds me that in the story, that monk was once swindling a household that had a daughter who was very beautiful. The young miss got pregnant, and yet, wouldnt reveal the identity of the childs father even at the risk of death, though in the end she passed away due to complications in childbirth. Her family wanted to discard the weak infant, but the hypocritically compassionate monk proposed to accept the child as a disciple; the young misss family was naturally happy, but didnt know that the child was actually the monks blood-related son. After hearing this, Hui Jue held onto his calm expression by a thread. He was already soaked in cold sweat, and felt anxious all over. After the infant was given to the monk, because his weak health required many expensive herbs, the monk was helpless and could only intensify his money-making schemes. However, Yuzhou is only so big, thus he came to the prosperous imperial capital. The capital has many wealthy people, and after he made a name for himself and made a lot of money, he could take his son to see a physician. Jiang Ruan smiled coldly. Great Master, what do you think of this story? Who are you? Hui Jue asked. Facing the young miss in front of him, he couldnt see through her at all, but thought that she had been ordered by some higher authority to see through him. Otherwise, for a completely unfamiliar stranger to speak of these secrets that he had long buried in his heart to never see the light of day would be too shocking! For the first time in his life, Hui Jue, who played with people in the palm of his hand, felt that things were out of his control. Jiang Ruan quietly looked at him. Im just carrying the cursed star. Hui Jue, you currently have two choices: one, kill me, and your secret wont spread further; or two, listen to my orders, and Ill protect this secret for you. Her bearing was calm, not worried about the future at all, as if she had long known Hui Jues answer. Hui Jue looked at her, a sense of hatred arose in his heart, he asked, How do you know these things? Hui Jue, you want to save your son? Jiang Ruan didnt answer his question. Son? Hui Jue held himself stiffly, the thin thread of hatred dissipated into nothing in an instant as he thought of his bedridden son. The physician said the child had birth defects that if not treated with a rare medicine, the body would be very frail. He had been a fake monk for all these years, and never thought he would have a son at his old age. He definitely wanted to save his son. You How? Hui Jue asked. If you follow my orders, I guarantee that you wont have to worry about food or clothing for a lifetime, your son will receive treatment from the best physicians, and you also wont have to worry about paying for the rare medicine. Finally, you wont have to travel everywhere, living in fear. Her charming eyes were astonishing, her words bewitching. You will be revered by thousands, have wealth beyond measure and long-term safety. You will become the most eminent monk, you will become the State Preceptor. Hui Jue was almost taken in by her words, but he hadnt spent those years of deception in vain, in this aspect he was particularly sensitive. He very quickly regained his senses and said, Miss, youre taking this old monk for a joke. I dont know what young miss really came for, but I am only an ordinary monk, not worthy of the title of eminent monk, and am helpless in many things. Jiang Ruan calmly looked at him and smilingly said, Know the past, know the future? Those are all in the past, it seems like I still need to prove something to you.. Hui Jue said nothing. Tonight, mischievous ghosts will strike at the Prefectural Magistrates fu. Tomorrow morning, they will definitely invite you to visit, Jiang Ruan said. Hui Jue couldnt believe his ears. Miss? It doesnt matter whether you believe me or not. If you want to save your son, then do as I say, Jiang Ruan said. Ten days later is the longevity birthday celebration of Old Madame of Minister Jiangs fu. I want you to go there a day before and pray for her good fortune, and coincidentally find that there are evil spirits present because the fus Second Young Miss is bearing the sign of the cursed star. She smiled thinly. Great Master is very skilled, theres no need for me to say more. How are you so sure I will come on that day? Hui Jue couldnt help but ask. Jiang Ruan stood up. Didnt I say earlier, know the past, know the future? With her back to the light, she had a gentle expression, beautiful face, and bright red clothing, yet it made others feel cold. She was really a devil hiding beneath a beautiful face, a demonic temptress. Jiang Ruan brought the servant girl to the door, then suddenly had a thought and turned to say, I forgot to mention, my name is Jiang Ruan, the eldest di daughter of the capitals Jiang family. Leaving the dark alleyway, Lu Zhu looked at Jiang Ruans expression and cautiously stated, Miss is certain that monk will come in ten days? Of course hell come. Hui Jue treated his son as preciously as his own life. Every spring, his sons condition was aggravated by the weather. In her past life, Xuan Li had used this weakness and lured Hui Jue to his side by offering to help him cure his sons disease in a few years, and thus, earned the mans loyalty. Hui Jue was indeed talented- he followed Xuan Li to become the State Preceptor, and cooked up many schemes for Eighth Prince. In this life, she would rather sow discord, taking this opportunity before Xuan Li could claim Hui Jue for his own use. It was now the Spring Festival, and Hui Jue considered his sons situation. After reflecting on her words, it was hard to be unmoved. Everyone in the world had their soft spots, which, once found, could be used to handle them at will. Come to think of it, it was thanks to Xuan Li in her past life, who in order to mold her into a competent pawn told her all these secrets without reservation. Otherwise its hard to imagine how difficult it would be to conquer such sly people, like Hui Jue. Chapter 74.2 - Great Master Hui Jue (Part II) Lu Zhu said, Its all thanks to Fifth Yiniang for raising this topic. That this Yan Hua Yuans pair of mother and daughter could think of such a despicable scheme is really too evil! Previously, on the evening they returned to the fu, Hong Ying hurriedly made a trip to Ruan Ju, saying Jiang Quan wanted to invite a Taoist priest to Old Madames longevity birthday celebration in order to expel all the evil spirits and negative energy in the fu. Though she didnt explain everything explicitly, she casually mentioned that the Taoist priest was the same wandering priest who divined Jiang Ruans future five years ago. Finally, Hong Ying said, Old Madames longevity birthday celebration is a big event, nothing can go wrong, Eldest Miss should also prepare in advance. Jiang Ruan thanked her with a smile, and repaid her kindness by accidentally mentioning the crack in the relationship between the Xia fu and the Jiang fu. Jiang Quan wasnt completely satisfied with Xia Yan, and there was Hong Ying waiting to provide comfort. Jiang Ruan only spoke a little but Hong Ying was a smart person, and with a thin smile, she easily thought of ways to take advantage of the situation. Five years ago C actually, it should be said to be in her last life C because she(JR) was stupid, she was like putty in Xia Yans hands, but if Xia Yan wanted to repeat the events of that time it wouldnt be so simple anymore. Lu Zhu looked ahead, Miss Lins carriage has arrived. Jiang Ruan turned around and indeed saw a carriage stopped at the gates. Lin Zi Xiang hopped down from the carriage, saw Jiang Ruan and sternly said, Why are you so slow, making me wait. Jiang Ruan laughingly replied, I wasted some time on the way over, lets go in to take a look. Old Jiang Madames longevity birthday celebration was imminent, but Jiang Ruan had no desire to personally make a gift. After greeting Xia Yan, she left again with Lin Familys Lin Zi Xiang. Xia Yan naturally had no way of rejecting Lin Zi Xiangs invitation on behalf of Jiang Ruan, and when she thought of how Jiang Su Sus face was scarred and couldnt leave the house, her heart was filled with resentment yet had no way to vent it. As soon as they stepped inside the rouge shop, they heard a crisp voice ring out, Hey, Zi Xiang, Ruan meimei, Ive waited for a long time for you to arrive. Dong Yinger greeted them warmly, whereas Zhao Jin on the side was a bit helpless, The smell of perfume is so strong I almost puked, lets get out of here. Dong Yinger pulled on Zhao Jins hand. Didnt you just arrive. I say Jiner, youre almost an adult, but you still dont know how to dress yourself up. Acting like a child, Im worried your future husband wont like it. Zhao Jin was born into a military family, so naturally she looked down on the ladies with makeup caked on, but Dong Yinger was being annoying again. Jiang Ruan smiled, Weve already shopped at so many cosmetic stores, but I heard a new jewelry store that opened in the city has a lot of exotic treasures. In addition to gold and silver jewelry, they have a collection of high grade swords and weapons. Does Zhao jiejie want to take a look? Zhao Jin hurriedly replied, Ruan meimei, is that true? You better not be messing with me. Jiang Ruan smiled in reply. How would I dare? Dong Yinger was curious, and upon hearing the news she said, Then, Ruan meimei, lets go take a look. I want to buy a pair of pretty bracelets. Lin Zi Xiang also thought it was a good idea, so the group boarded a carriage and went into town. When the carriage stopped, Dong Yinger was the first to jump down, followed by Jiang Ruan and the others. They saw a pagoda of stone, with a plaque reading Yi Bao Pavilion in large characters. As the group entered the building, a pretty maidservant led them in, explaining, The first floor has precious jewelry, and the second floor has precious weapons. I wonder what these misses are looking for. Jewelry! Weapons! Dong Yinger and Zhao Jin shouted at the same time, making Dong Yinger pin Zhao Jin with her stare. You have to go against me, huh? You know I normally dont look at that stuff. Why dont we split up and meet up later, Zhao Jin suggested. Lin Zi Xiang said, Lets do that, Ill stay and look at the jewelry as well, its not like I understand weaponry. Ruan meimei, what about you? Of course Ruan meimei will stay with us, Dong Yinger interrupted. However, Jiang Ruan shook her head, I want to take a look at the weapons. The weapons? Not to mention Dong Yinger and Lin Zi Xiang, even Zhao Jin was shocked. With a disbelieving tone, she said, You dont practice martial arts, why are you interested in weapons? Jiang Ruan smiled sadly. Ever since my eldest brother went missing after joining the military, and with no further news about his return, I thought that if he could come back, he would be a valiant and strong young man and it would be appropriate to match him with a good weapon. Carelessly she continued, But its only taking a look. The others were all moved when they heard her words. Zhao Jin said, I know a bit about weapons, thus, once we go up I may be able to give some advice. Jiang Ruan smiled back. The two arrived on the second floor, and as the maidservant had said, there were many high grade weapons. Some were polished to the point that they shined radiantly while some showcased many years of history, that as soon as one entered they would be blinded by the magnificence. Zhao Jin soon exclaimed, There are actually so many treasures! Jiang Ruan glanced at her. Zhao Jin touched a sword placed on a pedestal and instantly felt shock. She hurriedly stepped back and said excitedly, It really is special! Though Jiang Ruan wasnt nearly as excited as Zhao Jin, she looked around, spotting a Fire Cloud Moon Shield that looked particularly suited to Jiang Xin Zhi. If he had such armour, he would be much safer on the battlefield. However, when she looked at the price marked below, she instantly had a headache. Dont mention how all her money was used to buy up the capitals grain, even if she had the funds on hand it still wouldnt be enough. She continued onwards, and her eye was drawn towards a blue thing that turned out to be an exquisitely made bracelet. The blue light emitted was beautiful. When Jiang Ruan placed it on her wrist, the bracelet made her white hands look even more delicate. Zhao Jin walked over and said in a confused tone, How come this floor also has jewelry? The maidservant of the jewelry shop who followed them explained, This is the Blood Moon Bracelet, its used for Before she could get her words out, she saw Jiang Ruan skillfully press on the protruding flower pattern while aiming at her. Young miss? The servant girl exclaimed, her face white. I wont press on it. Jiang Ruan took off the bracelet. How many needles are inside? Nine needles, the maidservant stiffly explained, but they are all coated in deadly poison. Zhao Jin was a bit shocked when she saw Jiang Ruans actions, only when the maidservant explained did she understand. So it has hidden mechanisms! She turned to Jiang Ruan. Ruan meimei normally doesnt see these things, even I didnt know how to use it. How did you know? Judging by how precise Jiang Ruans actions were, it didnt seem like her first time seeing it. Jiang Ruan smiled thinly. This sort of bracelet was mentioned in one of the books that belonged to my mothers collection. Zhao Jin nodded her head. So its like this. But these things can only be counted as hidden weapons, Im still more interested in that sword. Jiang Ruan stretched out a finger to stroke the tables polished surface, her eyes suddenly deep. In her past life, Jiang Quan sourced a similar bracelet for Jiang Su Su, and at the time Jiang Su Su wore it day in day out. Jiang Ruan was so envious, but she could never pluck up the courage to ask Jiang Quan for another one. She could only pretend that the silver bracelet on her wrist had the same function, touch it occasionally, and lie to herself that it also had a hidden mechanism. Today seemed like a dream. The Blood Moon Bracelet in her hands was even more beautiful than the one Jiang Su Su had and could also hold more needles. The maidservant further explained that the needles could be pulled back with thin silk thread after being shot, and when adding on the poison, it would be very suitable to keep by her side. However, Jiang Ruan shook her head and put the bracelet back. Miss doesnt like it? The maidservant had observed that Jiang Ruan liked the bracelet a lot, so it was surprising that she had put it back. I dont have that much silver. Jiang Ruan smiled reluctantly. She could only endure this pain. Me too. Zhao Jin couldnt tear her eyes away from the sword. Hopefully I can convince my father. The two shared a smile. After looking around for a while more, they headed downstairs to find the others. After showing them out, the maidservant who followed them walked to the rear wall of the room and pressed on a porcelain lions head. A small hidden door opened, leading to an elegant side room. Being so close, it was easy to hear the conversations from the other room clearly. Young Master, the maidservant respectfully greeted, Eldest Jiang Miss picked out this Blood Moon Bracelet. Saying so, she presented the tray. The young man sitting in the side room grunted in reply. Without even turning his head, he ordered, Pack it away. Yes. The servant girl silently withdrew. The young man sat before the window. Soft rain caught the capital in a haze, yet it couldnt obstruct peoples sight. A moment later, Jiang Ruans group boarded a carriage and slowly left. Coming out with Dong Yinger and others was to choose a present for Old Madames longevity birthday celebration, but in the end Jiang Ruan didnt buy anything. Dong Yinger curiously asked, Youre going back empty-handed? I dont have the silver. Jiang Ruan smiled gently. Dong Yinger never thought the daughter of a minister would suffer like this. The three girls sympathised with her and wanted to lend some money but worried it would hurt her self-esteem, so they could only comfort her with words. But looking at Jiang Ruan, remembering how her mother died young and her father treated her coldly, the pity in their hearts deepened. Jiang Ruan didnt care how the three looked at her, calmly returning to the fu with Lu Zhu. On the road back, Lu Zhu asked, Miss, youre really not going to buy anything? Where would I find the silver? Jiang Ruan added, Were penniless. Rather, buying something cheap would only make people laugh their heads off. Miss shouldnt have bought that much grain, it was way too much, Lu Zhu complained, lifting the carriages curtain to look outside. Its strange, the rain hasnt stopped for over ten days. She thought for a while and said, This servant thinks it would be good if the rain doesnt stop because then we can get a good price if we sell the grain Miss bought. But on the other hand the capital will have a lot of refugees. Lu Zhu lamented, It really makes people worry. Jiang Ruan silently laughed. As there were no plans to sell the grain, she was afraid Lu Zhus hope for a windfall would fall to pieces. However, she wouldnt inform Lu Zhu of this just yet. She said, I have no gifts to give for zumus longevity birthday celebration. Hui Jue is the best present. Lu Zhu rolled her eyes, chuckling. Miss is right. This gift is bigger than any other, this servant cant wait for that day. When the two returned to the fu, the fus servants saw Jiang Ruan returning empty-handed, and some chatterboxes soon reported the matter to Yan Hua Yuan. Jiang Su Su was talking with Xia Yan, when she heard the news she said, What a pauper, she went to buy things without any silver. Xia Yan frowned. No matter what, you have to finish writing a hundred longevity scripts. When you make your zumu happy, your fathers heart will also be more comfortable. I know, Jiang Su Su said impatiently. We just dont know what Jiang Ruan is going to give. If nothing is prepared then well have a good show to watch. Xia Yan smiled slightly. It doesnt matter what gifts she prepares. Expending all her effort, its impossible for her to receive Old Madames favour. Why? Jiang Su Su asked. Who would like a person bearing the cursed star? A flash of hatred revealed itself in Xia Yans eyes. Furthermore, Old Jiang Madame had always believed in spirits and ghosts; every year she would fork out a huge sum of money just to burn offerings. This sort of person considered all things spiritual to be sacred. Especially now that the Jiang fu had recently experienced so many strange events one after another, even if Jiang Quan wasnt Old Jiang Madames blood-related son, they still had some affection for each other after so many years, and as Old Madame of the Jiang family she couldnt just sit back without doing anything. This time, Jiang Ruan wouldnt be able to escape so easily. Jiang Su Su observed Xia Yan and felt a little excited. She couldnt help but ask, Mother already has an idea? Xia Yan lovingly embraced her daughter, stroking her head. You only need to know that everything your mother does is for you and Chaoer, so dont disappoint me. Jiang Su Su snuggled up to Xia Yan and her beautiful eyes widened, the hate in them was enough to make people shudder in fear. I know, Mother, I really cant wait for the day of zumus longevity birthday celebration. Chapter 75.1 - Longevity Birthday Celebration (Part I) Time passed rapidly and soon ten days had gone by . During this time, the Jiang fu was extremely tranquil, as if the past events had used up all of the bad luck, and after the crisis, everything had gradually stabilised. The only issue was that all those mishaps had cost the Jiang fu a fortune and now the finances were tight. Jiang Furen, Xia Yan, who looked after the whole residence suggested cutting down on daily expenses. Furthermore, in order to pacify the servants, she also cut down the monthly allowance of a few Young Misses by more than half. Jiang Su Su and Jiang Li naturally did not care about the monthly allowance as they often received an extra allowance from Jiang Quan on a regular basis. However, Jiang Dan and Jiang Ruan did not have anyone to give them extra, moreover, they usually had to reward the maidservants and old female servants in their courtyards from their own pockets. Therefore, they had a hard life. The rain was continuous and did not stop. Ruan Ju had been a deserted courtyard that was hastily made available, and since the roof had not been repaired for many years the rainwater seeped through. The water flowed in through a hole in the roof and dripped into the house, making it extremely damp. Thus Lu Zhu found a metal pail from outside and put it under the hole so that temporarily, the rain water would not splatter everywhere. However, the bitter and chilly wind that also entered through the hole was enough to make one feel cold. Bai Zhi walked in, saying, This servant looked for old female servant Song a few days ago, asking her to find some people to fix the rooftop for Miss. However, that servant woman rejected it saying that the fu was busy with Old Madames longevity birthday celebration these days and could not find time. Today is the birthday celebration so this servant thought that everything should have been more or less prepared but that servant woman still declined. Talking about this made even the usually good-tempered Bai Zhi feel a trace of anger. I think it is an order from the courtyard from that side. Jiang Ruan did not seem bothered, You do not have to take it to heart. If they really wish for Miss to freeze till she falls sick, Lian Qiao continued furiously, Then, they are really too despicable. Lu Zhu thought about it, Why not let this servant go outside to find a mason, as there is no reason to continue letting the roof remain unattended to. Where do we get the money to hire a mason? Jiang Ruan smiled chillingly. Since Xia Yan had cut down the Jiang fus Young Misses monthly allowance by more than half, even without thinking one would know what the purpose was. It would be good if not only did they not have enough taels to buy a birthday present, but could not even afford better quality ingredients. If today, at the longevity birthday celebration, they were unable to give a present to Old Jiang Madame in front of everyone, they would lose their faces once and for all. Lu Zhu dejectedly said, It really puts one in a difficult situation. There is no need to trouble yourselves with it because anyway after today there will be people coming to fix it themselves. Jiang Ruan walked towards her dressing table and sat down, Help me dress up, I think a few guests have already arrived. Even if Second Younger Sister is attending to them, I, as an older sister, cannot keep hiding in my room. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi looked at each other and their eyes were filled with laughter. Lian Qiao said, This servant will definitely dress Miss up beautifully and allow Miss to be comparable to Second Young Miss! In the side courtyard, Xia Yan was leading Jiang Su Su in to talk to all the furens and young misses. Those who came today were all females and all had some status in the court. Since the shu daughter could not come out to entertain the guests, it was up to the mistress of the household and the first daughter to welcome all the furens. Jiang Su Su was wearing a piece of solid coloured clothing made from Hang Zhou silk, with a winter white Chinese Rose design on it and a V-neck collar. It was matched with a winding, pale blue skirt with an indistinct moon woven with fine silk and gold threads on it. The clothing she wore had silvery white, satin borders and designs of zhezhi flowers[1] in gold all over the place. Her fine and soft beautiful hair was coiled up in a refined, distinguishable and unique way with a white jade hairpin in it. In her gently and meticulously tied cloud-like bun, there was a coil of pearls that looked as magnificent and beautiful as porcelain. On her smooth and glossy wrists, she also wore a bracelet of pure silver with patterns carved into it. On her waist was a jade pendant with a tassel hanging from her girdle along with a perfume sachet. She had on a pair of bao xiang hua[2] patterned embroidered shoes with a flower pattern sewn onto the front. Her whole attire made her look pure, elegant and stunning. She did not put on a veil today and it was unknown what miraculous medicine she had used, but her scars were much better. There was a thick layer of cosmetic powder on her face which fully concealed the scars. At a glance, her skin was still considered fair and clear. However, because the powder was too thick, although she still looked tender and beautiful, she did not appear as elegant and attractive as her previous self, a fairy. An example of the satin border [1] Zhezhi flowers C they are flower designs with only a part of the branch in the design. A pair of Bao Xiang Hua curled shoes [2] Bao xiang hua C aka Treasured Lotus flower, highly regarded during the Tang & Sui Dynasty C its seen as a Lucky symbol and used to denote Treasure and Fairy C its decorative drawing is like a blend of peony and lotus flowers. Bao Xiang is also an honorofic bestowed on Buddha and thus we see Buddha at times with a lotus like flower and its drawings associated with buddhism. Bao xiang flowers were widely used in brocades, bronze mirrors and porcelain decorations, with auspicious and happy meanings The Chief Historians Furen smiled, This must be Second Young Miss. You have grown to be more exceptional that after a few more years, the number of people asking for your hand in marriage will soon break down your threshold. Jiang Su Su was surprised, two red clouds immediately appeared on her face. She lowered her head and walked towards Xia Yans side, as if she was embarrassed upon hearing what the furen said just now. The Assistant Ministers Furen, who was born with a slightly severe-looking long face, squinted her eyes saying, But I heard that Second Young Miss fell into the waters a few days ago? How are you now? All the furens who were present had obviously heard of what happened on the ship during the Lantern Festival. Thinking of Jiang Su Sus situation at that time, their gazes directed at Xia Yan and her daughter were different again. Xia Yan laughed, Lao Furen has wasted her efforts, Suer only suffered some fright, she is fine now. However, Assistant Ministers Furen did not let go, Then how is Second Young Master of the fu? I heard that he did not perform well in the Imperial Examination and his finger was even cut off by someone. Ai, young people must be able to take failures, just like the two in my family, they too did not do well yet theres no difference in their daily routines. The two young masters of Assistant Minister Gaos fu took the same examination as Jiang Chao and they both received gongyuan[3]. [3] Gong Yuan ( Ԫ ) C a title for those who perform well in the Imperial Examination. Although Xia Yan was smiling, the handkerchief in her hand was practically going to be ripped apart. This Assistant Ministers Furen was always so critical and harsh in her words. Jiang Su Su was young, therefore, her ability to conceal her feelings were not on par with Xia Yans and she yearned to go up and shut that furens mouth. The others in the hall were a little embarrassed. Just as the atmosphere became frigid, the furen of the Commander-in-chiefs fu, Gu Furen, laughed, What Imperial Examination are you talking about, isnt the Top Scorers mother right here? After that she looked towards Liu Furen who was sitting quietly at the side without speaking. From the moment Liu Furen had arrived, she was a bit cautious and reserved. Though she was not familiar with the upper-class social circle, it was fortunate that Liu Furen was also a scholars daughter, thus she was not lacking in manners or etiquette. Hearing what Gu Furen said, she blushed a bit, Furen does not have to tease me. How can it be counted as teasing? Xia Yan smiled along, Liu Furen raised such a good son, the whole capital knows about the elegant demeanour of the Top Scorer. She spoke with such blatant sincerity, it was almost as if she was sincerely happy on behalf of Liu Furen. With the elegant and graceful bearing of the Jiang Yuan, I wonder which familys daughter will have the fortune to marry Jiang Yuan in the future. Speaking of Liu Min, Liu Furen became less reserved and laughed along upon hearing those words. Then, Gu Furen looked like she had thought of something, Speaking of which, Eldest Young Miss of your family is older than Second Young Miss by a few years, is she engaged? Unexpectedly, she is not. Xia Yan was stunned, and she looked probingly at Gu Furen, For what reason does Furen ask about this? No reason, Gu Furen laughed, It is just that I have yet to see Eldest Young Miss in the fu so I was curious. However, she had her own considerations. Ever since the Lantern Festival, Gu Yi had often spoken of Eldest Jiang Miss. Gu Yi was the familys youngest son, and while most of his elder brothers were either with families or engaged, Gu Yi was also not so young anymore. Furthermore, Jiang family was considered a rich and noble family, so if Eldest Jiang Miss character and morals were not bad, she could be considered. Just because of this, Gu Furen had quickly accepted Old Jiang Madames longevity birthday celebration invitation. The Young Miss of Envoy Shus family asked with curiosity, Second Jiang Miss, why is your sister not here? After all, Jiang Ruan was Jiang fus di daughter, thus it was expected of her to come and greet all the furens. Embarrassment flashed by Jiang Su Sus face, Da Jiejie doesnt come out often, but it is probably because there is no familiar face here. Her tone contained a trace of reverence. Naturally, this type of expression, in the eyes of the public, had a different meaning. Everyone couldnt help thinking that because Jiang Ruan had been sent to the countryside residence when she was quite young, she would certainly not be aware of any manners or rules. And now, it seemed that she was also scared of facing strangers. As such, a negative image of a shallow and petty young lady appeared in their eyes. Moreso, upon seeing Jiang Su Sus apprehensive look, all of the furens present managed to infer the possibility that this Jiang fus Eldest Young Miss was also tyrannical. Otherwise, why would Second Young Miss appear so nervous? Just when they all were ruminating over these thoughts, they heard a crisp voice ring from outside the courtyard, Miss slow down, be careful not to fall. If I am any slower, I would be slighting the guests. A gentle female voice replied. Following that, a red figure appeared. In a room full of young ladies and furens, this type of bright red was extremely dazzling. Jiang Ruan wore a round collared button down robe with an intricately engraved begonia coloured brocade of the shishi ruyi[4]. She had on a floor length three inlay eight-panel flare skirt with gold coiled plum blossom and bamboo embroidery. On top of that, she had on a crimson cape with a cloud brocade of jasper lotus leaves cascading down and secured with an ivory clip. A soft ponytail was tied into a refined and unique inverted bun and there was a begonia bracelet-like hair ornament with patterns carved into it, inserted in the thick hair. She wore a three inlay bracelet made of sardonyx and she had tied a peacock design corset on her waist. On top hung a bloomed red plum blossom design, fragrance sachet and she wore a pair of soft-soled boots. [4] Sh sh r y ( ): an auspicious design of two persimmons on a ruyi. R y ( ): curved decorative object that serves as either a ceremonial scepter in Chinese Buddhism or a talisman symbolizing power and good fortune She had not applied any powder today and only wore a thin layer of rouge on her cheeks. This made her exquisite and smooth skin appear extremely clear and radiant. She took step after step, walking in from outside the courtyard, however, her skirt did not move a single inch. Although she was relatively young, she was bewitchingly charming. All the furens present looked at her flabbergasted. They thought in their hearts, how was the Jiang familys di daughter who had grown up in the wild, improper. Look at that temperament, it was obviously of a noble person from the palace! Jiang Su Su saw this scene and viciously twisted her handkerchief. She did not understand why Jiang Ruan, who had grown up in the countryside residence, would purposely have a temperament that was beyond words. Jiang Su Su would usually be the one people knew whenever the Jiang family was mentioned. However, ever since Jiang Ruan had returned, one by one, Jiang Ruan had become comparable to her. Even her beautiful face, which she took the most pride in, was no longer unparalleled. She scolded Jiang Ruan in her heart, Jiang Ruan was so young, yet every action of hers had the demeanour of a mature lady. Seeing this caused people to harbor dislike towards her. Only when Jiang Ruan walked to the front did Gu Furen smile, You are Jiang Ruan? Ruan niang greets the Commander-in-chiefs Furen. Jiang Ruan smiled and bowed to her. How do you know that Im the Commander-in-chiefs Furen? Gu Furen was astonished. I heard that the Commander-in-chief has a soldierly bearing and is willing to sacrifice himself for the country and that he has a loving marriage with his furen. Ruan niang noticed that the perfume sachet on Furens waist has a shield design embroidered onto it instead of flowers and presumptuously guessed it. It seems like I have made a mistake. Gu Furen laughed, So it is like this. Jiang Furen, your daughter is truly both beautiful and intelligent. She saw that Jiang Ruan not only possessed a magnanimous attitude and extraordinary bearing, she was also remarkably intelligent, and therefore, took an immediate liking to her. The only bad thing was that her appearance was too beautiful; after all if she appeared so soul-stirring at such a young age, after a few years , she would become a rare beauty. Being too beautiful was also not something good for fear that it may cause trouble. As she thought about this, all the other furens in the courtyard had already started conversing with this Jiang familys Eldest Young Miss who had suddenly appeared. Jiang Ruan greeted them one by one, her smile was warm and although she could not hear what Jiang Ruan said, she was actually having a pleasant conversation with all the furens. Within a short span of time, she had gained a favourable impression in the hearts of many. Even the critical Assistant Ministers Furen, upon seeing Jiang Ruan, was unable to maintain a cold face. It was very likely that if Jiang Su Su did not grit her teeth till it broke into pieces, the hatred in her heart would obviously be incessant. After a while, Cai Que and Du Juan supported Old Madame out. Everyone present stood up to greet her. Old Jiang Madame smiled in reply. She looked very energetic and no longer showed the feebleness from the past few days she had spent on the sickbed. After seeing Jiang Ruan, a profound expression appeared in Old Jiang Madames eyes. Cai Que then supported her to sit in the main seat of the hall. The furens present then began to give out their presents. Momo ordered a servant to keep all the presents to the side. Jiang Quan had also arrived, bringing Jiang Li and Jiang Dan with him. Jiang Chao was also following them, and upon seeing Old Jiang Madame, he stepped forward and said, Grandson wishes zumu to live till a ripe age and be healthy and prosperous. He was wearing a blue robe and his whole demeanor appeared to be jubilant. There was not a trace of the gloomy look from a few days ago and those who did not know began to be suspicious if the earlier rumors were actually true. Jiang Chao retrieved a wooden case that was as tall as a chair from behind him and passed it forward, This is the gift that grandson has prepared. Everyone looked curiously at that wooden case, as Old Jiang Madame smiled and ordered Cai Que to open the box. Cai Que followed her orders and after opening the box, she carefully lifted a Buddha made of white jade out of the case. The Buddha was carved to look lifelike- the eyes and brows looked lively, as if it was alive. The most precious part was that it was carved from a whole square piece of white jade of the best quality. The Buddha carving was definitely not cheap. Everyone was astonished and Jiang Chao said, As soons as grandson saw this Buddha, I immediately found it familiar. After looking at it closely, I thought, isnt this zumu? (hes trying to say that his grandmother is like Buddha). Therefore, grandson bought it. I only wish that Buddha will bless zumu with good health. His words were cleverly thought of, and Old Jiang Madame scolded with a smile, Saying that Im like Buddha, nonsense! Jiang Li let out an unsightly sneer; Jiang Chao had all the methods at his fingertips when it came to currying favour with Old Jiang Madame. He specifically looked for nice things to say and so it followed that Old Jiang Madame always accepted the same pattern of behavior from him. With Jiang Chao starting the whole thing, Jiang Su Su also stood up, her lips curled and said, Elder Brothers present is so good, Su niang really does not have the face to take my own gift out. Younger Sister please dont say this, Jiang Chao scratched his head, My gift has always been lacking in comparison to yours. Stop arguing back and forth already, Xia Yan smiled. Suer take out your birthday present for zumu to take a look. Jiang Su Su ordered a servant girl to present a small box made from sandalwood. The box itself looked exquisite. Hu Die, together with Qing Ting, opened it and presented the item from within. It was a huge roll of double-sided embroidery of hundreds of shous(long life) sewn onto it. Without talking about the embroidery, just based on the thought and effort, it was enough to shock everyone. An example of Shou pattern Jiang Su Su lowered her head and modestly said, Su niang was rushing for time and embroidered it badly, therefore I could only sew it to look like this. Zumu please do not dislike it. The embroidery was exquisite, the colours of the pattern matched to look bright and yet elegant. The words were also meticulously embroidered, not a strand was loose, and the onlookers were unable to find a fault in the needlework at first glance. If taken to the embroidery department in the palace, it would even be considered of top quality. Jiang Su Su was indeed talented, and in terms of embroidery, she could definitely be named as the capitals absolute best. The filial piety and modesty of hers immediately caused many of the furens present to have high praises. Old Jiang Madame smiled too, With Suers thoughts, youve put in much more effort than your brother. Jiang Chao laughed, he he, but did not say anything. Jiang Su Su looked towards Jiang Ruan, Da Jiejie, what present have you prepared for grandmother? It cant possibly be hidden any longer. Quickly let us see it Chapter 75.2 - Longevity Birthday Celebration (Part II) With Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Sus gems in front, everyone now had their gazes on Jiang Ruan, wanting to see what good thing she could bring out. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, My present cannot be presented yet . Everyone was a little disappointed. Jiang Su Su asked, Why? Cant Da Jiejie allow Suer to have a peek? Jiang Ruan gently rejected, I cannot. Her tone was firm. Jiang Chao laughed, It cannot be that Eldest Younger Sister forgot to prepare a gift for zumu, that is why you are saying this right. Last time at Maternal Grandfathers house, wasnt it also the same and it was Mother who had to help and prepared one for you. He appeared to have said it without any intent, but Xia Yan hurriedly said, Chaoer! She interrupted his words but people had already considered them. They thought that in the end, she still had no biological mother to teach her, and although she looked beautiful, her worldly wisdom was weaker than Jiang Su Sus. I have let Elder Brother see a joke, Jiang Ruan smiled, But speaking of which, why didnt Maternal Grandfather and his family come today? It cant be because Ruan niang forgot to prepare a visiting gift and so they wont even attend zumus longevity birthday celebration? Once the words were said, Jiang Chaos face became stiff and Xia Yan was stupefied as well. Indeed, the Xia family, as in-laws, did not have anyone present at Old Jiang Madames longevity birthday celebration. Even if they were unable to come, they should have sent a gift. However, from the beginning till now, there was no news from the Xia family. Naturally, it would be impossible for the Xia family to not attend just because Jiang Ruan forgot to prepare a visiting gift. But, what exactly happened? The publics suspicious gaze made Jiang Quan immediately feel like he lost face and he glared at Xia Yan. Xia Yan hurriedly said, Your maternal grandmother has not been in good health recently and the fu has been working hard, so they will not be attending the birthday celebration. Jiang Ruan was enlightened, Oh right, the last time when we went to Maternal Grandfathers house, didnt Maternal Grandmother vomit blood and faint. Unexpectedly she has yet to recover. Xia Yan quickly followed her words, Yes, her condition hasnt improved yet. Furthermore, Jiang Ruan suddenly bowed to Xia Yan, while Maternal Grandmother is ill, and Mother extremely worried, Mother still had to organise the longevity birthday celebration for zumu and has managed to organise such a beautiful banquet. It is truly the Jiang familys fortune, Ruan niang is ashamed. The gratitude that she spoke of caused Xia Yan to feel prickles down her back. Werent Jiang Ruans words implying that even though her own mother was sickly, she still had the heart to organise the birthday banquet. How unfilial of her. Today, she continuously talked and laughed with ease in front of all the furens, and there was not a trace of heavy-heartedness. She was afraid that now all the furens were considering this matter silently. She looked at the gentle young lady in front of her and was secretly gritting her teeth in her heart. She suddenly laughed, It is nothing. Thinking of the things that would take place later, Xia Yan felt happy. Old Jiang Madame looked at them without any change in expression. At this moment, a sharp voice was heard from the courtyard, Where did this demon come from! Everyone present looked to the side and saw a middle aged Taoist priest wearing a green robe and a Taoist hat appear. He carried a cloth bundle on his shoulder and carried a peach wood stick[1] in his hand and his expression was grim. Traditional Chinese Taoist Hat Taoist hat Peach-wood stick [1] T/N: When a Taoist priest performs an exorcism or banishing of negative spirits and energy from a home, they use a seven star sword made from the wood of a peach tree. The origin of the peach tree sword: the use of peach wood to make such swords came from a legend about a gigantic holy tree on the Tu Shou Mountain. It had a trunk over 3000 miles and had captured the essence of 5 types of different holy trees. In ancient China, the northeast direction was known to be the devils gate position. Therefore, two deities namely Shen Du and U Lei took charge of the area to prevent any evil spirits from entering the human realm. They were protected under a branch of the gigantic peach tree. Whenever they saw any ghost entering the human realm they would tie the ghost with hemp strings and throw them into a forest to be eaten by tigers. Since then, all ancient chinese houses would have two panels carved from peach wood to be hung on doors to drive away evil spirits. Later it evolved into a tradition where the seven star sword was made by peach wood and used in any place to drive evil spirits away. More. Xia Yan was shocked, Xu Kong dao zhang[2]. Then, she apologised to everyone, A few days ago, I invited this Taoist priest to do an exorcism for the Jiang fu, I never thought he would arrive today. [2] Dao Zhang ( ) C Taoist priest. When the Taoist priest entered Jiang Quan was also courteous to him, saying, We havent seen each other in a long time. Five years have passed. Xu Kong bowed to him, If everything has been well with daren, then this priest[3] can put his mind at ease. [3] Pn do ( ƶ ) C It is a manner of humbly addressing oneself, used by Taoist priests. Old Jiang Madame creased her eyebrows, What dark things[4] are you doing? She was extremely impolite. [4] W yn zhng q ( ) C a foul/ dark atmosphere. Jiang Quan said, Mother, this Taoist priest is someone from this sons past, he also came to our fu five years ago.. The furens present had never seen a wandering Taoist priest before, however, upon hearing what Jiang Quan said, they were more at ease. Jiang Ruan stood in the same spot, quietly looking at the priest who wore a grave expression. When she heard five years ago, her lips slightly curved into a smile with unknown meaning. The reason why this priest[5] came today was because Furen asked me to bless this fu with good fortune, Xu Kong continued, but when this priest entered, I saw a dark air around the fu. I am afraid that there is a demon creating chaos. [5] Pn sng (ƶɮ ) C another form of address by priests/priests. Old Jiang Madame had a slightly angry expression on, Help me chase this person out! Mother! This dao zhang is a master[6]. Jiang Quan simply shook off Old Jiang Madames thoughts. He turned around and hurriedly asked the Taoist priest, Are Xu Kong dao zhangs words true? [6] Go rn ( ) C Someone of a noble character or an expert in something This priest has never lied. Xu Kong twisted his beard, And that demon is in this fu! He walked around the hall and his gaze slowly landed on Jiang Ruan. Upon seeing this, everyone held their breath and heard the Taoist priest say, Although this priest does not know who this young lady is, this priest dares to confirm that the dark air in this fu is caused by this young lady. This is impossible. Xia Yan appeared shocked, She is the eldest young miss of our fu. Eldest Young Miss? Xu Kong said, The one who was sent to the countryside residence five years ago, I did not expect her to be so old already. Then there is no mistake. Dao zhang what are you talking about, Jiang Su Su continued, How can my elder sister be a demon. However, Xu Kong spoke to Jiang Quan, Daren, didnt this priest help calculate this young ladys fortune five years ago and asked her to not return to the fu ever, otherwise it would incur great trouble. Even if darens heart has softened, you still cannot seek self-destruction. The people present had never heard this story as they thought in their hearts that it was no wonder Jiang Quan had called this Taoist priest someone from his past. He had already helped Jiang Ruan calculate her fortune five years ago? However, Xia Yan shook her head, But no matter what, she is still laoyes daughter, thus how could laoye bear to part with her just like this? Does dao zhang have any good solutions? As Jiang Ruan listened, her smile contained a trace of irony. What Xia Yan said would cause those not in the know to think that Jiang Quan shared a deep father-daughter bond with her. If not for Imperial Censor Wangs censor report[7], Jiang Quan would truly wish to leave her at the countryside residence for good, taking that he never had her, the Jiang familys eldest young miss! [7] Zh z ( ) C book with a slipcase which keeps account of all the deeds of the people with court positions Mother, what is going on? Jiang Chao said, What do dao zhangs words mean? This Xia Yan glanced towards Jiang Ruan with a look of being in a difficult position, like it was extremely hard for her to talk about it. Seeing the situation, Xu Kong said, This priest helped Jiang fus Eldest Young Miss calculate her fortune[8] and she turned out to be the bane of others existence. She is destined to curse both her mother and future husband, and all of her relatives in this lifetime. She carries with her the scourge of blood and death; it is in her nature because she was born cursed[9]. [8] Shng chn b z ( ) C references Chinese astrology and the importance of time at the point of birth. Different modes of time tell you about your fortune/destiny. [9] Mng g ( ) C using your birth date and time to match with the constellation in the sky to use to calculate your fortune The bane of others existence! Once the words were said, everyone immediately went into a shock. They unconsciously looked towards Jiang Ruan and their gazes were filled with fear. Even if she was really beautiful, at present, in everyones eyes she was no different from a demon. Jiang Ruan did not react despite all of the gazes upon her. She simply stood silently. After a short while, she laughed lightly. What are you laughing about? Jiang Li, who had been rejoicing in others misfortune, asked. I laugh because it is all thanks to Xu Kong dao zhang that Ruan niang knows that she bears the sign of the cursed star and is the bane of others existence. Those words contained some unclarity and everyone looked at her, puzzled. Jiang Ruan said, Since dao zhang calculated Ruan niangs birthdate characters five years ago and then left, after five years, you must have advanced and should probably have the ability to resolve this cursed fate. Xu Kong was stunned and he shook his head, saying, Young Miss sign is too strong, therefore with this priests skills, there is nothing to be done. Jiang Ruan shook her head and said, Dao zhangs words make sense, but based on dao zhangs words, I will curse my husband, my mother and all my relatives. However, during those five years that Ive lived in the countryside residence, I did not bring misfortune to anyone. Other than my own body being a bit weak, the people in the countryside residence seemed to be living better day by day, how do you explain this? These words had another meaning to them and the present company were all sharp. They usually attended a lot of social engagements so how could there be a meaning that they could not hear. Xia Yan pretended to touch her sideburns without any intentions and Xu Kong immediately said, That was because the people in the countryside residence were not at all related to Young Miss, they were all just some farmers and servants. So it is like this, Jiang Ruan looked as if she suddenly understood everything and with a smile on her face, she said, thats why so many things of a ridiculous nature have happened to the Jiang fu after Ruan niangs return from the countryside residence? That is correct. Xu Kong said and nodded his head. Then the one who would be cursed first should be my closest kin, Jiang Ruan looked at Jiang Quan, Based on the fact that I cursed my mother to death, the first one I would curse after returning to the fu should be my father, how come it is actually Second Older Brother and Second Younger Sister? Jiang Quan heard Jiang Ruans words and felt some unhappiness in his heart. Xu Kong paused for a while and said, Thisthe priest does not know either. So there are things that dao zhang does not know. Jiang Ruan smiled, Mother, do you think that I am cursed too? Of course. of course not, Xia Yan dried her tears, but Ruaner. She could not continue on and could only look extremely sorrowful. Father, do you think that Ruan niang was born under a cursed star too? Jiang Ruan looked towards Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan looked at her and felt that even if Jiang Ruan was smiling, the pair of beautiful eyes looked like they were immersed in ice cold water, making one feel chilled. He was distracted for a moment. It was as though he saw Zhao Mei, who looked haggard lying in her coffin, asking coldly. He panicked, immediately a suffocated feeling emerged, and he coldly said, Do you wish to harm the whole Jiang fu? Why would Ruan niang wish to harm the whole of Jiang fu? Jiang Ruan said. If she so easily harmed them, how would she feel content. She had to ensure that step by step it was crushed under her foot, until it became dust and forever disappeared from this world. Jiang Ruan looked at Old Jiang Madame, but Old Jiang Madame had already shut her eyes, as if she did not wish to see this shoddy drama. Xia Yan asked, Dao zhang, then what should we do now? Xu Kong looked towards Jiang Ruan, If it was before, letting her stay at the countryside residence would have sufficed. However, you all fetched her home, and now the evil air has grown day by day. It is best to find an ancestral temple and have her stay there for a few years, after everything has subsided a bit, perhaps it can be resolved. Lian Qiao who was standing behind Jiang Ruan felt a chill in her heart, what a vicious thought! After becoming a Buddhist nun at a temple for a few years, she was afraid that the people in the capital would eventually forget that there was someone called Jiang Ruan. As time passed, Jiang Ruan would grow older and older and it would be even harder for her to find a good match for marriage. Wrong. Xia Yan had already declared in front of so many people that Jiang Ruan bore a cursed sign, thus which decent family in the capital would want her. She was afraid that they could not wait to hide from her! Chapter 76.1 - Trickster vs Trickster (Part I) A yellow-robed monk, whose beard was completely white, walked slowly into the hall, staff in hand. Compared with the Taoist priest, Xu Kong, this elderly monk was amiable and benign-looking, his movements infused with an air of holiness that would not tolerate any profanity; he really seemed to be the epitome of a Buddhist disciple. As soon as she saw this monk, Lian Qiao exhaled a long breath. Someone in the hall recognised the monk and cried out in amazement, Isnt this Great Master Hui Jue? What is he doing here? Great Master Hui Jues reputation far exceeded that of Xu Kong dao zhang. Every single one of the rich and noble families in the capital knew of the enlightened senior monk with a brilliant grasp of Buddhist doctrine who had appeared in the capital city at the end of the previous year. When Xia Yans eyes landed on Hui Jue, she knew this boded no good, but Jiang Ruan was still standing in the middle of the hall with a faint smile on her face. Xia Yan was instantly full of suspicion C how did Jiang Ruan establish a connection with this monk? However, on thinking about the events of the day, she absolutely could not allow Hui Jue to hamper her plan, so she smiled and said, Why has Great Master come to the fu? Is it also to exorcise evil? Hui Jue placed his palms together in greeting, inclined his head slightly and said, Amitabha. He turned to look at Jiang Ruan and greeted her, Young Miss. Da Jiejie, on a normal day, you dont set foot outside. When did you become acquainted with this Great Master? Jiang Su Su sounded innocent, but her words were accusatory. They suggested that, if Jiang Ruan were truly a virtuous lady who kept to her own quarters, she would not be able to meet people as she wished, even if it was a monk. Jiang Ruan sighed lightly and looked towards Old Jiang Madame, who had opened both her eyes at some stage. This is my present for zumu. In a heavy voice, Jiang Quan asked, How did this come to be? When he compared Hui Jue to Xu Kong dao zhang, he naturally understood that Great Master Hui Jue was the more trustworthy of the two. However, as the monk was affiliated with Jiang Ruan, it was inevitable that there was some degree of suspicion. A few days ago, I went out with the young miss from Chief Historian Lins fu, Lin Zi Xiang, intending to select a gift for zumu, but nothing was satisfactory. Zumu has no need to worry about food or clothing, and even the most sumptuous items would not be of interest to her. Ruan niang thought, nothing in this world can surpass the importance of peace and good health, and a long life of good fortune. I heard that there was a Great Master Hui Jue in the capital, a disciple of Buddhas Seat[1]. As it turns out, Chief Historian Lins fu has some connection with the Great Master, so I asked Lin Zi Xiang for a favour, as I wanted to invite the Great Master to pray for zumu. [1] Buddhas Seat C Buddha had four seats disciples below him -these Four Bodhisattvas in Buddhism refers to Manjushri, Guanyin Bodhisattva, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, Jizo Bodhisattva. So this Hui Jue is a disciple under one of these bodhisattvas. All the rich and noble families in the capital city were followers of Buddha, and many of them had invited Great Master Hui Jue into their fus to explain Buddhist scriptures. Lin Zi Xiangs mother had always been a follower of Buddha. Thus, the explanation Jiang Ruan had given was adequate, and would not evoke any suspicion. She spoke with such sincerity that to doubt her seemed to be tantamount to disappointing her absolute devotion. Jiang Ruan said, softly, If Ruang niang had known earlier that Mother had already invited dao zhang to come and pray on behalf of the Jiang fu, I would definitely not have taken the liberty to make this decision. She gently bowed to Hui Jue, saying, Honourable Great Master Hui Jue, Ruan niang cannot thank you enough for your willingness to make this journey to pray for zumu. However, now that dao zhang is here, it seems to be unnecessary. She smiled slightly and said, However, since dao zhang is at present engaged in performing an exorcism and is not in the right frame of mind to pray for zumu, would Great Master kindly consent to praying for zumu now? The light of your blessing will surely be able to confer long and continuous good fortune. Everyone was slightly startled on hearing her words. Upon deeper thought to those who might be more calculative and scheming, if this eldest di daughter of the Jiang family was not scared about something, could she still bring up praying for blessings even at this time. Others, who looked only on the surface of the matter, were full of praise for Jiang Ruan. She showed that not only was she not concerned about her cursed fate, but instead was concerned about praying for her familys zumu. It was such an act of laudable filial piety. In contrast, Xia Yan and the others, including Jiang Quan the so-called son, were only concerned with what that fate portended, and blatantly disregarded how the elderly furen was feeling at that moment. Old Jiang Madame looked coolly at Jiang Ruan. Although she said nothing, a gleam of understanding appeared in her eyes. She did not raise any objections but quietly watched to see what would happen. Dao zhang can also pray for blessings, Xia Yan said, nervous about what other strange occurrences might transpire. Must we inconvenience the Great Master? One of the furens present could finally no longer stay silent and reminded everyone, Whether good or bad, this is Eldest Jiang Miss heartfelt intention. Why should we disappoint this child? Thats right, everyone in the capital city knows of Great Master Hui Jues reputation. Do you know how many people want to receive prayers of blessing but cant see this wish realised? The sounds of agreement from the crowd grew in volume. Some genuinely believed that Jiang Ruan was to be pitied, while others were merely following the crowd to take advantage of the situation. Only Jiang Ruan continued to stand in silence, the corners of her mouth uplifted in amusement, as if her mood had not been shaken in the slightest by the situation in front of her. Hui Jue was standing closest to her and naturally could clearly see her expression. From the time he had walked into the hall, he had noticed the people there were intentionally targeting her, yet this young lady before his eyes was still standing perfectly straight, all smiles, as if everything was firmly in her grasp. He thought about how, after Jiang Ruan had left that day, all had occurred as she had said C the Prefectural Magistrates fu had indeed been haunted, and they had invited him to conduct an exorcism the next day. Could it be that what she had said was true C in this world, there are actually people who know the past and therefore also know the future? Deep in his heart, he firmly rejected this notion. This eldest daughter of the Jiang family must have some truly able person directing her from behind, otherwise, how could she know so much? He shook his head and said, Today, this monk[2] was originally here to pray on behalf of this fus old madame, but, just now, this monk heard what dao zhang said, and cannot remain silent. [2] Lao na ( ) C term used by an elderly Buddhist monk to refer to himself. When Xia Yan heard this, she sensed something was not right, and immediately smilingly said, Great Master, you can tell us whatever it is in private after the longevity feast. We of the monkhood do not engage in falsehoods, Hui Jue said. It is simply that this monk sees that Eldest Young Miss has a full forehead, an upright nose bridge, plump and smooth lips; her appearance is that of a person who is blessed with good fortune. The fate of being born under a cursed star, which dao zhang has pronounced, is heresy. He said all this with a righteous and majestic bearing, such that those who heard him could not help but believe him. When Hui Jue appeared, Xu Kong dao zhang felt his confidence waver, for he was only a cheap trickster who was used to conning ordinary people on a regular basis. Its just that, this time, he had been ordered to come by Xia Yan. He could never match up to the renown and positive public opinion that Hui Jue enjoyed in the capital city. However, now that he had already reached this stage, he had no choice but to brace himself and press on. So, he assumed a haughty attitude and said, Could it be that Great Master has made a mistake? This priest studied at Mt. Mao[3] and has never made a miscalculation in fortune telling. I have already verified the Eldest Jiang Misss birthdate characters and she is indeed born under this star, and will be the bane of others existence. [3] Mao Shan ( éɽ ) C Mt. Mao, the Taoist mountain southeast of Jurong county, Jiangsu Province. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly as she stood where she was, looking at Hui Jue. Hui Jues skills of deception should be more polished than that of dao zhang. That Hui Jue could so openly swindle so many people in Yuzhou for so many years without being discovered was of course due to his innate skill, but, without doubt, the most important factor was still his ability to disguise his appearance. Anyone who looked at him would never be able to connect this amiable and benign-faced monk, with righteousness shining from every pore, with a trickster. This time, not only did she need Hui Jue, it was even more a test for him. If Hui Jue was unable to carry off this situation, then, in future there would be no necessity to assist him. Her gaze was piercing. Hui Jue, show me what you are capable of. Hui Jue listened to Xu Kong dao zhangs words without any anger. He said, Kindly forgive this monk for not blindly accepting what dao zhang says. This posture caused the surrounding furens, who were all enjoying the show, to have even more respect for him. They felt that Hui Jue was neither servile nor overbearing, which was entirely befitting a senior monk. In contrast, Xu Kong dao zhang had an arrogant attitude, which had subconsciously evoked the peoples dislike. Xu Kong dao zhang was entirely unaware of this, and was solely focused on not allowing Hui Jue to destroy his arguments. Consequently, he feigned anger to say, Could it be that Great Master is deliberately making things difficult for this priest? Hui Jue sighed deeply before saying, If dao zhang insists on seeing it this way, then this monk is powerless to do anything about it. However, this monk cannot bear to see Eldest Jiang Miss having to shoulder the burden of this accusation. It is true that this fu has a sinister energy, but it is not due to her fate. Rather, it is because a demon has caused mischief in this fu, and it may be assumed that it has attached itself to someone in the fu. That person . . . is not Eldest Jiang Miss. Lian Qiao, who was standing behind, heard all this and wanted to laugh. It was all spiritual mumbo-jumbo, yet the furens in the hall were all listening with grave expressions, as if firmly believing in all that was said, without a shred of doubt. Without waiting for dao zhangs response, Hui Jue said, This monk will now think of a way to force this demon to show itself. This . . . is not good, said Xia Yan agitatedly, looking towards Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan was of two minds. He was eager to expel Jiang fus recent spell of bad luck, and even though he did not trust the person Jiang Ruan had invited, Great Master Hui Jues renown spoke for itself. If he could really search out this demon, wouldnt Jiang fu have peace and security? Xia Yan noticed his hesitation and felt even more anxious. With all her calculations and deliberations, she had never imagined that Jiang Ruan would go so far as to invite Great Master Hui Jue to the fu, giving her a taste of her own medicine. Great Master Hui Jues renown was much greater than that of Xu Kong dao zhang. If she raised an objection, it was to be feared that everyone would be on Hui Jues side. On thinking of all this, Xia Yan felt hatred and fury rise up within her. Without waiting for Jiang Quan to make a decision, Old Jiang Madame spoke up. Since Great Master has this intention, could we please trouble Great Master. Zumu? Jiang Su Su furrowed her brow. Old Jiang Madame looked at her without really seeing her, and said to Xia Yan, Daughter-in-law, havent you always wanted to rid the Jiang fu of its bad luck? Great Master Hui Jue is an enlightened senior monk; isnt daughter-in-law happy? I would not dare, Xia Yan said as she eked out a smile. Xu Kong dao zhang was cold-shouldered as Hui Jue placed his palms together and said, Amitabha, this monk needs to take a look at each courtyard. Thats not an issue, Jiang Quan said. Show Great Master the way. Immediately, two maidservants came forward to guide Hui Jue. The three of them were right in front, while Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su followed closely behind in a bid to prevent any trickery by Hui Jue. Jiang Quan and the furens who were there for the entertainment also followed behind, as did Cai Que and Du Juan who were supporting Old Jiang Madame by the arm, all of them keen to see what was going on. Jiang Ruan unhurriedly brought up the rear. Jiang Chao glared daggers at her like a venomous snake, but she pretended not to notice, and called out to Xu Kong dao zhang who was standing to one side, Dao zhang should also follow us. Buddhism and Taoism each have their own merits, perhaps todays situation is a great opportunity for increasing cultivation[4]. [4] Xiu wei ( Ϊ ) C probably refers to cultivation, a Taoist concept by which humans can extend their lifespan and gain supernatural powers through practising a set of martial and mystical arts involving meditation and the cultivation of Qi (life energy). (Definition taken from here) She had spoken mockingly, but a gentle smile was on her face, so no one could really tell what she was thinking. Jiang Ruan did not allow him to decline the invitation. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi hemmed him in, front and back, so Xu Kong had no choice but to grit his teeth and walk on. Hui Jue resolutely did as he had said and walked through all the rooms in every single courtyard. Several of the yiniangs who had not come out to greet the guests that day were shocked to see such a spectacle. When the servants had informed them of the reason for it, they felt quite bewildered, but also simply followed along. Hui Jue did not leave out any courtyard and the last one he visited was Hong Yings. When Hong Ying heard the sequence of events, she hid behind Jiang Quans back in a panicked state. Xia Yan could not avoid noticing this and frowned, but Hong Ying seized the opportunity when no one else was paying attention to steal a quick glance at Jiang Ruan. After walking through all the courtyards without any mishap, Xu Kong dao zhang could not help himself and said, provocatively, Great Master, didnt you say a demon was causing mischief? At present, it looks as if everything is wonderfully stable. Perhaps, Great Master has made a mistake. Hui Jue placed his palms together and said, Amitabha. Now, ladies and gentlemen, would you kindly follow this monk to the main courtyard. At the main courtyard right in the middle of the Jiang fu, just outside Jiang Quans study, Hui Jue silently retrieved an incense censer from his bag and shook out the contents of another cloth bag, which turned out to be incense powder. He placed the incense powder into the censer and also lit a joss stick. As green smoke spiralled forth, he sat down in the lotus position, one hand striking a wooden fish[5], the other hand fingering prayer beads, while he closed his eyes and started to meditate. [5] Mu yu ( ľ ) C lit. wooden fish, also known as a Chinese temple block or wooden bell. A wooden percussion instrument used by monks and lay people in the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. In this kind of atmosphere, everyone was a little keyed up. Only Jiang Ruan looked calm and composed; Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su were naturally increasingly apprehensive. Under the weight of many eyes, Hui Jue continued chanting Buddhist scriptures. At first, nothing happened. Half a joss stick later, incredibly, a dense black mass suddenly appeared in the sky flying towards them. Everyone was alarmed. The sky had already been gloomy, but the dense black mass obstructed almost the entire sky above the Jiang fu. Once the mass drew closer, only then could one clearly see that it was composed of hundreds of big, black-winged bats. Fluttering their wings, they approached the fu in an almost slow motion. All the furens and young ladies at the scene cried out in fear, but the cloud of black-winged bats flew past the main courtyard without stopping and continued on. After flying back and forth for a while, they all finally and unexpectedly stopped above Su Xin Yuan. After a brief pause, the cloud of bats abruptly rushed into the ladys chamber of the residence, where a maidservant was busily tidying up. Faced with such a big cloud of bats, she immediately ran out, her normally rosy face having lost its colour. Everyone present was dumbfounded and Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su turned pale. Hui Jue stopped chanting and said, The demon has shown its true nature. Whose residence is that? The Assistant Ministers Furen was the first to ask. Another furen replied, It seems to be the residence of Second Jiang Miss. With an ashen face, Jiang Chao asked, Great Master, what do you mean by this? Are you saying that my meimei is a demon? Hui Jue said mildly, Second Jiang Miss is not a demon, but the demon which is causing mischief is now in Second Jiang Misss courtyard. Second Jiang Miss has been staying with this evildoer for many years, so she has been possessed by it. It is due to this that disaster has befallen the Jiang fu. Well, then, how did my meimei come to be possessed by a demon? Jiang Chaos face was ugly as he said, Every single thing that has happened in this fu, all happened when Eldest Younger Sister returned. Chapter 76.2 - Trickster vs Trickster (Part II) Jiang Ruan smiled faintly but did not speak, as if she had not heard Jiang Chao vilifying her. Hui Jue said, Perhaps Second Jiang Miss experienced some kind of danger previously, or suffered an illness. During an illness, a persons spiritual consciousness is weak, and the demon might have taken advantage of the weakness to enter the body. Didnt Second Jiang Miss fall into the water at the Ling Long Boat several days ago? the Assistant Ministers Furen smilingly said. At that time, she was pulled from the water, gasping for breath. I am afraid it might have been at this time that the misfortune occurred. Amitabha, Hui Jue intoned as he placed his palms together. As soon as these words were spoken, everyone came to the awareness that Eldest Jiang Miss was not really born under a cursed star. Instead, the troubles faced by the Jiang fu were due to the proclivity for evil caused by Second Miss. On thinking about how Jiang Ruan had earlier been wrongly accused yet had not gotten angry or forgotten her manners, and even faced the situation with a smile, the furens were full of admiration for her. Thus, they started to discuss this amazing turn of events whereby the previously unjustly treated Eldest Jiang Miss was now being defended. So, it turns out that Eldest Jiang Miss is innocent. Just as I said, weve seen this nice girl dishonoured for no good reason. She was almost made the scapegoat. Tsk tsk, Second Jiang Miss must have known that she was being possessed by the demon, and thats why she wanted to throw the sh*t pot at Eldest Miss. Eldest Miss is all alone, she doesnt even have someone to speak on her behalf. If it wasnt for the senior monk today, perhaps her entire life would have been ruined. The voices were not actually loud, but neither were they soft, and they were clear enough to be overheard. Jiang Su Su was aware that she had lost face and was full of bitter hatred. She had never imagined that, today, she would once again have victory snatched away from her at the last minute. Not only that, Jiang Ruan had also managed to turn the tables on her. When she thought about this, she felt somewhat flustered. If she had been singled out as the inauspicious person, then what would happen in future? After further consideration, she thought it was still all right. This bald donkey[1] had not said that she had the fate of one born under a cursed star, but only that she was possessed. Everything would be good after some days. [1] Tu lu ( ͺ¿ ) C lit. bald donkey; derogatory term for a Buddhist monk. Xia Yan was so enraged, she was dying to charge at Jiang Ruan and rip out her throat. She knew there was something shady about this Great Master Hui Jue; he and Jiang Ruan must have established a connection earlier. Although she did not understand why this renowned senior monk would help Jiang Ruan, she was convinced that the cloud of big, black-winged bats which had appeared today had to be Hui Jues doing. However, they had followed him the entire time and Hui Jue had not made any kind of movement, so how on earth had he managed to stage something like this? Old Jiang Madame had not said a single word during this time, only observing Jiang Ruan quietly. Jiang Quan had not been inclined to accept what was happening, but, at that moment, watching so many big, black-winged bats rushing into Jiang Su Sus residence without any reason, he believed Hui Jues explanation to some extent. Thus, he said, Great Master, what should my daughter do now? Jiang Ruans smile turned slightly mocking. Even till now, Jiang Quan was still concerned about Jiang Su Su; the father-daughter relationship was indeed strong. If their positions had been switched, Jiang Quan would have considered her filthy, and wished that she would disappear from the face of the earth. Hui Jue said, We just need to get rid of the bad luck. This monk will write a few Buddhist texts and paste them in the room, and all will be well after a few days. However . . . he hesitated for a while before continuing, Second Miss has been possessed by this evildoer for too long, so a few days will not be sufficient. Then what can be done? Jiang Quan said agitatedly. Please, Great Master, save my daughter! Jiang daren does not need to be anxious, Hui Jue said. This monk knows of a private temple[2]. It would be best for Second Miss to go there to devote herself to spiritual development for a period of time. In the temple, she would feel the influence of eternal Buddist scriptures the entire day. The filthy energy will be dispelled, and Second Miss will emerge unscathed. [2] Jia miao ( ) C lit. home or family temple. Apparently, in ancient times, officials could build such temples as a place to worship their ancestors (Confucianism). Xia Yan was shocked. Jiang Su Su had already exclaimed, I havent been possessed by any demon, and I dont want to go to the temple! Suer! Jiang Quan shouted coldly. He looked at Hui Jue and asked, For how long? Great Master Hui Jue said, softly, This monk does not dare to give any guarantees, but it is to be feared that Second Miss will not be able to return home for three to five years. In a split second, Xia Yans face took on an unsightly expression as she turned to look at Jiang Ruan. Their plan just now had been to send Jiang Ruan to the temple for three to five years, and now, Jiang Ruan had returned the intention with thanks, instead sending Jiang Su Su to the temple for a few years. So ruthless! Grieved, she said, Is there any other way? Great Master, I only have this daughter. Great Master Hui Jue shook his head and sighed without saying anything further. Jiang Quan was in a dilemma. If Jiang Su Su stayed at the Jiang fu, even more incidents would occur. Moreover, if Jiang Su Su stayed at the temple, her personal bad luck would also be eliminated. Although he was reluctant to part with her, he knew that this was the best way. Xia Yan grew even more anxious on beholding Jiang Quans expression. Jiang Chao had already thrown caution to the wind and was yelling at Hui Jue, You attention-seeking bald donkey! Clearly youre putting on a show to trick us! See if I dont tear your mouth off! Although Hui Jue was fearful, he maintained a calm expression in the face of this storm and retreated a few steps wordlessly. Stop him. Several of Jiang Quans personal guards stopped Jiang Chao. Usually, Jiang Chao gave everyone the impression he was a person who tried not to offend anyone, but now, his eyes were fierce and his words were crude. Upon seeing this, several of the furen present who had been on the hunt for a man to marry their daughters off to changed their plans. Jiang Quan felt his head hurt. Ordinarily, these siblings were the ones who made him feel the proudest, but, lately, they had disappointed him over and over again, making him impatient, impetuous, and short-sighted. Not even Jiang Ruan had made him feel thus. Jiang Ruan? He froze and looked at Jiang Ruan, who was still in the position she had been previously, a small smile on her face. She was clearly at the centre of the entire situation, but she looked relaxed and at ease, seemingly having nothing at all to do with the proceedings. It was as if she had everything and everyone in her grasp, and was quietly watching the course of events unfold from the outside, observing other peoples disputes with cold eyes. Jiang Quan could not help but shiver. He heard Jiang Ruan say, Second Older Brother has certainly spoken in error. Great Master was invited here by Ruan niang, so if you doubt Great Master, then you also doubt Ruan niang. In Second Older Brothers opinion, why would a person like Great Master do the bidding of Ruan niang? For money? With a monthly allowance of two coins, even the incense burned at an ordinary temple would cost more. The crowd was once again in an uproar. Two coins a month, that was the allowance of a second-ranked maidservant! Even though Jiang Ruan was the Jiang familys di daughter, she was frugal and exercised self-control. All this caused the people to wonder what the root cause was C was Jiang fu embarrassingly short of money at the moment, or was Xia Yan, the mistress of the fu, too harsh on her step-daughter? Jiang Quan could only feel as if his self-respect had been shattered. He glowered at Xia Yan and forced himself to suppress his anger, only to hear Jiang Ruan say, Second Older Brother considers Great Master Hui Jue to be a trickster, but Ruan niang has yet to say that Xu Kong dao zhang is a trickster. Since Second Younger Sister is demon-possessed, that means that Ruan niang was not born cursed and does not have the fate of being the bane of others existence. What about the dao zhang who calculated Ruan niangs birthdate characters five years ago, such that Ruan niang had to waste five years at the rural residence? How should this debt be calculated? No matter what, there is no clear way to calculate the cost. It would be better to seek the advice of the Capital Magistrate[3]. I am on good terms with the young miss of the Capital Magistrates fu; perhaps it might be possible to ask him to accommodate us. [3] Jing Zhao Ying ( ) C apparently an official title used in ancient times, akin to the mayor of the city. She had a gentle smile on her face, but, in contrast, every word was laced with intense accusation. It was so menacing that one knew, whether retaliating or retreating, one was on dangerous ground. Xu Kong dao zhang had long since started to sweat heavily, and he looked to Xia Yan in an unspoken appeal for help. Xia Yan said, stiffly, Dao zhang is an old acquaintance, and there must be some misunderstanding. Ruan niang, you are still young, there are many situations which cannot be seen as simply black or white. It would be best not to draw a definite conclusion. Jiang Quan finally could no longer bear the eyes of all who were watching the entertainment and growled, Enough! Xia Yan promptly stopped talking. Hui Jue said, This monk will send disciples with the scriptures when they have been written. Now, the matter is over, this monk ought to take his leave. Jiang Ruan smiled and said, Not quite, Great Master has forgotten something. Hui Jue was slightly startled. Jiang Ruan continued, Ruan niang invited Great Master here today to pray for zumu, but Great Master unexpectedly expelled a demonic influence from the Jiang fu. If it is convenient for Great Master, could you please pray for blessings for zumu? Everyone present was quite astonished that Jiang Ruan still remembered, at this time, to ask for prayers for Old Jiang Madame. Old Jiang Madames face remained expressionless as she said, There is no need. Great Master and I are both tired. That you have purged my Jiang fu of these demonic influences is the greatest blessing I could have. She then said, Cai Que, help me back to my room, and departed without taking leave of anyone. On seeing this, the furens hurriedly got up to take their leave. Today, they had witnessed such a good show, and it would not be appropriate for them to stay longer. However, the next day, there would undoubtedly be yet another rumour about the Jiang family making its way around the capital. Almost instantly, the room was cleared of guests. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly and said, If Great Master is taking his leave, I will see Great Master out. Hui Jue nodded. After they had reached the entrance of the fu, Jiang Ruan looked at him and smiled. Many thanks to Great Master for coming to my aid today. Did Young Miss mean what she said at the start? Hui Jue lowered his head and maintained a humble attitude, looking very much like a benevolent Buddha. Of course, Jiang Ruan said with a smile. If Great Master is able to continue aiding Ruan niang in the same way as today, Buddha will see you accumulating much merit, and will not be indifferent to the child. She continued, Great Master has indeed opened the eyes of many people today. Hui Jue had been deceiving people for so many years that speaking truthfully was no longer something he could do. Mixing falsehood and truth was what the wandering monk had taught him from the very beginning. Today, as he had passed through Jiang Su Sus residence, he had casually scattered a handful of powdered pigs blood there. Bats like pigs blood, but will not come and go at will. There were other substances blended with the powdered blood as well as also mixed with the incense burned at the main residence, which would cause the bats to come forth even in daytime. Those in the know would not have taken todays scene to be anything alarming, but the ignorant would have seen it as the manifestation of demonic influence. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. Mother loves Second Younger Sister dearly, and definitely will not easily let her go to the private temple. The bats will disperse in the daytime, but they will come and knock at the door at night. Now Second Miss is worried at heart, so she will naturally not oppose the notion of leaving for the temple, Hui Jue said without emotion. He had smeared a substance on Jiang Su Sus door so that the bats would fly there at night and bump against the door with sufficient force to make a loud sound, but when Jiang Su Su opened the door, she would find no one there. This would occur repeatedly until Jiang Su Su would become paranoid, and then not long after, she would, of her own accord, suggest going to the temple. Great Master is indeed brilliant. Jiang Ruan raised an eyebrow C this Hui Jue had some brains, and knew how to leave himself room to manoeuvre, if she could ensure a firm hold on him . . . she smiled and said, If Great Master can aid me in this way, I will return Great Master the favour. In a few days, I will visit once again. Great Master must not forget what I have said. Hui Jue stared dazedly at the young girl in front of him, whose beautiful eyes were chilly even though she was smiling. She was so young, yet her thoughts were more profound than any other unmarried daughter[4] that he had ever met, with wisdom that was almost otherworldly. Hui Jue kept his thoughts to himself as he bid her farewell and left. [4] Hou yuan nu zi ( ԺŮ ) C lit. backyard woman/ daughter. This alludes to the fact that noblewomen were kept at the back of the residence and were not involved with the worldly affairs of men. It is just a sad way of saying that unmarried daughters have a narrow world view. * * * In the Commander-in-chiefs fu. Gu Furen had just returned home when Gu Yi ran in excitedly from outside. Mother, did you see the Jiang familys Eldest Miss? What do you think? Gu Furen smiled and said, Her looks are exceptional, her temperament is mild, she is educated and well-balanced, and she behaves in accordance with propriety. That is to say, shes not bad? Gu Yi laughingly said, I knew that Mother would find her acceptable. He then scratched his head and said, Did you . . . Psh, how old is she? Hurry back to your room; when your father returns and sees you like this, hes going to chastise you again. Well talk about this another day, Gu Furen scolded good-naturedly. As soon as he heard Gu daren coming back, Gu Yi immediately disappeared like a wisp of smoke. After he had left, Gu Furen sighed deeply. Does Furen think that Eldest Jiang Miss is not good? the maidservant beside her asked softly. You saw it for yourself today, the waters of the Jiang family run deep. Eldest Jiang Miss has barely returned to the fu yet has raised such a big tempest, and even managed to escape unscathed today. Her mind is definitely not as simple as she presents herself to be. She shook her head and continued, I only want to find a simple, pure girl to be Yiers wife. That girls tendency towards evil is too great. Chapter 77.1 - Second Young Master Li (Part I) It had already been raining for nearly a month, but the relentless pitter patter of rain in Great Jin showed no signs of stopping. Many farms were devastated by the flooding, and in turn the price of rice began to escalate, even for stale rice. In this world, naturally there would not be sufficient provisions for everyone. Other than for the wealthy who were capable of paying premium prices for fresh produce from out of town, the common folk could only watch their provisions dwindle with each passing day; there were even some who werent able to even have a meal. People were praying fervently for this bout of spring rain to come to an end, but alas the sky did not fulfil mankinds desires, and the rain showed no signs of stopping. Jiang Quan had already settled the matters regarding the private temple and had planned for Jiang Su Su to be taken there in a few days time. Although Xia Yan and Jiang Chao had been trying to dissuade him, Jiang Quan was still determined. Since the Xia family had not interceded for Jiang Su Su because of Xia Jun, this matter was to proceed as planned. As expected, not long after Old Jiang Madames longevity birthday celebration, the capital indeed erupted with an increasing number of rumors and gossip regarding the Jiang Family. One top rumor was that of the false prophecy made by Taoist priest, Xu Kong, who, when she was sent to him as a young child, stated that Jiang Ruan had been born under a cursed star. As a result, Jiang Ruan was sent to the countryside residence and made to suffer five years of unnecessary misfortune. Obviously, within the capital there were some from the upper echelon that were neither blind nor deaf. They were wise and insightful enough to see the subterfuge within all of this. The matter regarding Xia Yans reputation as the genteel, virtuous and talented lady now required some reflection. That said, based on Jiang Ruans performance the other day, it was evident that her disposition was not to be taken lightly. For a while now, the people of Great Jin were aware that the Jiang Familys di daughter was not one to be underestimated. Jiang Ruan was lost in thought whilst sitting by the window looking out at the curtain of rain. The hole in the roof of the house had finally been fixed, and on that day, not just the hole, even their monthly allowance had been restored to its rightful amount. In retrospect, it was probably due to Jiang Quan having lost face in the presence of Gu Furen and so he had warned Xia Yan about it. Lu Zhu carried a flower pot of fresh China Rose and placed it by the front of the courtyard. She was smiling as she entered the house, Miss, today this servant heard from others that Xu Kong dao zhang was arrested by the city guards because it was said that he was a conniving charlatan, a liar. Furthermore, it appears that while in prison he has received the board as corporal punishment, and it is said that one of his legs has been crippled. She seethed as she continued, He surely deserved it. Who gave him the right to be so ruthless and lacking in conscience, and to even go to the extent of fabricating the lie about the cursed star to vilify my young miss. Jiang Ruan declined to comment. That day, there were lots of furens present, and it was inevitable that they would spill the beans on Xu Kong dao zhang. Over the years, Xu Kong dao zhang had not been only of service to Xia Yans family, and when the other families who had engaged his services came to know of his deeds, naturally it was bound to stir up anger and hatred. In turn, it was to be expected that a formal lawsuit would be submitted to the constabulary[1]. [1] Xunbufang ( Ѳ ) C (old) police station in a foreign concession. Lian Qiao followed Jiang Ruans line of sight and looked out the window. Sighing deeply she lamented, Dont know when this rain will stop. Then in a quiet voice she said, Miss, now that the capital has a shortage of provision, why dont we take some of our provisions to sell. We would be able to make tonnes of money[2]. [2] Pn mn b fn ( ) C literally means pots filled and monks earthen alms bowl doubles = tonnes of money. Jiang Ruan shook her head, and Lu Zhu voiced, Miss is thinking of waiting it out for a few more days? Who knows when this rain will stop, therefore, the opportune moment is now. Buying those provisions wasnt meant for resale. Jiang Ruan smiled. Then whats it for? Lu Zhu was perplexed. To save someone. Save someone. Lu Zhu deliberated those two words when suddenly her eyes lit up, Miss is planning to wait a few more days before taking those provisions out to aid the disaster relief, providing for the victims of the disaster, thus saving their lives. Youve only got half of it right, Jiang Ruan smiled in reply, Im not planning to save their lives. The ones that she intended to save were the Zhao family. Lu Zhus eyes fluttered but she did not ask any further. After a moments thought, she suddenly said, Miss, this servant heard that the reservoir in the north of the capital is starting to overflow and the Emperor has ordered Eighth Prince to manage the overflow situation. He has also transferred back the Grand Councillor Li fus Young Master Li An to go along. Lu Zhu was a second-rank servant and would naturally get more opportunities to mingle with people from the marketplace and visit the local haunts of the common people. Moreover, she was good at establishing relationships and connections and had the ability to get firsthand information quickly. Ah, Li An. Jiang Ruan smiled and the gleam in her eyes was rather chilling, Finally, the wait has brought results. Li Dong had two sons. Li Yang, who was lustful and a dandy, unwilling to learn martial arts, and a devout follower of the hedonistic lifestyle. Unfortunately, currently Li Yang was handicapped. Undoubtedly Li Dong was not willing to take things lying down, however, he had been biding his time and had not struck out at the Jiang fu yet. This was due most likely to the work of his younger son, Li An. Li An was sinister and cunning, and extremely intelligent. In the past life, Xuan Li had thought rather highly of him, and so at that time his efforts to entice Li Dong were only worth 30 percent for his power and influence, whereas the 70 percent was primarily meant for Li Ans intelligence and wisdom. Li An was a person who would protect others even when knowing that the other person was wrong, and presently he viewed Li Yang with utmost importance. Jiang Ruan smirked. In her previous life, Xuan Li had told her a secret, a secret concerning Li An. A secret that even Li Yang and Li Dong were not aware of, and this secret would be her biggest bargaining chip. She said to Lu Zhu, Tell Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi to come back quickly, and also take out a deck of Ye Zi cards[3]. Miss wants to play the Ye Zi cards? Lu Zhu chuckled, This servant will go and return with the other two. [3] Yezi Pai ( Ҷ ) : Leaf card is a kind of card , also called Niang Niang card, harmony card, evil talisman card. Its gameplay was called Leaf Play in ancient times. This ancient gambling game is an important part of Chinas traditional culture, a traditional Chinese entertainment project, and a treasure of the Chinese nation . The gameplay and algorithm are the same as Mahjong. More. * * * The Grand Councillors fu in the capital. Li Dong was sitting on a soft couch in the middle of the main hall. A beautiful concubine was massaging his shoulders and at his feet, there was another concubine gently pummeling his legs with her fist. Both concubines had scared expressions on their faces, while Li Dongs disposition was stormy, and his facial expression was fierce, devoid of his usual phoney smiling facade. Given his savage and murderous aura, it was evident that his frame of mind was not good at the moment.. Just then, a boy servant entered, reporting, Second Young Master has returned. From outside the hall walked in a young man who looked to be around 17 or 18 years of age. He was wearing azure coloured jacquard woven silk attire, and around his waist was a yellow tiger patterned belt. His face was handsome and his skin was pale, as if he had not been in the sun for many years, and he had a pair of deep black eyes that was shrouded in gloom. Upon seeing the young man, Li Dong immediately rose from his seat, What took you so long! Father. Li An knitted his brows, How is Elder Brother now? At the mention of Li Yang, a hint of cruelty flashed across Li Dongs face, What is there to expect, his life can be considered worthless now. I am determined to see Jiang Su Su buried with him. We cant act rashly. Li An shot Li Dong a tumultuous look. Upon hearing him say that, Li Dong retorted in fury, In your letter to me, you asked me to refrain from taking action against the Jiang fu. What was that all about? Your elder brother is currently bedridden, and yet, we are not able to murder that slut? Does Father really think that the Jiang fus Second Miss was responsible for Elder Brothers predicament ? Li An queried. What do you mean? Li An looked at him mockingly, It is so obvious, yet Father has allowed your rage to cloud your judgement and thus rendered you unable to clearly judge the matter. This whole situation is actually a deliberate provocation of someone, with the sole intent of driving a wedge between the Jiang and the Li families- for only the fisherman will reap the benefit[4]. [4] Shouyuwengzhili ( ֮ ) C Fisherman that reaps the benefit C this is part of a fable-cum-idiom. The fable is known as The Battle of the Sandpiper and Clam. While the sandpiper and clam were busy fighting, the fisherman gained a big haul. Their fight allowed the third party to enter and gain the upper hand. The fable tells people to be vigilant against the true enemy in the intricacies of conflict. Are they from Fifth Princes faction? Li Dong asked. Currently the courts were trying to gain Xuan Lis favor, but none at present could surpass the most influential Fifth Prince. No. Li An interrupted him, While the Jiang fu was the location of the matter, the person who plotted against Elder Brother had most certainly infiltrated the fu. Furthermore, it is very likely that this person is from the Jiang family. I have deliberated and concluded that Second Jiang Miss is the least likely to plot against Elder Brother. As for the Jiang familys other daughters, the maternal family of Third Jiang Miss is closely involved with Jiang Quans official career, therefore they would not burn their bridges. So we are left with Eldest and Fourth Miss. Both of their birth mothers are not alive, and in addition, they do not receive Jiang Quans affections. So if anyone would be more likely to make things difficult for Jiang Quan, then Im afraid it would be one of these two. Finally, if we were to look at the outcome after the incident, then the person who benefitted the most would be Eldest Jiang Miss. Are you saying that Eldest Jiang Miss plotted against your elder brother and implicated Second Miss? That slut! Li Dongs face contorted. Not necessarily, but that is also the reason why I must take a trip to the Jiang fu so that I can personally meet with these two young ladies to verify my suspicions. A sliver of determination flashed within Li Ans eyes, To have the nerve to plot against Elder Brother, with such audacity, if you were to be caught by me. Li Ans lips curled up with an anticipatory smile. His elegant face at that moment looked to be exceptionally insidious, a slow torture will be more fun. * * * Jiang Ruan was at the moment playing Ye Zi cards with Lian Qiao and the others, and had successfully won each round. Lu Zhu pursed her lips saying, Miss always wins. Shouldnt Miss at least lose one set for us servants to gain some happiness too, or could it be that Miss is trying to swindle us? Lian Qiao rapped her head, What rubbish are you spouting. Just because you arent as skillful as others, you have to go and say that Miss is cheating. Dont you feel ashamed of yourself? Jiang Ruans brows rose, Didnt you learn how to play Ye Zi cards from a young age? Why then would you require others to give you a handicap? Lu Zhus face flushed red, Miss is a natural born expert. As they were chatting and laughing, a maidservant suddenly appeared at the door saying, Eldest Miss, Li familys Second Young Master is in the main hall and would like to meet with you. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhis expression immediately changed, looking rather anxious as they looked towards Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan didnt reply but said, Rather quick to take action. Miss, be careful, Lu Zhu beseeched earnestly, Second Young Master Li is shrewd and contriving, and this time, Im afraid he must have found out something It was done intentionally for him to notice. Jiang Ruan grinned, Lian Qiao, Bai Zhi, lets go. The three of them arrived at the main hall, to find that Jiang Su Su and Jiang Dan were already there. At that moment, Jiang Su Su was chatting with the youth. Second Miss is such a clever person, but to be possessed by a demon and having to enter a private temple certainly makes one feel pity. Li An said in a somewhat regretful manner. Jiang Su Sus beautiful eyes gradually filled up with tears, appearing to be bravely restraining herself while under duress. It took just one glance to notice her woeful disposition. She lamented, This is all.Su niangs fate. This Second Young Master of the Li family was completely different from Eldest Young Master. After the incident, Li Yang had become incapacitated. Thus with the arrival of Li An today, and having him specifically request to meet her, Jiang Su Sus heart initially felt somewhat apprehensive. However, upon meeting up with Li An, he was very affable, without the slightest trace of reproach. On the contrary, when he had heard that she was going to be sent to the private temple, he gently consoled her. Jiang Su Sus heart flashed a thread of hate and resentment. This was the match that Xia Yan was going to arrange for Jiang Ruan- this compassionate, handsome and good-looking man. Why was Jiang Ruan always so fortunate! Jiang Ruan stood at the front of the main hall, so naturally she was able to take in the whole scene of Jiang Su Sus bashful act. Her heart could not help the momentary flash of contempt racing across it. Jiang Su Su could really be so naive as to think that the person before her was some affable noble young master. This particular young masters intentions were even more poisonous than the most venomous snake. From the side, Jiang Dan had all along maintained a jittery and foreboding expression. She was pleasantly surprised when she saw Jiang Ruan arrive and exclaimed, Da Jiejie! In accord, Jiang Su Su and Li An turned towards Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan smiled as she slowly went up to Li An and offered her greetings, A pleasure to meet you, Second Young Master Li. Li An very quickly sized up Jiang Ruan, and smiled in reply, Eldest Jiang Miss. Jiang Ruan took a seat beside Jiang Dan and looked towards Li An, Second Young Master Li, is anything the matter? She was not bothered with superfluous words, so she got straight to the point and asked Li An. Li Ans eyes flashed with a hint of brilliance as he smiled and said, Its not really any matter, its just that something happened to my elder brother at your esteemed residence. Oh, then how is Eldest Young Master Li? her voice expressed her concern, but her eyes were serene. Not too good. Li Ans head drooped and he sighed, On that day, my elder brother was seriously injured. That is most unfortunate, Jiang Ruan said. Her intonation was simple and monotonous, but unbeknownst to all when Li An heard those words, they evidently became very acerbic, as they seemed to carry with them a taunting snicker. What is Eldest Miss understanding of this matter? Li An raised his voice in query. It merely was all a misunderstanding, Jiang Ruan smiled in reply. Second Younger Sister is young and ignorant, but Ruan niang thinks, your elder brother is not entirely without fault too. She had cleanly removed herself, very simply making light of the situation. Alongside, Jiang Su Su listening in was beginning to rage within her heart, You. She forced herself to swallow the rest of her words as earlier in the main hall, she had surreptitiously disclosed some information to Li An, pushing the whole debacle towards Jiang Ruan. Only a misunderstanding? Li An smirked, I am of the thought that this was intentionally set up by someone, yet Eldest Miss perceives it to be a misunderstanding? Ruan niang personally thinks its a misunderstanding, Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, However if Young Master thinks otherwise, you could go to the Capital Magistrate to request a resolution. If that doesnt yield results, you could also have the Grand Councillor accuse Father in court and His Majesty will definitely take responsibility and make a decision on your eldest brothers behalf in indicting my father. Though Ruan niang is from the Jiang family, one can only adhere to the law. Nonetheless, Ruan niang would like to give Young Master a few words of advice. From the onset, with regards to the cause of the matter, your eldest brother has to bear half of the culpability. However, if the Jiang fu has to suffer under the onslaught of investigation, Im sure the Li family will not remain unscathed either. Li An pinned his gaze directly on Jiang Ruans eyes. She obviously was aware that if this matter were to be reported to the Capital Magistrate, then the whole of the capital would know that Li Yang had been castrated. Furthermore, should the news that had remained under lock and key accidently leaked out, based on Li Yangs character, his whole life would suffer under the weight of humiliation. Besides, if that really happened, there would be a big reshuffle with regards to the Grand Councillors office. Thus, if the matter couldnt be brought up to the Capital Magistrate, it was inconceivable for the accusation to be brought before the Emperor. Jiang Ruan might have seemed to be magnanimous, but in actuality, her every suggestion essentially led to a dead end. His interest was suddenly piqued and he asked, Then in Eldest Miss opinion, what would be the best option to resolve the matter? That really depends on what the Grand Councillor would like to do? Jiang Ruan softly smiled, Nonetheless, once this matter gets out, the future of the Grand Councillors office might have to depend on Second Young Master. She spoke calmly, but her eyes communicated profound implications. Chapter 77.2 - Second Young Master Li (Part II) Li An was momentarily dumbfounded, then suddenly he laughed and clapped, Interesting, absolutely interesting! Eldest Miss is so witty, it really makes it hard for anyone not to be moved. Jiang Su Sus body stiffened, a sliver of resentment flashing from the depth of her eyes, only to hear Jiang Ruans insipid reply, Previously, Eldest Young Master Li was very moved by Second Younger Sister too. Li An switched the topic, I heard that Eldest Miss birth mother was the young lady of General Zhaos fu, so how is it that this relationship has been cut off? Without batting an eyelid, Jiang Ruan replied, The personal matters of the deceased, as well as all of their issues, have turned to dust. Including that of enemies. Thats not possible, Li An seemed to be intentionally teasing her, in a few days, Ill be going with Eighth Prince to manage the flooding situation in the north; His Majesty has been closely watching the flooding in the capital. Moreover, I heard that Eldest Miss biaoge, Zhao Yi daren, is with the capitals garrison so if he manages to grab hold of this good opportunity, then Im sure he will gain great meritorious commendations. Upon hearing this, Jiang Ruans fingers clenched slightly, however, her face did not reveal an iota of chagrin as she replied, Even so, that has nothing to do with Ruan niang. General Zhao has spent more than half his life fighting on the battlefield, he must have been bestowed many rewards. At present, the plight of the people within the capital who are lacking in provision and are poverty stricken causes one to worry. Zhao darens heart cherishes the people of the land, and should he be able to distribute some food provisions to the victims of the flooding, the commoners will definitely be immensely grateful. Young Master, do consider ones words. Jiang Ruan replied indifferently. She was aware that Li An was deliberately provoking her. Even if General Zhaos fu had mountains of gold and silver, the victims in the capital were just too many. Before long, there would also be an influx of refugees pouring in, therefore there wouldnt be enough provisions to buy even at a higher price. Furthermore, even if one had mountains of gold and silver to use it would be quickly depleted. Li An laughed boisterously, This chat with Eldest Miss has been very beneficial. It is getting rather late and I have to make my way home. I hope that the next time we meet, Eldest Miss will be like today, chatting merrily and with such wit. Although on his elegant face there was a smile, his deep eyes seemed fathomless with darkness, almost like they were steeped in venomous poison. Jiang Ruan nodded, Definitely. Without another word, Li An turned and went off. With the turn of his head, the smile on his face came off like a cloak and his expression turned ominously sinister and terrifying. Once he stepped out of the Jiang fu, the young manservant by his side asked, Young Master, was it the work of Eldest Jiang Miss? Definitely her. Li An leaped onto the horse. That immature and inexperienced girl had a pair of ambiguous eyes. When confronting his probing and interrogation, she had taken it in stride and had even countered with provocation! He flicked his whip and the horse neighed and in a blink of an eye sprinted off. On the street in the capital, naturally it wasnt just this horse galloping, and as Li An was riding by, another horse happened to brush past his. The other horse was a rare colt with a magnificent and gleaming jet-black coat, and on its back its rider wore a cape and a bamboo hat. He stopped in front of a restaurant in the city centre, handing his horse to a waiter, and entered the establishment. Arriving at the second level, a maidservant led him towards a private room. He parted the pearl curtains and walked in, and when those seated within the room saw him enter, one of them who sat to the side, eyes lit and he exclaimed, Second Brother! Guan Liang Han was the Great Jin Dynastys General-in-chief, heroic and accomplished in battle, and his title of War God resounded across the four corners of the land. At this time, he had returned triumphant with his contingent and was returning to court. However, he did not accompany the troops but had instead slipped away and returned on his own. He had always possessed a carefree and unfettered character, and even though the Emperor was aware of it, he often turned a blind eye to his antics. He looked towards the youth who had called out Second Brother, and indeed it was Mo Cong. Mo Cong added, Second Brother, where is the jackal cub from the northwest you said youd bring back for me? He had always wanted to secretly rear that particular breed of jackal in his manor. In a few days time when the troops return, Ill have it sent to you, Guan Liang Han was just slightly past 30 years of age, had a tall stature and was good-looking. However, his face was covered with a beard making him appear like a devil at first glance. I think you have been immersed in the feminine air within the capital that youre almost like a woman. Next time, you can come with me to the desert for some training. Youre so skinny that you look like a monkey. Mo Cong was disgruntled, Second Brother, how can that be a good idea? All of your knowledge is about fighting battles, a real waste of your outstanding stature. Moreover, whats wrong with being skinny? Third Brother is also skinny and he too is doing just as well. Can you even be compared to Third Brother? Guan Liang Han struck a posture as if he was going to give him a thrashing, Your Third Brother would crush you with just one finger. All this time, Xiao Shao who had been sitting contemplatively to the side, finally lifted his head, Second Brother. I say Third Brother, do you alway indulge this young lad? Its been a year, and there has not been an iota of improvement. Guan Liang Han stated. When they were younger, they had all come from the same sect. There were a total of eight sect brothers. Guan Liang Han was ranked as second, Xiao Shao was third, Mo Cong was seventh and in eighth position was Xuan Li. At that time, Xuan Li went up the mountain to learn skills, but after learning halfway, something happened. Henceforth, the Sect consequently treated him as if he didnt exist, and by tacit agreement, everyone had never brought the matter up again. No one outside of their sect knew about their relationship and it was only privately in conversation that they would address each other so. How long will you be in the capital this time? Xiao Shao asked. Being accustomed to Xiao Shaos glacial character, Guan Liang Han scratched his head, The northwest has sent some people for a peace negotiation- if there isnt any trouble or provocation, I should be stationed in the capital for the time being. Ah, Second Brother, then we will have more opportunities to hang out together and have some fun. Mo Cong exclaimed joyfully. Who fricking wants to hang out with you, sissy. Guan Liang Han had always looked down on Mo Congs weak dandy demeanor. Moreover, Mo Congs martial arts was the weakest amongst them as he essentially only learned a hair width of skills. Xiao Shao asked, Second Brother, I would like to make some enquiries about a person. Who? Guan Liang Han queried. Jiang Xin Zhi, He inquired, Do you have such a person under your command? Jiang familys Eldest Young Master. Jiang family? Guan Liang Hans brows creased, As in the capitals Jiang Quan, that Jiang family? I dont know of anyone under my command surnamed Jiang but I cant say about the junior soldiers. Why are you looking for Eldest Young Master Jiang? Since when do you have any relationship with the Jiang family? Third Brother, dont blame me for being a nag and giving you the heads up. That Jiang family is one large pool of muddy waters, and they have the Xia family as their backers. You should know what kind of people the Xias are, and their relationship with Eighth Brother is ambiguous and complicated. Eighth Brother is like stinky mud and whoever comes into contact with him will fricking suffer untold misfortune! I have no dealings whatsoever with Xuan Li. Xiao Shao stated. Second Brother, Third Brother was not inquiring for Eighth Prince, Mo Cong sarcastically retorted, he is doing this for the Jiang familys Eldest Miss. What Eldest Jiang Miss? Guan Liang Han asked, Doesnt Jiang Quan only have one di daughter, that gifted young lady or whatever? Third Brother, have you taken a fancy to her? That cant be, since when has your judgement deteriorated so low? Guan Liang Han had not been in the capital for over a year and was completely unaware of matters pertaining to Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao shot Mo Cong a glacial glare but Mo Cong was unmoved, and touching his nose he continued, Third Brother, Ye Feng told me all about it. Didnt you assign him to investigate on Eldest Jiang Miss behalf. Whats that all about? He laughed mischievously at Guan Liang Han, This Eldest Jiang Miss has only returned to the capital towards the end of last year. Minister Jiangs late wife gave birth to her. Born with a peerless beauty, it is just that her personality is somewhat shrewish, yet at the same time utterly enigmatic. Her machinations have managed to lead Second Jiang Miss and Jiang Furen around in circles. After seemingly thinking of yet another thing, Mo Cong suddenly smiled, Im afraid even Second Young Master Jiang has also fallen into her ploy. Mo Cong inherently was intelligent, and with regards to Jiang Chao, he was able to hazard a guess from those minute hints. Hearing Mo Congs account, Guan Liang Hans brows creased, Based on what youve said, isnt this young lady ruthlessly malevolent and vicious? What kind of a person she is isnt relevant, Xiao Shap offhandedly replied. You really dont know anyone called Jiang Xin Zhi within your command? Guan Liang Han noticed his seriousness, hence he stopped being frivolous and replied, I dont know of any Jiang Xin Zhi but I do know of one Zhao Xin Zhi. Zhao Xin Zhi? Xiao Shaos brows rose, Its him. Jiang Xin Zhi naturally loathed the Jiang family, so its understandable that he would use his mothers surname when he enlisted. Where is he now? Xiao Shao asked. Ive entered the capital ahead of the others, so he would be with the troops coming in behind me. Guan Liang Han explained, He is my Deputy General, yet you say he is the Eldest Young Master of the Jiang family? Deputy General? Mo Cong glanced towards Xiao Shao, Third Brother, Your brother-in-law is pretty good. Guan Liang Han and Xiao Shao both regarded Mo Cong as air, ignoring him, then Guan Liang Han said, One should not underestimate this Zhao Xin Zhi. Over time, he has slowly risen up the ranks from camp cook, showing great accomplishment and step by step he has earned his promotions. When he first joined the military, he was as scrawny as Seventh Brother. One look and you would think he was a scholar and would easily be blown off by a gust of wind. He kept requesting to go to the frontlines but I didnt approve it. Much later, after observing that his training was not bad, I then took him to battle. He was not afraid of dying, though initially he was apprehensive of killing others, but he soon killed with hardened ruthlessness, losing all the aura of a scholar. I saw him as a man among men. His fighting skills have improved tremendously, furthermore, he has obtained a number of meritorious achievements in combat[1]. As such he was promoted to Deputy General. This time, it was he who took the initiative and requested to accompany me back to the capital. [1] Jun gong ( ) C military merit. The system of military merit () was implemented most thoroughly by the Qin dynasty, although previous dynasties had implemented various forms of this system. With this system, all soldiers regardless of class or background who achieved military merit were able to enter the nobility and enjoy the attendant privileges e.g. land ownership. Military merit was not easy to achieve, as it was awarded according to the number of enemy soldiers felled as weighed against the number of ones own soldiers killed in battle i.e. if no. of enemy soldiers killed > no. of own soldiers (in ones unit) dead, then merit was awarded. We are not sure if the military merit system in Rebirth is based on the Qin dynasty system, or has its own variation. More here. Xiao Shao looked at him and Guan Liang Han continued, According to what youve said with regards to this Eldest Jiang Miss, and should Zhao Xin Zhi be Jiang Xin Zhi, then she ought to be his younger sister. Ive heard about Zhao Xin Zhis younger sister. In the past when I asked him why he was so fearless when he was in battle, his reply was that he needed to obtain many great military achievements in order to advance in his military career so that he could one day protect his sister. He paused and looked towards Mo Cong saying, however, when Zhao Xin Zhi spoke to me of his younger sister, she was described as innocent, charming and amiable, gentle and sweet tempered, always being bullied by others. So how did she turn out as you described, a malicious lady? Mo Cong spurted out a mouthful of water, and wore a strange expression, Innocent, charming and amicable? Gentle and sweet tempered? Always being bullied? He reached out and grabbed Xiao Shaos arm, Third Brother, Im most definitely assured that youve got the wrong person. This Zhao Xin Zhi and Jiang Xin Zhi are definitely not the same person. No matter how I look at it, Eldest Jiang Miss in no way would be the one to suffer being bullied. More accurately, it would be best if one wasnt being bullied by her. Xiao Shao brushed his hands off, Whats your thought about Zhao Xin Zhi? Guan Liang Han observed that Xiao Shaos expression was without humor, so he replied astringently, If he really is Jiang Quans child, even then, he is nothing like Jiang Quan. Regardless of when he looked like a scholar til now as a Deputy General, he is indeed a man among men. Is there anything special about him, Xiao Shaos cold vivid eyes conveyed a profound expression, such as the gift for prophecy? Prophecy? Guan Liang Han was stunned, Third Brother, youre not sick are you? Whats this talk about prophecy? If he had that ability, then we would be victorious in every battle. Why would they need me then, this general? Upon hearing what Xiao Shao said, Mo Congs expression shifted, Third Brother, did you discover something? Its nothing. Xiao Shao languidly said, The emperor has assigned Eighth Brother to manage the flooding situation, and also stuck Li An along. Li An? Whys he back? Mo Cong queried. He was totally antagonistic towards Li An. Li An was highly intelligent, but unfortunately his intelligence wasnt used uprightly. When those noble young masters were younger and had even the slightest association with him, undoubtedly, amongst them could there be found any who successfully managed to escape from being set up by him? Mo Cong was among those, and because he was also rather intelligent, when Li An was younger, he had tripped him up many a time. Furthermore, as Li An grew, his covert and veiled underhanded machinations were honed to perfection. His modus operandi had also become more sinister and malicious. What does the Emperor mean by this? Is he favouring Eighth Brother? Guan Liang Han asked. Should such talk be heard by others, these presumptuous comments concerning the imperial family was reason for beheading, but Guan Liang Han did not care at all. If Xuan Li succeeded in managing the flooding situation, he would gain much recognition. This would not only elevate his standing within the imperial court, but he would also garner the support of the common people. On the other hand, the Crown Princes position would imminently become more and more perilous. The thoughts of the person seated on the Jiu Zhong palaces dragon seat was not something these subjects were able to fathom, moreover, over these past few years, it was getting even more unpredictable. The mirage of what is true and what is false, one is afraid even Xuan Li himself wasnt able to decipher the emperors true motives. If he is sincere and acts favourably towards Xuan Li, then the Crown Prince would not have survived till now. Xiao Shao stated grimly. Third Brother, what should we do now? Wait. Xiao Shao was playing with the dagger as he said indifferently, It is definitely not by chance that Li An has returned to the city. I would like to see what the Li family is really up to. Chapter 78.1 - Collapse of Plans (Part I) Time passed quickly and over twenty days had gone by, but the rain in the capital had not abated. Just by looking at the pitter patter of the rain, it looked inconsequential, however, the incessant rain, regardless of day or night, just continued to pour. Within the capital, the widespread death of livestock had begun, not to mention what was happening on farmsteads; the whole kingdom of Great Jin was held captive under the shadows of torrential flooding. Just a few days ago, the water levels in the moat had begun to rise, gushing and destroying the dam, thus resulting in numerous drownings of the commoners who resided close to the river. The authorities sent to aid in the relief efforts were like a mantis trying to block a carriage[1], thus the management and control of the water overflow had become a matter of top priority. [1] Tngbdngch ( ۵ ) C (idiom) a mantis trying to stop a chariot / to overrate or overestimate ones ability and attempt something almost impossible. The imperial court had allocated large sums of silver to the various regions for disaster relief, and from all appearances, it had looked like a copious amount. Yet sadly, as it filtered down and exchanged hands with the various officials who as usual took their cut, by the time it reached the hands of the disaster victims, it was but a smidgen of bare bones. As such, there was an increase in disaster victims. Moreover, many residences that had been submerged due to flooding resulted in even more homeless refugees. Soon many refugees in quick succession began to pour into the city. First, because the capital was on higher terrain, so was least likely to be hit by the disaster compared to other regions. And second, the capital was under the jurisdiction of the emperor, and people were hoping to get a chance to eat a hot meal distributed by the authorities. Unfortunately, the rain water seemed to accumulate more and more, and with the increasing influx of refugees, the authorities were unable to sustain the massive need for food provision. Thus, three days ago the officials had ceased provision of food. Subsequently, the starving refugees began to scour the city and loot wealthy affluent homes. Naturally, these noble folks had personal guards so the antagonism between them and the refugees within the city started to escalate with each passing day. The Jiang fus provisions were still sufficient and there was enough to sustain the fu for quite some time. As such, everyone within its walls had not grasped the impact of the crisis. If one were to comment on what was different within the Jiang fu, it would be in regards to the Grand Councillor Li fus Second Young Master, Li An. He could be seen entering the Jiang fu every other day without rhyme or reason and even then not doing much per se. With a courteous attitude he would simply chat with Jiang Quan . Jiang Quan was unable to cipher Li Ans thoughts, but based on outward appearance, Li An didnt seem to harbour any hostility. Furthermore, there were even subtle gestures leaning towards establishing a close relationship. Lian Qiao walked in carrying a basket of flowers and spoke out contemptuously, Second Young Master Li is here again! If one didnt know, they would think that the Jiang fu was his home. It almost seems as though he no longer concerns himself about Eldest Young Master Lis injury and is ready to bury the hatchet. Presently, Jiang Ruan was on the couch reading a book, and when she heard those words, her gaze moved slightly. There was never going to be any possibility of the Li fu burying the hatchet with the Jiang fu. Li Yang had become a cripple, and Li Dong and Li An were by no means magnanimous kinds of people. Li Ans current behaviour was merely a pretense to show that he no longer considered Jiang Quan and Jiang Su Su as his enemies. Bai Zhu frowned, This morning while I was passing by the courtyard, this servant encountered Fifth Yiniang again. Fifth Yiniang said that Master requested Jiang Miss marriage geng tie[2] to be delivered in the hopes of rebuilding a relationship with the Li family. Second Young Master Li didnt accept but he also did not raise any objections. Miss, what should we do? [2] Geng tie C In ancient Chinese wedding customs, red cards with the names of the man and the woman, the birthplace, the eight characters of birth and the names of the three generations of the ancestors were called Geng Tie. Some are also called Niangeng Posts. Geng means year. Geng posts are exchanged between the man and the woman to show their proposal or engagement. More here. Dont take it to heart- it isnt that simple. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Li An is a person of abstruse disposition. If I have to really enter the Li fu, inevitably that would have to wait until I was utterly crushed, without even a spark of resistance, so that later he could slowly torture and torment me. A pity, since this time Li An wont ever have the opportunity to see that day. Although they observed Jiang Ruans unconcerned attitude, Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao were both still somewhat concerned but chose to swallow whatever they were going to say. While they were speaking, Lu Zhu came barreling in, her face awashed with undisguised elation as she brought great news. Once she entered, she closed the main door, then going to the windows, she closely surveyed the surroundings to ensure that there wasnt anyone loitering before shutting the windows too. She walked to stand before Jiang Ruan, and lowering her voice she smilingly said , Miss, a subordinate of Young Master Gu has returned with news that they might have some information regarding Eldest Young Master. However, General Guan made haste to return ahead of time so the rest of the troops are still on their way. They will arrive in about ten days time. She reported, Young Master Gu said that while he is currently unable to confirm, he is almost convinced that the person is our Eldest Young Master. Lu Zhu smiled, Eldest Young Master is currently a Deputy General. Lu Zhu and Bai Zhi were stunned, Jiang Ruan stood up and clasped Lu Zhus hand, Really? Lu Zhu smiled when she beheld Jiang Ruans emotional expression, It is absolutely true. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao both smiled, It looks like our hard times are over and its the beginning of good times. Once Eldest Young Master returns to the fu, he will definitely protect our lady. Jiang Ruan returned to her soft couch, her eyes ablaze with fervor. Jiang Xin Zhi was still alive! Her only elder brother was still alive! In this world, she was no longer a person without someone to depend on. In this lifetime, there was still time, and she was determined to help Jiang Xin Zhi rewrite the ending to his past unfortunate and violent death! With this thought, the anguished worrying and melancholy of the past few days dispersed and in its place was the rising of an abundant will to fight. If in this life, Jiang Xin Zhi was alive and well, then this pair of siblings must go forth and ensure that all of their enemies from their previous lifetime die tragically. A debt of blood must absolutely be paid back in blood![3] [3] Xuezhaixuechang ( ѪծѪ ) C Blood calls for blood. / A debt of blood must be paid in blood. Jiang Ruan abruptly stood up again, her eyes shining and mesmerizing, Since thats the case, there are some things that need to be prepared ahead of time. She directed, Lu Zhu, you go out and employ a couple of helpers. Just use those refugees that have come from outer regions. Guarantee them full meals as wages. Go and buy a big cauldron. Hesitantly, Lian Qiao questioned. Miss, whats it for? I want to bestow congee. Jiang Ruan casually replied. After putting the (chess) pieces in place, the time had finally come to execute the planned strategy. * * * In the capital, there was an ever increasing number of refugees, and still larger groups kept pouring in, shrouding the city under the cover of civil unrest. Commoners were darting quickly about on the streets, ashen-faced. Many bore starved bodies, hovering outside noblemens residences, in the hopes of obtaining a meal for running an assigned task. The refugees were no different. Those that were strong and robust were robbing people on the streets in broad daylight. The city garrison guards were kept busy day-and-night, however, the local constabulary was unwilling to apprehend and throw these robbers into prison as even prisoners needed food rations. Even though the situation was as such, the Emperor had not deported nor banished those refugees. While currently the imperial court of the Great Jin empire appeared tranquil, only those within were well aware of the political unrest and turmoil. They were currently at a tipping point, and they could not allow any major situation or calamity to occur. However, with the present circumstances, the Emperor was not in a good frame of mind. Everyday, hundreds of court officials attended court in fear and trepidation. There were still some upright and honorable ministers that were concerned for the welfare of the people, making suggestions to distribute provisions to aid the disaster. This further incurred the Emperors wrath and displeasure as the national treasury was already empty. Some time ago, the last batch of disaster relief funds had depleted the national treasury. Moreover, this years farm crops were destroyed, so there was nothing to contribute to taxes. Then, during this tumultuous time, someone set up a tent and began to distribute provisions. At this critical juncture, the imperial court had the mind to assist but was powerless. They had long stopped bestowing congee. Naturally, the commoners and refugees were jubilant in believing that the imperial court had not forgotten to care for the people, and thus rapidly spread the news. The food tent was simply erected. On one side were people distributing food and on the other side were people standing by frames that supported a huge cauldron cooking congee, promising that there would not be a shortage. The queue was so long that it filled up and almost blockaded two city streets. A total of eight persons were guarding the cauldron, and these eight people were strong and formidable men of valor. Their statures were all tall and beefy, each having a brutish appearance. Thus, those that were restless and attempted to threaten by trying to take advantage of the crisis had all their ill-intentions squashed very quickly. The person distributing the congee was an amiable looking woman. She loudly spoke, There has been a change to our current situation, the flooding has created havoc in our land, and all of us are having a difficult time during this situation. Our familys General sympathizes with the people, and has specially spent half of his familys fortune to exchange for provisions to distribute and share with everyone. From today onwards, every morning we will be here to distribute congee and everyone will get a bowl, but only a bowl each. Its not easy to do something significant in this world, however the General has said that if the funds from the first half of this fortune are used up, he will take out the remaining half for the emergency relief of the people as well. So everyone, we sincerely appreciate your understanding. The heavens will favor the Great Jin empire, our Majesty is benevolent and brilliant, so trust me, we will get through this calamity. Her speech was morale boosting and in a flash, it gave everyone a sense of hope. Someone asked, Daring to ask this madame, whos your familys General? Im merely a servant woman, how could I even dare accept the term Madame? the woman smiled in reply, My residence is General Zhaos fu. General Zhao! Those gathered there began to discuss this. The people overall had a pretty good impression of Zhao Guang. As such, they began to raise their voices, Many thanks to General Zhao for your benevolence. General Zhao is indeed a hero. We are even willing to work hard like oxen or horses if required. There were many voices of admiration and just beyond the masses of people collecting their congee, there was a horse carriage parked. Lu Zhu parted the curtains of the carriage to steal a peek and with elation, she spoke in a quiet voice, Miss, this has really gone well. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, The people that you found were well chosen. Based on what they had heard from their side, it was clear that that servant woman had quite the gift of the gab. Lu Zhu abashedly replied, That woman was previously a momo for a young lady from an affluent family in the Cangzhou district. She is cultured and literate, and also very articulate. Its just a pity that while the family died during the devastating flooding, she was the sole survivor and eventually made her way into the capital. This servant saw that she spoke decently, and since she had to act as a person from the Generals household, I felt that she was suitable for the task. Her act is really very good. Jiang Ruan smiled. Not far from the carriage, there stood another person. His slender lithe physique, clothed in black, cut a swath through the landscape distinguishing himself above others. At this moment, he was calmly observing the people queuing for their congee, and a trace of deep thought passed through his beautiful eyes.. After a moment, he turned to the bodyguard by his side, Go investigate that servant woman. Is she not from the Generals fu? the Jin Yi guard was stunned, Could it be that.who would be so altruistic in someone elses name? Moreover, these days within the capital there was such a shortage of grain. To provide a bowl of congee on a daily basis, if it was in the past it would not have been much to rave about, however, currently, this is by no means a small feat. Xiao Shao was reticent, and in his eyes appeared the image of Jiang Ruan with her indifferent smile. Over a month ago she had made an effort to purchase most of the citys grain, was it for such a day as this? He had a hunch that with regards to this matter, Jiang Ruan most definitely had a hand in it. However, over a month ago, it had only started raining for a few days, so how did she know that there was going to be devastating floods? * * * Within the Generals fu. Zhao Guang was sitting in his study and even though he was around sixty years and had seen the passing of time, he still appeared to be hale and hearty, and brimming with vitality. He had an angular face and a stern look. At a glance, one could see that he was a military general who had spent a long time on the battlefield. His three sons were currently standing before him, their faces bearing identical expressions of grave solemness. Yesterday Old Duke Jun revealed some news to me after the imperial court was dismissed, Zhao Guang stated, Eighth Prince is preparing to soon deal with the Zhao family. Zhao familys Third Young Master, Zhao Yuan Feng, whose temperament was volatile burst out, Father, we arent afraid of him. The righteous will not cower from a crooked shadow. If he has the means, then he can just come at us. Our Zhao family cant easily be shaken by a mere prince like him. Hold your tongue. Zhao Guang spoke in fury, For Old Duke Jun to say this, it would indicate that this matter is perilous. You just stand quietly to the side. Dont you cause more trouble for your old man. Third Brother, Second Young Master Zhao, Zhao Yuan Ping, had a fair and handsome appearance and a scholarly disposition. You should already be aware what type of person Xuan Li is. Moreover, these past few years arent most of the ministers in the imperial court standing on his side. How many of them werent raised up by him? He will definitely not use the usual methods that are fair and aboveboard. Eldest Young Master Zhao, Zhao Yuan Jia, sighed, What Second Brother says is true, but why would Eighth Prince suddenly think to target the Zhao family. He has not eliminated the powers of Fifth Prince, and we are in support of Crown Prince, so why would he suddenly act without consideration? Im afraid that they are ready to wage war. Zhao Guangs gaze was deeply set, His Majesty had been shielding Crown Prince for many years, but based on Eighth Princes ability and wisdom, Im sure he has always been well aware of it. I believe he intends to drag our Zhao family into the fray. Then, what should we do? Zhao Yuan Feng asked unwillingly: Just let him scheme against us? Old Duke Jun has adamantly refused to disclose even a sliver of information,: Zhao Guang sighed, Im sure its no small matter. Then he changed the topic under discussion, Currently the population of refugees has steadily increased in the capital and the rain doesnt seem to be stopping anytime soon. Moreover, His Majesty has appointed Eighth Prince and the Li family to manage and control the reservoir. Im sensing that it is not as simple as it looks. When Zhao Guang was younger, he had fought and won many a battle, as such he had a natural perceptivity toward danger. It was a military mans intuition. Zhao Yuan Jia muttered to himself irresolutely, Over the past few days Yier has also said just as much; the garrison within the capital has more than doubled. Im afraid the capital will undergo a change. As they spoke, suddenly a flustered manservant came running in exclaiming, Old Master, something has happened! Zhao Guangs brows creased, What happened? The young manservant was witty and articulate, so with a few sentences, he was able to concisely explain the situation, Theres someone distributing congee within the city, a bowl everyday, but under the banner of our Generals fu. What? Zhao Guang stood up from his chair with a ceng sound, Seriously? Zhao Yuan Feng added, This cant be? Father, is this the handiwork of Eighth Prince? Has he lost his mind? Zhao Guang frowned, Do we know the person? The manservant shook his head, The staff from the manor has gone to take a look, and none of them recognise the person. However, those people didnt do anything else beside distributing congee. Father, should I go investigate? Zhao Yuan Jia asked quietly. No, Zhao Guang batted his hand, Theres something fishy about this situation, lets wait out a few days and see. It can be concluded with absolute certainty that the person distributing the congee was not from the Generals fu, so what was the purpose behind the other partys use of the fus name. Was it one of Xuan Lis men or someone else? If it was Xuan Li, what was he planning? But if it was another person, to be able to come up with such a huge quantity of provisions at this time, just what kind of backing did they have and what were their motives? Whatever the case, with regards to this matter, they could not afford to act blindly without thinking. Chapter 78.2 - Collapse of Plans (Part II) On that very day, the news of the General fu taking out provisions to distribute congee spread like the wind throughout the capital. In a matter of time, on every street and in every alley, people were discussing this matter, as such the news naturally reached the residence of Eighth Prince. With a pa sound, Xuan Li threw down and shattered the china cup in his hands. Although his expression still maintained a gentle smile, if one looked closely, one noticed the muscles around his mouth convulsing minutely. Obviously he was utterly infuriated. He chillingly exclaimed, Well played Zhao Guang! One of his advisors then asked, Your Highness, how did this news leak out, could there be a spy in our midst? Xuan Li sneered chillingly, What other reason could there be. For Zhao Guang to have only played this hand now is an eye opener for me! He had initially thought to take the upper hand by passing an edict forcing Zhao Guang to cough up his residences provisions to aid the disaster relief, then using his people to make sure this came to pass. Since the national treasury was in a deficit, and the Emperor was anxious, the Emperor would readily agree to this action. This would have crippled the Zhao familys influence and power so that he could easily deal with them in the future. Furthermore, when he made the suggestion, he would not only have gained the pleasure of the Emperor, but also the combined accolades of both the imperial court and the common folks would have significantly risen. However, since Zhao Guang had taken the initiative to distribute congee, even though the outcome of reducing and weakening the wealth of the Zhao family was similar to his plans, in actual fact the underlying significance to him was vastly different! With Zhao Guang taking the initiative to distribute congee, not only had he received the Emperors commendation and praise, in the hearts of the common folks he had gained a higher prestige. On the surface it would seem that influence and capabilities were weakening but in actual fact, they were not weak at all. Rather, their powers had increased exponentially. Furthermore, with regards to this matter, the opportunity for him to meddle now no longer existed. After all of his furious plotting, it was such a waste of such a brilliant opportunity! How in the world did Zhao Guang think to take the initiative to aid the disaster relief? the advisor asked. He usually has such a foul temper and is very stubborn For the Zhao family to so frivolously spend their collected wealth from many generations, how could they even bear to harden their hearts? To actually take out all their hard earned savings truly required great valor. He is surely very courageous, Xuan Li replied. All the more he cant be allowed to live. To have the ability to think up the strategy to retreat in order to advance it would not be easy to take down the Zhao Family, who was a force to be reckoned with after many generations within the imperial court. However, never would he have imagined that it was actually someone else who had used Zhao Guangs banner to distribute congee. Afterall, at this point in time, provisions were more valuable than gold, and no one would be willing to fork out such a huge sum of silver to aid others. The advisor hesitantly asked, Your Highness, what about the spy in their residence.. To even allow for messages to get to the Zhao family under my very eyes, naturally it wont be that easy to ferret the person out. Kill them all and change the whole lot, he commanded. Your Highness, The advisors face lost all its color, these were all people who were meticulously hand-picked. To train, nurture and groom each person required a lot of time and money and to just kill the whole group was totally not worthwhile and such a waste of all that effort. Xuan Li remained unmoved, and with a callous, snide smile said, I would rather kill a thousand in error than to let one slip by. Kill. The news that the General Zhao Guang had used his personal savings and family wealth to help with emergency relief for the commoners and refugees very quickly spread far above the imperial court. Upon hearing this news, evidently the Emperor was very pleased. This action of Zhao Guang had given the Emperor a reason to make requests from the other officials. Therefore, everyone from the top officials to junior officials had to all take out silver to help fill the deficit within the national treasury. Zhao Guang was conferred a verbal reward, and also earned a good reputation among the masses. By all appearances, he was not at a disadvantage at all. Just as the person distributing the congee had proclaimed, every morning they were there in the city centre handing out congee to the commoners. With the regular provision of food, the number of robberies and vandalism within the city had decreased significantly, resulting in a sense of security and peace. Zhao Guang neither denied his involvement nor did he visit the distribution tent. He just maintained a harmonious facade. On this day, Zhao Yi from the citys garrison took a group of soldiers on horseback to patrol the city as usual. These days with the refugee situation stabilized, his daily duties were much easier. Yet at this moment, he saw a flustered junior soldier galloping at neck breaking speed towards him. Daren, on the Chong Xin farmstead in the east of the city, a group of refugees who were living with the commoners suddenly erupted into a fight over rations. Zhao Yi knitted his brows. He was the Zhao familys eldest di grandson and had inherited Zhao Yuan Jias upright and plainspoken character. What he most loathed were these robbers who came and robbed their households. He spoke in fury, Nowadays there is someone distributing congee everyday, yet they are still so rampant. This is utterly preposterous! At the end of his tirade, he directed instructions to the soldier behind him, Come with me to take a look. Daren! the soldier then reported, in the west of the city at Dong Wang hill, a fight has also broken out among some refugees and the commoners, and it involves even more people compared to what is happening in the east of the city. We should have another squadron of brothers head to Dong Wang hill in the west . Zhao Yi contemplated for a moment before stating, Since there are not many people in the east city, Ill just take two people with me. Considering theyre unarmed and defenseless refugees merely seeking food, make sure you dont hurt them or cause any death. As he was speaking, he turned to two junior soldiers behind him, You two come with me. When the soldier who had delivered the message saw Zhao Yi depart, he faced a group of soldiers commanding, Follow me. The two groups each headed off separately, with Zhao Yi taking only two people with him. He had outstanding skills in martial arts, and to suppress these refugees, he wouldnt require that many people, so he didnt take the whole situation too seriously. The horse he rode sped at high speed, however, just then a carriage rushed towards him at an angle. Zhao Yi was stunned and swiftly reined in the horse to come to a stop. The horse carriage also suffered a scare and the other horse neighed and finally came to a halt too. Zhao Yi was full of concern as he dismounted from his horse, calling out, The person within the carriage, did you suffer any injuries? The coachman was obviously only recently employed and looked helplessly towards the inside of the carriage. Shortly, the curtains were lifted, and a pretty maid dressed in jade colours hopped out of the carriage. The maid that jumped out turned towards Zhao Yi, You are utterly insolent, should anything happen to our familys young lady, you would most certainly have to suffer the consequences! Zhao Yi was an upstanding, honest man, and in that moment, he felt culpable, Its all my fault. However, I have a pressing matter to attend to so if this young lady would present me the name of your fu, I will personally pay a visit to apologise in a few days. The maid in the jade coloured outfit pouted her lips in fury, Who would fancy your apologies in person? Seeing how you are dressed, you ought to be from the city garrison guard out on a mission. The capital is peaceful now; it couldnt be that there are people out there causing trouble? Zhao Yi cupped his hands in salute, There are some refugees plundering the Chong Xin farmstead in the east of the city and its a pressing matter. So if Young Miss would please excuse me, I will definitely return and make amends once I have settled the situation there. Chong Xin farmstead? A soft, delicate voice sounded from within the carriage, followed closely by the lifting of the curtains and the appearance of an exquisitely captivating face. Jiang Ruan lightly smiled, Daren, you must be mistaken? How could anyone want to plunder Chong Xin farmstead? Zhao Yi was somewhat absentminded when he gazed upon that face. His Zhao family for three generations had engaged in the military and had once heard of an aunt. However from early on, she had lost contact with the Zhao family. Usually, his contact with young ladies weas limited to those from military families who had strong tempers and uncouth bearings, so where would he have had the opportunity to meet such a captivatingly, beautiful lady? In the past his uncles had mentioned those genteel and well-bred daughters of civil officials who were known to merely have knowledge of embroidery, but in reality were involved in a lot of internal strife and cunning plots. Even so, as he gazed upon her beatific face, he was surprised to realize that he was beginning to blush too. A soldier standing behind him coughed lightly. Zhao Yi quickly recovered his wits and scratched his head in embarrassment, Young Lady, why would you say that? Jiang Ruan was able to take in the current situation from his expression. This Zhao familys biaoge was a rather interesting person. She smiled in response, I passed by Chong Xin farmstead a few days ago. The place was close to the side of the mountain and was badly affected by the torrential rain. The owner had already relocated his whole family, and many refugees had moved in. Since there arent any city commoners residing there, how could there be any plundering to speak of? Zhao Yi was stunned, his face respectfully asked, Is what youve said true, Young Lady? Why would I deceive you? Jiang Ruan smiled in response, Moreover. Since Zhao Yi paid attention to her, Jiang Ruan continued, Moreover, when I was there a few days ago, that bunch of refugees was armed to the teeth, looking like a bunch of barbarous savages. Daren, are you really going to head there with only those two? Im afraid that before youve even stepped into the estate, youll be massacred. The two soldiers behind Zhao Yi were startled, hesitatingly enquiring, Daren. Zhao Yi had taken up the position of city garrison guard so naturally he wasnt some ignorant, juvenile child who was totally oblivious to current matters. From the insinuation behind Jiang Ruans words, he was immediately skeptical about the present situation being an orchestrated, conspiratorial plot. Drawing from this thought, his brows unconsciously furrowed. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, How about I give you a suggestion. There are too many east city refugees, and its obvious that Daren and these two soldiers would not be sufficient enough to deal with the situation. Why not approach the Capital Magistrate to lend some men to go to the east city. The Capital Magistrate would not sit by and not lend a hand if he was made aware of the situation. Zhao Yi was invigorated. Indeed he had only two soldiers and to rashly enter into such a situation would definitely not be the best plan of action. However, if he did not go to Chong Xin farmstead and get to the bottom of the matter, he would not be able to catch the mastermind behind all this. The Capital Magistrates role was also to defend the citys law and order, so lending some men should not be a big task. As he reached this conclusion, he took an intense look at Jiang Ruan. This young lady had appeared out of nowhere, almost as if she had appeared here specifically to inform him of this matter, even though it appeared to be an unscripted, accidental conversation. However Zhao Yi could not wrap his head around the fact, was Jiang Ruan truly unaware of the situation? Regardless, the fact remained that if what Jiang Ruan had spoken was true, it meant that she had inevitably saved his life. Zhao Yi cupped his hand in salute, Thank you Young Lady for the information. Youre too polite Daren. Jiang Ruan slightly smiled in response as she lowered the curtains and Lu Zhu also returned to the carriage. Jiang Ruans voice emerged from within the carriage, Daren, a final word of caution, those east city refugees are most definitely not regular bandits, theyre quite fierce and evil. When you request for manpower from the Capital Magistrate, the more the better, otherwise the result will be a complete annihilation of the troops. On that note, the carriage departed. Zhao Yi watched as the carriage slowly disappeared from his sight before he leapt onto his horse whilst giving a directive, Head to the Capital Magistrates fu! Within the horse carriage, Jiang Ruan was leaning against a cushion lost in her own thoughts. She had used the excuse of paying a visit to the Lin fu to see Lin Zhi Xiang, and was ultimately able to rush to save Zhao Yis life. In her previous life, Zhao Yi had indeed been slaughtered at the east citys Chong Xin farmstead while attempting to suppress the upheaval caused by the refugees. Initially Jiang Ruang could not grasp how those harmless and unarmed refugees would suddenly become violent and savage. Moreover Zhao Yis skills werent average and therefore, under such circumstances, he should not have been brutally slaughtered. But this time, as soon as the refugees started to enter the capital, she had assigned Lu Zhu to have someone pay close attention to the situation at Chong Xin farmstead. It was only yesterday that someone brought news that not only had a group of people armed with weapons arrived at Chong Xin, but they had also disguised themselves as refugees. Normally, it was unheard of refugees to carry so much weaponry, and they had also come as a group. With this thought, it could only be assumed that they were only disguised as refugees on a mission with every intention of entrapping and killing Zhao Yi, and then laying all the blame on the refugees. If Zhao Yi died, the Zhao family would be without their eldest grandson and the family would suffer a severe loss. Inevitably their ascendancy would significantly diminish and the opposition would collude and take advantage of the situation It was very likely the Zhao family would not be able to rise up after that. Who can this person be? Jiang family? Xia family? Li Family? Jiang Ruans eyes deepened, surmising that Xuan Li was without a doubt somehow implicated in this matter. Seeing the Zhao familys dominance weaken would be an outcome that he would be most delighted to witness. However, in this life, she had undertaken the Zhao familys disaster relief aid of food rations and Zhao Yi would not die. The Zhao family could safely stand steadfast and upright amongst the nobility and aristocracy. If Xuan Li was made aware of this matter, its a wonder what would be his state of mind? Regardless, once Zhao Yi had captured that group of people, he would immediately be alerted to the fact that there is a spy within the garrison army. Upon his return, he would inform the Zhao family, and knowing the Zhao family, they were not people who could be easily trifled with. In their cleaning process to get to the bottom of the matter, they would be most vigilant. For Xuan Li to make another attempt in the future would no longer be that easy. Most importantly, Jiang Ruan softly let out a sigh, from the start the situation with Zhao Guang was like a chasm. She wondered, since she had rescued the Zhao family and saved Zhao Yi, would these events provide leverage for her revenge and allow her to enter the front door of the General fu. Come what may, for Jiang Xin Zhi, she would try. Chapter 79.1 - Recognising One’s Kin (Part I) The rainy condition was progressively becoming heavier than before. The common people that resided close to the hillsides had met with difficulties as large mudslides rushed downwards. The Bo Chang reservoir was the capitals largest reservoir and the farmlands in the capital completely relied on this area to draw water via irrigation for their fields. So with the rising trend of ferocious rainfall upon their lands, the water level became unrestrained in the reservoir. There seemed to be a risk of the reservoir being crushed by the immense volume of rainfall and the potential for a hazardous overflow. Xuan Li had led his subordinates to manage the waters in an attempt to temporarily suppress the momentum of the rising water level. In the top-scorers fu, the young zhuangyuan gentleman was standing by the window, frowning in contemplation as he looked at the rainwater . Just then, Liu Furen came in holding a bowl of dark brown sugar and ginger soup and placed it on the table. Seeing Liu Min so, she then sighed, What sort of disaster is this to have harmed so many families in this way. They had initially been part of the common people and had only recently risen to such a status, therefore, they were extremely sympathetic to the sufferings of the common people. If not for the fact that Liu Min had entered the imperial court to become a government official, perhaps they would be similarly destitute and homeless just like these commoners, in desperate poverty whilst beset by hunger and cold. Liu Min patted Liu Furen on her shoulder as he consoled her, Mother, you dont have to worry, soon all will pass. If it wasnt for General Zhao who has distributed provisions as disaster relief, who knows how many of the common people would starve to death. Liu Furen lamented, General Zhao is a good official; when you are in the imperial court, you should certainly try to get closer to him. Liu Min nodded. Thus, the rainfall continuously poured down without the slightest sign of stopping. However, eventually, there would be a day when the wealth of Zhao Guang would also be completely spent. This matter could merely just be a splash of water on the fire that burns ones eyebrows, a quick fix for a desperate situation in an extreme emergency. It was not a long term plan. As he recalled how Eighth Prince had actively and in a friendly action asked him about his opinions with regards to this flood a few days ago, it seemed that Eighth Prince was planning to exert himself to keep this flood in check. Verily, if this person genuinely harboured thoughts to cherish the people of the land under the heavens then how could such an esteemed individual possibly ruminate over resolving such a precarious situation with him, out of all other possible officials at his disposal, in such a casual manner? Almost imperceptibly, Liu Min sighed. The waters in the imperial court were not shallow and only those who had placed themselves in its midst could understand that discerning the underlying currents and hearts of those in power was extremely difficult too. In a steady succession of a dozen or more days, the act of bestowing congee to the common populace never seemed to cease as the capital gradually quietened down. If one could speak of any fresh news, then it would be that the capitals garrison army caught a group of bandits that pretended to be refugees in the area of the east of the citys Chong Xin farmstead. The manpower of that days capital garrison troops was insufficient and the daren who was on garrison duty had sought out the Capital Magistrate to borrow some men. They had then gone to Chong Xin farmstead which soon after became a ground of a fierce battle. With great difficulty, they had managed to subdue these bandits and had locked them up in the prison, yet in the span of a night, those bandits had all committed suicide to escape punishment. Whilst the populace in the capital had clapped their hands in applause for such a satisfying resolution to the problem, at the same time, they were similarly concerned. In this manner, if the capital was not too peaceful and secure, then the days ahead would be even more challenging. Contrary to what one might expect, with this situation, the capital citys garrison army morale was high after extricating themselves from the pressure dealing with a prolonged and stressful situation concerning the captured bandits. * * * In Ruan Ju, Jiang Ruan was currently leaning against the divan whilst embroidering. In the past while she was in the rural residence, due to Zhang Lans familys coercion, she had embroidered day and night until she had developed dead calluses on her hands. In this lifetime after being reincarnated, she hated that in her past life; she had died with her body being badly damaged and riddled with scars. In this life, she was not willing to have any of those scars remain on her body. Now that she had returned to the Jiang fu, the embroidery needlework that had once been her livelihood was thrown aside without a care. Yet these days, once the dead calluses on her hands had completely peeled off and her skin had once more become delicate, now one could see that these hands of hers seemed like a young ladys of an influential family. Only then, did she pick up these things once more. Lu Zhu entered from outside and surveyed her surroundings to make sure there was not a person in sight around them. Then, she walked close to Jiang Ruan and quietly remarked, Miss, a person from the General fu has come. They want to see the person who has bestowed congee in their name. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, Is it truly someone from the General fu? There is an official seal and looking at it, it does not seem like a fake. Lu Zhu commented, Miss, how do you plan to reply to them? Jiang Ruan then put down the embroidery in her hands as she picked up the celadon teacup at the side. Lightly stroking the rim of the teacup in her hands, she continued, Then tell them that tomorrow early in the morning, I will personally visit them at their own residence and call on them. Miss? Lu Zhu was stunned. Jiang Ruan said, Go then. The Zhao family, since they had already brought up such a request, had likely fixated on the idea of definitely having a meetup face to face. This too was good, the days of Jiang Xin Zhis return to the fu were steadily closing in. Just relying on her own strength was truly too difficult and now that she had placed the bargaining chip clearly in front of them, she would carefully see if the Zhao family was willing to give this favour in return. * * * Within the capital, once the Zhao family received this news, Zhao Guangs complexion had become profoundly solemn. A few days ago Zhao Yi had arrested a group of refugees in the Chong Xin farmstead and based on Zhao Yis retelling, those people were bodyguards adept in martial arts. He swore that they were absolutely not ordinary refugees. Yet within a nights span in the imperial prison, all of them had committed suicide to escape punishment. It could be assumed that this was no simple matter. After all, it was unknown who was the mastermind in this whole affair. Yet, Zhao Guang was still able to make a few possible guesses. After listening to hearsay in the capital that Eighth Princes fu had recently tightly closed their gates, some had said that a large number of bodyguards had been executed. The young lady that Zhao Yi had mentioned bumping into, both the Zhao father and son had thought that the person behind it and the one bestowing the congee were definitely one and the same. Based on Xuan Lis methods of handling things, this person ought to have set themselves against Xuan Li. However, the unknown person in question had also helped the Zhao family several times. Only now, one could not speak too much in fear that what is said can not be unsaid. After all, the other partys identity was still uncertain and what if it was Xuan Lis stumbling block for them? They had gotten someone to go to the venue where they had been giving out congee and instructed their subordinate to put forward the request for meeting the person behind this operation face to face to sound them out. Yet, the opposite party had then said they would pay them a visit at their residence tomorrow. This sort of conduct, it truly made one unable to clearly fathom their intentions. Zhao Yuan Jia asked, Father, since that person dares to pay a visit to our residence, then they must have done adequate preparation. Shouldnt we also make our own arrangements? No need, A spark of contemplation flashed through Zhao Yuan Pings astute eyes as he replied, rather, I think the other party has done so to express that they have no ill-intentions: at least, they will not raise a dispute with us in the General fu. Even if he (they assumed the gender of the mastermind) does not have a conflict of interests with us, Zhao Yuan Feng seemed wholly unconcerned as he remarked, we, the people brought up in the General fu, what could we possibly be afraid of? Whether it is a god, or a ghost, we can just ruthlessly beat them up until they become round like a pig. Then, wouldnt they be honest? Shut up, Zhao Guang fumed and glared at him, angered by Zhao Yuan Fengs words, F*** you, cant you grow a brain? Laoer[1] says, it is true, however, just to safeguard against any tricks that person might pull, let us first have your mother, furen and also those in Yu Long settled well first. [1] Laoer (϶) C second-eldest child in a family. Here it refers to Zhao Yuan Ping, who is Zhao Guangs second eldest son. This is a more casual and affectionate way of addressing someone in the family, a nickname of sorts. Second Brother, Zhao Yuan Feng nudged the most intelligent amongst them, Zhao Yuan Ping, what kind of person do you think that person will be? I dont know. Zhao Yuan Ping shook his head, Weve all seen Fathers colleagues before and it cant be one of them. Anyways, tomorrow we will know who it is. That night, the Zhao family all slept, restless and disturbed. Early in the morning of the second day, Jiang Ruan boarded the carriage to set off. Every few days, Lin Zi Xiang would give her an invitation and Xia Yan maintained a gentle, considerate and warm motherly-like appearance. Therefore, contrary to what one might expect, she would have no reason at all to stop her (Jiang Ruan). Moreover, these few days, she had been busy with Jiang Su Sus matters. Jiang Quans attitude towards her had somewhat softened and so Jiang Su Su was able to avoid going to the private temple. However, as opposed to what they had hoped, Jiang Su Su had not been able to sleep well for a consecutive amount of days for more than half of the past month already. She continued to say that in the middle of the night, there was a ghost who knocked on her doors. Despite inviting several physicians over, her health did not seem to improve either. Thus, Xia Yan was extremely concerned. Ever since the General fu had gotten the Emperors praise and recognition from the act of bestowing congee to the masses, all of their colleagues in the officialdom had seen the changes in the wind and had set their helms. They had acted pragmatically and flexibly whilst trying to take advantage of the situation and momentarily, their front yard had been as busy as a marketplace and was filled with many visitors. Today, however, they had especially returned all invitation cards (with intentions to visit), specifically to await that one person. Gu lu, gu lu. The wheels of an ashy grey coloured carriage travelled forward and stopped in front of the General fus gates. From inside, a slim young lady dressed as a maidservant hopped down and went straight ahead towards the young manservant that was on gatekeeper duty. After speaking a few words, that young manservant hurriedly left. After a short period of time, Zhao Yi took big strides forward from inside those large gate doors. Behind him, there were several robustly built bodyguards following suit. Upon seeing that maidservant, they were slightly startled. Then, just like forming a boundary, they stared attentively at the carriage that was at the gates. The maidservant then walked over to the side of the horse carriage and standing on tiptoes, she bent inwards to speak a few words. As the curtains on the carriage were lifted by someone, from the inside, another person dressed as a maidservant hopped down. Zhao Yi frowned, for this person to come outside, why did they bring two maidservants; why did they conduct themselves like they were a female? Following closely, a maidservant with a slender figure then supported the person in the horse carriage down. Yet, who but an old lady with a stooped figure appeared with her eyes covered with a black slip of cloth. Seeing this, one would assume that it could be a blind person who needed to be assisted by that tall and slim maidservant as they walked to a side. Zhao Yi then stared wide-eyed as he found it hard to conceal the shock in his heart. Could it possibly be that the person that they were looking for was this blind old lady? This truly was something that made one feel too astonished. Then, he meticulously took a measure of the old lady. Yet, he was unable to find any unique point, so it was even more puzzling for him. All at once, he was unable to determine anything. Young Master? The gentle voice came from a place ahead of him. It was only then that Zhao Yi realised that while he had been staring at the blind old lady, at some point, another person had alighted from the horse carriage. With a conical bamboo hat placed on them, one could not see their facial features but that voice of hers, it was definitely one of a female. Moreover, it was rather familiar sounding. He had not expected that the person that would come forward to the General fu would be a female and Zhao Yi was stunned, Miss, please follow me. The four people then followed Zhao Yi as he walked inside the fu. In his heart, Zhao Yi was filled with surprise. Since it was a female, then it was fine to have just two maidservants following her. But why did she have to bring along a blind madam as well? As he was thinking this, that person suddenly reached up to take off their hat, revealing a familiar face to him. Zhao Yi gaped as he was tongue-tied, Its you! It is. Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, Zhao daren, I trust you have been well since we last met. In that split-second, Zhao Yi flushed as he looked at that bright and beautiful face of the young girl before him. Upon seeing her visage, he was somewhat fumbling for words as he felt ashamed; after all, the other party was only a young girl that was just merely in her teens. In any case, he himself was close to his twenties, how could he have just reddened upon looking at a young lady like this? He then suddenly thought of something as he replied in shock, The person who has been giving out congee, that was you? It wasnt me. Jiang Ruan responded and seeing Zhao Yis expression of heaving a sigh of relief, she then added, It was a person under my employ. You-you-you-you-you Zhao Yi stuttered, Who on earth are you? Zhao daren, anyways, I have also saved your life once. Jiang Ruan laughed, I will not harm you. Zhao Yi did not speak; now that the current political situation in the capital was this chaotic, there were many people who were glaring at the Zhao family like a tiger watching its prey, waiting for an opportunity to pounce on them. Who knew if this would be a trap? However, just like his father, Zhao Yi had a similar personality: mild, kindhearted and upright. He knew of the principle where one must repay favours given to them and had decidedly cupped his hands in greeting, Young Ladys kindness for saving ones life, on another day, one will definitely doubly return the favour[2]. Strangely, he felt a particular sort of familiarity and closeness to Jiang Ruan. His intuition told him that this young lady in front of him would definitely not treat the Zhao family unfavorably. He had many questions. However, as he saw the slight smile of Jiang Ruans side profile, he then swallowed them down. These questions of his, once they had reached the hall, Zhao Guang and his uncles[3] would naturally raise them. Chapter 80.1 - One’s Flesh and Blood (Part I) The Zhao familys father and sons sat silently. All three generations of the Zhao family were commanders in the military. Zhao furen, Su shi[1], had three sons and one daughter. Zhao Mei was the third child, and being the only daughter, the entire Zhao family doted on her without end. Although Zhao Guang was a military commander and his mannerisms were rough, he was extremely patient towards Zhao Mei. From a babbling baby to a delicate little girl to a slender and elegant young woman, she had always been raised like the pearl in his hands. When Zhao Mei liked horse riding, he spent a good sum to find a string of superb ponies; when Zhao Mei wanted to learn archery, he personally taught her. Zhao Yuan Jia and his two brothers were scolded until they were black and blue every day, but when it came to Zhao Mei, no one reprimanded her even a tiny bit. [1] Shi ( ) C clan name / maiden name. The Zhao family only had this one daughter and Zhao Guang loved her to bits. Su shi and Old Zhao Madame even more so, while the brothers protected Zhao Mei every day, to the point that not one child in the capitals circle of aristocracy dared to bully Zhao Mei. Growing up under such circumstances, as if she was blessed by the heavens, Zhao Mei naturally had a naive and unassuming temperament, so it was a pity she met someone like Jiang Quan. At that time, Jiang Quan was the upstart of the court. Young, handsome and coming from a literary family, he had a kind of elegant scholarly air. For Zhao Mei who was used to casual, offhand military men, it was truly too attractive. She was very daring and thought of ways to get close to him, but was seen through by Zhao Guang. Zhao Guang disliked Jiang Quan; although he was a military officer, it was not like he was all brawn with no brains. After weathering through the bureaucracy for so long, he could see this upstarts wild ambitions at a glance. It was fine to have wild ambitions, but after the Emperor was prevented from changing the Crown Prince by Xiao Shao, the court was constantly filled with covert maneuvers and open fights. Many courtiers had secretly chosen a faction to back. At the time, the Zhao family belonged to the neutral faction, insisting on not being involved with those vying for succession in these muddy waters. But Jiang Quan, on the other hand, faintly revealed his intentions to support Eighth Prince. Even if one day they had to join the fight, the Zhao family definitely would not choose Eighth Prince. After all, Xuan Li was an unfathomable person, dealing with him was like dealing with a tiger. And so, Zhao Guang disliked Jiang Quan even more. Although Su shi doted on her daughter dearly, on this matter she agreed with Zhao Guang. Moreover, as a married woman, she could instinctively see that Jiang Quan did not look at Zhao Mei as a man would at a woman. Rather, it was when he faced the captials most talented woman, Xia Yan, that his expression would become affectionate. Su shi was only a married woman, if Jiang Quan really liked Zhao Mei then she could accept it, but he proposed marriage when he obviously disliked Zhao Mei C it was clear that he definitely had a plan brewing in his heart. At that time, Zhao Mei insisted on marrying Jiang Quan and refused to listen to anyone. One was a rebellious daughter, the other was a stubborn father. It was the first time Zhao Guang fought with Zhao Mei and it ended with Zhao Mei being put under house arrest. Who knew Zhao Mei would escape from a window and meet Jiang Quan. Thus Zhao Guang flew into a rage, threatening to disown Zhao Mei. Although Zhao Mei was sad, she knew that in the end they were related by blood. With Zhao Guang this angry, naturally he would say as much. After she and Jiang Quan married and Zhao Guang calmed down, she could go to their door and apologise. After all, they were still a family in the end. The Jiang family also thought this way; the Zhao family was, after all, a meritorious and influential aristocratic family. Moreover, they also had a respected status in the capital. So, Old Jiang Madame did not continue to object, and took care of the marriage privately. But when the time to visit the maternal family came, the Zhao family did not admit Zhao Mei. They truly had intended to sever relations with Zhao Mei. Zhao Mei was naturally heartbroken and as the days passed, with the Zhao family showing no signs of reconciliation, the Jiang familys attitude towards Zhao Mei quickly cooled. Not long after, Jiang Quan brought in Xia Yan and became increasingly indifferent towards Zhao Mei. Enduring both a frosty relationship between husband and wife, and also the Jiang family acting apathetic towards her, Zhao Mei, who was alone, thought through many matters. Self-aware of what she had done, she could not bear to see her parents and brothers. Furthermore, she did not want the Zhao family to get involved with the Jiang familys muddy waters. So later when the Zhao family heard of Xia Yans affairs and came to visit the Jiang family, with an extremely harsh tone, she had chased the messenger away. With such interactions, gradually, the Zhao family and Jiang family really became strangers to one another. The atmosphere in the hall became strange. Zhao Guang looked at Jiang Ruan with a complicated expression. Over the years, it was not that he had not sent people to the Jiang fu. When Zhao Mei was alive, her attitude was always extremely harsh as if she was facing an enemy. Therefore, eventually, Zhao Guang had also hardened his heart and just pretended he did not have this daughter- even turning a blind eye to the entire Jiang family. Not one bit of news about the Jiang family could be heard in the General fu. But now, this granddaughter of his suddenly came forward and not only that, Zhao Meis old momo, who had once cared for Zhao Mei, had borne such shocking news. The people of the Zhao family were those who would shield their dear ones the most even if they were at fault C upon hearing these words, they were inevitably furious with unappeased indignance. Zhao Yuan Ping, who had all along been silent, spoke up: According to what you say, you are my niece[2]? Why have you been distributing congee? [2] Wishengn ( Ů ) C sisters daughter. Jiang Ruan glanced up at him. Based on rumours, this man was said to be the smartest of the Zhao family; he was born as gentle as a scholar. She smiled thinly. Eighth Prince wishes to use this chance to bring down the Zhao family. First, by dispersing the wealth, and second, by removing the Zhao familys influence. Since Second Maternal Uncle has called me niece, its only a matter of giving a helping hand. Where did you get the silver? Zhao Yuan Ping stared at her closely, not missing a single twitch in her expression. Jiang Ruans expression didnt change a bit. Recently the price of grain has risen many folds without slowing, however I bought it more than a month ago. Zhao Yuan Ping quipped, Dont tell me you are a clairvoyant? It was only a coincidence, Jiang Ruan replied. A sliver of light flashed in Zhao Yuan Pings eyes. He was not blinded by familial affection like Zhao Guang, neither was he as loyal as Zhao Yuan Jia, nor was he like Zhao Yuan Feng who only bothered to be surprised. As the most level-headed person in the Zhao family, he had been constantly observing Jiang Ruan after only a brief lapse in shock. Although she very much resembled his late younger sister, Jiang Ruan was a very different person from Zhao Mei. For example, right now, she didnt have any cracks in her expression. From the beginning to now, she had not shown any emotions while watching the Zhao familys commotion. She was even more cool-headed and self-controlled than the enemies he had met, but in the end, she was only a niece. Preposterous! How would you know Eighth Princes plan? Zhao Guang asked sharply. Jiang Ruans words, especially coming from a girl raised in a boudoir, surprised them immensely. Such a girl should not have known the courts affairs in such detail. It was even stranger because she said it all so bluntly, causing one to wonder if it was all a plot by Jiang Quan. Wait. The most impatient was Zhao Yuan Feng, who laid all his attention on the matter of his niece. What are you saying, you didnt come to revive the relationship with your estranged maternal family? Jiang Ruan flashed him a smile. This youngest maternal uncle had treated Zhao Mei the best, and still it seemed as though his personality had not really changed even after so many years apart. She said, Reviving the relationship with the family depends on the General and his furen. Ruan niangs status isnt important. Today I just came to negotiate a deal. What deal? Zhao Guang cooled down. If it had any relation to Jiang Quan, then her visit would be most suspicious. Jiang Ruan smiled thinly. I saved a great part of the Zhao familys fortune, and also rescued the City Garrison daren, who is also a member of the Zhao family. This array of favors, Ruan niang believes, are more than adequate. As for the deal, I hope the General can save my elder brother. If we consider on the count of blood relations, my dage[3] also has half of Zhaos blood in his body. [3] Dage ( ) C eldest brother / big brother. Your elder brother? Zhao Guang frowned. What happened to your elder brother? Also, what do you mean by saving Yier? Before Jiang Ruan could speak a word, Zhao Yi opened his mouth. Zufu[4], the young lady I met that day on the way to Chong Xin farmstead is her. [4] Zufu ( 游 ) C paternal grandfather Zhao Yuan Jia was momentarily shocked. So thats how it is. Jiang Ruan said, Things are like this: regarding my dage, hes currently fine, but the situation is critical. Xia Yan and Jiang Quan want to take his life. She didnt even call Jiang Quan father and had directly called him by his name. One could clearly see how much she hated him. Niece, you must be clear about this. What does that Jiang family want to do? Zhao Yuan Ping remarked with the faintest show of a smile. When my mother passed away five years ago, I was sent to the residence and Dage entered the barracks. I only returned to the capital late last year. Im acquainted with the young master of the Commander-in-chiefs fu, so I asked him to inquire about Dage for me. Now, Dage has been promoted to Deputy General and in a few days, is expected to return in the near future. My maidservant overheard Jiang Quan and Xia Yans plans to murder him. Niece, are you sure you didnt hear it wrong? Zhao Yuan Jia exclaimed. Hes still Jiang Quans own flesh and blood, how can he bear to do it? Jiang Ruan indifferently glanced at him. Jiang Quan loves that pair of siblings from Xia Yan dearly. Without my elder brother, Jiang Chao, who was born from Xia Yan, would be able to inherit all of the Jiang family. If Dage comes back, Jiang Chaos position would become precarious. In addition, now that Dage is a Deputy General, in comparison with Jiang Chao who is still a blank slate, he is definitely the greatest obstacle in Jiang Chaos path. Both of us, brother and sister, have long become thorns in Xia Yans eyes. And as for being flesh and blood Jiang Ruan smiled thinly. Eldest Maternal Uncle has probably had too many comfortable days and probably is unaware of how we have struggled for life under the hands of these stepmothers. If Jiang Quan truly cared about his flesh and blood, Xia Yan wouldnt have been able to bribe the Taoist priest to slander me with being born under a cursed star, nor would I have been repeatedly harmed when I was sent to the rural residence. If not for my good fortune, Im afraid that long ago, my mothers grave would have had another coffin beside it. Chapter 80.2 - One’s Flesh and Blood (Part II) What born under a cursed star? Zhao Guang asked coldly. General doesnt pay attention to the Jiang familys matters and naturally does not know. However, I would find it hard to believe that even the City Defense Commander hadnt heard of the uproar about Xu Kong dao zhang. Zhao Yi looked at Jiang Ruan in surprise. He moved about outside all day, and had heard of the things between the Jiang family and Xu Kong dao zhang when drinking with his colleagues. At the time, he pitied that innocent Eldest Jiang Miss very much with a sigh and wring of his wrists, but had no idea that the young lady was his paternal aunts daughter, his biaomei. Its preposterous! Zhao Guang hit the table with a fist, feeling like his heart was dripping blood. He was wrong. As Jiang Ruan said, Meiers had not lived a good life at all, but why hadnt she sought help from home? Why did she drive away the people he had sent with harsh words? She was afraid of implicating the Zhao family! He regretted that he hadnt accepted Zhao Mei when she first returned to their door as a bride. So what if the Jiang family tried to make use of the Zhao familys influence? At least Jiang Quan wouldnt dare to bully Meier like this, forcing her two children to these ends! My mother was forced to death by the Jiang family. Although I still am unable to find any evidence, someday it will definitely surface. Jiang Ruan continued, My mother never hated the Zhao family and when I was very little, she would often tell me stories of the Zhao family. Jiang Ruan looked at Zhao Guang. I have an enmity with the Jiang family as deep as the sea, but for now, I only hope General can accept this deal and save dage. In the end, she wasnt certain exactly how deep the Zhao familys feelings were for Zhao Mei. Speaking of this much was only to make Zhao Guang feel guilty C despite how advantageous the deal was for them- the Zhao family had always been known to be obstinate. If Zhao Guang felt any regret at all, he would agree to help. She swept a glance around the hall. The Zhao father and sons had resentment in their eyes, and evidently thanks to her, had their anger towards Jiang Quan aroused. Except for one Jiang Ruan smiled faintly at Zhao Yuan Pings* inquiring gaze. * T/N C The original text said Zhao Yuan Feng which i think is proabably a mistake made by the author. It should be Zhao Yuan Ping instead because he is the most rational one among them. Yes, it was like this. No matter how much the Zhao family loved Zhao Mei, she had passed many years ago. Towards those long dead, moreover it was a person who had been disobedient and had cut ties to their parents, would their feelings not fade away? Jiang Ruan did not know. She could only rely on what she remembered of Zhao Meis words about the Zhao family to slowly win their hearts. Amongst the Zhao father and sons, besides the somewhat visibly calm Zhao Yuan Ping, they all had bloodshot eyes. They were mostly people with emotionally honest temperaments, moreover, Jiang Ruan was talking about the Zhao familys most treasured daughter, so it was natural for them to become embittered. Reflecting on Jiang Ruans words, although she talked about it lightly, how could her life at the rural residence have been comfortable with her stepmother seeking to harm her at every turn? Jiang Quan and his wife had dared to harm Zhao Mei and now even aimed to kill Jiang Xin Zhi. For Jiang Ruan to have survived until now, who knows how many dangerous obstacles she must have experienced? Zhao Guang was extremely infuriated that his eyes were bloodshot. Jiang Ruan calmly gazed at him. General, this deal, do you accept or not? What if we dont accept? Zhao Guang asked. Then, I will stop distributing congee. Since General has won His Majestys recognition yet refuses to compensate me, I could not possibly have given you such a convenient advantage for nothing. As for saving the City Defense Commander, saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda, but the City Defense Commander wont be so lucky every day. Zhao Guang looked at her for a while, then suddenly grinned. Good! At first, he had felt that this girl had a cold presence. At such a young age she was unfathomable and her heart was definitely sly and full of paranoia. Now that he knew about Zhao Mei, he felt both regret and hatred, but also the suspicions he held against Jiang Ruan were all cleared away. Now he only considered her his granddaughter. The more he looked at her, the more he liked what he saw. She knew when to take action, was generous in her actions, and her intelligence was definitely one of the very best. A daughter of the Zhao family should have such a bearing like this! Why are you calling me General? Zhao Guang asked expressionlessly. Call me Maternal Grandfather. Jiang Ruan raised an eyebrow, without a blink, obediently called: Maternal Grandfather. After Zhao Guang made such a statement, Zhao Yuan Feng jumped to his feet and walked to Jiang Ruans side. You really are my niece. Saying so, he looked around before shaking his head. Its a pity your looks are more outstanding than Meier, but your temperament isnt as cute. Zhao Mei was gentle, but Jiang Ruan wasnt a gentle person. Zhao Yuan Jia and Zhao Yi were naturally happy too. Only Zhao Yuan Ping sat without moving, gazing at Jiang Ruan. As they were talking, several voices floated over from behind the hall. Yulong, slow down. Even Father is unable to guess which nobleman is visiting today, I want to take a look. Mother, Zumu, dont follow me. Second Brother, wait for me. Ill go too. You two stop right there! Soon after, two young men came out from behind the curtains. They were around fourteen or fifteen years old. The taller one looked scholarly and refined, with features somewhat similar to Zhao Yuan Ping, while the shorter one was glowing with health and youthful vigour. The two were stunned to see a beautiful young lady standing in the hall. Yulong, Feizhou. Two beautiful married women walked into the hall, calling gently. They were also shocked to see Jiang Ruan, though in the end, it was the gentle and virtuous Su-shi who stepped forward and smiled. We really cant control these children. Zhao Yi led Jiang Ruan to Su-shi. Zumu, see who this is? Su-shi had passed her forties, but her eyesight was still exceptionally good. Her body shook when she saw Jiang Ruan from far away. When Zhao Yi led Jiang Ruan closer, letting her see clearly, her tears fell like rain. My Meier! She tightly embraced Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan hugged back gently. After Zhao Mei passed away, there was no one to hug her so tenderly. Su-shis embrace made her fall into a bit of a daze. Zhao Yulong walked to Zhao Yuan Pings side and asked, Father, who is she? Zhao Yuan Ping grinned. Shes your paternal aunts daughter, your biaomei. Hearing this, Su-shi shuddered and slowly released Jiang Ruan, looking at her through her tears as her surprised joy receded. Shed thought it was the gods giving her a chance to see her deceased daughter again. However, her heart was soon filled with happiness again. Youre Ruaner? She asked. When Zhao Mei gave birth to Jiang Ruan, she had sent people to inquire. Jiang Ruan nodded. Su-shi did not know what to say for a long time as she stared at her, only patting her hand. Good, youre as beautiful as your mother; youve already grown into a fine young lady. Zhao Feizhou stood beside his mother and looked at Jiang Ruan curiously. All these years, I thought I would never get the chance to see you. Ruaner, does your father know about you coming here? Su-shi asked. Just as the Zhao family did not like the Jiang family, nor did the Jiang family like the Zhao family either. Su-shi was afraid Jiang Ruan would incur Jiang Quans wrath by suddenly visiting her maternal family. Jiang Ruan looked at this gentle madam, this maternal grandmother of hers? There wasnt a hint of ill-feelings towards her. Smiling, she replied, I have my ways of handling it. Seeing her calm temperament and with a befitting comportment similar to an adults from head to toe, Su-shi was both moved and gratified. Your mother has taught you well, taught you very well. Hearing this, Zhao Guang and his sons all had gloomy expressions. Ruaner, why the sudden visit? Do you forgive your maternal grandmother? In the past it was all maternal grandmothers fault for not caring about you and your mother. Have you suffered any grievances? It seemed like Su-shi was someone the Zhao family had protected very well and so she didnt know about the treachery of the outside world. Jiang Ruan thought for a moment, then smiled. Why does Maternal Grandmother say so? It was I who was unfilial, not visiting Maternal Grandmother for so many years. My life has been very good. The Jiang fu doesnt lack food or clothing, and no one wrongs me. Grievances? Naturally, she would patiently take revenge for everything herself. Seeing Jiang Ruan cover up all the Jiang familys actions, Zhao Guang and his sons felt moved. Su-shi had been depressed for many years ever since Zhao Meis death. If she knew of Jiang Ruan and her brothers sufferings, she would agonize over it a thousand times. Yet Jiang Ruan did not mention it, to the very end, she had been considerate of Su-shis feelings. She smiled thinly. I especially came here to visit my maternal family. Chapter 81.1 - Conspiracy (Part I) Su Shi could barely control her excitement. A myriad of emotions welled up in her heart as she embraced Jiang Ruan and said, My poor Meier led a bitter life and died early, Ruaner has grown so much, and must have suffered a lot. All of this is the fault of this old woman. On seeing that Su Shi was about to burst into tears once again, Zhao Guang hurriedly came forward to pat her on the shoulder and say, consolingly, Furen, isnt it a good thing that Ruaner has returned, why are you thinking about such sad things? Zhao Yi also urged her, Zumu, now that our biaomei has returned, this should be a happy occasion. The two mistresses of the Zhao family also consoled her. Su Shi wiped away her tears and smilingly said, Look at me, wasting precious time like this. Ruaner, please dont fault this old woman. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly but did not say anything. With the arrival of Su Shi, Zhao Guang and Zhao Yi did not continue inquiring into the matters of the Jiang family, but, together with Su Shi, started asking Jiang Ruan how she had managed all these years. Jiang Ruan told them the details, but concealed the Jiang familys ill treatment of her. Despite this, her indifference towards them was evident, and Su Shi was able to pick up on this. Since Jiang Ruan was unwilling to say more, she also did not press her for the details, but looked at Jiang Ruan with eyes full of love and regret. Zhao Guang and Zhao Yi had previously had some understanding of Jiang Ruan, as well as of her past situation. Now, watching her attempt to lighten Su Shis guilty conscience with nice-sounding lies, they came to love Jiang Ruan even more. Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou had never met Jiang Ruan before, and they only knew that a biaomei whom they had never heard of before had suddenly appeared at the General fu, so they assessed Jiang Ruan with a lot of curiosity. After Jiang Ruans conversation with Su Shi, Su Shi decided she wanted to go to the kitchen to personally cook a meal for her, so she called several of the Zhao familys old maidservants to go with her, and all of the remaining womenfolk left the room. Jiang Ruan looked at Zhao Guang and said, I have something else to say. Zhao Guang waved his hand. Come to the study. He turned his head to look at Zhao Yuan Jia and the others, saying, The few of you come along, too. Zhao Yi was considered an adult, so he naturally followed behind. Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou wanted to go, too, but Zhao Yuan Feng stopped them, so they left discontentedly. In the study, Zhao Guang sat down before asking Jiang Ruan, What is Jiang Quan planning to do with your elder brother? His first words were not about the distribution of congee, nor were they about Chong Xin farmstead, but about Jiang Xin Zhi. Slightly stunned, Jiang Ruan smiled and said, Does this mean that Maternal Grandfather is agreeing to help me? Zhao Guang stared at her as he replied, He is our Zhao familys grandson[1], how can I just stand by and watch without doing anything[2]? [1] Wai sun ( ) C grandson from the maternal line; daughters son; Թ [2] Xiu shou pang guan ( Թ )- (idiom) look from the side with folded arms; to look on without lifting a finger, Jiang Ruan bowed her head slightly. At the beginning, she had been unsure what the Zhao familys attitude would be, and thus had brought Jiang Quan and Xia Yan into the conversation. In reality, the statement she has made earlier about the maidservant overhearing Jiang Quans plan was just a groundless assumption[3]. Its just that, in her previous life, Jiang Xin Zhi had met with a vicious attack and lost his life. On thinking about it, this would be the most likely outcome again, so even if it meant that all the Zhao familys plans came to naught, she could not take this risk with Jiang Xin Zhis life. She said, It will probably take another five days for dage to reach the capital. On his way back to the capital, he will undoubtedly meet with an accident. She paused and looked at Zhao Guang. Even though I dont know what method they will use, they have sufficient means to plot against dages life. [3] Kong xue lai feng ( Ѩ ) C lit. wind from an empty cave; fig. baseless, unfounded. Zhao Guang clenched his fist. So arrogant! However, the Jiang family doesnt yet have this kind of power. Nowadays, the Jiang familys accounts are bare, and Jiang Quans official career has suffered one obstacle after another. The Jiang family is nothing more than an empty shell. The real force behind all these things is the Xia family. The Xia family? Zhao Yuan Ping frowned as he spoke. Xia Yans family? Indeed, Jiang Ruan said lightly. The Xia family and the Jiang family are related by marriage. Even though there may be conflicting views, if dage is not around, then Jiang Chao is the future head of the Jiang fu. Once he is the head, there will be an unbreakable connection with the Xia family. If dage is the head, the relationship between the Jiang family and the Xia family will not last long. Whether due to emotional ties or logic, if the Jiang family seeks the help of the Xia family, the Xia family has no reason to decline. Zhao Yuan Feng said, Isnt this to compel someone to their death? The Jiang family is truly inhuman! Father, let me kill that dog of a Jiang Quan! Zhao Yuan Feng had had the closest relationship with Zhao Mei, and he had never, not in the slightest, approved of Jiang Quan. Today, hearing from Jiang Ruan how Zhao Mei had been so badly bullied by Jiang Quan, and thinking about how his beloved elder sister had suffered in silence for so long, he was unbearably furious with Jiang Quan. At this moment, after hearing of Jiang Quans attempt to plot against Jiang Xin Zhi, the itch to do something straightaway in order to avenge Zhao Mei was almost intolerable. Listen to your father and sit down! Zhao Guang exploded. As if you havent caused enough trouble! Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and said, Third Maternal Uncle, the Xia family definitely has a hand in this matter. However, there is another family which may be involved. Who? Zhao Yuan Jia asked. The family of Grand Councillor Li Dong. The minute these words were uttered, the expressions of the people there changed. After a while, Zhao Yi asked, How did Li Dong come to be connected with the Xia and Jiang families? Li Dong belongs to Eighth Princes faction, as does the Xia family. The Li and Xia families are closely connected. If the Jiang fu is in difficulty, the Li family will not stand by idly. Jiang Ruan laughed, Moreover, Jiang Quan wants to marry me off to the Li familys Young Master to serve as a stepping stone to be able to use the Li family. Shameless! Zhao Guang slammed his hand on the table. He was so angry that his cheeks were quivering and his eyes were red. The entire capital knew what kind of person Li Yang was, that dissolute rake who consorted with prostitutes[4], whose backyard[5] was not enough to house all his concubines, and who derived especial pleasure from sharing the same woman with his father, Li Dong. If Jiang Ruan were to enter the Li family, it would be the same as a sheep entering the tigers den. Jiang Ruan was Jiang Quans flesh and blood, how could he do something as shameful as this! [4] Mian hua su liu ( ߻ ) C lit. sleeping willow; metaphor for prostitutes. [5] T/N As Li Yang is just the young master and not the lord of the residence, he probably does not have a large residence area of his own. Thus, his concubines probably share a common space with their own room/shared rooms in the back residence. The official residence can only be used by the legal wife and her children. (Thanks to @Irisu for the explanation!) Zhao Yi could not hold back his incredulity as he asked, Biaomei, is what youre saying really true? Jiang Ruan nodded. The Li family might collude with the Xia family to scheme against Jiang Xin Zhi, but it would naturally not be for this reason. Rather, Li An had recently been rushing to the Jiang fu repeatedly, and his relationship with Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan was harmonious. Li An was more intelligent than an average person, and it could be assumed that he had discovered that Jiang Su Su was not responsible for Li Yangs situation. Li An knew that she was the one behind the incident and was thinking of ways to exact revenge. So, if Xia Yan wanted to scheme against Jiang Xin Zhi, Li An would be more than happy to play a part. Zhao Yuan Jia muttered, Even a vicious tiger wont eat its cubs[6]. [6] Hu du shang qie bu shi zi ( Ҳʳ ) C lit. tiger poison does not make a meal out of its offspring. Loyalty and self-sacrifice are valued by those of the lower occupations, while the refined scholars usually act contrary to conscience and discard comradeship[7]. Jiang Quan and Xia Yan, who have always been known for their talent, are naturally cruel and unscrupulous*. Jiang Ruan said coolly. [7] Zhang yi mei duo tu gou bei, fu xin duo shi du shu ren ( ÿĶǶ) C a famous couplet by Ming dynasty poet, Cao Xuequan (ѧ); Ĺ (lang xin gou fei) C lit. heart of a wolf and lungs of a dog. She said this in a light-hearted manner, as if she was talking about an exceedingly ordinary matter, but within those gentle tones a thread of rancour was clearly revealed, which caused one to feel an inexplicable chill. After a pause, Jiang Ruan said, To ambush someone along a road would undoubtedly require many men and horses. Maternal Grandfather, could I trouble you to send for your troops, and assign some men to monitor the movements of the Xia and Li families. The instant there is unusual activity, the men should follow behind, and in this way protect my brothers life. Must we really take the step of sending out the troops? Zhao Yuan Jia said hesitatingly. Since Xin Zhi is a Deputy General, he will be returning with his troops. With so many troops, would they dare to attempt an assasination in broad daylight? I dont know what method they will use, Jiang Ruan said, but I do know that if we dont send sufficient manpower, my dage is headed for disaster. They must take action before dage reaches the capital; once in the capital, under the nose of the Emperor, it will be much harder to make a move. Therefore, they will definitely think of a way, plan a way, to take my brothers life. Eldest Maternal Uncle, please do not doubt me. Her tone was slightly cold. Zhao Yuan Jia was taken aback and said, I do not doubt you. Maternal Grandfather, do you agree to my requirements? Jiang Ruan asked. Although Zhao Guang was a General, he was not one to rush into action impulsively; ordinarily, in battle, he would ascertain that there was guaranteed success before he took action. At this moment, however, without a second thought, he said, I agree. He is my grandson, the Zhao family will definitely protect him. Jiang Ruan said, My heartfelt gratitude, Maternal Grandfather. Zhao Guang looked at Jiang Ruan. The young girl standing before him was calm, and her speech and conduct were no different from that of an adult. In their Zhao family, on an ordinary day, 13 and 14-year old Zhao Feizhou and Zhao Yulong would occasionally still display a childlike innocence. However, Jiang Ruan showed not even a hint of juvenile behaviour. She certainly appeared sweet-natured and gentle, but there was also a kind of cold indifference in her manner. There were evil tendencies which only those who had undergone the baptism of bloodshed on a battlefield would develop, and these tendencies had already seeped deep into Jiang Ruans bones. He heaved an inward sigh. Su Shi could not see them clearly, but he had met many more people. After the initial shock, he had seen the tendencies in Jiang Ruan. The entire time, she had never shown the usual excitement most people had when visiting ones kin. Her heart was firm and unyielding, and he was afraid that every word she had spoken to the Zhao family had undergone much careful deliberation first, and every word had a particular intention. She had assessed the entire Zhao family and included them in her plan, but the method she had used was not to conspire against them or to compel them. Instead, as a well lubricated wheel makes no sound, she had spoken so that no one could deny her request for help. Even though they had been manoeuvred into being involved, they were perfectly happy to do so. Jiang Ruan was so precocious, in all likelihood her years of living in the Jiang fu were ten thousand times more dangerous than what she had described. When all was said and done, she was a descendant of the Zhao family. Additionally, when Zhao Guang thought about the deceased Zhao Mei, there was no way he could remain indifferent. After pondering these things, he now no longer wanted to inquire further about the congee distribution and Chong Xin farmstead. He said, Your maternal grandmother should have prepared the meal by now C cough C lets go out together. Saying this, he stood up and walked out slowly. Perhaps because he had been hard hit by the news of Zhao Meis situation, his tall and sturdy back seemed to have become somewhat frail. Chapter 81.2 - Conspiracy (Part II) Zhao Yuan Jia and the others soon followed out of the study. Jiang Ruan was about to walk behind them when a figure appeared before her. Zhao Yuan Ping blocked her way and smilingly said, What are you really trying to do? His eyes bored into hers questioningly. Ruan niang does not understand what Second Maternal Uncle is saying. The Li familys participation is definitely not due to the reason you have suggested. You must have another reason for stating with such certainty that Jiang Xin Zhi is going to be ambushed. Father not investigating further doesnt mean that I wont. Zhao Yuan Pings expression gradually turned grave. Jiang Ruan, even if you are Meiers daughter, I have to ask C just what are you honestly trying to do? Jiang Ruan quietly gazed at him. Three generations of the Zhao family were all military leaders, but Zhao Yuan Ping was incredibly intelligent. It was indeed a pity that the Zhao family disdained the scholarly path. Thus, Zhao Yuan Ping could not achieve the top rank in the imperial examination and bring glory to the Zhao family. He was so familiar with the art of war and military strategies that he knew them like the back of his hand, and he became a trusted military advisor who could devise schemes of brilliant cunning. On the battlefield, being able to appraise the enemys mind could assist ones troops to a more assured victory. Right now, Zhao Yuan Ping was on his guard against her. However, she had never contemplated concealing anything from him. She said, Second Maternal Uncle, there is no need to be so tense, I will not harm the Zhao family. If that were not the case, I would not have distributed congee, neither would I have saved Da Biaoges life. If Second Maternal Uncle is still suspicious of me please consider all that I have done until now. Has there been even the slightest degree of detriment to the Zhao family? On seeing that Zhao Yuan Pings expression remained unchanged, she smiled indifferently and said, Moreover, if my dage can be saved, we are bound to capture some of the assassins. Then, we can use them to find out who sent them[1]; if they point fingers at the Li family, this would be greatly advantageous to the General fu, and not the least bit harmful. The Li family and the Zhao family have always been at odds. Second Maternal Uncle must surely know, if the Li family were to meet with a mishap, Eighth Princes influence would also suffer damage. Wouldnt that be a scene that the General fu would love to see? [1] Shun teng mo gua ( ˳ ) C lit. follow the vines to get to the melon. Zhao Yuan Ping tamped down his surprise and frowned. Jiang Ruan was announcing such blatant statements in broad daylight! Whats more, every single word stabbed deep into his mind. For a moment, Zhao Yuan Ping was unable to say anything in response. Jiang Ruan said, Second Maternal Uncle, dont worry. I wont cause trouble for the Zhao family. Between the Jiang family and me, there is an absolute irreconcilable hatred. I will exert every effort to help the Zhao family in order to cause the Jiang family much grief. After making that statement, she bowed quietly to Zhao Yuan Ping and departed without his leave. Zhao Yuan Ping considered her words for a while longer before laughing softly. His face then resumed its original expression as he walked towards the hall. * * * The General fu was a warm place where everyone lived in joyous harmony. However, elsewhere in the capital city, gloom prevailed, as if a howling storm fraught with danger was suddenly approaching. In the Jiang fus Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan caught hold of Lin Lang and asked, Did you hear clearly? Sun daren really said that? Lin Lang nodded and replied, Yes, Furen, Eldest Young Master has really been made a Deputy General, and will reach the capital in five days. What can we do now? Xia Yan gripped the tea cup in her hand tightly, then threw it violently to the ground. The porcelain cup, with its colourful depiction of a beautiful golden butterfly, was immediately dashed to pieces. Lin Lang stood to one side, not daring to make a sound, and trembling in fear as she looked at Xia Yan. Xia Yan gritted her teeth and said, What kind of luck does this little bast*rd have, why wasnt he killed on the battlefield! At present, she was still racking her brains to figure out how to prevent Jiang Su Su from entering the private temple, especially as Jiang Quan was seemingly unshakeable on this matter. Jiang Su Su had not slept well since the day Hui Jue left; she kept saying that there was someone knocking at the door in the middle of the night, but when the door was opened, there was no one there. Xia Yan had written to Hui Jue to invite him to visit, but Hui Jue merely said that the evil influence was too strong, and that the best course of action would be to send Jiang Su Su to the private temple as quickly as possible to get rid of the bad luck. Xia Yan was so furious that she was dying to tear off Hui Jues mouth. At this trying time, when she was hard-pressed on all sides, to hear that Jiang Xin Zhi had been made a Deputy General and was returning to the capital city flushed with success caused her to feel endless resentment. However, together with her deeply resentful jealousy, there were also worries. Jiang Chaos failure in the imperial examinations had really disappointed Jiang Quan. If Jiang Xin Zhi were to return at this time, with his outstanding military service, it would be difficult to guarantee that Jiang Quan would not entertain other thoughts. Granted, he did not like Jiang Xin Zhi and would not presumptively take away Jiang Chaos position. However, there was no way for Jiang Chao to enter the imperial court, which also meant that it would be impossible for him to make and maintain contact with the court officials. If, at this time, Jiang Xin Zhi were to enter the imperial court and establish good relations with the officials, it would be quite disadvantageous to Jiang Chao in future. When the people of the Great Jin Dynasty spoke of the Jiang familys sons, it was enough that they mentioned Jiang Chao; Jiang Xin Zhi was merely superfluous. Her Chaoer absolutely could not be tainted in any way, and no one could be allowed to threaten his position. Xia Yan clenched her fists tightly and the expression on her beautiful face turned utterly malevolent, as if she were a flesh-eating devil. She said, Jiang Xin Zhi cannot be allowed to remain alive! What does Furen mean? Lin Lang had been with Xia Yan for many years, so she was generally able to guess the intent behind Xia Yans actions. When that little bast*rd returns, what will happen to my Chaoer? People love to make comparisons, so they will always measure Chaoers failure against Jiang Xin Zhis success. How can I allow such a thing to happen? Xia Yan gnashed her teeth. Ever since Jiang Chao had failed and had his finger cut off by Bai Hua Lou, he no longer had a bright and outgoing personality, but instead had become exceedingly eccentric . His entire being was shrouded in a profound gloom, such that people were somewhat fearful when they saw him. Furen intends to wait for Eldest Young Master to return to the fu before taking action? Lin Lang asked. After he returns to the fu? Xia Yan laughed grimly. That little slut is so cunning, her older brother will not be much different. How can I give him the opportunity to enter the fu? I will not allow him to enter even the gates of the city! Astonished, Lin Lang said, Could it be that Furen is thinking of taking action on the way . . . but Eldest Young Master will have troops behind him. It will be too risky for Furen to do this, besides, there is no guarantee of success. So what if there are troops with him? We just have to use our brains. Xia Yan said, impatiently, Isnt his sister the person Jiang Xin Zhi cherishes the most? Then, well use his sister as bait. Im sure that he will obediently fall into the trap. In the end, no matter what was said, Jiang Xin Zhi had left the fu to throw himself into military service due to Jiang Ruan. They had never anticipated that he would actually have such opportunities and good fortune. Furen, do you intend for the Master to . . . ? Lin Lang asked. No, dont tell him. Xia Yans fingers tightened gradually, and a hint of bitter rancour flashed in her eyes. He must never, ever know. If they were living in previous times, everything would be fine and dandy. Previously, Jiang Chao had been witty and intelligent, Jiang Quans pride and joy. With Jiang Chao present, Jiang Xin Zhi had no place in Jiang Quans eyes. Even if Jiang Xin Zhi had been born a Deputy General, Jiang Quan would have been willing to close one eye and even resort to backhanded and secretive means, all in order to help Jiang Chao. However, the present Jiang Chao had been reduced to being the laughingstock of the entire capital city, and Jiang Quans colleagues frequently mocked him because of this. It was to be feared that Jiang Quans heart was beginning to turn against Jiang Chao; if Jiang Xin Zhi were to return to the capital at this time in such high regard, Jiang Quan would inevitably start considering alternative plans. If that happened, it would be disastrous. Xia Yan clutched her skirt tightly. Then . . . . Furen, how about asking the Marquis for help? Will he help? Lin Lang asked. A few days ago, Jiang Su Su had vexed Xia Cheng until he had flown into a red-hot rage. Moreover, due to the situation with Xia Jun, Yu Ya was itching to pick a fight with her. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su were already highly disliked in the Xia fu, so they were unlikely to receive help from that quarter. Naturally, Second Sister-in-law will not help me, but Father will, Xia Yan said. Since it is for the Xia family, Father will spare no effort to help me. The Jiang family could also be regarded as a source of assistance, more or less. Even if Xia Cheng was greatly dissatisfied with Jiang Su Su, he would not be willing to allow an outsider to seize the Jiang familys power and influence due to this small conflict. If Jiang Xin Zhi really did rise rapidly in the capital, he would be an immense threat to Jiang Chao. A Jiang fu that could not be controlled would be worthless. In order to safeguard the ability of the Jiang fu to stand with the Xia fu at any time or situation, Xia Cheng would not stand by idly. In this matter of eradicating Jiang Xin Zhi, he would even be more determinedly meticulous than her. Go and get the brush and paper. I want to write to Father, Xia Yan said. The corners of her mouth lifted up slightly; the Xia family would help. Moreover, there was another person who had abandoned his family [Li Yang had been injured in the Jiang fu thus they should be enemies]. Although she had no idea why the Second Young Master of the Li family, Li An, had repeatedly expressed his goodwill towards them, she could nevertheless take advantage of it. With the Xia family and the Li family working together, Jiang Xin Zhi would find it impossible to escape even if he had nine lives[2]. Chapter 82 - A Deadlock in the Woods The spring rain fell in a ceaseless drizzle, but this spring season, the Great Jin Dynasty did not experience the vigour of life brought about by the spring rain. Instead, it was enveloped by a thick shroud of gloom. Fortunately, in the capital city, the distribution of congee carried on uninterrupted, and some kind hearted and wealthy merchants had, one by one, joined the group of people donating provisions. The number of troops on garrison duty had doubled, and the trouble-making refugees had dwindled in number. Apart from the continued challenge of daily living, in other aspects there was not much difference between the time before the flood crisis and the present. The citizens had neither food enough to eat or clothes enough to keep warm, and were even less likely to pay heed to major events in the imperial court. Despite this, the news of General Guans triumphant return had still recently become the most talked-about topic all throughout the capital city. The courageous and skillful army led by Guan Liang Han would reach the capital that very night. However, the Guan Liang Han who was on the tip of everyones tongues was currently sitting in Dong Feng Lou, merrily drinking a cup of a recent vintage of Guanshan pear wine. Beside him, Mo Cong said, Second Brother, the entire capital city knows that you are returning tonight. Youre really not going to put on a show? False appearances, Guan Liang Han said with a scoff. I returned to the capital city much earlier, what show should I put on? If we keep talking about it further it will eventually be night time anyways, and who really cares about such things? Only idiotic people who make a big fuss over nothing. Mo Cong shrugged his shoulders and said, The rain is so heavy. Who knows where they are at this moment and whether they will be able to reach the capital on schedule. Dont worry. Guan Liang Han wiped his mouth. My subordinates are no pushovers, even if the rain were heavier, it would be no problem. Right now, they should have reached Wulin (Black Forest) Road. Wulin Road was not an official road. The official road had been inundated by the rising water a few days ago, and so the horses could not get through. Wulin Road wound through a vast forest of ebony trees, stretching on for miles, and the terrain was complicated. The trees were lush and grew in profusion, and if one were not careful, it would be easy to lose ones sense of direction. Moreover, there were wild beasts roaming around in the forest. However, the entire army was there, so it would not be an issue. Guan Liang Han tilted his head, poured wine into his mouth and said carelessly, Just wait without worrying about it. * * * In the Jiang fu, Jiang Ruan was lost in thought as she sat by the window watching the falling rain. For some inexplicable reason, she had been feeling uneasy from the time she had woken up early in the morning. Although she had been able to suppress the feeling, it still rendered her slightly preoccupied. Lian Qiao hurried in and said, Miss, this maidservant saw an unfamiliar old woman entering Yan Hua Yuan. She looked very happy when she left, and the people in Yan Hua Yuan seemed particularly jubilant as well. Jiang Ruan eyes leapt. She asked, Are you sure? Lian Qiao nodded. Jiang Ruan said, Im going out straightaway. Bai Zhi, Lian Qiao, come with me. Lu Zhu, you stay in the fu; if that side asks, I have gone out with Miss Wen to select some jewellery. Lu Zhu nodded and said, Miss, be careful. Xia Yan had been busy with her own affairs for the past few days, and did not have time to think about Jiang Ruan. Or, perhaps she thought that Jiang Ruan would not stir up much trouble, and would be even less of a threat once Jiang Xin Zhi was dead. Thus, she was more benevolent towards her at the moment. Concurrently, Jiang Ruan had also become close to Dong Yinger and some others, so it was very convenient to use them as an excuse for going out once in a while. Jiang Ruan and the two maidservants left the fu. Bai Zhi hailed a horse carriage, and the three of them hurried off to the General fu. Upon reaching the fus main entrance, they saw Zhao Yi and Zhao Yuan Feng leading a troop of imperial bodyguards out of the door. Zhao Yuan Feng was slightly taken aback on seeing Jiang Ruan, and immediately said, The informer that Father placed in the Xia family sent news that the Xia family departed for Wulin Road at first light. After a pause, he continued, The Li family is also involved in this matter. As Jiang Ruan raised an eyebrow, Zhao Yi added, It was not ideal for Grandfather to come out, so I and Third Uncle will work together. These men are all Zhao family soldiers; they are dressed this way to fool people. Biaomei, you should wait in the fu. We will definitely rescue Xin Zhi and bring him home. Jiang Ruan shook her head and said, I will go with you all. Without waiting for Zhao Yis response, Zhao Yuan Feng categorically refused to allow it. No, its too dangerous. You will wait here. Third Maternal Uncle, if I dont go, I will not be at ease for the rest of my life. This situation is extremely urgent; please dont waste time here, Third Maternal Uncle. I am able to protect myself. If it comes to a state where the situation is so treacherous that I cannot do so, then it can be assumed that it is no longer possible to control the situation. In that case, being able to die together with my dage will be a blessing. Her tone was indifferent, as if living or dying was of no concern to her. Zhao Yuan Fengs heart sank as he looked once again at Jiang Ruans determined appearance, and he thought about Zhao Guangs assessment of Jiang Ruan the previous day. With his thoughts in a whirl, he said, All right. However, you have to be careful. The sword does not discriminate; if you were to die by some unfortunate incident, how would I be able to account for it before your departed mother? Jiang Ruan nodded slightly. Zhao Yi hesitated momentarily, but, as there was nothing he could do, he led out a horse from the rear and asked, Biaomei, can you ride a horse? Before he had even finished speaking, Jiang Ruan had placed one foot in the stirrup, performed an elegant turn and sat squarely on the horses back, donning a douli[1] she had randomly grabbed. The agility with which she had assumed her position caused the surrounding imperial bodyguards eyes to light up. In her previous life, a beauty from the Western Regions who could ride a horse had arrived at the palace. Her horsemanship was exceptionally elegant, and it set off a craze for horse riding in the inner palace. Unfortunately, Jiang Ruan had never been taught how to ride a horse. In the end, Xuan Li had personally taught her how to do so. Although her horsemanship was not outstanding, Jiang Ruan had practised continually in order to make him sit up and take notice of her skill. Thus, she had become quite a proficient equestrienne. She had never imagined that the first time she would reveal her skill at horse riding in this lifetime would be in order to rescue Jiang Xin Zhi. 71r000170no556rq0or [1] Dou li ( ) C conical hat commonly seen throughout Asia. More here. Bai Zhi and Lian Qiao could not ride and hence had to remain behind at the General fu. With concern in their voices, they exhorted Jiang Ruan, Miss, be careful throughout the journey. They could not tarry as time was of the essence. Zhao Yuan Feng galvanised them like a horsewhip, Lets go! The entire party spurred their horses onwards as they galloped out of the city. The horses hooves splashed through the water on the roads in crisp, clear bursts of sound. Zhao Yi and Zhao Yuan Feng were initially somewhat anxious about Jiang Ruan. After all, ladies were physically more delicate, and she might not be able to endure the constant jolting that resulted from galloping at such high speed. However, Jiang Ruan showed no signs of discomfort throughout the journey, so they felt more at ease. The horses galloped even faster. * * * At the same time, Mo Cong and Guan Liang Han had just descended the stairs at Dong Feng Lou. On seeing Xiao Shao there, they greeted one another and were about to engage in conversation when they saw a group of people on horseback gallop past. The water that was kicked up by the horses splashed on Mo Cong, who retreated a few steps and said angrily, Hey, this young masters clothes have been sullied! Guan Liang Han burst out in uproarious laughter. Youre a man, why are you fussing over such trivial things? Eh, isnt that Zhao Yuan Feng? Xiao Shao was a little startled and followed Guan Liang Hans line of sight. At one glance, he noticed the slender figure in the middle of the party, a particularly striking sight due to the husky figures around it. Although the figure was wearing a douli, on noticing that Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi were riding next to this person, and recalling the recent information he had gathered that the Jiang familys eldest di daughter was a recent visitor at the General fu, it was not difficult to guess the identity of this person. What are they going to do? Guan Liang Han muttered to himself. Xiao Shao said, The men following them are Zhao family soldiers, dressed up as imperial bodyguards, thereby calling his attention to that detail. Private soldiers? Oh-ho, is this Zhao family joker not afraid to die? Guan Liang Han said in delight. Xiao Shao frowned, then abruptly turned and left. Upon seeing this, Guan Liang Han hurried followed him and asked, Third Brother, where are you going? I still have something to discuss with you. Xiao Shao walked over to the hitching post. As he untied his horses reins, he said, Well talk when I return. Guan Liang Han looked at him and asked, Youre thinking of following Zhao Yuan Feng? Xiao Shao did not reply, being entirely focused on setting off, which was in itself a kind of tacit agreement. Out of the blue, Guan Liang Han laughed out loud and said, This is interesting! I, too, want to see what this Zhao family rascal is up to. Seventh Brother, lead my horse over here. He then patted Xiao Shaos shoulder and said, I will go with you. Mo Cong reluctantly led over Guan Liang Hans horse and asked, Second Brother, Third Brother, can you take me with you? There was nothing in heaven or on earth that Mo Cong feared, apart from riding a horse. When he was small, a horse had thrown him off its back. It took him three months to recover, and he was never willing to ride alone on a horse again. Xiao Shao said, No. Mo Cong rubbed his nose and heard Guan Liang Han say, Just be a good boy and stay here. So saying, he turned and vaulted onto his horse. Without sparing Mo Cong a glance, he raised his whip, whereupon his horse galloped away. Left behind, Mo Congs face was ashen in fury, but he could do nothing about the situation. In single file, the two horses followed after the party in front of them. When Guan Liang Han caught up with Xiao Shao, his face took on a serious cast as he asked, Third Brother, is there something that you know? Xiao Shao did not normally have any friendly dealings with the people from the General fu, so it could not be that he was chasing after them merely to chat about good times. Something must have happened. Being a military official, Guan Liang Han was seldom in the capital city, so he also wanted to know if the Zhao family had any secrets. Xiao Shao heard him and eyed him with astonishment. With his beautiful eyes slightly narrowed, he said, coolly, They are heading out of the city. Yes, and what of it? Guan Liang Han asked. At present, it was only refugees coming into the capital city; none of the citizens were leaving it. The situation in the capital city was many times better than that of the outer regions. Moreover, that Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi were leading Zhao family soldiers dressed as imperial bodyguards indicated that there was definitely another reason; what on earth could that reason be? Although Guan Liang Han was usually away in the distant frontier regions, he was still able to figure out the temperament of his fellow imperial officials. This Zhao Yuan Feng, the third young master of the Zhao family, was usually rude and impetuous. However, he did not do things willfully. Furthermore, the Zhao family was known for its strict and rigorous upbringing, similar to that in the military, so it was not possible for him to have taken the soldiers to do something at will. Where would your army be right now? Xiao Shao asked. The official road has been destroyed, so they should be at Wulin Road. I returned by that route as well, so, estimating the course of their journey, they should be entering Wulin Road right now. After he had finished speaking, a realisation seemed to strike him, whereupon he looked at Xiao Shao in amazement and said, Third Brother, you dont mean to say that the Zhao family is charging for my troops? There are absolutely no relations between the Zhao family and my Guan family. At present, only you and Seventh Brother know about my return to the capital city. There is no way that the Zhao family is going to Wulin Road to meet me, and it cant be that they are charging for me. Xiao Shao shook his head and said, No. It has nothing to do with you. Then, what do you mean? Guan Liang Han was even more puzzled by his reply. Xiao Shao gripped his horse tightly with his knees as his horse shot forward like an arrow released from a bow. He half-closed his eyes and said, I cant really say whats going on, either. * * * After days of continuous rain, the roads were extremely muddy, and the possibility of minor rockslides added greater risk to the journey, such that a journey on foot that normally took three days now took at least five days. The General Guans troops had been marching for several days in their haste to return to the capital, and the troops were both physically and mentally tired. In front of them was Wulin Road. The rains had deluged the official road; the forest was dense around them and it was very easy to lose ones bearings, especially as the forest stretched on uninterrupted into the distance. The troops stopped for a rest just before Wulin Road. As Guan Liang Han was not with them, the entire army was under the command of Jiang Xin Zhi. Some soldiers called out to him in a friendly greeting, Deputy General, come and sit down and have something to eat! Jiang Xin Zhi smiled as he shook his head and said, No need! The soldiers did not ask again. It had taken Jiang Xin Zhi five years to rise through the ranks, from a junior camp cook soldier to the Deputy General whose scope of responsibility encompassed the entire battlefield. The Jiang family valued the pen more than the sword. When he was growing up, he had studied the Four Books and the Five Classics[2], and had never practised any martial or military arts. However, when it came to the point where he could not even protect his own meimei, he realised that utter uselessness was the way of the scholar. When he first arrived at the barracks, he was treated with no small amount of indifference. On the battlefield, though, the sword did not discriminate. That he was able to protect himself despite his lack of aptitude was a definite blessing from heaven. However, Jiang Xin Zhi still strived and finally managed to achieve his current position. [2] Si shu wi jing ( 徭 ) C the Four Books are the Great Learning, the Doctrine of the Mean, the Analects of Confucius, and of Mencius. The Five Classics of Confucianism are the Book of Songs, the Book of History, the Classic of Rites, the Book of Changes, and the Spring and Autumn Annals. These are the authoritative texts on Confucianism in ancient China; every son from a rich/ noble family had to know them inside out, and they were part of the set texts for the civil service/ Imperial examination. Read more here. He rubbed his horses head, feeling unexpectedly nervous. At that time, the decisions to enlist had been due to the temperament of a youth. Thereafter, once on the battlefield, he was no longer his own master. Indeed, he had not returned to the capital city in the past five years. On thinking about it now, placing Jiang Ruan in the exploitative and oppressive environment of the Jiang family was truly not a good idea. Over the past few years, he had secretly sent people to deliver his letters, written under different names, to Jiang Ruan, but he had never received a reply. The closer he got to the capital city, the more concerned he grew C in all these years, had Jiang Ruan fared well, or had she met with bitter experiences? After Zhao Meis death, Xia Yan had concealed her hard heart with a smiling face, and Jiang Quan had never liked the siblings. Cut off from all forms of support, would Jiang Ruan have been bullied by other Jiang family members? The more he thought about this, the more a peculiar, indescribable, jittery feeling rose up in his heart. He was lost in thought when the horse by his side lowered its head and nudged his body, its hooves pawing the ground restlessly. Jiang Xin Zhi laughed and said, Got it, Hei Feng (Black Wind), Ill take you to drink water. There had been no water source along the way, and the water on the ground was contaminated with the decomposing bodies of dead animals, and mud. For fear of falling sick due to drinking the contaminated water, the water they had brought with them had been reserved for the troops and horses in ill health. Hei Feng had been thirsty for a long time. There was a little stream in the middle of Wulin Road, so Jiang Xin Zhi instructed a soldier nearby, Ill take Hei Feng to fetch some water. You get the men to rest here first. Ill be back shortly. The soldier accepted his instructions and left. Jiang Xin Zhi turned and mounted his horse, intimately patting Hei Fengs neck. Go. Hei Feng snorted and stretched his legs to gallop forward. Although it was easy to lose ones bearings in the dense forest around Wulin Road, Hei Feng was experienced and knew the way, so Jiang Xin Zhi was not worried. Hei Feng had only gone a short distance when a winding creek appeared ahead. Because the dense canopy of ebony tree branches had kept off most of the rain, as far as the eye could see, the creek water was crystal clear, pure and limpid, without any contamination from the mud at all. Jiang Xin Zhi was overjoyed, but Hei Feng stopped moving right at that moment. Jiang Xin Zhi thought his horse was tired, so he patted its head and said, Well be there soon, Hei Feng, just keep going. To Jiang Xin Zhis complete astonishment, Hei Feng huffed out a few breaths, picked up its front hooves and set them down again heavily, clearly and unexpectedly refusing to move forward. Hei Feng began fretfully stamping the ground where it stood. Hei Feng was a warhorse with battlefield experience and was obviously intelligent, so Jiang Xin Zhi became suspicious. He calmly stoked Hei Fengs mane, whereupon the horse, on sensing his pacifying touch, gradually quietened down. Jiang Xin Zhi was furrowing his brows in concentration when a swoosh broke the quiet of the forest. Jiang Xin Zhi abruptly stretched out his hand and caught the object; it was an arrow, with a red cloth bag tied to it. With great suspicion, Jiang Xin Zhi tore off the bag and opened it C inside was half a piece of amber. He was stunned, and found himself clenching his fists tightly. When Zhao Mei was alive, she had had two pieces of amber in half-moon shapes. Each piece was complete on its own, but the two pieces could be put together to form a whole, As it turned out, each piece had a butterfly wing on it, and, when the two pieces were put together, a butterfly could be seen right in the middle of the whole piece, vivid and lifelike. Zhao Mei had made the amber pieces into two necklaces, one for Jiang Xin Zhi, and one for Jiang Ruan. The amber piece before his eyes was obviously that belonging to Jiang Ruan! Someone had taken Jiang Ruans things. For what purpose, he had no idea, but it had to do with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Xin Zhis hands went up to touch the piece of amber strung around his own neck. With narrowed eyes, he seemed to emanate a kind of vicious aura. At their current location, they were near the other troops and horses which were resting. However, there could be unknown dangers if he ventured further into the forest. Just then, a rustling sound was heard from within the forest, and he caught a glimpse of a jacket as it flashed past in the depths of the forest, heading even further in. Jiang Xin Zhi resolutely kicked against Hei Fengs belly and said, Go! Whether or not there was a conspiracy against him, the other party was using Jiang Ruan to threaten him. He could not remain indifferent, and did not even have the time to send word to his men. At that moment, Jiang Xin Zhi felt as if he was walking in the midst of a raging inferno, with every fibre of his body itching to burst forth in impetuous action. Hei Feng felt his fury, and even though it did not want to move forward, it neighed lengthily and charged into the forest. The terrain in the ebony forest was complicated in the first place, and it was Jiang Xin Zhis first time travelling that route. Unexpectedly, the person in front of him was highly skilled in martial arts, for this small path they were on was craggy and narrow. Hei Feng doggedly followed the trail, and the further they went into the forest, the taller the ebony trees grew. They almost obscured the sky, such that no glimmer of light was seen, and the surroundings were pitch-black. There was a momentary flash of the figure ahead of them, and then it abruptly vanished. Hei Feng stopped suddenly. Jiang Xin Zhi sat upright on the horse, unmoving. The forest was unusually silent. He had no idea how far they had travelled from the little creek and his troops resting place. Moreover, the disappearance of the person ahead of him confirmed that this was indeed a trap. Who had set the trap, and why? Jiang Xin Zhis expression was serene. The impetuous rage had dissipated, as had his worries. In fact, he was somewhat glad. Since this was obviously a trap, perhaps Jiang Ruan was safe. He unhurriedly withdrew the sword at his waist. Once the sword was unsheathed, three chi[3] of cold steel reflected his figure. Murder was in the eyes of this young Deputy General, for, after all, he was one who had experienced the bloodbath of battle. [3] Chi ( ) C traditional Chinese unit of length. Depending on the era were in, Jiang Xin Zhis 3 chi sword measures somewhere from 66 cm to 1 metre (27 inches to 3 feet). More about the chi here. (We will not conjecture as to whether the length of a mans sword reflects his . . . prowess) With a swoosh, Jiang Xin Zhi thrust his sword forward, while simultaneously dropping his body sharply, thus narrowly avoiding the sneak attack from behind. In a flash, he turned his horse around and saw a group of strangers dressed as imperial bodyguards. Five men in total. He made Hei Feng take a few steps back before asking, Who sent you? Young Master Jiang, be sensible. Why dont you surrender your life to us, and let the five of us return to report the accomplishment of our mission? one of them said. Jiang Xin Zhi laughed grimly and said, I care not about life or death! So saying, he leapt off his horse in a sudden movement and aimed his sword at the frontmost stranger. The stranger did his best to evade the blow but was unable to do so in time, so Jiang Xin Zhis sword slashed his arm. They had clearly not expected that his swordsmanship would be so refined. The strangers exchanged glances and, without another word, swarmed around Jiang Xin Zhi to commence the battle. Chapter 83.1 - Brother and Sister (Part I) Jiang Xin Zhi was one versus five opponents. However, not even by the slightest margin did he lag behind those who exchanged blows with him in such a short period. At this, each of his opponents had a hint of amazement in their eyes. It was because they were initially asked to observe Jiang Xin Zhi who, when all was said and done, had been someone who had been on the battlefield. However, he was someone who was starkly different from hearsay- a young master of the Jiang family who was described as scholarly and weak. During this period, this handful of fighters found it somewhat strenuous after exchanging blows with him and by now had expended much of their physical strength. Then, one of them gave a meaningful signal to another and in the split-second, these two fighters showed a renewed grit of determination. Step by step as if their life depended on it, one pressed harder whilst the other circled round to Jiang Xin Zhis back to strike at his horses leg. Neigh! Hei Feng gave a long whinny as its front legs were severely slashed by a sword. With that, both of its forelegs buckled as it knelt down. Jiang Xin Zhi flipped himself over to get off the horse. As he did so, two other guards seized the opportunity to attack him. Jiang Xin Zhi leaned his body to the side but when he touched the soil underfoot, he felt that his body was suddenly sinking in. He was startled as he lowered his head to look. As expected, it was because his calves dipped into, and mud as he struggled, he sunk even deeper into it. The several fighters then sheathed their swords as Jiang Xin Zhi looked at his lower body. In just a short period of time, the mud had alarmingly pulled him down to waist level. Unexpectedly, he was surrounded by a large marsh area. Above this swamp layer, they had actually used dried, withered branches and twigs to completely conceal this fact and thus, he had not discovered it prior to this battle. So, these few people, who had fought with him, had actually planned to trap him here. The more one struggled in a swamp, the more one would be engulfed in its midst. After figuring this out, Jiang Xin Zhi stopped struggling as he coldly stared at the people before him, Who sent you? One of the guards laughed, Eldest Young Master Jiang, you can only blame yourself for blocking someone elses path. If you must ask, then when you arrive on the roads of the Yellow Springs[1], go ask Yama[2] about it! After saying that, with a wave of his hand, Jiang Xin Zhi heard a rustling sound coming from the woods and then saw countless numbers of people appear. All of them had a bow in their hands as they knocked an arrow seemingly in preparation to kill him. [1] Hung qun ( Ȫ ) C the underworld of Chinese mythology which is the equivalent of Hades or Hell [2] Yn wng y ( ү ) C the King of Hell Jiang Xin Zhi had a sudden epiphany; as it turned out, this was actually the real checkmate right here. From the very beginning, these people had wanted to trap him in the marshy swamp and then in the confusion, they would have him shot dead through the heart with arrows. Such conniving, vicious and sinister intentions! However, after all was said and done, who would have such a deep hatred towards him? But no one was there to help resolve his dilemma as he then merely saw a wave of someones hand. At that moment, numerous arrows were simultaneously targeted at him and as the whooshing sounds pierced the air, the arrows darted like a shower of raindrops towards him! Jiang Xin Zhi still had a blade in his hands and naturally, could not just await his death. With a swift brandish of his sword, he obstructed the first wave of arrows. One after another, they fell into the mud. Jiang Xin Zhi knitted his brows tightly; in a short time, with that vigorous sword move, his body had sunk even deeper into the marsh. If this continued on, even if he was not simply shot to his death by the flurry of arrows, he would still submerge and drown in the swamp pit- in the end, disappearing from the realm of living. To be caught in such a damnably inescapable circumstance, he was trapped with no room to advance or retreat. What an extremely malicious scheme! With another wave of the fighters hand, a new wave of arrows shot forth; this wave of the attack was even more concentrated with a constant flurry of arrows flying successively towards him. Jiang Xin Zhi unhurriedly lifted his sword but before he could even parry the attack, the arrows that were still in air seemed to be struck with something strange. In midair, they suddenly plunged to the ground and from far away, there was a sound of swords clashing. The hurried canter of hoof-steps came closer and with his narrowed stare, he actually saw a squadron of horsemen rushing from the depths of the ebony forest. Wherever they went, they were completely hacking down the men, who were stringing arrows to bows, to the ground. The arrival of this group of horsemen was too sudden and not only was Jiang Xin Zhi astonished, even the fighters were gobsmacked. One by one, they turned around to deal with these people. Distanced too far away, Jiang Xin Zhi could not see clearly but the appearance of the two men in the lead was foreign to him. Between them was a lone horse whose pace was somewhat slower; the person mounted on it was dressed in red from head to toe. With a douli on their head, one could not clearly see their features. Yet, Jiang Xin Zhi could not help but feel an odd sensation in his heart. Jiang Ruan tightly clenched her fists on horseback; even though she had experienced a lifetimes worth of painful torment, she had thought that her temperament had been tempered into a tenaciously cold nature. Yet, when she clearly saw the situation right before her eyes, a rush of uncontrollable rage still burst from the depths of her heart. So it turned out that this was actually how Jiang Xin Zhi had died in her former life! One would have thought it to be true that Eldest Young Master Jiang would be able to return flushed with his success, in gorgeous and resplendent clothes, to the capital. Yet in the midst of this eerie, ebony forest, like a trapped beast, he had been captured in a slurry pit and pierced to his death by a thousand arrows! In such a place not far off from the capital, he had soundlessly vanished from this world! The Xia family, the Jiang family, the Li family; this debt that she had from them, if she did not pay back in full, she would be beside herself[3]! [3] B wi rn (Ϊ) C What Jiang Ruan meant here was a saying: if she was unable to recompense them for this enmity and hatred that she held for them, she was unable to behave with integrity or conduct oneself. In a way, this concerns her pride: wherein she would have no way to meet anyone in the eyes for sparing them. This saying describes her tenacious determination to get even or more with these fiends. These archers that had been lying low to ambush him in the depths of the forest realized that something was amiss. As they began to cross hands with the people that Zhao Yuan Feng had brought with him, all at once, one could not differentiate the opposing forces from each other. Seeing Jiang Xin Zhis body still gradually sinking into the swamp, Jiang Ruans heart was austerely cold. Without thinking any further, she steered her horse as she made a beeline towards him. Previously the fighters had assumed that matters had already reached the point wherein their success should have naturally followed. Yet who knew that midway through their plan, suddenly, the cavalry would come rushing in. Naturally, they were extremely resentful. Whilst some of the men had crossed swords with Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi, one person had noticed Jiang Ruan. In the midst of this ill-timed arrival of the cavalry, Jiang Ruans appearance was naturally rather unusual. With her dainty body, it was difficult for anyone to not notice her. That fighter had then leapt quickly into action. With a swish of his sword, he had immediately struck towards Jiang Ruan. Zhao Yi and the others were slightly further away from her. Moreover, at that moment, they were also busily entangled in battle with the other opponents around them and were too occupied to attend to her. With a narrowed stare of her eyes, Jiang Ruans gaze met with the flash of that sword strike. Abruptly, she bowed and drew her body flat against the horses back as she narrowly avoided that slash. With that failed strike, the blade in that persons hand changed its direction as it suddenly chopped down towards Jiang Ruan once more. However, her horse had been frightened by the whip of wind that the sword had caused. Instantly, it had stopped in its steps and Jiang Ruan was left with no way to retreat. She could only raise her hands to block the attack. With a grit of her teeth and a squeeze of her eyes, she supposed that it was just the loss of an arm. However, that strike did not land down on her and Jiang Ruan only heard the echo of a clang and the muffled grunt of a mans voice. As her eyes flared, the man before her had used his left hand to cover his wrist whilst his right hand was somewhat trembling. His hand was trembling so much that he could barely hold the sword in his hand as a trickle of blood dripped from his fingertips. Jiang Ruan had lowered her head when she saw a distorted and deformed bronze plaque[4] hanging on his waist just as the fighter before her began to raise his sword once more. Suddenly, as if there was a gust of wind, a persons figure leapt into the fray to cross blades with him. [4] T/N C This bronze plaque is used as an identification of ones status in an army. Jiang Ruan was slightly startled, however, it was no more than a moment before the fighter suffered a gash to his neck with one slash of a sword. Covering his neck, the fighter fell and rolled on the ground. Since Jiang Xin Zhi had been dealing with the assassins for quite some time on his own, with this new fighters participation, he quickly dealt with one of the assassins. When the other assassins saw the change in dynamics, collectively they began to surround and close in on this new fighter. Jiang Ruan was still on her horse. As this person inclined his head over to give her a glance, it was unexpectedly Xiao Shao before her. As his elegant and heroically handsome face turned towards her, he indifferently remarked, Get behind me. With his eyes coldly staring at the two fighters that had surrounded him, he seemed to not have even the slightest regard for the danger posed to him. As the fighters around him had all rushed towards Xiao Shao to eliminate him, Zhao Yi caught a break to steer his steed at a breakneck speed towards her. Worriedly, he asked with concern, Biaomei, are you alright? Jiang Ruan shook her head and as Zhao Yi looked towards Xiao Shao, he was at once stunned. Xiao Wangye? Jiang Ruan responded to Zhao Yi, Theres no time to lose, hurry, please save my dage. There was an endless stream of the clanging sounds of sword fighting at close quarters in the midst of the ebony forest. Without another word, Zhao Yi dashed towards Jiang Xin Zhis location. Yet, the archers that laid in ambush in the forest were a thornier problem than they had expected. First, there were a huge number of them that might even be more than double the size of the Zhao familys troops. Second, these people, in all likeliness, did not seem like a disorderly bunch of layabouts. Contrarily, they seemed like people that one would see in the military troops, organized and disciplined. The remaining fighters were launching an attack directed towards the two people, Zhao Yuan Feng and Xiao Shao. Thankfully, the skill between these two people were not to be underestimated either and contrary to their opponents expectations, they did not fall to a disadvantageous position. After exerting a great amount of strength, Zhao Yi had managed to pull Jiang Xin Zhi out of the swampy marsh. Right at this moment, they heard a loud, mocking shout, Xin Zhi- you, how have you been toyed into such a state? To go so far as to tail behind them, the one who appeared before them close to the very end of the battle was Guan Liang Han. Just as he spoke, the Guans family troops, who had remained in place waiting for Jiang Xin Zhis return, had finally realised after a long time that something was amiss. Once they set off in search of him and followed the sounds of sword fighting, they had also rushed over to the scene. Upon seeing the situation, Guan Liang Han then simply and bluntly laid an order, D*mn[5], where did these youngsters come from, for them to have schemed onto this grandfathers person. Go and exterminate all those archers for me! Chapter 83.2 - Brother and Sister (Part II) Trigger warning: Animal cruelty, gory descriptions of violence (torture) and cruel handling of livestock. In comparison to the people that Zhao Yuan Feng had brought, the Guan familys troops were greater in number and with their might, subduing these few archers was even more of a cinch. With Guan Liang Hans help, the archers were quickly brought in check. As the remaining fighters were also pressed under the blows of Zhao Yuan Feng and Xiao Shaos swords, several of the enemy fighters were all turning pale with fright. The situation in which they were confident of its success had suddenly turned on its head; who knew why, that at this moment, against all reason, how such a slip-up had occurred. Guan Liang Han stepped forward and kicked one of the fighters, who had been in the forefront of the attack, in the jaw, Hey, tell me clearly, who sent you here? The fighter stared at them and jerked his throat. Seeing this, Jiang Ruan immediately called out, Its no good, they are about to kill themselves. To her surprise, these people were actually suicide soldiers. Once their mission had failed and they were unable to return with their mission completed, once they fell into the hands of their enemies, they would naturally ingest poison and commit suicide. However, what sort of person was Xiao Shao C ever since he had joined the Jin Yi Guards at the age of ten, he was deeply knowledgeable of these sort of tricks. Such a move displayed right before his eyes was like one trying to display their slight skill before an expert, thus, in a blink of an eye, he had dislocated several of their jaws. This made it impossible to swallow the poison that was hidden under their tongues and in pain, a few of the fighters began rolling on the ground. With Xiao Shaos sudden slight of hand, it had saved them much effort on many affairs. Everyone present heaved a sigh of relief. Jiang Xin Zhi who had just escaped from a calamity, cupped his hands in salute, This day, it is many thanks to the gentlemen present (that I was saved). However, I* (T/N: he is currently humbling himself in gratitude) have a question that I would like to seek for your wise guidance His question had yet to reach its end when he heard a gentle voice, Dage. Jiang Xin Zhi was startled- Jiang Ruan had already begun to lift up the douli on her head and then threw it aside. As she revealed the face underneath the hat, seeing Jiang Xin Zhis blank and distracted look, she then lightly laughed, and again uttered, Dage. In the depths of her eyes, there was a concealed, minute trace of watery glimmer. Jiang Xin Zhi motionlessly stared at the young girl before his eyes. Ever since he had left the capital five years ago, he had never heard any news of Jiang Ruan ever again. The young girl before him was extremely foreign, yet in that appearance of hers, there was still a familiar feeling. Who was this, in the depths of his memories, the soft, immature and adorable little girl that would tug on his clothes and shyly call him Dage had already disappeared. The young lady before him still had the facial features of that young girl in the past. Shedding off her former childish nature, it was as if a flower was currently in bloom and already had traces of a youthful and inexperienced bearing of gracefulness. His meimei, ah, she had already grown up. As the hoods of his eyes welled up in warmth, Jiang Xin Zhi called out, Ah Ruan! Whilst Jiang Xin Zhi had been sizing Jiang Ruan up, she too had quietly taken a measure of him. The Jiang family had always preferred the pen to the sword, thus, the sons and grandsons of the Jiang family were not allowed to enter the military ranks and could only enter through the official ranks. Jiang Xin Zhi had always given the bearing of a cultured and refined young master; however, whilst his facial features remained handsome, he had lost his natural charm as a refined youth. His skin was now somewhat more tanned than before and he had gained the hardened grit that one had after experiencing a baptism of war and blood. It was a stalwartness that was characteristic to a soldier. This man and the Jiang Xin Zhi that was in her memories were entirely different. Moreover, meeting him thus once more, it had already been a separation of a whole lifetime. As she slowly walked forward, Jiang Xin Zhi lowered his head to gaze at her. Gently widening her arms without a care about the looks of everyone present, Jiang Ruan hugged Jiang Xin Zhi. She greeted, Welcome back, Dage. As the two brother and sister finally met, Zhao Yuan Feng rubbed away the stinging tears that began to develop in his eyes. He then asked Xiao Shao and Guan Liang Han, who were standing to the side, Xiao Wangye, General Guan, why are the both of you at this place? Xiao Shao had yet to answer when Guan Liang Han responded, Someone was putting their hands on my Deputy General, how could I still watch with folded arms? Rather, I would like to see, who would have such great courage to conspire to murder me? Also, Guan Liang Han and Xiao Shao had suddenly turned up and lent a hand, and with that, Zhao Yuan Feng frowned whilst Zhao Yi was somewhat at a loss. Jiang Ruan smiled slightly, Then, many thanks to Wangye and General. With those people preparing this many archers, one could suppose that this is unlikely to be the work of any normal person. Perhaps, they might even be spies of another country or perhaps, they might have been rebelling troops; one might find it hard to ascertain. This situation is no small matter and could even concern the safety of the current political climate in the Great Jin Dynasty. Would you two daren please investigate until you reach the bottom of this matter? With just a comment of hers, she had redirected the current situation towards the possibility of it being a rebels conspiracy. Whilst she had spoken rather exaggeratedly, the people on the ground had all, without exception, looked upon Jiang Ruan with a sharp glower. Whilst both Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi were choked between laughter and tears, Xiao Shao looked at her profoundly and Guan Liang Han furrowed his brows. Jiang Xin Zhi patted Jiang Ruans head, Ah Ruan, what you said, what did you mean? Jiang Ruan smiled at him, I was thinking that Dage was merely making his first ever return to the capital. How could Dage have suddenly provoked someone to create an ambush to murder you or perhaps, amidst this chaos, it is not clear if that person might even have other plots behind this affair? These people are all suicides soldiers, their mouths are sealed tight, how can it be so easy for them to confess. Guan Liang Han sneered. **** Scenes of of graphic torture/animal violence ahead. Skip until **** Naturally, the normal criminal sentences that one would usually utilize are useless in this situation . One, they are unafraid of pain; two, they are unafraid of death so to pry open their mouths would be even harder than reaching the sky. Jiang Ruan faintly continued, However, I once heard of a method of slowly cutting ones skull open, then scalding hot oil would be poured inside. The person would not be dead therefore they would be able to feel the sensation of their brains being slowly burned. Even if this person was the most unyielding type, they would be unable to bear being subjected to this. In a daze, everyone stared at her in shock and fear. As they all listened to the method that Jiang Ruan described, they all felt terrified. When the fighters on the ground heard this, their bodies trembled slightly and Zhao Yi gulped, Biaomei, wherever did you hear this method from? Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, I heard this from a person who had travelled widely. This sort of method was not used to deal with people, it was used to deal with monkeys. In their region, the locals are fond of eating one delicacy and that was eating uncooked monkey brains. Once the monkey had been set on the table and had their cranium sliced open, hot oil would be poured inside and while it was piping hot, one would eat. Eating in this manner would be extremely fresh. Ruan niang had thought this act was too excessively cruel as those monkeys would be chattering incessantly; until the brain had been completely partaken. Seeing those people on the ground, her tone was as gentle as always, I am unsure how these people would think of the taste of eating their own brains, thinking about it; this truly is cruel. **** Violence ends**** Zhao Yuan Feng chuckled as well, Certainly, that is too ruthless, however, this is all for the sake of conducting affairs for the people. For the Great Jin Dynastys safety, who allowed these people to harbour such evil intentions. Ah, General Guan, you certainly have to interrogate them carefully This pair of uncle and niece were both echoing one another and those on the ground were close to passing out in aggrievance. Jiang Xin Zhi was somewhat astonished. The Jiang Ruan in his memories was kind-hearted and pure. If it was only an ant, she too would be unable to bear squishing it. Yet at present, these words of hers- if he did not hear the underlying hints in them, then he had lived these few years in vain. Only, as he gazed upon Jiang Ruans ruthlessness before him, he did not feel the slightest shred of unhappiness. Instead, what was present was a deep distress on her behalf; to make such a young girl who had been ill-versed in worldly affairs and was wholly innocent reach this point, Jiang Ruan had most definitely suffered much pain. As Guan Liang Han listened to Jaing Ruans words he thoughtfully looked at Jiang Xin Zhi. Then, he glanced at Xiao Shao as he questioned, You are Those few words that Mo Cong had referred to her as, that malicious woman, were stuck in his throat. Guan Liang Han lightly coughed, Xin Zhis younger sister? Jiang Ruan nodded her head. Zhao Yi patted Jiang Xin Zhis shoulder, Biaodi[1] Xin Zhi, Im your biaoge[2]. He pointed to Zhao Yuan Feng, He is my third uncle, your maternal uncle. [1] Biod ( ) C younger male cousin via female line [2] Biog ( ) C older male cousin via female line. Although Jiang Xin Zhi was astonished, seeing as these people had just saved his life and upon seeing how they had seemed to have interacted with Jiang Ruan with no malicious intentions, he then smiled, Biaoge, Third Maternal Uncle. Zhao Yuan Feng replied, Ah Ruan, now that Xin Zhi has returned, both of you siblings should just stay in the General fu then. Jiang Ruan shook her head, No, thats fine. Dage, lets return to the Jiang fu. With Jiang Xin Zhi returning in the flush of his success, how would it be okay if they didnt add some blockades for that mother C daughter pair? One would fear that just at the sight of Jiang Xin Zhis healthy and intact state, they would also puke up blood. If they had instead returned to the General fu, then, how would one still be able to stir up the dramatic play awaiting them? Jiang Xin Zhi had always willingly and obediently gone along with Jiang Ruans requests, so naturally, he agreed. Zhao Yuan Feng frowned but then felt relieved so he acceded to her wants, Fine. With your elder brother by your side, it is unlikely that you would get bullied by others there. If there truly is anything amiss, the General fu will always be your perch to rely on for support. Over the last few years, the General fu and the Jiang fu had lost any and all connection to each other. Thus, in this moment, with the appearance of having good relations between this sibling pair from the Jiang family, this held another layer of meaning in the eyes of Xiao Shao and Guan Liang Han. Jiang Ruan walked before Xiao Shao. As Xiao Shao lowered his head to look down at her, Jiang Ruan smiled lightly, Usually, these people would be handed over to Biaoge and Third Maternal Uncle to investigate clearly, however, since General Guan and Xiao Wangye have interfered in matters, then we too will just have to do you a favor at little cost and hand these men to these two daren. If something truly comes out of this, then it would certainly be of great merit and service, and His Majesty would bestow something to General and Wangye. When such a matter arises, please do not forget the efforts that the Zhao family has expended in this matter. Xiao lifted his eyebrows as his beautiful eyes fixed on her. Today, a chance encounter inevitably helped out the Zhao family. Yet according to Jiang Ruans account, the situation was changed and they were the ones who ought to be offering their thanks to the Zhao family? She was definitely not one who was going to suffer a loss under any circumstances, so much so that even verbally she was a master at gaining the upper hand. However, as Xiao Shao looked upon those who were lying on the ground, he had to admit that what Jiag Ruan had done was not without its uses. Take for example, these men. They would most definitely be of good use. On the other hand, Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi were somewhat surprised. Until this moment, Jiang Ruan had not forgotten to speak up for the Zhao family. Rather, if they were to go with what she had once said, she would not harm the Zhao family. Moreover, at least, for this matter, perhaps the Zhao family would still receive a lot of benefit. Jiang Xin Zhi gently gazed at Jiang Ruan. Now, it seemed that Jiang Ruan would handle matters suitable for the occasion as she clearly had her own definite opinions. With every manner, every move she made, nowhere was there any remaining semblance of the bearing of a little girl anymore. As he noted this, he was doubly sad yet gratified. What the cost was behind such a lightning-quick growth in maturity, the youth that he was C who had once left home, no one was more clearer than he of what this sacrifice meant. Inwardly, Jiang Xin Zhi had decided, now that he had returned to the capital, he would definitely protect Jiang Ruan and not allow her to be taken advantage of by anyone in the Jiang family. His meimei would naturally be cusped in his both hands, just like any other young lady of an influential family, to have her fill of doting and pampering. Jiang Ruan seemed to have some insight into what he was thinking and lightly patted his hands, Dage, over the past few years I have lived well and being able to see you again has made it all the more better. With you back in the capital now, and knowing that youve attained meritorious military commendations, if you do not ride on your horse and be paraded through the capital, then that would simply fail to live up to all of your numerous efforts on the battlefield. I want everyone from the Great Jins capital to see your heroic appearance and I want you to become the capitals youngest hero. She wanted everyone who had ever looked down, everyone who had trampled all over them in the dust to see and be absolutely sure that even though this had been how it had been in the past; they had crossed paths once more. And how the tables have turned! For those who had once thought that they would see a mockery of these siblings once more, they would now find themselves brought beneath their very soles by this pair of siblings; a pair of brother and sister who would rise above them all! Chapter 84.1 - Return to the Fu (Part I) The floods and the resulting damage caused much stress and exhaustion for the people in the capital city, especially as the spring rains continued to fall ceaselessly. However, the continual efforts in the past few days of Eighth Prince and Second Young Master of the Grand Councillors fu to manage the water level were beginning to show preliminary results. Added to this, more and more people had joined the group distributing congee, so the situation had somewhat stabilised. The capital city gradually resumed its usual sense of order. For instance, this afternoon, the Guan family troops had returned to the capital in triumph from the border, earlier than expected. The orderly mass of solemn-looking troops covered almost the entire capital; they were led by the daring and energetic, tall and powerful, Guan Liang Han. Riding abreast of him was an extremely handsome young man. Although a military man, he did not appear crude and boorish. On the contrary, he had the air and grace associated with a younger member of the nobility, but he was unfamiliar to many. At the rear of the troops came a horse carriage, but no one knew what manner of person sat within. The Zhao uncle and nephew, together with Xiao Shao, had already left. Jiang Xin Zhi heeded Jiang Ruans advice and rode around the capital. He did not think much of it; he simply thought that Jiang Ruan, being a young girl, just wanted to show off. Jiang Ruan sat in the carriage while Lian Qiao surreptitiously pulled aside a corner of the curtain to peep outside. She exclaimed in surprise, Eldest Young Master is really awe-inspiring; the people are all looking at him. Bai Zhi also smiled as she said, Now that Eldest Young Master is back, only happy days will follow Miss from now on. Lian Qiao rolled her eyes and a crafty expression flashed across her face. That person in Yan Hua Yuan will be so angry that shell kick up a terrific fuss. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly but declined to comment. When Xia Yan saw Jiang Xin Zhi returning intact, she would not merely be angry. This matter would not be concluded so easily. However, if she really wanted to scheme against Jiang Xin Zhi, then she should not imagine that she would herself leave this game unscathed. As for Xuan Li and Li An, she had a big gift for them in the future. At present, Jiang Xin Zhi was a young man who showed great promise. Looking at his bearing as well as that of Guan Liang Han, it was easy for people to guess that he was the Deputy General who had risen internally through the ranks due to his military achievements, but they had never expected him to be so young. Many of the young ladies and married women who were lining the streets blushed as they tossed silk flowers onto his horse. Jiang Xin Zhi concealed a smile. After so many years of experience, his self-control was excellent. At first glance, he looked just like a confident scholar. Among the onlookers were also furens and young ladies from the families of government officials. When they witnessed this scene, they started making inquiries as to the identity of this Deputy General. It was at this time that some unknown person in the crowd suddenly yelled, Isnt he Eldest Young Master from Minister Jiangs fu? I heard he joined the army five years ago; never imagined that he would return to the capital with military accolades! One pebble can stir up a thousand waves. As soon as this remark was uttered, everyone began to comment. I was just saying that he looked familiar, and it turns out that he is the eldest son of the Jiang family. Tsk, since theres been no news of him for so many years, for him to appear today must be cause for great pride and elation. So it turns out that the Jiang family has this eldest young master, but it seems like Ive never heard the people in the Jiang family talk about him. Eh? Whats there not to understand about this situation? Right now, the stepmother is the one calling the shots in the Jiang family. When all is said and done, he is not her flesh and blood. Wasnt there also no news about Eldest Jiang Miss for five years or so? On thinking about it, Im afraid that Eldest Young Master Jiang did not leave home voluntarily at the time. In the end, everything is all good. Eldest Young Master Jiang has achieved military merit, and Eldest Jiang Miss is as precious and beautiful as jade[1]. In comparison with Second Young Master, Eldest Young Master Jiangs prospects are much better. I have no idea what Minister Jiang was thinking about, favouring that Second Young Master over such an outstanding Eldest Young Master. [1] Yu ( ) C jade symbolises beauty, grace, and purity. According to this article, Confucius said that there are 11 virtues represented in jade C benevolence, justice, propriety, truth, credibility, music, loyalty, heaven, earth, morality, and intelligence. You dont understand the situation. What good is there to say about men always spoiling their mistresses and neglecting their wives. When the former mistress of the household was still around, the current Jiang Furen was just a concubine. Tongues were wagging fast and furiously in the crowd and all manner of things were being said. Most of the comments were in praise of Jiang Xin Zhi and his sister, while disparaging Xia Yans family. In the carriage, Jiang Ruan smiled faintly to herself. Trampling on those who had fallen while flattering those held in high esteem was always the tendency of the people. At present, Jiang Xin Zhi was a young man who showed great promise, and the prospects of his official career were good. Naturally, the air would ring with praise and accolades. Moreover, the more outstanding he showed himself to be, the more incapable Jiang Chao would seem. * * * In Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan was slowly sipping her tea as she reclined on the soft couch. Today, she had made arrangements to take care of the one thing that she was concerned about. Given the combined efforts of the Xia and Li families, she had no cause to believe that Jiang Xin Zhi could escape this calamity. She pursed her lips as she swallowed a sip of tea; just like that, Jiang Xin Zhi would die. As for Jiang Ruan, she had nothing to worry about. When she had time, she would tidy up that loose end as well. However, for some unknown reason, when she had woken up early that morning, she had felt a faint sense of unease, which was reflected in the slight fretfulness that tinged her expression without her realising it. Upon seeing this, Fei Cui said, consolingly, Furen does not need to be anxious, this endeavour will not fail. We simply have to wait for the good news. Before Xia Yan could say anything, she saw that the door curtain was being pushed aside. Lin Lang hurried into the room, and with a panicked expression on her face, she said, Its not good, Furen! Eldest Young Master has returned! What did you say? Xia Yan stood up immediately, her beautiful face suffused with a fierce malevolence. In one swift move, she grabbed Lin Langs shoulder and said, Jiang Xin Zhi has returned? How can this be? Did you see wrongly? Furen, this is absolutely true! Lin Lang continued, General Guan and Eldest Young Master led the troops in a parade around the capitals streets; everyone has seen them and the people are talking. It is indeed Eldest Young Master, theres no mistake. Xia Yan reeled and collapsed onto the soft couch, muttering, How can this be! Theres no way this could happen unless Jiang Xin Zhi is receiving supernatural protection. As she was saying this, Xiao Si rushed in from outside and said, Furen, Eldest Young Master is at the entrance of the fu, and General Guan and the troops are with him. Furen had best hurry over to welcome them before misunderstanding and gossip arise. Me, welcome him? Xia Yan could not hold back the shriek which escaped her mouth. God knows, she was dying to kill him at the moment, but she had to slap on a smiling face, pretend to be a caring mother, and welcome him! If she did not do so C and this was the cause of the mighty struggle within her now C her standing in the eyes of the people would drop, and who knows what nonsense about evil stepmothers she would have to deal with! Fine, Ill welcome him, Xia Yan gritted her teeth and said. Im on my way right now to welcome my good son! Lin Lang and Fei Cui stood to one side, not daring to say or do anything in the current atmosphere. Xia Yan had just led her servants to the entrance, when she heard Guan Liang Hans booming laugh as he said, Xin Zhi, since youve returned to the fu, I wont inconvenience you by staying longer and will leave now. Later, when you present yourself before the Emperor, this General[2] will definitely say many good things about you, such that His Majesty will confer you a high government position. Im off! [2] Ben jiang jun ( ) C similar to the Crown Prince in earlier chapters who referred to himself as bengong, Guan Liang Han refers to himself as benjiangjun (jiang jun = General) i.e. this general. Xia Yan walked to the doorway, but Guan Liang Han had already mounted his horse and merely eyed her coldly. Being on the receiving end of that cold glance, Xia Yan could not stop herself from engaging in a cold war, but before she could say anything, Guan Liang Han had already raised his whip. With a jia!, he led the way in departing, and the troops hastened to keep pace with him. The entrance to the Jiang fu was surrounded by people who were there to catch the action. Xia Yan quickly walked to stand in front of Jiang Xin Zhi. The frail youngster of the past, who had not even been as tall as she was, was now a tall military hero. When he looked at her, there was a chilling, blood-thirsty expression in his eyes. Xia Yan made a great effort to repress the unease deep in her heart. She looked him up and down, then gently smiled and said, Xin Zhi, you have finally returned after so long. In all these years, how is it that you never once sent a letter home? Your father misses you very much. What could there be between father and son, that would necessitate your leaving home, and for five years at that? He is your father, after all. Her words were gently and cordially spoken, and her expression was also affectionate, but every word accused Jiang Xin Zhi of being unfilial, of having left home in a huff after an altercation with his father, of being cold-hearted and unfeeling. The Great Jin Dynasty valued filial piety above all else; even if an earth-shattering situation were to occur, one could not conduct oneself in an unfilial manner. Jiang Xin Zhi did not even spare her a glance. Without ceremony, he walked over to a carriage which had stopped at one side, gently drew open the curtain, and smilingly said, Ah Ruan. When the person in the carriage had been helped out, everyone could see that it was indeed Jiang Ruan. Xia Yan was taken aback. She smiled and said, Ruan niang, how is it that youre here? Werent you out with Miss Wen selecting jewellery? Jiang Ruan smiled apologetically and said, I should have done so, but I saw Dage leading the troops while I was on my way there and I felt such great emotion that I returned to the fu together with him. She walked to Xia Yan, faced her and said, I also asked Dage the same questions as Mother did just now. Father always knew that Dage did not have the makings of a scholar, and thats why he put his heart and soul into guiding and teaching Second Brother, and he knew everything that happened in the fu. When our biological mother was still alive, Father was already teaching Second Brother to read and write from a young age, but Dage was unsuccessful in his attempts. Whats more, he wasnt interested in martial arts. However, when our biological mother died, he became brash and impetuous, and decided he might as well leave and chase after his future. Who knew that, in the end, he would actually return as a Deputy General. Mother, please dont rebuke him any further, some good did come out of this setback. Whats more, the lands of the front border are bitterly cold, and Dage did not want his family to worry about him, which is why he did not send us any letters. Father must have thought the same way as well, so he did not write letters to inquire into Dages circumstances either. It was all to discipline Dages temperament! All of Xia Yans words were malicious through and through, and Jiang Ruans reply was appropriate. After all, when the original furen was still alive, Jiang Quan had made every effort to instruct Jiang Chao, and gave his own eldest di son the cold shoulder. Even if a fus eldest di son was a no-good scoundrel, he would still inherit the family property. What then would compel an eldest di son to take refuge in the army barracks, and strive for his future prospects? The meaning behind Jiang Ruans words really caused others to ponder deeply. It could be assumed that Jiang Quan did not actually miss his own eldest di son, otherwise, in this long period of five years, why had he never made inquiries about Jiang Xin Zhis location, or sent him a letter from home? The crowd looked at Jiang Xin Zhi and started talking among themselves again. So what if Jiang Chao had received all of Jiang Quans careful, heartfelt instruction? When all was said and done, he had failed the imperial examination, and unexpectedly did not measure up to this Eldest Young Master who could only depend on his own hard work and effort, and had honestly achieved military merit. Chapter 85 - Mutual Aggression The interrogator was Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao was in charge of the Jin Yi guards and was usually out on special missions. Occasionally, he too would capture people who were determined to take their secrets to their graves. For these people who were under his interrogation, none of them had managed to keep their secrets to the very end. Thus, the more that outsiders did not see Xiao Shao in action, the more ferociously the rumours spread about him- there was not a mouth that Xiao Shao could not pry open. Furthermore, his temperament was particularly cold and cheerless; even if one was acquainted with him, they too would not dare to personally ask him about this. Therefore, they could only surmise that the torture methods that he used were incomparably callous. After hearing the news about him, Xia Cheng suddenly felt a sinking feeling in his chest and he clenched his fists tightly, How did they fall into Xiao Shaos hands? What sort of connection does Xiao Shao have with Jiang Xin Zhi! It was during the ambush; General Guan and Xiao Wangye suddenly rushed there. At first General Guan wanted to bring those people back but Xiao Wangye said these matters were of major importance and so asked for them (the men) to be handed over for him to personally interrogate. Damn it! Xia Chengs complexion had turned pale, If this implicates the Xia fu, then will we still be able to have an auspicious future? He paced in a circle twice inside the room. This wont do, I need to seek an audience with the Eighth Prince. Make haste and prepare a horse for me. Simultaneously, in another part of the capital, the Grand Councillor fu was also in a state of uproar. An irate Li Dong was pointing his finger at Li An admonishing, You lost control of this situation and were unable to end it well. Well now thats just great! Those men are now in the hands of Xiao Shao. No matter how tolerant His Majesty is, he would never condone any of his vassals having their own private army without any approval. You have weighed down our Li family with such a huge burden, now what can we possibly do next? Li An had always been Li Dongs pride. From his childhood till adulthood, he had always given this son much recognition. Yet, currently, now that something bad had happened to himself (Li Dong), his heart was distracted and his thoughts were in turmoil. Now that Li An had made such a huge slip-up, when Li Dong looked at Li An, he felt that his son was not particularly pleasing to his eyes anymore. With a heavy and cold look on his face, Li An remained where he stood without saying a single word. Only, his expression was extremely gloomy. He wanted to attack Jiang Xin Zhi after the Jiang family affair so that he could win the rest of the Jiang family and also see Jiang Ruans pain. Yet he would never have thought that midway through this attack, Guan Liang Han and Xiao Shao would appear out of nowhere. They had ruined his good work! However, in Li Ans eyes, there was a flash of radiant light. He had heard that Zhao Yuan Feng and Zhao Yi had been present too; how could there be such a coincidence. Although he was still unsure what had happened, a cold smile surfaced on Li Ais face. He was unconvinced that this matter had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan. Noticing Li Ans silence, Li Dong was filled with even more anger. You, hurry and think of a solution. Now that your elder brother has already become a useless person because of the Jiang family, are you going to harm the entire Grand Councillor fu just for the Jiang family? Whats the rush? Li An retorted. Regarding this matter, I will consult with the Eighth Prince. Xuan Li needed his ability and wisdom, while he needed Xuan Li to support the Li family in resolving this inconvenience before them. * * * Outside the prison, Guan Liang Han had been waiting anxiously when Xiao Shao slowly appeared from within. As soon as he spotted him, Guan Liang Han impatiently probed, How was it? Have they confessed? It was both Xia Chengs and Li Dongs people, Xiao Shao said indifferently. These people were unexpectedly split into two groups: Xia Chengs machinations aside, according to these people, they had only tried to prevent Jiang Xin Zhis return to the Jiang fu as it would threaten Jiang Chaos position within the family. Yet, as for the people arranged by Li Dong, it was rather peculiar. The people who had been sent were unsure of the reason, they only knew that this order had been given. Guan Liang Han muttered to himself, This is truly stange, how could there even be two groups? He patted Xiao Shao on the chest, You are really quite something. However, Guan Liang Han took a glance inside, the method that you used surely wasnt like the one that the girl from the Jiang fu mentioned- using boiling oil to burn the brain? No. Xiao Shao responded. He naturally had his own methods. He did not explain, and Guan Liang Han was too lazy to inquire further. While he was conversing with him (Xiao Shao), he commented, Hey, with such a person like Jiang Xin Zhi who has a good temperament, how can he have such a meimei; they do not seem like siblings at all. Third Brother, you couldnt possibly have become fond of that girl? I dont think thats a good idea; even though she is so young, her thoughts are already this vicious. Haplessly, Xiao Shao responded, Shes too young. Towards a young girl, he would not go as far as to have any alarming thoughts. Only, the way that Jiang Ruan had handled matters was too baffling. She seemed to have an infinite amount of secrets. Moreover, judging from all of the matters that she had had a hand in thus far, a deeply woven relationship with Xuan Li had begun. For her to even have helped Liu Min, if her objective was the entire imperial household, then one would need to be even more mindful of her every move. Guan Liang Han burst into loud laughter, Im joking, just jesting. Lets go, come on. I still have matters to ask Seventh Brother, come along with me. Xiao Shao nodded and said, Ye Feng. Ye Feng appeared behind him and listened to Xiao Shaos orders. Send someone to watch over those people in the prison, prevent anyone from entering to silence them. Ye Feng cupped his hands in obeisance, Yes, Master. * * * In the Eighth Prince fu, Xuan Li looked at Xia Cheng and Li An before him; as always, his face bore a gentle smile. Xia Cheng patted some sweat away, I implore His Highness to please lend a hand in this matter. The Old Marquis and I have always had a close relationship, so naturally I would not remain indifferent and just sit by and watch. However, this matter is of grave importance. Even if I do have the intention to help, I am truly powerless as well, Xuan Li replied unfazed. As Xia Cheng glimpsed Li Ans composed demeanor, his heart was in a jumble as he gritted his teeth in chagrin and beseeched, I beg His Highness to save the Xia fu; if His Highness is able to help with this matter, then His Highness would be the benefactor of the lives of the entire Xia fu. If His Highness has any use for the Xia fu in the future, I, this Xia Cheng, hereby swear that I would definitely go through water and tread on fire for you without hesitation. All along, the Xia family and the Eighth Prince fu had always had a relationship of mutual support. Although Eighth Prince was extremely capable, what he had done mostly remained hidden. The Xia family presently had a steady foundation, and the wealth and power they had was what Xuan Li truly needed. Yet precisely for this reason the Xia family was not easy for him to exercise control over either, thus they had such a mutually beneficial relationship. With this overture from Xia Cheng, this was him clearly expressing his stance: a display of absolute submission and allegiance. Xuan Li quietly sighed, Since the Old Marquis has said as much, I am extremely gratified. However, I am unable to guarantee that the Old Marquis will not harbor some kind of hostility towards Eight Prince in the future and have other thoughts in mind. Then what would happen? Seeing that Xuan Li had softened his stance somewhat, Xia Cheng replied, I would definitely put more words into action and prove the Xia familys sincerity. I only request that His Highness think of some way to save the Xia fu. Xuan Li mildly assented, The Old Marquis has overthought this, the Xia fu and I have a relationship: where one prospers, both parties benefit, if one suffers a loss, all will be harmed, too. How could I watch on with folded arms? Hand this matter over to me. I will definitely give a satisfying response to the Old Marquis. Only, I hope that the Old Marquis will not disappoint me either. Xia Cheng inwardly heaved a sigh of relief as he nodded repeatedly, Yes, definitely. Pleased with the response, Xuan Li chuckled, So, if there is nothing else, the Old Marquis can return first. I still have matters to settle with Second Young Master Li. Whilst both his heart and emotions were unwilling, Xia Cheng glanced at Li An before bidding farewell. After waiting for Xia Cheng to leave, Li An cupped his hands in salute to Xuan Li and said, Your Highness. Theres no need for you to say anything. Since Im already helping the Xia family, I should not remain indifferent to the Li familys plight either, Xuan Li mildly answered. Besides, between you and I, the two of us have a very close understanding with each other, it is unlikely for me to look on without even lifting a finger. Li An nodded, yet in his heart, he sneered in disdain. What friendly relations, this was merely the value of being able to exploit them; the Li familys usefulness and value were ever greater than the Xia family and thats why Xuan Li was willing to lower his posture to maintain the status quo. Every person had their own price; this was just assessing the price to consider if it was reasonable, there was nothing else to it. The Xia familys worth was only this much, yet the Grand Councillor fu was certainly not limited to this much. Xuan Li had taken in Li Ans disdainful response whilst his smiling expression remained unchanged, but, in the depths of his eyes, a deep intent flashed through. Whilst the power and wealth in the Grand Councillor fu was considerable, he could still obtain these from other people. What was truly worth purchasing was undoubtedly the man standing in front of him. Li An and Li Yang were very different; Li Yang was just a pile of ignorant, incompetent rubbish. However, for many years now, Li An had helped in devising many strategies for him and he had regarded Li An as his right-hand man. He needed his ability and wisdom, thus, he could even bear the irreverence that Li An had towards him. But why would the Li family want to kill and bury Jiang Xin Zhi in an ambush? Xuan Li asked. Xia Cheng naturally did so due to the relationship between Xia Yan and Jiang Chao, one could still understand this. Yet, the Li family and Jiang family were now like opposing points, like fire and water. He knew of the matter in which Jiang Su Su had harmed Li Yangs root of posterity. According to reason, for Li An to get involved and kill Jiang Xin Zhi,the one to derive benefit from this would be that pair: Jiang Su Su and her mother. This just did not make any sense.. Li An did not conceal the truth. Jiang Ruan harmed my elder brother. She has an extremely deep hatred and animosity with the Grand Councillor fu; one that cannot allow the other to live under the same sky. I had initially planned to kill Jiang Xin Zhi, then slowly torment Jiang Ruan. Who would have thought that there was such an unforeseen event midway through this. To torture a person, physical pain was the lowest form of torment, only with mental torture, then could one cause someone else to feel endless suffering. If Jiang Ruan knew that Jiang Xin Zhi had died because of her, she would certainly be unable to withstand the pain. Jiang Ruan? Xuan Li was stunned, How could it have been Jiang Ruan? Second Jiang Miss was merely the scapegoat, Jiang Ruan harmed my elder brother and shifted the blame onto Jiang Su Su. This is the truth of the matter. Contrary to what one might expect, Xuan Li had never doubted Li Ans words. Only, he felt astonishment in his heart. Yet, once he thought of Jiang Ruans calm response towards the matter in the Xia fus ancestral hall, he could not help but have some misgivings in his heart. A female in the ladys boudoir, how could she possibly have such deep schemes; if she had wanted to frame Jiang Su Su and involve the Li family in the matter, wouldnt that be too much of a risk? However, I have also found out another interesting thing. Li An suddenly revealed a smile, The Zhao family meddled in this, which makes me think that perhaps Jiang Ruan has thrown her flag in with the Zhao family. With Jiang Xin Zhis return, there will be a change in the Zhao familys situation here too. If one could forgive me for shooting off my mouth: when that time approaches, Your Highness may be having some trouble too. You speak of Jiang Ruan and the Zhao family? Xuan Li frowned, Then really, what is going on? I too am unclear, however, one thing is evident- that eldest young lady of the Jiang family, she isnt so simple to handle, Li An replied. However, this was the best too. Amusing oneself in such a manner was so much more interesting. She had given him a very minor surprise: having blocked his attack, she had also returned it. But, next time, who knew if she would still have the luck to do so. Xuan Li knitted his brows tightly. For some reason, a strange premonition had arisen in his heart. * * * At first light, Jiang Xin Zhi left the fu to meet with Guan Liang Han. Yesterdays matter was rather curious and there were still many details to discuss. * * * At the capitals Yin fu, Dong Yinger twirled a golden candied jujube into her mouth as she laughed, Ruan meimei, now you can genuinely crow with pride. Everyone in the capital knows that you have a youthful and well-regarded elder brother who is tall and handsome. Sigh, hes also unlike those boorish soldiers, truly fitting of his moniker: a fair-skinned scholarly general. Ive heard that his good figure on the battlefield is even more heroic. Look at how youve praised him, for anyone who is not in the loop would have thought that he was your elder brother instead. Wen Fei Fei teased. Thats right, thats right, perhaps this Eldest Dong Miss of ours has begun to yearn for love? Zhao Jin laughed. Hearing these words, Dong Yingers face reddened and she struck a pose as if she wanted to hit her. This damned wench, you, you have been trying your utmost to speak such drivel, lets see if I dont tear your mouth up! Zhao Jin hurriedly hid as she laughed, Spare me, Ive ill-spoken, I was only teasing you. Lin Zi Xiang looked at Jiang Ruan with satisfaction. Mm, while you arent someone with much ability, the good thing is that you have an awesome elder brother. Surely, that stepmother and meimei of yours will not easily dare to bully you anymore. Right, right, right, Zhao Jin clapped her palms together. Hurry, take all of their share of bullying that they once did to you and deal it back to them. If you find them unpleasant to your eyes, then get your elder brother to break their legs. Who would be like you, Dong Yinger pouted resentfully, from what I have seen, Jiang Dage would not hit someone as he pleases, who did you think would be as crude as you? Zhao Jin stuck out her tongue and did not say anything else. Jiang Ruan smiled, Whilst he has just returned to the fu, if there is a chance in the future, I will be sure to invite you all to meet him. However, now that the sky is getting dark, I should be going back. Dong Yinger invited them to her fu to be her guests; as the young ladies chatted and drank tea, in the blink of an eye more than half a day had passed and the sky before their eyes had gradually darkened. The roads were slippery when it rained and thus, Dong Yinger did not want to inconvenience them by having them stay for a long time. So, she agreed, Alright. Then we will meet some other day. Yuer, bring over a set of my handmade pastries for each of my guests. She smiled, Take care on your journey home. Once everyone had made their farewells, they each returned to their own fu. While she was passing through the city, Jiang Ruan had the coachman drive the carriage through a narrow alley. The horse carriage stopped at the entrance and Jiang Ruan had Bai Zhi and Lu Zhu follow after her as she walked towards a household in the midst of the alley. Stepping forward, Lian Qiao knocked on the door and quickly, a young child came forward to open it. The young child was startled upon seeing that it was Jiang Ruan, but politely ushered the three of them inside. As soon as they stepped foot into the main hall, they heard Hui Jues voice, Miss Jiang. Jiang Ruan saw Hui Jue who was sitting in the hall; ever since the last time he had entered the Jiang fu and helped Jiang Ruan to purge the sin of having inauspicious birthdate characters, Hui Jues reputation had made its rounds. It may be assumed that recently, many people had come in search of him. And now, Hui Jues complexion was much better than before; he probably had been living very comfortably. Yet upon seeing Jiang Ruan, Hui Jue did not feel all too happy. Instead, he felt a sort of dread and panic towards her. He continued, Miss Jiang, this old monk has already assisted with the previous matter, why are you still looking for this old monk? The Great Master has misunderstood, today I am here to return the Great Master a favour. Jiang Ruan spoke indifferently, In my entire life, I have never been fond of owing favours to anyone. Since the Great Master has helped me once, naturally, I would also repay the favor. Looking at Hui Jues puzzled gaze, she smiled lightly, Have I not said this before, since one has to be a swindler, then the Great Master should also become this worlds most respected swindler. At the moment, the Great Master has only received a small profit. As for your sons illness, thus far, the doctors have only been able to treat the symptoms but not the root cause; is the Great Master truly content with that? His son was Hui Jues sore point, yet every single time, Jiang Ruan just had to use his son as leverage to speak with him. Recently, he had earned much silver and was able to purchase many precious and famous medicinal ingredients. Yet, the childs condition could only stabilize but would not improve. Hui Jue lowered his head, This is his fate, this old monk is also powerless. The Great Master does not believe me then? Jiang Ruan questioned. No matter, but eventually, one day, you will accept my words. However, today I only came to say a few things. She continued, Recently, the flooding in the capital has been extremely severe. Eighth Prince and Second Young Master Li were given an imperial command to control the waters. Presently, the situation at the reservoir seems to be under control; however, in three days, the rainwater will undoubtedly suddenly start to pour down furiously. The reservoir will collapse and a countless number of citizens who live by the reservoir will lose their lives. She pressed on, This will be your chance. I will give you this opportunity to make a prophecy. You only need to say this in front of the public: that the dragon qi[1] is large and in a riot, and the reservoir will collapse. So one must have Eighth Prince divert the location to control the rising waters. Naturally, you would need to think of a way to allow Eighth Prince to persist in his opinion and his influence will definitely cause judgement to fall heavily on you. Yet the more severe his punishment and reprimands are towards you, after the prophecy you have made comes into fruition a few days later, then your position will become that much more secure. [1] Qi ( ) C In traditional Chinese culture, qi is believed to be a vital force forming part of any living entity. Qi translates as air and figuratively as material energy, life force, or energy flow. Qi is the central underlying principle in Chinese traditional medicine and in Chinese martial arts. At first, Hui Jue did not understand what she was saying and looked at her suspiciously. Jiang Ruan was not flustered; she merely waited patiently for him to fully realise the significance of her words. When he did, he could not hold back the faint astonishment on his face as he said, You . . What on earth are you saying? Why would the reservoir collapse? The rain will become heavier? Absurd! Complete nonsense! Why is the Great Master in such a panic? Jiang Ruan smiled as she said, Is it because you dont trust my words? Great Master, havent I told you before, there is a kind of ability in the world, where to know the past is to know the future. She continued, enunciating each word carefully, If Great Master doesnt believe I have this ability, then think of it from a different aspect. For example, what would cause a reservoir to collapse? All of a sudden, Hui Jue stood up and was unable to maintain his usual compassionate facade. He was in a fluster, Are you crazy? If this was found out by someone, then we would lose our heads! Jiang Ruan smiled lightly at him without saying a word. She was knowingly leading Hui Jue on. To believe that a person had the power to predict the future yet at the same time be perfectly delighted to handle such matters for her, it was truly too much to expect. But, what if she let Hui Jue think that she was just a front for someone else, that perhaps there was a very able person behind her giving her directions? The prediction may err, but with a deliberate man-made effort and other arrangements, there would not be any slip up. If Hui Jue thought someone would intentionally cause the water reservoir to collapse; once he was certain about this point, then he would waver in his decision. This is too audacious, Hui Jue muttered. The reservoir was highly significant as it concerned the livelihood of the countrys people. Yet, Jiang Ruan had just so lightly spoken of this sort of disgraceful, unnatural matter. If someone found out, then even if she had nine lives, they would not be enough to suffer all the punishment she was due. Yet, at the same time, there was another voice in his heart that was bellowing at him: Agree with her! Accept her favour! Jiang Ruans mouth curled up in a slight smile as she noticed the changes in Hui Jues expression. She knew his heart had been moved. Without the slightest hesitation, she once again lit a flame (T/N: ammunition or fodder) in him, The Great Master certainly has to think this through carefully. With such an absolutely surefire matter, if one only moved their lips to speak of this, then when the day truly arrives, all of the people in this world would have you honoured and revered like a god. You would enjoy endless glory, splendour, wealth and rank. If you are thus seen by His Majesty and entere the palace then you would also be able to receive good future prospects. There are endless imperial physicians in the palace and Young Master Lings illness would surely be able to be cured. Hui Jues eyes lit up, only to listen to Jiang Ruan continue, This matter is not entirely without any benefits. However, after this, Eighth Prince will undoubtedly hate you. Still, you need not worry either, once you have obtained His Majestys favour, you would be the most popular and respected person below His Majesty. No one would be able to touch you. Although Eighth Prince might be a mighty figure whom no one dares to approach, when all is said and done, the master of all beneath the heavens right now isnt him. Now, the Great Master is almost close to sixty years in age, and to speak of words that arent to ones liking; no one is sure of matters that will happen in ten to twenty years . In short, when one is still alive, it would be best to have no worries over ones life. If the Great Master truly wishes to be content with his place and peacefully idle his days away, that isnt impossible either. However, while the Great Master can afford this, Young Master Ling may not be able to make it through these days ahead. The expression on Hui Jues face was uncertain and one could tell that his heart was extremely conflicted. Jiang Ruan chuckled, I have already said this much, I shall not say any further. The Great Master still has a night to mull this over. In three days, the reservoir will collapse: you only have three days time. In the end, as to what state Young Master Ling will be henceforth, it will depend on how Great Master acts upon this news tomorrow. Chapter 86 - Upset On the way back to the fu, Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi did not speak a single sentence. Even though they had numerous doubts in their hearts, they did not ask about them. Jiang Ruan gently rested her head against the carriages window and closed her eyes. She was unable to conceal the blue-black colour of fatigue below her eyes. Today, she had purposely guided Hui Jue. However, tomorrow if or when Hui Jue decided to carry out this plan, it would depend on his boldness. The more daring he was, the more benefits he would be able to reap from this game. In her previous life, Jiang Ruan remembered that after three days, the rain which had gradually reduced suddenly started pouring again. Bo Chang reservoir was originally the capitals largest reservoir. For those few days, under Xuan Lis governance, it had generally been safe and well. However, storms may arise even in a clear sky[1], Bo Chang reservoir suddenly collapsed in the early morning three days later. The flood level that was rising became a mighty torrent in an instance. None of the residents living in the residential area close to the reservoir managed to survive, and the whole area surrounding the reservoir became a vast expanse of water. [1] Tin yu bc fngyn ( в ) : unexpected/ unpredictable circumstance. At that time, although it had happened under Xuan Lis management, the Emperor did not severely punish him as he factored in Xuan Lis merits in curbing the water level previously. Furthermore, it was a natural disaster, not due to manpower. It was only after that, when Xuan Li mentioned this matter to her, his tone still held some regret. At that time, Jiang Ruan thought that he was feeling regret over the lost lives of the citizens. Only after, did she understand that Xuan Lis real regret was actually regarding the flood burying his previous efforts of curbing the water level in the reservoir. It was truly as if success and failure both boiled down to the same factor[2]. [2] Chngy Xio H, biy Xio H ( ҲΣҲ ) C lit. raised up by Xiao He, cast down by Xiao He (idiom), alluding to Han Xin nţ being made Grand General ܊󽫾 / fig. a situation where ones success and failure are both due to the same factor. The wheel of fate rotated with a loud bang and in the blink of an eye, that day had arrived. In the past life, Xuan Li had merely had his previous merits erased- it was an unintentional failure. In this life, just like what Hui Jue had said, the reservoir would collapse and Xuan Li, being overly suspicious, would definitely think that it was one of his enemies schemes to steal his merit. Xuan Li was someone who took responsibility for his own actions, therefore the more sincere Hui Jue was, the more annoyed Xuan Li would be. He would definitely not listen to Hui Jues advice and even punish Hui Jue in the name of deceiving people. On the day when the reservoir did actually collapse, Xuan Lis actions would be seen as deliberate. Jiang Ruan wondered whether Eighth Prince, who had always cared about having a perfect reputation outside, could accept the crime of causing thousands of civilians lives to be lost. Thinking of this, it was more regrettable than the last life. Jiang Ruans eyes were still closed, but the corner of her lips lifted slightly. This was just the beginning. The horse carriage drove towards the Jiang fu with a rumble. * * * In the alley where Hui Jue stayed, a knocking sound was heard again. The little boy who opened the door was a little confused after seeing the visitor, but he led them into the hall. Hui Jue raised his head and made eye contact with a pair of cold eyes. The gleam from those eyes were too cold, like the unmelted snow at the peak of the mountain, without warmth. Only a patch of chilliness. What did she say to you? The youth had a slender figure and his black robe with golden embroidery appeared to be shining in the dark, portraying an alluring melancholy. I am a monk, naturally she spoke to me about Buddhism. Hui Jue spoke in a soft tone, and he appeared to be as benevolent as before. Shua. A sound rang out though he only saw a streak of silver light flash by his eyes, beautiful but cold, with an unimaginable speed. Hui Jue only felt that the area next to his throat was cold. The youth held a dagger to his chin and looking from that angle, he could only see the side of a face with unsurpassed elegance. Speak. It was a short word. Big drops of sweat dripped from Hui Jues forehead. * * * In the Grand Chancellors fu, Li Yang who had been in a coma for a long time finally woke up. As the days passed, he had been in a dazed and unclear state of mind and would only wake up for a moment before entering a coma state again. Today he had woken up rather early, and the physician who was attending to him felt his pulse and heaved a breath of relief, before walking outside to write a prescription for him. However, he did not think that once he stepped out of the room, he would hear a pa sound from inside the room. A crisp sound of something being broken rang out. The expression of the maidservant guarding outside, changed, and she ran inside alarmed. In the room, she only saw Li Yang with bloodshot eyes as he roared in a low voice, What is happening? Why do I not have.. The latter words were swallowed down by him. The area around his crotch felt empty and there was even a light breeze passing through it. He stretched his hand to check and there was still a faint pain. He was a man- naturally he understood what had happened. Panic, anger, despair, hate, all sorts of emotions swelled up in his heart. Li Yang felt that he couldnt accept the fact, seeing the maidservants knowing gaze was as if he was looking at his enemy. Seething with rage, he took the nearest flower vase and threw it at that maid. Peng! The maidservants head was bleeding profusely, yet she did not dare to move. She gritted her teeth and stood in her original position. Li Yang, seeing the situation, still wanted to throw when he heard a low voice from outside, Elder Brother, what happened? The door curtains were drawn and Li An took large strides into the room. Seeing Li An, a flash of hatred immediately appeared on Li Yangs face. Li An looked at him with a gloomy gaze, Why do you not continue smashing? Li Yang did not speak. On one hand, Li Yang was really envious of this younger brother who had always been more talented than him since they were younger, yet had a strange temperament, because Li Ans talent showcased his own uselessness. On the other hand, he felt a type of reliance towards Li An, because Li An was a highly intelligent person. As long as there was him, there was nothing that could not be solved. Li Yang shouted in fury, Seeing me like this dont you feel extremely happy inside? There will no longer be anyone fighting with you in the Grand Chancellor fu anymore! This time you should be satisfied! When he said the last few words, his tone was more and more agitated. Li An took a seat at the chair beside him and looked at him as if he was seeing a clown. Under that mocking gaze, Li Yang who had originally been agitated gradually calmed down. The person who hurt you is in the Jiang fu. If you want revenge, then you must tell me without missing out a word, the situation at that time. Li An said. Although Li Yang felt anger in his heart due to the way Li An treated him with a cold and belittling attitude, he did not dare to openly defy Li An. Furthermore, he needed Li An to help him get revenge[3]. He carefully recalled that times events and slowly told Li An about it. [3] Bao chu xu hn ( ѩ ) C to take revenge and wipe out a grudge. After he finished speaking, Li An asked, Did you see clearly what that person looked like? Li Yang thought carefully again and shook his head, At that time I was too drunk and did not see clearly. However, that person seemed to have worn red clothes. Red clothes? Li An narrowed his eyes, the person who loved wearing red clothes the most in the Jiang fu was Jiang Ruan. Although he had already been almost certain in his heart that the one who had shifted the blame onto someone else was Jiang Ruan, when Li Yang said it out loud, Li An could not help but feel shock inside. She had actually dared, in broad daylight, in a place just separated by a partition wall, to castrate Li Yang and then push the blame onto Jiang Su Su. On the surface it seemed like an impulsive action, doing things without order. However, after careful thought, in this way, she had easily invoked enmity between the Li and Jiang family, and even harmed Eighth Princes power without batting an eyelid. It was really a good scheme which killed two birds with one stone. No, it should be killing three birds with one stone, as it could also make Jiang Su Su unlucky. Li An laughed, she was truly interesting. Do you know who she is? Li Yang saw Li Ans expression and hurriedly asked. Over the days that he laid in a dazed state, even when he was sober he didnt know what exactly had happened. He only had his mind set on torturing the person who had harmed him to this extent, determined to make her pay for her actions! Eldest Jiang Miss pushed the blame onto Second Jiang Miss. Li An didnt intend to hide it from him and directly told him the perpetrators name. Eldest Jiang Miss? Li Yang frowned, when he went to the Jiang fu, he had wanted to see both the Jiang sisters. However, he had only seen the Jiang Su Su of unrivalled beauty and elegance, yet did not manage to see Jiang Ruans appearance. Hearing Li Ans words, Li Yang spoke with determination, This cheap person! Why did she want to do this? Naturally she has her own plans, Elder Brother was only unlucky by coincidence and thus became the victim in this situation. Li An did not feel any heartache for his elder brothers situation, instead, he spoke with a tone of nonchalance. This made Li Yang feel even more depressed inside. I must kill her! Li Yang gritted his teeth and opened his mouth, This cheap person, I must make her life a living hell! She is mine. Li An interrupted his words, You better behave yourself. Such an interesting prey, such a clever young woman, how could he allow Li Yang to recklessly ruin[4] her. He would, as if playing with a beast trapped in a cage, slowly extract her talons and fangs, and let her witness her family dying tragically in front of her. . The expression of horror and indignation on the face that always smiles gently would surely be very touching. She would beg for mercy, cry all her tears, and he would little by little crack her straightened backbone, making her moan bitterly and kiss the tip of his toes. [4] Bo tin tin w ( ) C to waste natural resources recklessly. She was the most exquisite pet, the best prisoner. Li Ans eyes lit up with perverted passion in them, and when Li Yang saw that expression, he could not help but shiver. Li An glanced at him scornfully before turning his body and walking out of the door. Li Yang was dazed on the spot. Only after Li An was gone, then he slowly clenched his fist, letting out an expression of indignant resentment. He suddenly thought of something and just like that, his expression changed and he unexpectedly laughed. The maidservant who had bled all over the floor, continued to stand in her original position, trembling with fear. She had only felt that Li Yangs smile was extremely frightening. However, Li Yang opened his quilt, Help me up, I want to see Father ?. * * * Jiang Ruan returned to the fu and was going to return to her own courtyard. However, just as she walked to the garden next to the hall, she unexpectedly bumped into Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao. Jiang Su Su was conversing with Jiang Chao, but upon seeing Jiang Ruan, she smiled, Da Jiejie. Pretend, still pretending!, Jiang Ruan thought. Jiang Ruan looked at her with cold eyes. She felt tired, and so could not be bothered to act out a show of sisterhood with her. Therefore, she wanted to walk off without sparing her a glance. Jiang Su Su was taken aback for a moment, and a trace of resentment flashed in her eyes, Da Jiejie, has Su niang done anything wrong? Bai Zhi and Lian Qiaos eyes held disdain, while Jiang Ruan continued to ignore her. Due to the capitals flooding disaster, Jiang Su Su had benefited from the natural disaster and the issue of going to the ancestral temple was delayed. Recently she had been extremely docile and well-behaved, she did everything more carefully and she constantly served Old Jiang Madame. Even in front of Jiang Quan, she was very careful. Jiang Quan originally already loved this daughter tenderly, thus seeing Jiang Su Su like this, he felt even more heartache and had somewhat started to waver from his original decision. Her indifferent look appeared very unpleasant to Jiang Su Sus eyes. She did not know the reason why Jiang Ruan, who was obviously a village girl and had grown up in the wild, appeared more noble compared to her, a young miss of an affluent family, who lived in luxury and had always had the best teachers. Whenever she was in front of Jiang Ruan, she always felt inferior to her. This was extremely unbearable to Jiang Su Su, who had always chased after the highest status. Jiang Chao blocked Jiang Ruan at the front, gloomily saying, This is the way you talk to your younger di sister? What does the way I talk refer to? Second Elder Brother, what do you wish to hear? Jiang Ruan looked at him with a slight smile, Sweetened words with a hidden dagger[5], Ruan niang has heard numerous. However, I am not a parrot who repeats other peoples words and I am unable to imitate it in a vivid manner. [5] Ku m f jin ( ۸ ) C sweet words but with bad intentions. You! Jiang Chao choked upon hearing her sarcastic words, Truly presumptuous to the extreme! Jiang Ruan looked at him, the corners of her lips were still slightly curved, yet had a hint of mocking. They were bound to shed all pretense of cordiality sooner or later. Furthermore, it wasnt as if putting on a facade of being peaceful with one another would really allow them to live in peace with each other. Currently, this pair of brother and sister was not as glorious as before, so why should she be willing to play along with their painstaking act of being respectful and loving siblings. Da Jiejie, what words has Elder Brother said wrong? If you have any dissatisfaction, take it out on Su niang, dont be angry at Elder Brother. Jiang Su Su came out to mediate a dispute, yet her words were all trying to sow discord between them. Disgusting. Jiang Ruan looked at her and said. Before this, Jiang Ruan had always maintained a gentle demeanour in front of them;, no matter how much they opposed her, she had never been this direct with her words. However, today, when she said things out loud like this, Jiang Su Su looked up in amazement and saw Jiang Ruans gaze of unconcealed hatred, as if looking at a bug in a rotten ditch. Jiang Chao could no longer bear it, Jiang Ruan had tested his bottomline time and again. Jiang Chao suddenly moved his hand out, about to viciously slap it down. However, before he could even attack, his whole body flew out like a kite and knocked against the doorpost with a peng sound. Jiang Xin Zhi strode in and his expression was incomparably cold. He looked handsome and he exuded the iron-willed temperament of a soldier with every move. As he walked over step by step, even the manservant did not dare to say a word, and no one helped Jiang Chao who had been sent flying out by Jiang Xin Zhis single punch. Jiang Su Su held her hand over her mouth and looked at Jiang Xin Zhi with fear. Jiang Xin Zhi walked to Jiang Ruans side, the cold demeanour from just now immediately disappeared fully. He touched Jiang Ruans forehead gently, Are you alright? Jiang Ruan shook her head, Dage, does your hand hurt? These two, this brother and sister, interacted with each other as if there was no one else, and almost caused Jiang Chao and his sister to vomit blood. Jiang Xin Zhi then walked in front of Jiang Chao, his steps very steady. No matter how mighty Jiang Chao was, he was still merely a scholar, where would he get strength like Jiang Xin Zhis. His face showed fear and he subconsciously wanted to back away. Seeing Jiang Chao this way, anger flared in Jiang Su Sus eyes. Jiang Chao also glared at Jiang Xin Zhi, You actually dare to raise your hand and hit people! I have just hit you, so what? Jiang Xin Zhis words were shocking, Do you want to complain to Father? Jiang Chao, are you a three year old kid? Quickly ask Father to come save you. His tone was full of ridicule, the mocking in those words immediately led Jiang Chao to feel so ashamed that his whole face turned red, and the surrounding servants had a hard time holding their laughter in. Jiang Chao choked out, You disrespect your brother Do not talk to me with all your virtues and justice[6], Jiang Xin Zhi said, You should only tell me whether you are a man. Jiang Chao, today, I will tell you straightforwardly that I have hit you, so what? After today, if you dare to touch Ah Ruan, Ill hit you everytime I see you. You should know that I am a crude man, I am not as gentlemanly or reserved as you all who have been raised in the Jiang fu. I cannot control the strength of my hand well. With a slip, a life might actually be lost. [6] Rn y do d ( ) C refers to traditional virtues and propriety Jiang Xin Zhi had an army ruffian- like appearance which made all the surrounding servants who were looking at him gape- Jiang Chao also couldnt believe it. Originally, Jiang Xin Zhi was the gentle and scholarly eldest young master of the Jiang family. However, his current demeanour didnt have even a trace of his past self. That blatant threat was not at all like the Jiang Xin Zhi in the past. Truly similar to Guan Liang Han. Jiang Ruan witnessed the happenings in front of her with a slight smile, it seemed like during the five years of living in an army camp, the things that Guan Liang Han had taught Jiang Xin Zhi were not only battle tactics. Lian Qiao could not help but let out a laugh with a puchi sound. Jiang Chaos face immediately became flushed. Yet at this moment, they abruptly heard Jiang Su Su give an alarmed cry, Father! Then, they saw Jiang Quan coming from the other side of the garden and upon seeing Jiang Chao lying on the floor, his face turned gloomy, What has happened? Jiang Su Su stood up, her eyes brimming with tears, Su niang doesnt know how she has angered Da Jiejie. I greeted Da Jiejie, however, Da Jiejie not only ignored Su niang, but even spoke impertinently. Second Elder Brother could not stand it and chided Da Jiejie with a few lines, but who knew that when Eldest Brother came back he knocked Second Elder Brother onto the ground without saying anything. Jiang Su Su looked at Jiang Ruan with grievances, Da Jiejie, what exactly has Su niang done wrong, Su niang will apologise to you. However, Second Elder Brother hasnt done anything wrong, I beg Da Jiejie to not let Eldest Brother harm Second Elder Brother this way anymore. What a good compromise[7], every sentence was a direct complaint. [7] Wi q qi qun ( ίȫ )- make concessions/compromise to achieve ones aim Jiang Xin Zhi coldly stared at Jiang Su Su who was sobbing with tears trickling down her face. Jiang Su Sus skill of reversing black and white[8] was really not boasted about outrageously. After distorting a few main points, it became a story about this brother and sister pair abusing their power to bully others. [8] Din do hi bi ( ߵڰ ) C lit. to reverse black and white (idiom); to misrepresent the facts / to reverse right and wrong. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi had difficulty hiding the despise in their eyes. It was just as Jiang Xin Zhi had said, the pair of brother and sister only knew how to complain! Complain! Complain! Truly something only a three year old child would do! Jiang Quan after hearing those words, did not say anything else and raged at Jiang Ruan and the other, Unfilial son! Unfilial daughter! Kneel! There was some disappointment in Jiang Xin Zhis eyes. He knew that Jiang Quan had not liked him and his meimei since they were young. Thinking that because he was a son, he felt that maybe it was because he was blocking Jiang Chaos path that made Jiang Quan act in this way. However, Jiang Ruan was a girl completely without any threat, yet, Jiang Quan actually allowed Jiang Chao, the brother and sister pair, to bully Jiang Ruan without care! So this is how Jiang Ruan had been living all those years! A spark of fury grew in Jiang Xin Zhis eyes, and he pulled Jiang Ruan behind him in a protective stance, coldly glaring at Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan, seeing the situation, raged, Rebel! Rebel! Jiang Ruan stood out from behind Jiang Xins body and said, Father has only heard Second Younger Sisters one sided statement, isnt it too biased? If it was on normal days and there was only Ruan niang, these words could be dismissed. However, Dage is here as well. We brother and sister versus them brother and sister, both have the same number of people, both are the Jiang familys daughter and son, why is it that we do not have the right to speak up? She smiled, Just now it was obviously Second Younger Sister who was rude to me, and Second Elder Brother still wanted to slap me. Dage only acted out of anxiety. However, who knew that Second Elder Brother, a man, would have such a weak and fragile body, and end up flying away. Jiang Ruan said with joy, I know that Second Younger Sister has been possessed by an evil spirit, thus her insolent remarks were probably that evil spirits act of mischief. This is perhaps why she refuses to acknowledge it. After all, even though Ruan niang is courageous, I am also afraid of being stained by that filthy spirit. Jiang Su Sus body became rigid, and Jiang Ruan looked towards Jiang Chao, Second Elder Brother as well, in future you must train your body more. After all, this concerns the Jiang fus future. You flew away after being touched slightly, this truly causes one to worry. However, luckily you didnt injure either of your little fingers or toes. She stood next to her tall and imposing brother who had a soldierly bearing, smiling gently and causing the three people on the opposite side to be so furious that their faces turned white. Chapter 87 - Prophecy (Part I) In the time it took for a single stick of incense to burn, Jiang Xin Zhi took Jiang Ruan and left without a care and the slightest loss or disadvantage, leaving behind Jiang Quan who was suffocating from suppressed anger. Unfortunately the Jiang Zhi Xin of today had received meritorious accomplishment from the army, and his temperament had greatly changed. No longer was he that easy to handle. Yet, Jiang Su Su even thought to add fuel to the fire, Father, look at Da Jiejie. Shut up! Jiang Quan was still raging. Seeing Jiang Su Sus weak and feeble stature he couldnt help feeling even more agitated as he stated, If youre stained by a filthy spirit, dont walk around. Go back to your own courtyard! After that, he glared at Jiang Chao and quickly left. Jiang Su Su could only watch Jiang Quan leave with astonishment while a trace of hatred flashed in Jiang Chaos eyes. The two siblings kept silent, but, at that very moment, they hated both Jiang Xin Zhi and Jiang Ruan bitterly. * * * After a peaceful night, the next day at first light when Jiang Ruan woke up, Lu Zhu stepped in with rose pastries[1]. The rain is easing. It looks as though its going to stop. [1] T/N: Rose pastry/tart may refer to a common pastry formed like a rose made of flour and beans instead of the Yunnan rose petal filled pastry. She looked somewhat worried, knowing a little of Jiang Ruans plan. How great would it be if the rain stopped now. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and looked out from the window. The dense raindrops had become sparse. The water dripped down much slower from the eaves. The air started to become milder, sweeping away the dark clouds from the past few days. It seemed that the sky would clear up before long. Lian Qiao handed the boiled red dates and cassia honey to Jiang Ruan. Its not the time yet. Just wait. Jiang Ruan took a sip of the honey water and tapped her fingers on the table unconsciously. Hmm, the rain looked like its going to clear up, but actually it was the rising wind that foreshadowed the coming storm. * * * On the edge of the Bo Chang reservoir, the reservoir chief wiped his sweat, running back and forth eagerly, constantly flattering the highly respected nobles in front of him. The water has been brought under control and the reservoir is very stable. After observing the rain over the past few days, it seems to have dwindled down a lot and it will probably clear up soon. The flood control is all due to the work of His Highness, Eighth Prince, and Second Young Master Li. Xuan Li smiled gently. Im just doing what Im supposed to do. The reservoir chief smiled like a blooming chrysanthemum when he heard this. His praise was even more dazzling. Your Highness is modest. The lives of the people around the reservoir are in Your Highness hands. It is a blessing for the people to have such a man devoted to the people like Your Highness in the Great Jin dynasty. Later, this official will report Your Highness meritorious deeds to the court without fail. He was full of thoughts; everyone knew that the Crown Prince was not in favour. Nowadays, the most powerful in the palace were Eighth Prince and Fifth Prince. Even though Fifth Prince was decent, in terms of authority in front of the emperor, he still lagged behind Eighth Princes birth mother. After some consideration, Eighth Prince had a better chance of winning. Now that Xuan Li had done a good job in this matter, he should take the opportunity to please him. If he were favoured, his official career would be smooth sailing in the future. When he thought of this, the reservoir chief smiled even more sincerely. Xuan Lis smile was like a spring breeze. He neither denied nor approved it. There were a lot of people watching the bustling scene by the side of the reservoir. These days, Xuan Li made great efforts in flood control and the people witnessed it personally. They were both apprehensive and grateful for those in high positions who came down in person. Common people were always the easiest to satisfy. In addition, the reservoir chief excessively boasted about Xuan Lis merits and so the people were even more grateful to him. Receiving the admiring and respectful gazes from the people, Xuan Lis smile deepened. Pride flashed in his eyes. This smile appeared very amiable when it came into the peoples view. Praises extolling the meritorious deeds of the gentle, handsome, and noble Eighth Prince rang out in the midst of the people. In contrast, Li An, walking beside Xuan Li, still wore a gloomy expression. His expression made Xuan Li seem even more kind and approachable. While the people in the reservoir were giving praises one after another, there was an inopportune voice. Disaster! Disaster! The voice was not ear-piercing in the midst of the praises, but it was exceptionally clear. Xuan Li turned his head to look at the spot where the person spoke from with a barely visible frown. People gradually stopped speaking when they heard this. They saw a yellow-robed monk coming slowly from the crowd. He looked kind-hearted, his robe was clean without any dust, and he acted like a Buddha sitting on a white lotus, with a faint aura of holiness. Someone in the crowd recognized him and spoke out, Isnt this Great Master Hui Jue? Why is Great Master Hui Jue here? It really is Great Master Hui Jue! He is the senior monk in the capital. Its Great Master Hui Jue who prophecies miraculous things! What did Great Master Hui Jue mean by disaster? Xuan Li and Li An stared at this unexpected visitor. Hui Jues reputation was now very popular all over the aristocratic families in the capital, especially those families who worshipped the Buddha. They knew that this monk was very capable. However, Xuan Li and Li An were atheists and had no fear of supernatural beings, so they saw Hui Jue as a common swindler. Hui Jue put his palms together. Amitabha Buddha, this poor monk made a divination last night. The divination showed the collision of Western Dragons vital energy, while the Water Dragon raised its head. Im afraid there will be a big storm. It will be dangerous; the dam may even be at risk of collapsing. What? The woman with the baby in her arms immediately panicked and said, Is everything Great Master just said true? Hui Jue put his palms together and nodded in deferential manner. Xuan Li and Li An walked slowly towards Hui Jue. When they got near him, Xuan Li smiled gently. Did everything Great Master just say, true? A monk never tells lies. Hui Jue answered faintly. Xuan Li and Li An looked at each other. Li An suddenly stared at Hui Jue. Great Master, what do you suggest we do next? Disaster has arrived and is imminent. We should not treat the lives of thousands of people downstream of the reservoir as a trifling matter. Please evacuate those families near the reservoir overnight to a higher ground so as to avoid flooding. On hearing this, Li An chuckled. Xuan Li looked at Li An and smiled. He still appeared gentle, but there was a chill in his voice. Does Great Master know the fate of disturbing peoples hearts? Hui Jue returned his gaze indifferently, neither avoiding nor yielding. He was as lucid as the lotus that rose above the profane world. Xuan Li initially thought he was a common swindler. But when he saw that the Buddhist monk possessed a remarkable temperament and repeatedly insisted that the people downstream be relocated, he became suspicious. His subconscious told him that this man must have been someone that Fifth Prince sent over to rob his merit. Moving all of the commoners families was not a trifling matter. If he really did so, when everything turned out to be safe and sound, not only would the peoples power be wasted, but he would also be sneered at by everyone under the heavens that he was gullible, believing the evil monks lies. Staring at Hui Jues face, Xuan Li felt increasingly repulsed. The Astronomical Bureaus[2] personnel also said that the rain showed a sign of stopping. As his meritorious deed was in plain sight, Fifth Prince wanted to meddle? Thats treating his people as idiots! [2] T/N: Astronomy in China has history. As tradition dictated that the rulers of China, first kings and later emperors, should receive their political mandate from the sky, astronomy soon became a dominant science in China. The main responsibility of political power was to keep the Earth in total harmony with the sky. This obligation was called the Mandate of Heaven and the emperor himself was called Tian Zi , the Son of Heaven. The stars themselves were bestowed with astrological meaning, both enabling predictions that influenced daily life as well as major political strategies, and thus astronomy swiftly became a powerful political tool. One very positive consequence of the Mandate of Heaven on Chinese history was the appointment of a special group of imperial officers who included astronomers, astrologers and meteorologists. These officials were ordered by the emperor to monitor the sky, looking for astrological omens and astronomical phenomena. More details here. Is there any evidence for Great Master Hui Jue to say so? Xuan Li was calm and composed. Hui Jue bowed his head. Amitabha Buddha. Its a divination using the trigrams. The divination image has been revealed, this poor monk has no evidence. If there is no evidence, your remarks are the equivalent to deluding the public with lies. Xuan Li spoke. Fifth Princes trick was so clumsy, he simply didnt put too much thought into it. Great Master is not that kind of person! Yes, everything Great Master said has come true! What Great Master said must be true! To Xuan Lis surprise, most of the crowd went along with Hui Jue. Even though his brows wrinkled, Xuan Li remained calm and collected. Did Fifth Prince invite such a person to use Hui Jues reputation to force him to give this order? He sneered in his heart. Unfortunately for them, he had never been manipulated by others! Without any evidence, its just empty rhetoric, Great Master. Out of the mouth comes evil. Xuan Li still wanted to settle the matter easily, to maintain his image as a good nobleman. Hui Jue sighed. The commoners praise the benefactor[3] for his wisdom and determination as well as his kindness to the people. Isnt it worth taking a risk for the lives of thousands of people in the lower reaches of the Bo Chang Reservoir? [3] Shzh ( ʩ ) C benefactor (term used by a monk to address a layperson). Xuan Lis expression changed. The crowd around him looked at him with less affection than before, replaced by a look of suspicion, anger and doubt. The monk was stirring up public opinion and provoking his supporters! However, before he could give a response, Li An gave an order. Where did this evil monk come from? He unexpectedly made rude remarks to His Highness. Somebody, arrest this evil monk for me! The corners of Xuan Lis lips rose up slightly. There were many things that were inconvenient for him to do, but Li An could do most of them. He kept Li An not only because of his rare intelligence, but also because he was an expert at perceiving the will of the people. The crowd was agitated. Xuan Li spoke out at the right time, Great Master is a monk, and I will not treat a monk rudely. But, if Great Master continues to spout nonsense, it will have a great impact on law and order in the capital. I will find a place for Great Master to rest and recuperate for a few days. When the rain stops, its not too late for Great Master to come out again. Hui Jue bowed his head. Amitabha Buddha, this poor monk is a mere mortal and has no scruples about dying. But, thousands of people in the lower reaches of the reservoir should be evacuated tonight or there will be many lives unsettled. A glimmer of light flashed in Xuan Lis eyes. He spoke gently. From today on, people in the lower reaches of the reservoir are not allowed to leave. Those who leave will be deemed as breaking the rules and will be cut down. It had become a tit-for-tat confrontation. Now that the water situation had stabilized, if the monks lunatic ravings disturbed the original calm of the peoples sentiment, it would be very disadvantageous to the merit he had created. Chapter 87.2 - Prophecy (Part II) Hui Jue looked at him nonchalantly though no one could see the cold sweat dripping all over his back under his monastic robe. But after thinking about it all night, he finally made up his mind before dawn. The terms offered by Jiang Ruan were too attractive. Everyone rushed towards benefit and all the bustle in the world is for profit. Thus if he could really cure his sons illness because of this, it would be a huge profit. Although he had no clue who was behind Jiang Ruan, judging from the previous events, this young miss was still so powerful. The person behind her must not be an ordinary person. Even if the opponent was Eighth Prince, wealth was always obtained by taking risk, not to mention it would be an enormous amount of riches. Hui Jue had travelled all the way to the imperial capital from Yuzhou. He had swindled for decades and never made any slip-ups. First, he understood some Buddhist texts. Second, he was skillful in deception. The most important thing was that he was bold and scrupulous. The truth was confused with the false, the false became the truth. Even those who were skilled in this field could hardly see the flaws. But today, when facing the royal family, he couldnt help feeling uneasy and confused. However, due to his many years of experience, in the end, those emotions left no trace on his face. The more compassionately Hui Jue spoke, the more Xuan Li felt that the monk harboured sinister designs. In the end, Xuan Li didnt take his advice, thus, his purpose was achieved. Jiang Ruan once reminded him that Xuan Li was a man who paid attention to fame. As someone who pursued perfection, while he might detain him in full view of the public, Xuan Li would certainly not treat him as a criminal. Otherwise, there would be great anger amongst the people. Furthermore, even if Xuan Li really did want to punish him, it would be in three days. But, in three days, would Xuan Li still have the chance to punish him? His success or failure depended on this. Hui Jue shook his head, sighed, clasped his hands, and silently followed Li Ans imperial guards. The people who surrounded the reservoirs vicinity had no affection in their eyes at the moment, only panic. They were talking about the possibility of the dam collapsing in three days. For a moment, people went into panic. Xuan Li felt upset. For some reason, a vague sense of foreboding rose and he glanced at Li An. Li An understood and said with a somber look. Didnt you hear what His Highness said just now? Dont listen to rumors and stir up trouble. Over the next three days, anyone who dares to take a step to leave will be punished by the law! Li Ans face wasnt as amiable as Xuan Li. Both his looks and tone of voice were gloomy and oppressive, even somewhat ferocious. The people immediately fell silent due to fear. Xuan Li waved his hand and said, Lets go back. At the same time, the reservoir chief who had been ashen-faced earlier followed him in a hurry, fawning all the way. Although the crowd was still in a panic, because of Li Ans orders as well as being surrounded by soldiers, they felt uneasy and soon dispersed. When the crowd disbanded, two people stayed where they were. A man in a somber black robe, with a cold and detached facial expression, looked at the reservoir thoughtfully. Next to him was a man who looked like a guard. Master, Jin Yi and Jin Er have already checked. There is nothing wrong with the dam. Xiao Shao replied, Watch carefully whats going on here. If there was no problem with the dam, it was not caused by humans. There was also a hypothesis that the rain would suddenly increase. He looked into the distance, his long eyelashes drooping, hiding the depth of his eyes. Lets go. * * * In the Jiang fu, Lu Zhu told Jiang Ruan what she had just heard and said with excitement, Great Master Hui Jue has made an appearance. Eighth Prince has detained him. Will he confess? No. Jiang Ruan answered. Lian Qiao and Bai Zhi were both worried. They heard Jiang Ruan say, Xuan Li is too deep and naturally suspicious. He will not deal with Huij Jue so quickly, but even if he did, Hui Jue is able to distinguish his priorities. If he cant bear it, hell be a rotten corpse. If he survives, hell be extremely rich. Hes a smart man and naturally knows how to make a choice. As a matter of fact, in her previous life, Xuan Li controlled Hui Jues entrance to the imperial court but Hui Jues position was not smooth sailing. There were numerous voices of opposition in the court as well as countless overt and covert attacks against him. However, Hui Jue still achieved the position of the Grand Preceptor. Such a person only lacked courage for now, but his nature was remarkably unyielding. Wouldnt it be better in this life to use Xuan Lis arrow and aim it at himself? Her gaze suddenly turned cold. Lu Zhu noticed it and said, Miss, one more thing, this servant met Fifth Yiniang on the way. She said that Master received a letter today, saying that he would marry off Miss to the Grand Councillor fu its to the Eldest Young Master Li. Master seems to be preparing to send the marriage proposal[1] over. ϻЩ_ݻװ [1] Gng t?e () C written marriage proposal on which are stated the year, month, day and hour of ones birth Ridiculous! Lian Qiao couldnt help saying, Miss is still so young. Any ordinary official family would not marry off a daughter from a di wife so early! Jiang Ruan showed a faint smile. Jiang Quan made this decision only after he had received the letter. Li An loved to torture people slowly. This must not have been his idea. She assumed Eldest Young Master Li, sick and bed-ridden, had finally awoken and was ready for revenge. Shifting the disaster to the East of the Yangtze river (i.e., transferring ones misfortune to another), that Jiang Su Su mother and daughter pair still wouldnt get what theyre looking for. Miss, you absolutely shouldnt, Bai Zhi said anxiously. It would be better to ask Eldest Young Master no, ask Master? Whats the hurry? Jiang Ruan was calm and unruffled. If he wants me to join the Li household upon marriage, it also depends whether he has that fate. The marriage proposal is almost there, Bai Zhi said hurriedly. Master is so ruthless that he wants to let Miss jump into the pit of fire instead of Second Miss. The people of Yan Hua Yuan will be even happier to see it happen. Miss, you have to plan for yourself! Jiang Ruan looked at her anxious appearance and suddenly gave her a faint smile. Dont you believe me? What about making a bet with me? Bai Zhi was stunned. I bet that in three days, Jiang Quan will cry, begging them to withdraw the marriage proposal, Jiang Ruan said. * * * In Yan Hua Yuan, at that very moment, the atmosphere that had been bleak a few days before was unusually harmonious. Jiang Su Su nestled up in Xia Yans arms and asked, So to say, Jiang Ruan will marry Li Yang, that cripple, soon? Xia Yan took a look at her reproachfully. Keep your voice down a bit. Even so, she couldnt help smiling. Yes, the Li family is not an ordinary place. If she goes in, it will be no different from brothel prostitutes. Li Dong Realizing something, she suddenly stopped and glanced at Jiang Su Su. Although Jiang Su Su knew nothing about the affairs between men and women, she guessed a little from Xia Yans words. Instead of being shy, she smiled with satisfaction. Is that so? She harmed me and my elder brother, creating enmity between Maternal Grandfather and us. Even inside the fu, shes extremely arrogant. Wouldnt it be letting her off too lightly by keeping her alive? When she enters the Grand Councillor fu, her life will be so painful that shed rather be dead, Xia Yan said coldly, Li Yang hates her to the bone. How can she get any benefit? At that time, even if you trample her under your foot, no one would dare to say anything. Jiang Su Su Sus beautiful eyes flashed and seemed to be extremely happy. Suddenly, she thought of something. What about Jiang Xin Zhi? If he knows about it, he wont leave the matter at that. Your father and I have decided to keep it from him for now. After we are done with this matter, it wont be too late to deal with that little bit*h. Xia Yan stroked Jiang Su Sus head. Suer, whoever harms you, Mother will make her pay a thousand times a hundredfold the price. Jiang Su Su nodded cunningly and nestled in Xia Yans arms with a twinkling of malice in her eyes. No matter how arrogant those two siblings were, the one in charge of the Jiang fu was her mother. There was also Jiang Quan at the top. What about being a Deputy General, what about his military achievements? If her father wanted Jiang Ruan to marry a cripple, she had no other option but to marry! Having Jiang Ruan enter the Grand Councillor fu was also helping her to accomplish her goal. Now, the marriage proposal had been sent to the Grand Councillor fu. Jiang Quan had an unshakeable determination to use Jiang Ruan as an exchange for an alliance with the Li family. Jiang Ruan wouldnt be able to escape disaster this time! Mother, I want to see it right now, Jiang Ruans tragic fate after marrying into the Grand Councillor fu. Jiang Su Su claimed. Soon. A sinister smile appeared in Xia Yans lips. The marriage proposal has been sent over. The date has also been set up by your father and Grand Councillor Li. Li Yang hates Jiang Ruan to the bone and his desire to torture her is even stronger. In my opinion, he will marry Jiang Ruan back to his home as soon as possible. I will take the opportunity to talk to your father about it, so that no unpredictable change may happen. Her voice became slower and overcast. However, marriage is ordered by parents and arranged by the matchmaker. No matter how long the night is, it will be a dreamless night. Chapter 88.1 - Collapse (Part I) In the General fu. Zhao Guang stared intently at the letter before him. Zhao Yuan Jia and his two siblings, along with Zhao Yi, stood on either side, with identical serious expressions. After quite a while, Zhao Guang heaved a long sigh and said, Lets just do whats written in the letter. Zufu, Zhao Yi said in surprise. Even if what Biaomei said previously is correct, if she should be wrong this time, the Zhao family will not be able to bear the consequences and accusations of sending out troops due to a private message. I believe that child. Ever since Jiang Ruan visited the General fu and disclosed the inside story of Zhao Meis mistreatment, Zhao Guang seemed to have aged by a decade. This General, who was normally in robust spirits, now bore an expression which hinted at hidden hardship. Dont worry, Zhao Yuan Ping said unexpectedly, with a laugh. Not only does this situation concern us, she has even called upon Eldest Nephew into the action, so she would never put her dage in a compromising situation. Our Zhao family is a family of high-ranking military officials; there is nothing amiss if a situation should suddenly arise which requires us to call a small section of our troops to duty. If nothing actually transpires, we can plead that we were misled by an anonymous and maliciously sent letter; if something does happen, then we would have rescued a large group of citizens. Whatever the case, our gain will be more than any possible loss. Zhao Yuan Ping, as the most astute Zhao family male, had the custom of scrutinising the pros and cons of every situation. It made him seem like a shrewd businessman, but no one had ever doubted his way of looking at things. Since he and Zhao Guang had spoken in this manner, no one else expressed an opinion on the matter. A decision was thus made. If you send troops to Bo Chang Reservoir tonight, by daybreak tomorrow, Eighth Prince will also have sent men to defend it. Dont confront them in open conflict, just kill them all in the shortest possible time, Zhao Guang said to Zhao Yuan Jia. Wont that bring us into direct conflict with Eighth Prince? Zhao Yuan Jia frowned as he continued, Im afraid that incurring hatred in this direct way bodes ill for the future. Until now, the General fu has maintained a neutral position in the imperial court by not seeking favour, but also by not rejecting it when bestowed, either. However, after tonight, we will be in conflict with Xuan Li. Henceforth, when we meet, the atmosphere between us will be hostile[1], and who knows how many casualties there will be. [1] Dao guang jian ying (⽣Ӱ ) C lit. the glint and flash of cold steel; heated combat. So, if we yield, he will simply let the General fu go? Zhao Guang asked in response. Go on, just do what the letter says. Zhao Yuan Jia and the others exchanged glances, following which, they seemed to come to an agreement and exited the study. Once alone, Zhao Guang once again dropped his gaze to the letter before him. In her letter, Jiang Ruan had asked them to dispose of all of Eighth Princes men quickly and efficiently. No one was to be spared, and they were not to be given the opportunity to seek external aid. Naturally, he understood Jiang Ruans reason for making this request. If Xuan Lis subordinates were given the opportunity to call in other people, Xuan Li would undoubtedly not allow the Zhao family to move the citizens from the lower reaches of the reservoir to another location. As for quietly dispatching all of Eighth Princes men, if the reservoir really did collapse on the second day, there was the great chance of saying that all the bodies had been swept away. Since dead men tell no tales, Xuan Li would only be able to keep his suspicions and grievances to himself, and suffer in silence. Zhao Guang sighed deeply. He admired Jiang Ruans ingenious mind, and was also astonished at the decisiveness with which she ordered a kill. However, she was still so young. When Zhao Yu Long and Zhao Fei Zhou were her age, they had been innocent and naive youngsters who had never even tasted anxiety. There were too many mysterious things about Jiang Ruan which the General could not fathom, but he did not intend to compel her to tell him more. If there should be a day when Jiang Ruan truly accepted them as her close relatives, there would be no need to ask, for she would tell them of her own volition. However, he did not know if there would ever be such a day. The scene in the General fu was thus. Naturally, in the Jiang fu, the situation was different. On his way back to the fu, Jiang Xin Zhi had spotted a vendor selling furong steamed cakes[2] and bought several slices for Jiang Ruan. When Zhao Mei was still alive, Jiang Ruan had loved eating the furong steamed cakes sold in Yang Liu Lane. Through the years, the lane had undergone much change, but the couple who sold the cakes were still there. When they saw Jiang Xin Zhi, they recognised him straightaway, and even laughingly chided him for not bringing his younger sister to visit them after so many years. [2] Fu rong zheng gao (ܽ) C Fu Rong is a district in Changsha, Hunan, and also means Hibiscus. This seems to be a steamed sponge cake found in the northeast region of China, and which probably incorporates hibiscus in some form. Heres a link to the recipe in case anyone wants to try. As Jiang Xin Zhi recalled this encounter, he shook his head and laughed. Jiang Ruan received the cakes from him and placed them to one side. She looked at Jiang Xin Zhi and said, with a small smile, Dage, be more careful tonight. Jiang Xin Zhi was wearing a traditional long gown in deep blue, embroidered with pine trees. He looked so cultured and refined, yet, under that soft and genteel gown was his impenetrable military armor. Tonight, there would be an attack. Although it was not the same as the bold and decisive manoeuvres on a battlefield, it would still be immeasurably dangerous. He laughed and rubbed Jiang Ruans head as he said, I understand. So, in your heart, your dage is such an incompetent person? Jiang Ruan also smiled slightly as she took in the warmth of Jiang Xin Zhis gaze. She propped up her chin with one hand, and with a rarely observed playfulness of tone said, In my heart, Dage will forever be the epitome of manliness, a man with an indomitable[3] spirit. [3] Ding tian li di ( ) C lit. able to hold up both the heavens and the earth; fig. an indomitable spirit, dauntless. When Jiang Xin Zhi had been informed of Jiang Ruans plan, he had agreed without any objection. This despite the fact that he had never even considered whether or not there would be heavy rainfall the next day, or why the dam would actually collapse. Whatever Jiang Ruan said, he agreed with. On this earth, perhaps Jiang Xin Zhi was the only person who would trust her unconditionally, and was willing to do his utmost to accede to every one of her requests. Dage stole General Guans official seal, but you dont have to send too many troops, just a small number will do, Jiang Ruan said. However, after the event, General Guan will definitely be furious, Dage . . . will probably feel greatly wronged for a while. In her previous life, she had seldom caught a glimpse of the Emperor while in the palace. She had only heard Xuan Li say that the Emperor was highly suspicious by nature. The Zhao family was one of the founding families of the nation, and ever since their return to the capital city many years prior, they had amassed great power and influence. Although the Emperor still seemed to look fondly towards this revered family, who could tell how genuine and sincere his thoughts were. However, Guan Liang Han was different. Firstly, he had been away for a long time defending the frontier regions and had very little contact with the influential forces in the capital city. Secondly, he was somewhat straightforward and outspoken by nature, which is why the Emperor had such trust in him. After her plan succeeded, depending on the Zhao familys meritorious contributions would not be enough, Guan Liang Han would have to be involved as well. If they could establish a connection with Guan Liang Han, the Emperor would be inclined to view them with greater lenience. Moreover, if Jiang Xin Zhi were to step in personally, this would have great advantages for his future official career. People always say that one should rise upward one step at a time, and not act with undue haste. Jiang Xin Zhi had already been promoted to Deputy General, as well as achieved great military merit. If preventing a flood by controlling the water saved thousands of lives in the lower reaches of the reservoir, it would naturally be an act worthy of reward. In this way, the first step would be taken into the highest echelon of power in the Great Jin dynasty, and he would certainly stand higher than others. While Jiang Xin Zhi was doing this for her, she was also paving the way for him. Moreover, the first course of action would be to tread on the flesh and blood of the Grand Councilor fu in order to advance. * * * The Eighth Prince fu in the capital city. Xuan Li sat at the table and sipped leisurely from the cup of tea in his hands. Li An had spoken to him for the entire afternoon. He saw that the next day would be the third day that the monk had spoken of, but the rain was gradually becoming lighter, and seemed to be almost stopping entirely. His brow slowly smoothed out. This manoeuvre of Fifth Prince was absolutely useless. After tomorrow, the minister in charge of recording the flood controls would report this matter to the imperial court, his popularity among the common people would rocket, and he would garner even more supporters in court. Once he finally put that monk he had placed under house arrest in jail for interrogation by torture, if he could get him to supply Fifth Princes name, then everything would be perfect. However, what Li An had said still rang in his ears. Your Highness must not underestimate the eldest di daughter of the Jiang family. That girl is deceitful and cunning, and is merciless when taking action. If you leave her alone, she will be a huge thorn in your side in future. If you can hold on to her and use her, she might be of great assistance to you. He was not sure what Li An had been hinting at. A faintly smiling face came to mind of an immature and inexperienced[4] girl. How was it possible that she would be someone who could render great assistance? [4] Ru xiu wei gan ( δ ) C lit. the smell of mothers milk has not yet dried; still wet behind the ears, immature and inexperienced. Xuan Li sneered slightly. He did not know why, but he felt a hint of unease. His subordinate entered the room and said, Your Highness, the reservoir has been inspected and everything is in order. Soldiers have been sent to keep watch, and nothing unusual has been reported. Xuan Li waved his hand. You may leave. He had ordered a troop of soldiers to position themselves near the reservoir in order to thwart any potential action, so everything was absolutely foolproof. After quite a while later, he tamped down the unsettled feeling in his heart and gradually started to smile. They were nothing but a troupe of prancing clowns so there was no need to waste time thinking about them. * * * In another quiet and secluded courtyard in the capital city, several men dressed as imperial bodyguards were guarding the gate. Within the room, the fragrant steam from a cup of tea spiraled up like incense. A yellow-robed monk was silently reciting Buddist texts as he sat facing the window. This persons appearance was tranquil despite his volatile situation, and he possessed the bearing of a senior monk. In the midst of his recitation, he suddenly stopped, and his eyes flew open. The imperial bodyguards had not slackened in guarding the gate as night approached. Under the curtain of darkness, it was hard to see clearly. In the light of the red lanterns hanging from the eaves, one could make out the floating drizzle of fine rain, so fine that it almost seemed to disappear It looked as if the rain was about to stop. As Hui Jue silently watched the rain, he slowly stretched his fingers which had been tightly clutching his prayer beads. His perspiration had pooled in his palm. After tonight, if the heavy downpour did not arrive as predicted, he understood more clearly than anyone else what awaited him. These past few days, every once in a while, someone would come and speak to him. Although these persons manner of speech was mild, there was an undertone of threat and a subtle pressure. He could only feign ignorance. Unexpectedly, they did not make things difficult for him. Xuan Li was the kind of person who placed great importance on reputation. Until tomorrow, he would treat Hui Jue with all due respect. After tomorrow, Hui Jue would become the bringer of disaster, the evil monk who had lost all popular sympathy, and no punishment would be too excessive for him. Hui Jue narrowed his eyes slightly. This was all a game, and it seemed to him that he was on the verge of losing. However, he had no choice but to endure. If he were to change his tune now, whoever was behind Jiang Ruan would inevitably vent his anger on his son. He once again closed his eyes and slowly, very slowly, silently recited the sacred texts. * * * In the Jinying Wang fu. Xiao Shao silently perused the letter in his hand as the pigeon on his table cooed, gu gu, gu gu. After some time, he said, Take my official seal, and ask General Guan to come here. A Jin Yi guard received the order and left. Xiao Shao stretched out his hand and tapped the letter with slender fingers, his eyes cold and detached. Jiang Xin Zhi, Zhao Yuan Jia? The continuous rain seemed to have cleansed the night sky over the capital city. In particular, as the rain had decreased in severity over recent days, tonights sky was exceedingly clear and limpid, as if, in the very next second, a luminous moon would be seen hanging from the branches of the willow tree by the lake. The area surrounding Bo Chang reservoir was tranquil and without movement. The barely discernible raindrops fell lightly on the surface of the water, setting off shallow waves, just like the tender and intimate chat between two lovers. Armed imperial bodyguards were patrolling the edge of the reservoir, while the people in the lower reaches of the reservoir had already entered dreamland. Into this still and silent scene, from a distance, came the sudden sound, pu tong, as if something had dropped into the water. One of the imperial bodyguards, who was standing by the waters edge, lifted up his sleepy eyes to say to the person next to him, What was that sound just now? His companion waved his hand and said, I dont know, why dont you go have a look. The imperial bodyguard rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he moved forwards until he reached the place where the sound had originated. He peered into the depths and exclaimed, Whats going on? A faint trimmer of ripples distrubed the surface of the water. By the feeble light of the torch, it looked as if there was something there. The imperial bodyguard brought his torch closer to the surface of the water and bent over to take a better look. Suddenly, he felt something cold against his neck, but before his brain could come to any realisation, his body had already collapsed. The new arrival dragged him to one side and swiftly peeled off his clothes and put them on before taking up the torch. After a while, the other imperial bodyguard saw his comrade whom he had sent off to investigate the sound returning slowly. Why did it take you so long? What was it just now? the imperial bodyguard asked. The returning imperial bodyguard only shook his head and yawned. Be careful, if someone finds out that you dozed off while on night duty, you and I will be in trouble, the first imperial bodyguard said unhappily. The returning imperial bodyguard moved his torch forward lazily, so that only the faintest glimmer of light fell on his face, which thus remained indistinct. The first imperial bodyguard carried on with his garrulous speech, when he suddenly felt that something was amiss and turned his head sharply. Somethings not right! You are not . . . The sound stopped abruptly. A dagger protruded from his abdomen. The stranger who was wearing his comrades clothes eyed him dispassionately. The imperial bodyguard struggled to reach the signal flare hidden in his clothes, but before he could do so, another hand had already snatched it away. Then, in the distance, from the darkness of the area surrounding Bo Chang reservoir, ghostly figures with dark shadows emerged, just like the strands of a big woven net, approaching the reservoir with nary a sound. The muffled sound of close combat echoed in the darkness. This night, someone set out in military attire, bringing with him three hundred elite troops, and lay in ambush at Bo Chang reservoir. In a one-sided massacre, with rapidly slashing knives, fresh blood flowed freely. This night, someone slept soundly, in a warm and refined fu. The smoke from incense rose in spirals, and a good nights rest was enjoyed. This night, the homes of the people at Bo Chang reservoir were infiltrated by countless black shadows, and the people were moved away in the darkness. This night, in the courtyard of a large, luxurious fu, a yellow-robed monk closed his eyes and recited Buddhist scriptures, remaining in silent meditation for the entire night. This night, the breeze wafted gently, the raindrops were as delicate as silk thread, and the night was full of pathos. Some people had good dreams, while others remained sleepless. Then, as morning broke on the next day, a loud sound came from the east, and startled awake the still-slumbering residents of the capital city. The rain poured down in torrents, as if bowl after bowl of water was being upended. With a bang, the entire dam of Bo Chang reservoir collapsed from the centre outwards, as if it were nothing but a frail partition. The stored water combined with the rain water and surged forth with a tremendous rumble, becoming a huge wave in the twinkling of an eye. In a flash, the water completely engulfed the innumerable homes of the people in the lower reaches of the reservoir. Like a thunderclap, the news of Bo Chang reservoirs collapse spread through the capital in an instant. The deluge of rainwater had not only inundated the lower reaches, even other areas which were slightly lower in elevation were also affected. When the news reached her, Jiang Ruan was in her residence eating furong steamed cake. In the end, she had not eaten the previous evenings steamed cake. This morning, although the cake was somewhat cold, when paired with hot tea, it had a special flavour. When Jiang Xin Zhi returned, his clothes were completely soaked. He changed into a set of dry clothes and immediately went to visit Jiang Ruan even though his hair was still wet. Upon entering the courtyard and noticing what she was doing, he said, Why are you eating cold food? Youd better take care, your stomach will be cold[5]. [5] T/N: In Chinese medicine, eating too much cold food (not necessarily cold in terms of temperature, but in terms of Chinese medicine, food that cools down your body (yin food) e.g. lemon, cheese, green tea) can lead to various illnesses and problems. Jiang Ruan gave him a smile. Its nothing. Jiang Xin Zhi sat down opposite her and smiled as he said, Everything has been settled. The people have all been moved to Dongpo mountain, and since it is much higher ground, there should be no issues. Jiang Ruan nodded, then noticed Jiang Xin Zhi hesitating slightly, so she asked, What has happened? Since Jiang Xin Zhi kept nothing from her, he said, Last night, when I was with Biaoge, the General also arrived. He didnt question me about mobilising the troops for private reasons, and even brought some people to help me. He frowned and continued, Those people did not seem to be from the army. They were very competent in handling corpses, as if they specialised in killing. Realising that he should not be speaking of such bloody business in front of Jiang Ruan, he said, Ah Ruan, you dont have to concern yourself with this. Since Guan Liang Han helped you, he must have his reasons. Since he didnt take the initiative to question you, you dont have to worry about it. Jiang Ruan did not understand Guan Liang Hans intentions, but there were more important matters to handle at present. Dage, when its convenient, find some trustworthy people and ask them to spread this in the marketplace. Jiang Ruan handed the note in her hand to Jiang Xin Zhi. Jiang Xin Zhi took the note with some misgivings. When he read its contents, he was dumbfounded. He thought for a while before asking, Ah Ruan, what did the Li family do to you? He had initially assumed that Jiang Ruan was undertaking this series of events solely to help the Zhao family. Going one step further, it would be to curtail Xuan Lis power and influence and cause him to lose vitality in a short period of time. However, judging from the current situation, it seemed that all of Jiang Ruans barbs were aimed at the Grand Councillor fu. The more he thought about it, the more apprehensive he became, and he was appalled. On further thought though, the Grand Councillor fu must have done something to Jiang Ruan, otherwise, why would she harbour such deep hatred? Ever since his return to the fu, he had asked about Jiang Ruans circumstances, but everyone in the Jiang fu kept silent on the topic. The servants were not clear about quite a few situations so there was basically no point in asking them about Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan said, indifferently, Li Yang is a philanderer and had indecent intentions towards me, so I castrated him, and now the Li family hates me to the core. If he lives, he will sooner or later become my enemy. Either he dies or I die. If I dont eliminate the entire family, theres no way for me to be at ease. She spoke lightly, playing down the situation, but Jiang Xin Zhis thoughts and emotions were in a tumult when he heard her words. His first reaction was extreme astonishment, then he clenched his fists tightly and spat out, Intolerable bully! He thrust the note into his gown and said, Leave this to me. Looking at her, he continued, Ah Ruan, if only dage had returned earlier, you would not have had to suffer such humiliation. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and said, Its nothing. It wasnt the humiliation that was dreadful, it was the not being self-aware even after humiliation, never having the opportunity to make a change in ones fortunes, and thus living ones life to the end in utter misery. Just like her previous life. Jiang Xin Zhi strode out of the door. Chapter 88.2 - Collapse (Part II) In the Eighth Prince fu, Xuan Li smashed the nine-dragon patterned coloured glass tea cup to the ground in one fierce movement, and it shattered into a myriad of sparkling fragments. His muscles were all taut with tension, and his usual mild and gentle appearance had absolutely disappeared, replaced by a furious wrath that sank deep into his bones. How did this happen? Didnt they say there was nothing wrong with the dam? If there was nothing wrong then how could it collapse? He threw the book in his hand at the advisor who was standing nearest him. Even though the advisor was terrified he did not even dare to exhale. This was the first time the ever-gentle Eighth Prince had lost his temper with him; he had always controlled his emotions very skillfully. Even if he had a deep-rooted hatred for someone, he would smile at his enemy as if the two of them were enjoying a warm spring breeze in a pleasant environment. No one knew the irritation in Xuan Lis heart at this moment. Why did it have to be at this time! When he was finally about to achieve all that he desired! He was popular with the people, he had the favour of the Emperor- all that was left was this final contribution to society- and he would shine more clearly in the eyes of the Great Jin dynasty. The majority of the officials would naturally give him their support and, with more people in the palm of his hand, he would have more clout and bargaining power in future. Recently, he had poured his heart into the matter of the reservoir, thinking that it was a surefire endeavour. How could it all fall to pieces at the final stage! Xuan Li was a person who was unwilling to admit defeat, and something like this had happened. It was as if someone had slapped him in the face in full view of everyone else. Although he appeared generous and good-natured, he was actually proud and arrogant. How could he tolerate this failure! In a towering rage, he ordered, Get Li An here! Then, as something else came to mind, he said, Find some people to guard that monk, and bring him here as well. His subordinates received their orders and left. Overnight, the winds of fortune had changed direction. The once brilliant, wise, and outstanding Eighth Prince, who had rendered great service in flood control, had suddenly become an incapable, obstinate, and self-opinionated man who cared not one iota about the lives of the common people, and was even disrespectful to a senior monk. Bo Chang reservoir had completely collapsed, and all the homes in the lower reaches were totally destroyed. If it were not for the actions of the city garrisons Zhao Yi from the General fu and General Guan Liang Han who had recently returned from the border, who had worked through the night to evacuate the people, who knew how many innocent lives would have been lost due to this disaster. The people praised the Zhao family soldiers and the Guan family soldiers as practically being living Buddhas who rescued the suffering and the distressed. In less than no time, they had become the objects of the love and admiration of the people in the capital city. Moreover, Great Master Hui Jue, who had prophesied that Bo Chang reservoir would collapse, was being worshipped with great reverence. Everyone had witnessed for themselves that the rain was gradually dying down over the past few days, such that it appeared to be stopping soon, so who could have imagined that a heavy rainfall would descend upon them out of the blue that morning. If not for the Zhao and Guan family soldiers, the capital city would now be haunted by thousands of vengeful spirits. Gossip in this vein swept rapidly through the streets and alleys, spreading to the homes of the nobility, to the air above the Great Jin dynasty, and finally to the imperial court. The supporters of Fifth Prince seized this opportunity to justify their ruthless criticism of Eighth Princes methods, and petitions by the Imperial Censor to impeach Eighth Prince flew like snowflakes onto the Emperors table. Even then, the situation did not come to a close. A rumour had quietly begun in the capital city that the dam had been built by a subordinate of Grand Councillor Li Dong whom he had promoted to take charge of the project, and this subordinate had embezzled much of the money allocated for the construction of the dam. A large portion of the embezzled money had then found its way to the Grand Councillor fu. It was precisely because the Second Young Master of the Grand Councillor fu, Li An, was afraid that this would be discovered that he made a supreme effort to cover it up, disregarding the lives of thousands of people in the lower reaches of the reservoir. Eighth Prince and Li An had always been on close terms, which was why Eighth Prince had helped him with the cover up. All the authorities in the world know that fish cannot survive when the water is too clean[1]. Thus, if the court officials, no matter at what level, were to practise graft on a small scale, that was a matter of little concern. However, Bo Chang reservoir had been the largest reservoir in the Great Jin dynasty. The people residing in the capital city had relied on its water for drinking and daily usage, and it was also the source of the water for irrigating thousands of acres of fertile land. Graft on a small scale was no big deal, but if the extent was too large, then it would be like termites boring into the heart of the country. [1] Shui zhi qing ze wu yu ( ˮ ) C part of the saying, ˮ, ͽ lit. when the water is too clean, there are no fish; when one is too critical, one has few friends/ followers. In particular, Li Ans method of handling the situation at this critical juncture was tantamount to killing people in order to prevent them from divulging a secret. Whats more, he had planned to silence thousands of lives at one fell swoop. The entire kingdom was in shock and the Emperor was furious. Without hesitation, he issued a decree C the Grand Councillor fu was corrupt and in flagrant abuse of the law, the damage to the dam was an unforgivable crime, and the fus people were to be escorted to prison to await trial. At this time, Li An was at Eighth Princes fu talking to Xuan Li. Xuan Li said, angrily, How on earth did this happen? How could what the monk said be true? Li An was also somewhat baffled for the first time in his life. After some thought, he said, This was obviously well planned, and it must be connected with the Zhao family. Last night, Your Highness imperial bodyguards all vanished into thin air, and it can be assumed that they succumbed to the vicious attacks engineered by the Zhao family and Guan Liang Han. However, in the end, their soldiers are all from the army. How is it possible that they did not leave behind even the slightest trace? Whats the use even if they did leave traces behind? Xuan Li said, I cant possibly tell anyone about this situation, so I will just have to suffer all this pent-up grievance alone. Besides, since our opponents have no scruples slaughtering people, they have definitely prepared counter-measures. He clenched his fist and said, The Zhao family? Im surprised that they would throw their lot in with Fifth Prince. Your Highness, I still think theres something very fishy about this situation; it may not be the doing of Fifth Prince, Li An said. Xuan Li looked at him contemptuously and said, Li An, this prince[2] has already trusted you many times, but this time, you have failed. [2] Ben dian ( ) C as Irisu explained in Ch 71, this literally means this palace hall, but often it refers to a royalty (who owns their own palace, which in and of itself signifies immense status and power) referring to themselves. Your Highness, please punish me! Li An hurriedly knelt down to seek forgiveness, but in his eyes there was a flash of mockery. Enough, Xuan Li said as he waved his hand. At present, Father Emperor is certainly in a rage. I have to beg for forgiveness, otherwise we will be left with no way out. Just as he said this, an imperial bodyguard suddenly rushed in. When he saw Xuan Li, he quickly knelt down and said, Your Highness, something has happened. Xuan Li frowned. What is it? The imperial bodyguard eyed Li An. Xuan Li said, Speak. His Majesty, the Emperor, has issued an imperial decree that the people of the Grand Councillor fu be imprisoned to await trial. What? Li An abruptly stood up. The imperial bodyguard swiftly narrated the entire series of events. Xuan Lis brows were tightly knit. This situation looked to be a really great misfortune for the Grand Councillor fu, but his own fu was linked with his in innumerable ways. Even though the Emperor had yet to say anything at present, Xuan Li was afraid that he had already fallen out of favour. Li An was totally dumbfounded, and had no clue what to do. A vague premonition unexpectedly arose in his heart. It was not as if the Emperor had no idea what the Grand Councillor fu was up to in the capital all these years, its simply that he had closed one eye to the proceedings because the situation in the imperial court required balance. There was a need for the Grand Councillor fu, for once this balance was disturbed, the current excellent situation in court would be destroyed. The Emperor knew this, and so did the Grand Councillor fu. Since they had a strong backing, as long as the relevant people behaved appropriately within the understood norms there would be no issue. But, now, the Emperor had actually imprisoned the people of the Grand Councillor fu. For a person who had achieved unbounded glory, being imprisoned only had one significance C that he would never again regain his previous position. The Emperor was unshakeable in his resolve to punish the Grand Councillor fu, thus what could anyone do about it? Xuan Li frowned and said, Father actually believes such a preposterous story? The rumours circulating outside are very fierce, the imperial bodyguard said cautiously, and they are very persuasive. The men the Emperor sent to seize the Grand Councillor fu really did find countless precious stones and jewels as they searched. Li An stood rooted to the spot in a daze. Bo Chang reservoir had indeed been built by the person Li Dong had promoted to the position. Of course there had been graft, but it should not have been to the extent that the dam would collapse so easily. At the very least, the foundations should have been stable. There was a tacit understanding within the imperial court about what would happen to the silver for the construction project, but to have the dam suddenly collapse was absolutely unexpected. Hence, the numberless rumours swirling about. To say nothing of the great amounts of gold, silver, and precious stones found in the Grand Councillor fu. Although the majority of these valuables had nothing whatsoever to do with the reservoir building project, under present circumstances, people would definitely associate them with the silver that was allocated to the reservoir project. A few days ago, Xuan Li had even hinted to the Emperor that the state treasury was empty, and that it would be possible to find a solution in the fus of the higher level ministers. His intention was to target the Zhao family but, out of the blue, they had started distributing congee, making it difficult for the Emperor to move on them. Right now, the great amount of valuables in the Grand Councillor fu were like a ready-made meal that had opportunely appeared before the Emperor. So much wealth, how could the Emperor not be tempted? Whats more, with the damage caused by the flood disaster, the state treasury would be in even greater need of replenishing. Thus, with layer upon layer weighing them down, how could the Grand Councillor fu even have the slightest glimmer of opportunity to escape? In this way, the Grand Councillor fu collapsed and Eighth Prince also suffered a great loss of power and influence. Meanwhile, Fifth Prince had benefited the most, but the Zhao family had also gained much. Why had the General fu, who had always remained aloof from worldly affairs, and quietly remained neutral, acted so uncharacteristically? The disappearance of several hundred elite soldiers the previous night clearly had their signature all over it. When had the methods of the General fu become so ruthless? And, what about Guan Liang Han? Why had Guan Liang Han taken part in this affair? Li An swiftly made connections between all these, the General fu, Guan Liang Han . . . suddenly, a name appeared in his mind C Jiang Xin Zhi. The General fu was the family of Jiang Xin Zhis biological mother, and Jiang Xin Zhi was Guan Liang Hans Deputy General. The faint smile of a young lady appeared before him, a charming young lady with cold eyes, bearing an ambiguous expression. He suddenly remembered what Li Dong had mentioned to him the day before. Your elder brother wants to marry that slut, Jiang Ruan, and the Jiang family has already made arrangements to send the geng tie over. At that time he had been preoccupied with checking the area around the reservoir to ensure that nothing was out of place, and was disinclined to argue with Li Dong. However, now that he thought about it, those words were like a bolt of lighting appearing out of the blue and ferociously striking his heart. If Li Yang wanted to marry Jiang Ruan, it could only be to torment her, because Jiang Ruan had castrated him. But before the geng tie could be sent over, the Grand Councillor fu had been seized and searched. A dreadful conjecture came to mind C that the General fu had changed from its usual laid-back style to a ruthless and aggressive one, that the Guan family soldiers had been involved C could it all have been due to Jiang Ruan? While he was waiting for the opportunity to lure his prey into the trap, the prey had instead aimed at his backyard. A diversion[3]C it was an excellent diversion! [3] Sheng dong ji xi ( ) C lit. to threaten the east and strike to the west. Li An stood where he was, feeling the great weight of depression in his heart. He abruptly straightened his neck and spat out a mouthful of fresh blood. Young Master Li! the imperial bodyguard said in shock. Xuan Li also stared at him in shock. Li An was a subtle and profound person, highly intelligent and self-controlled; when had he ever been so dazed and beside himself in distraction? He frowned and said, Why dont you first . . . Your Highness, theres something I have to do. Without warning, Li An cupped his hands in salute and said, Li An will take his leave first. So saying, he leapt out of the window and disappeared. Your Highness, should we give chase? An imperial bodyguard asked. Xuan Li waved his hand. No need, he is an intelligent man, and he wont do anything without reason. He kneaded his forehead; this sudden situation had left him feeling unbearably exhausted. It was truly hard to understand. How could something that was as good as guaranteed turn out this way? The present circumstances of the Grand Councillor fu had really put him in a difficult position, neither able to retreat or advance. He would have to sacrifice his rook to protect his king, but this rook was his most important bargaining chip. How could he be willing to do so? Why hasnt that monk been brought here yet? Xuan Li asked, in a rather jittery manner. It was clear that the damage to the reservoir had been man-made, but the rainfall becoming heavier could not possibly have been orchestrated by humans. Could it be possible that the monk actually had some gift? If this were true, if he could make use of him and snatch him from Fifth Princes hand, it would make up for the losses he had incurred previously. Just as he asked this, an imperial bodyguard ran into the room and said, in a panic, Your Highness, its not good, someone has seized hold of that monk! * * * In the Guan fu. Guan Liang Han paced back and forth, looking at Xiao Shao, who was looking pensive. He could not help but say, Ive f**king reached the end of my patience, why wont you let me ask Jiang Xin Zhi about last nights happenings? How dare you steal my seal? And, why did you suddenly deploy your troops last night? Youre not worried that rascal Xuan Li will recognise your Jin Yi guards? He wont say anything. Xiao Shao sat in front of the table and said, Its very obvious, someone wants to deal with the Li family. The Grand Councillor fu? Guan Liang Han burst out in laughter before saying, The Grand Councillor fu has been seized and sealed, I am utterly delighted! Li Dong, that old boor, I always knew that there was something off about him. For so many years, hes been prancing around in the skin of the Grand Councillor, and this time hes fallen flat on his face! What did you just say? Someone wants to deal with the Li family? Who? Jiang Xin Zhi? Jiang Xin Zhi doesnt know anything at all. Theres no use asking him, Xiao Shao said indifferently. You wont say anything about this, you wont say anything about that, youll be the death of me! Guan Liang Han said, How did the Zhao family get mixed up in this? Furthermore, what kind of ability does that monk next door really have? He just has to say a few words about the rainfall getting heavier and the reservoir collapsing, and you all just up and move all the people to the top of the mountain? This b*st*rd is too god-like! Watch Hui Jue closely and get some men to protect him. Xiao Shu said, as a reminder, Xuan Li is bound to ask all over the place for his whereabouts, and might even arrange to kill him to prevent his secrets from being found out. Understood. Guan Liang Han rubbed his hands together and said, Whoever Xuan Lis enemy is, hes my friend. This monk is so interesting; in one move, he has negated all the merit Xuan Li gained through his contribution to flood control. Even if it was just to annoy Xuan Li, I would still protect him well. Xiao Shao nodded and said, Many thanks. No need for courtesy. Guan Liang Han eyed Xiao Shao and sighed. Even though I have no idea what youre doing secretly Third Brother, I still want to offer you some advice. Dont get mixed up in the piddling matters of the imperial court, otherwise you will find it hard to avoid getting sucked in yourself. They had been sect brothers for many years, so he naturally understood Xiao Shaos temperament. He was a master at withholding information; If he did not want to say anything, not even a knife at his neck would persuade him to speak. The previous night, Xiao Shao had unexpectedly and urgently asked him to go to the Jinying Wang fu, where more than a hundred Jin Yi guards had dressed to look like Guan family soldiers and proceeded to thoroughly slaughter the imperial bodyguards Xuai Li had positioned at the reservoir to guard it. The Jin Yi guards had always been trained to carry out secret missions, so there was absolutely no trace of the massacre. Although he had no idea what Xiao Shaos intention was, Guan Liang Han did not probe further. I only want to confirm something, Xiao Shao coolly said with lowered eyes. * * * A heavy fall of rain, and what had collapsed was not only the reservoir, but also the stable imperial court the Great Jin dynasty had experienced over the past few decades. The capital was in chaos and everyone felt insecure, especially the people who were associated with the Grand Councillor fu. If they werent hiding behind closed doors, they were packing all their belongings and preparing to flee overnight. The Grand Councillor fu had been stripped of all its glory and had been reduced to nothing but a pile of mud. Whoever was tainted by it would suffer misfortune. In the Jiang fu, Jiang Quan angrily told Xia Yan, Bring me Ruan niangs geng tie! Although Xia Yan was extremely unwilling to do so, she could only plaster a small, sweet smile on her face and obediently place the geng tie which they had prepared to be sent to the Grand Councillor fu in Jiang Quans hand. Smiling, she said, Ruan niang, this child, has such good fortune, as theres still time! If this were one day later, she would have been married off to the Li family, and she would be considered guilty by familial association. However, in her heart, she harboured a deep hatred. Why did she have to be so fortunate? Just one days difference, just one day! If not for that one day, Jiang Ruan would have been imprisoned just like the rest of the people in the Grand Councillor fu! Why was she so fortunate so as to have dodged this calamity! Jiang Quan took the geng tie from Xia Yan and reprimanded her, in a low voice, Womens opinions are impossibly stupid! He looked once again at the geng tie in his hand and sighed in relief. Thank goodness there was still time. From the looks of things at the moment, the Emperor intended to put the Grand Councillor fu in order. At this time, it was most important to protect oneself. If Jiang Ruan had really been married into the Li family, it would not only have been her suffering misfortune- the entire Jiang family would also have to accompany her in suffering. Chapter 90.1 - An Inescapable Trap (Part I) In the capital, the spring rain looked as if it was about to stop, but then suddenly it became heavier. Prior hopes for its abatement were dashed, and people were bitterly disappointed. All day long, the common people were praying to the gods and asking Buddha for help, hoping that the heavens would not continue to punish the Great Jin dynasty. However, the heavens do not heed mans wishes, and it continued to rain as intensely as before. Xia Yan proposed that the Jiang fu daughters should visit Bao Guang Temple to pray for blessings. Firstly, because at this time every year, the Jiang family would visit Bao Guang Temple to make a donation by purchasing incense, and then seeking Buddhas blessing and protection. Secondly, Bao Guang Temple was the most famous temple in the capital and was known to be very effective in answering prayers, especially where touzhu incense[1] was concerned. Every year, countless people would be engaged in endless disputes over the touzhu incense. However, this year, due to the rain, there were much fewer disputes than usual. [1] ͷ (tou zhu xiang) C In general, burning incense is an act of worship, Touzhu Xiang involves an ancient custom, where people rush to offer incense on the first day of the (Chinese) New Year, believing that this first offering of incense has the greatest merit and will be blessed the most. Worshippers will rush to the temple and may fight to be the first person to offer incense to show their piety. However, in this text it seems that this incense can be offered at other times of the year as well. When Xia Yan made this suggestion, Jiang Ruan was very quick to agree. Lu Zhu said, nervously, Miss, she clearly has bad intentions. Why did Miss agree so readily? Bao Guang Temple was in the mountainous region and there were many dangers along the route there. Since the rain was at present bombarding the earth, the mud road would be more unstable, and the journey would be even more challenging. The rich people who usually visited the temple all shrank back from undertaking such a journey, yet Xia Yan had proposed going there to offer touzhu incense. Surely, the situation was more complex than it seemed. Its all right. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly and said, The clamshells are sealed too tightly, so its difficult to find a way to take action. Now that they have opened up of their own accord, how can we not seize the opportunity? Lu Zhu had found out that Xia Yan had gone out in the morning and had not returned until evening. When she returned, there was something peculiar about her expression and she straightaway went to Su Xin Yuan, where she had spoken with Jiang Su Su for a long time before eventually returning to her own courtyard. Clamshells? Lu Zhu was taken aback. Does Miss want to . . . Tomorrow, you will go out with me. Jiang Ruan beckoned for her to come over, then whispered several commands into her ear. When Lu Zhu heard them, her face went through several changes of expression before she said, Miss, you cant do this, its too dangerous! How can you catch a tiger cub if you dont enter the tigers lair? Jiang Ruan said. Besides, its not as if there is absolutely no possibility of success. Lu Zhu bit her lip. Finally, amid the turbulence in her heart, she said, This servant will listen to Miss. Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. The hot tea before her sent up spirals of mist. This would be her second time visiting Bao Guang Temple. The first time had been five years ago, when she had wanted to fight over the touzhu incense, hoping that Zhao Mei would quickly recover from her illness. However, she had not managed to win the touzhu incense, and Zhao Meis condition did not improve. In this lifetime, she did not believe in gods or Buddhas. She would begin her bloody revenge in this Buddhist sacred place. Li An? She slowly lowered her head. The steam from the tea rose up in spirals, obscuring her face; one could only see a pair of clear, glistening eyes, which flashed fiercely for a split second, while her rosy lips ticked up at the corners. Wait patiently. * * * Hui Jue had been extremely at ease the past few days. In order to protect him, Guan Liang Han had invited him to stay in the Guan fu, and had even casually assigned him a bodyguard. Although Hui Jue was puzzled, he assumed that Guan Liang Han and the person behind Jiang Ruan were one and the same, and thus did not overly concern himself with the situation. After the reservoir incident, his popularity in the capital was extremely high, and many of the aristocratic families had invited him to visit them so they could bask in the reflected glory. However, Jiang Ruan had sent him a letter through an intermediary, asking him to keep a low profile, and suggesting that it would be best to keep his public appearances to a minimum. At first, Hui Jue was discontented. Later, though, he understood that a large part of the reason why people worship gods and Buddha is the mystery involved. Nowadays, the more popular he became, the more he had to protect his mysterious aura. Jiang Ruan had said, in order to accomplish big things, one could not covet small gains. If one were exceedingly cautious now, one would enjoy great riches and honour in future. Hui Jue regarded Jiang Ruans words as precious treasures to be revered, so he naturally complied with them. Everyday, he engaged in silent meditation in the Guan fu, and very rarely went out. Today, he was standing in front of the window wiping clean his wooden fish[2] when he saw Guan Liang Han chasing after a black-clad young man along the long corridor beyond the flower garden of the Guan fu, towards the entrance. As he hurried, he shouted, Third Brother, what are you using my troops for again? No way, absolutely no way, what do you take my Guan family troops for? Damn you! Stop right there! ľڷ̵ʵʲô Image result for ľ [2] ľ (my) C Literally wooden fish. An elaborately carved wooden drum struck with a padded wooden stick during Buddhist chanting services. Fish, since they never sleep, symbolize the alertness and watchfulness needed to attain Buddhahood. These are two kinds of wooden fish: One is round in shape with scales carved on it. The other is rectangle in shape, suspended in front of the dining hall of a Buddhist temple. When having breakfast and lunch, the monks beat it to produce rhythm. Hui Jue adhered to the principle: see no evil, hear no evil[3], and thus he closed the window with a snap. [3] ĪӣĪ (fei li mo shi, fei li mo ting) C this is an abridged version of the Confucian analect: ӣ, ԣ C do not see what is contrary to propriety, do not listen to what is contrary to propriety, do not speak what is contrary to propriety, do not do what is contrary to propriety. Outside the main entrance, Xiao Shao had finally come to a stop. Guan Liang Han, who had been taking great strides, almost crashed into him. Jumping around agitatedly, he yelled angrily, Damn it, whats going on with you? Give me the soldier tally[4]! [4] (bing fu) C aka (hu fu), tiger tally. This was an object made of copper, jade, wood or stone, in two halves, usually in the shape of a tiger, and used in ancient times to convey military orders or dispatch troops, and was therefore proof of authority. One half would remain with the monarch (or authority), and the other was given to the military officer/ commander. If verification were required, the two halves would match. In Xiao Shaos hand was indeed the soldier tally of the Guan family troops. Guan Liang Han reached out a hand to seize it, but Xiao Shao avoided him. They sparred hand-to-hand for a brief moment, before Guan Liang Han realised he could not do anything. He retracted his hand and said, Third Brother, are you thinking that all my troops belong to your family? Then whats the point of your 30,000 Jinyi guards? It would not be good for the Jinyi guards to be publicly involved, Xiao Shao said. Let me use your soldier tally once; after Im done with it, Ill return it to you. No way, Guan Liang Han said resolutely. I already took the fall[5] for you in the reservoir matter; this time, what illegal thing are you going to do? If His Majesty should want to assign blame, then its going to be f*cking bad luck for my life. Out of the blue, he said, However, since I am your senior brother, and I, this Second Brother, am highly generous, if you tell me what you are going to do, I will hand the soldier tally over to you. Otherwise, even if you take it, I will find a way to ensure that you are unable to gather them. [5] ˺ڹ (bei le hei guo) C lit., to shoulder/ bear a black pot Im borrowing your troops to pursue Li An, Xiao Shao responded. Li An? Guan Liang Han said. You know where he is? Why on earth are you pursuing him? Seeing Xiao Shao remain silent, Guan Liang Han seemingly came to a conclusion and said, Is this a task His Majesty gave you?. Xiao Shao kept the soldier tally, turned, and walked away, saying, Many thanks. Hey, I havent finished yet! Guan Liang Han hollered furiously. This is such a big matter, I have to accompany you. Third Brother, you wait right there for me! Their voices gradually faded away. * * * That morning, Jiang Ruan woke up early, as did her three servant girls. After serving Jiang Ruan her meal, Lian Qiao started selecting Jiang Ruans clothes. Bai Zhi said, Look for something more plain, since Miss is going to offer prayers today. After much searching, Lian Qiao finally selected a plain blue long jacket made of rain silk[6] jacquard-weave brocade with a pipa collar for Jiang Ruan. Over this, she wore a jade-coloured silk shawl decorated with a pattern of scattered flowers among twisted vines[7]. They had grown accustomed to seeing her wear bright, crimson clothes, so her wearing such plain silk ones, together with her indifferent expression when she did not smile, gave her a cold appearance. [6] ˿ (yu si jin) C a type of brocade which is composed of white and other colours of warp threads, so the effect is to have colours interspersed with white bands, sometimes with shading. [7] ֦ (chan zhi hua) C a very Chinese pattern of flowers among twisted vines, commonly seen on Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. As Lu Zhu combed Jiang Ruans hair, she said, Miss, there might be a lot of danger today. How about preparing one or two means of self-defence? Jiang Ruan nodded, so after Lu Zhu had swept her hair up into a bun, she inserted a sharp, pointed hairpin. The tip of the hairpin was so sharp and long, it could be considered a weapon. Right before they were about to leave, Bai Zhi thought for a moment, then retrieved a dagger from the table drawer. The daggers handle was inlaid with silver, in which was embedded several pearls; it was clearly a collectors item to be admired. Bai Zhi saw that the blade was somewhat dull, but still placed it in Jiang Ruans hand, saying, Miss, take this as well. Its better than not having anything. Jiang Ruan weighed the dagger in her hand, then tucked the dagger into her sleeve. The four of them were leaving the fu when they noticed a horse carriage stopped at one side. Jiang Dan, Jiang Li, and Jiang Su Su were all crammed into one horse carriage, while Jiang Chao had a carriage of his own. Jiang Ruan also had her own. Jiang Ruan looked inquiringly at Xia Yan, who was standing beside her. Gently, Xia Yan said, Ruaner is the Jiang fus eldest di daughter, and your personal maidservants are many. Im afraid that placing you in another carriage would not show you the proper consideration and attention, so Mother has specially arranged another carriage for you. Jiang Ruan looked at the carriage which had been specially selected for her. The exterior was magnificent, on par with Jiang Su Sus carriage, except that it was slightly smaller, just big enough to seat herself and a few maidservants. That Mother would do this makes Ruan niang feel embarrassed, Jiang Ruan said as she smiled faintly. We are all sisters of the Jiang fu, how is it possible to favour one and discriminate against the others? Xia Yans smile deepened. Ruaner, why should you say such things? All of you sisters are good, but, since you are the eldest sister, you should naturally present yourself as being more dignified and impressive. Moreover, it is not possible to look for another carriage right now. Why dont we go ahead with our journey and not delay any longer, otherwise we will miss the opportunity to offer touzhu incense. Chapter 90.2 - An Inescapable Trap (Part II) Jiang Ruan smiled wordlessly. It was at this time that a voice from behind Xia Yan was heard, saying, Mother is overanxious. Jiang Xin Zhi strode over and patted Jiang Ruans head. Since the young ladies are all sisters of the Jiang fu, it would indeed not be a good idea to have Jiang Ruan occupy a carriage by herself. Father has also always been benevolent and has never discriminated between the shu and di sons and daughters. When Xia Yan heard the phrase no discimination between the shu and di sons and daughters, her face turned green. Even when Zhao Mei had been alive and in good health, Jiang Quan had treated Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao much better than Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xin Zhi. Even at present, they were seen as being inferior. Thus, when Jiang Xin Zhi said this, her heart constricted. She looked over at Jiang Xin Zhi to see that his expression was proper and at ease, without even the slightest hint of sarcasm. Xia Yan cursed inwardly. Jiang Xin Zhi and Jiang Ruan had such unforgiving tongues that there was an unbearable urge to tear their mouths off. But, its really difficult to find another carriage right now, Xia Yan said helplessly. Jiang Xin Zhi smiled fleetingly and said, No matter. He waved his hand, and several carriages came into sight, moving towards them. There were three carriages in total and all of them looked exactly the same as the carriage which had been specially selected for Jiang Ruan. Jiang Xin Zhi said, I have found some carriages- would my younger sisters kindly take their seats? Xia Yan was taken aback and felt a sudden chill. She stole a glance at Jiang Xin Zhis face, but there was nothing strange about his expression. She forced a laugh and said, How could I allow you, my son, to spend money this way? Jiang Xin Zhi smiled and said, Mother does not need to be like this. These coachmen are all excellent, and will drive both speedily and steadily. My younger sisters need not suffer from constant jolting, and will be able to speed there and back. Jiang Ruan also smiled and said, Mother, you dont need to keep refusing. Or, could it be that you dont wish to accept Dages kind intentions? Under the eyes of the watchful onlookers, Xia Yan was dumbstruck and rendered speechless by Jiang Ruans words. She could not decline the offer, and thus could only grit her teeth and accept it. Jiang Su Su, her face veiled so her expression was unseen, took the lead and walked to the rear carriage. Jiang Li naturally welcomed this development, as she no longer had to share a carriage with Jiang Su Su and Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan bit her lip and glanced timidly at Jiang Xin Zhi before slowly disembarking. Jiang Ruan waited for her sisters to enter the carriages Jiang Xin Zhi had procured for them before boarding a carriage with Lu Zhu and the other servant girls. As Xia Yan struggled to maintain her gentle smile, she saw Jiang Xin Zhi wave his hand, and two imposing bodyguards came out of nowhere. Jiang Xin Zhi said, Protect the young ladies well. The two bodyguards accepted their orders. Startled, Xia Yan said, Xin Zhi, you . . . Since Ah Ruan and the other sisters are travelling by themselves to such a distant location, and Second Younger Brother is not trained in martial arts, I was afraid that the fus bodyguards would be of little use. Jiang Xin Zhi smiled as he continued, These two brothers of mine are rather rough fellows. They have seen blood spilled and are fairly bloodthirsty themselves. With them protecting Ah Ruan and the others, I feel more at ease. When he said seen blood spilled and are fairly bloodthirsty, he deliberately slowed down his speech. He saw Xia Yan shiver, and she seemed somewhat reluctant to look at the expression on his face. As Jiang Chao sat in the carriage, he kept glaring at Jiang Xin Zhi, following his every word and movement. When he heard Jiang Xin Zhi saying that he (Jiang Chao) did not know martial arts, followed by his calling forth of the two bodyguards, he felt as if he had been most egregiously insulted. He glared at Jiang Xin Zhi even more fiercely and cursed him a hundred times over in his heart. After Jiang Xin Zhi had issued his orders, Jiang Ruans head emerged from behind the carriage curtains. She smiled at him and said, Dage, do go home. Jiang Xin Zhi patted her on the head, his expression as warm as ever as he regarded her and said, Be careful on the road. Jiang Ruan smiled as she let the curtain fall once again. When she could no longer see Jiang Xin Zhi, she leaned against the side of the carriage, sighed softly and said, in a low voice, Im sorry, Dage. A hint of jealousy flashed in Jiang Su Sus eyes as she took in the interaction between this pair of siblings. Nowadays, in the Jiang fu, Jiang Xin Zhi was just like a vengeful spirit, with a palpably murderous aura. No one dared to provoke him, fearing to incite the fury of this soldier who had returned from the battlefield. Jiang Su Su loathed Jiang Xin Zhi, but was also envious that Jiang Ruan had such an outstanding older brother protecting her. It was not so long ago that Jiang Su Su also had Jiang Chao protecting her. At that time, he was at the high point of his career; people were lauding him as a potential zhuang yuan (top scorer in the Imperial Examinations), and Jiang Su Su had naturally become extremely conceited. But, now, Jiang Chao was the laughingstock of the capital, while Jiang Xin Zhi had experienced a transformation, becoming a Deputy General. The more protective he was of Jiang Ruan, the more envy stirred within Jiang Su Su. She let the curtain fall heavily and thought about what Xia Yan had said to her the day before. Under her veil, she could not hold back a pleased smile. So what if Jiang Xin Zhi was outstanding, so what if he was protecting Jiang Ruan? Today, she would not be able to escape what was planned for her even if she had wings to fly; ten Jiang Xin Zhis would not be able to rescue her. Jiang Dan had been watching Xia Yan and Jiang Xin Zhi thoughtfully. Abruptly, she pulled the curtains closed. Behind the curtains, her timid expression vanished, and the corners of her mouth gradually lifted up. The carriages travelled along the drenched stone-flagged road, sending little sprays of water into the air as they went. Jiang Xin Zhi followed Jiang Ruans departing carriage with his eyes, seemingly reluctant to move away. Xia Yan smiled as she asked Jiang Xin Zhi, Xin Zhi, dont you have military business to attend to today? The General is occupied with official business today, and doesnt require my presence, Jiang Xin Zhi replied. Xia Yan felt a stab of anxiety as she asked, Then, Xin Zhi, why dont you return to the fu to wait? The weather today is excellent, so I think Ill stay at the fu gate for a while longer. Jiang Xin Zhi smiled faintly and said, Mother, is there something wrong? That day, the sky was gloomy and it was raining incessantly. Excellent weather? Xia Yan bit her lip and said through clenched teeth, Nothing. Seeing as Jiang Xin Zhi appeared to have no intention to return to the fu for the time being, she felt her anxiety mounting. Gritting her teeth, she turned and headed back inside to her courtyard. After Xia Yan had gone in, Jiang Xin Zhis expression grew solemn. Waving his hand, he called over two more guards and ordered, Watch the entrance to the fu carefully. Whoever comes out, follow them closely, then knock them out. Both guards received their orders and left. Jiang Xin Zhi thought about what he had been told the previous night by Lu Zhu, whom Jiang Ruan had sent over. She had said to prepare three identical horse carriages, look for two bodyguards with outstanding martial arts skills to accompany them, and finally, to visit the Zhao family again. He had no idea what Jiang Ruan was planning. When Jiang Ruan wanted to conceal something, not even he, as her older brother, could persuade her to disclose it. Moreover, he would never force her to tell him what she did not want to talk about, as he trusted his own meimei. However, today, for some unknown reason, his eyelids had been twitching uncontrollably, as if something bad was about to happen. He had to make a great effort to suppress his unease. Turning, he mounted his horse and sped off in the direction of the General fu. When Xia Yan reached Yan Hua Yuan, Xiao Si informed her that Jiang Xin Zhi had left. Xia Yan immediately straightened up and hurriedly said, Quick, send two people to tell them, Jiang Ruan is in the second carriage. Dont make any mistakes. Xiao Si rushed off. Xia Yan finally sat down and released a long breath. Lin Lang served her a cup of tea, which she took a few sips of, feeling the panic within her subside. When she thought about all of Jiang Xin Zhis movements today, she felt uneasy, and turned to Li momo beside her to ask, Momo, in your opinion, have they discovered something? Otherwise, why would they suddenly change carriages? Li momo consoled her by saying, Furen, rest easy. This servant thinks that Eldest Young Master is certainly incredibly crafty, and he is doing all this to guard against Furen. However, he could not possibly have uncovered Furens plan, otherwise he would not have allowed Eldest Miss to go with the others to Bao Guang Temple, and with only two bodyguards accompanying her. Xia Yan felt calmer on hearing Li momos words. She said, That is what I think, as well. Humph! Hes definitely crafty but, today, that little slut cannot escape her downfall. So what if there are bodyguards; there are only two of them, after all, no different from a cicada trying to stop a runaway carriage. On thinking about it, one could say that Jiang Ruan brought this upon herself by engendering such a deep animosity between herself and the Li family. Li An is a person who haggles over every cent, so how could he let her off so easily? A chilly, faint smile appeared on her beautiful face. Bao Guang Temple is a great distance away. Even if Jiang Xin Zhi receives news and hastens there, he will not make it in time. The previous day, she had received a letter from Li An out of the blue. In the letter, Li An had gone straight to the point and declared he wanted to eliminate Jiang Ruan, and needed her help to do so. Even though Xia Yan was hesitant to associate with a criminal official[1] like Li An, he was a master at manipulating people. With just a few words, he had stirred up Xia Yan to the point where she could barely wait to tear Jiang Ruan to shreds. [1] ﳼ (zui chen) C criminal official/ minister. There were apparently eight major criminal ministers in Chinese history: Qingfu, Zhao Gao, Lai Junchen, Li Linfu, Qin Hui, Yan Song, Wei Zhongxian, He Shen. See here for more details. Xia Yan had originally planned to take action on the journey to Bao Guang Temple and cause Jiang Ruan to suffer. However, when Li An unveiled his plan to Xia Yan in the letter, she found it too marvellous for words. Thus, she conceded this opportunity to Li An. Even though the young ladies of Jiang fu would proceed to Bao Guang Temple as she had planned, what would take place would not be her original plan. If the plan succeeded, of course, that would be great; she would be the third party who benefitted in the clash between the two of them. If the plan failed, it would have nothing to do with her. Li Ans plan was bold and crazy but, even if something happened, the sudden appearance of a criminal official would have no connection with her. The original arrangement was foolproof. Who knew that Jiang Xin Zhi would appear all of a sudden and disturb their arrangements. Furthermore, with four identical carriages, Li Ans people would inevitably make a mistake. If they made a mistake . . . she could not help shuddering, then immediately comforted herself. It would not happen; the messengers would inform them of the change swiftly. There was no way Jiang Ruan would escape the calamity that awaited her on the road to Bao Guang Temple. On previous occasions, she had managed to narrowly escape numerous disasters due to sheer luck, but what awaited Jiang Ruan now was an inescapable trap, that even two bodyguards, skilled in martial arts, would not be able to help her out of. This was because Li Ans people did not consist of just one or two persons, but a troop of soldiers. Genuine, elite troops. Secretly kept by the Grand Councillor fu. Chapter 91 All the way. The carriage on the mountain road is inevitably bumpy. Fortunately, the coachman Jiang Xinzhi found is good at it. He drives the muddy road smoothly and does not feel uncomfortable in the carriage. Cave appropriate cliff rugged and steep, cliff peak if cut a do of the broken sword, straight brush of startling. There are dense forests in the mountains. Occasionally, night owls who live here are startled by the sound of passing carriages. They fly into the air, leaving a black shadow. Originally, in the past, the section of xueyiya was high in mountains and deep in valleys, with luxuriant branches and jagged rocks. It was a dangerous place for rich people to stay here and enjoy the rare scenery. However, since the beginning of continuous rain in central Beijing, the roads are muddy, the sun is gone, the dark clouds are pressing down, and the original scenery is more gloomy. The five carriages drove forward silently. The one in front was Jiang Chao''s carriage. He was the only one that looked different. It was not as delicate as the others, but also not shabby. Then came the carriage of Jiang Ruan, Jiang Susu, Jiang Li and Jiang Dan. The coachman did not speak, and the people in the carriage did not speak, so all they could hear along the way was the sound of the whip beating on the horses and the sound of the wheels turning. Jiang Ruan leans on the cushion in the carriage. Dewdrop is steaming tea for her. Xia Yan''s carriage is really exquisite. There are even a few children in it. In the morning, Jiang Ruan is busy on the way. Forsythia suspense and Angelica dahurica bring some snacks by themselves. Dewdrop is skillful. She pickles the plum blossom picked the day before yesterday and makes plum blossom steaming tea for her in the carriage. The sweet taste came out of her carriage and spread in the air to the noses of the people in the first few carriages. Jiang Li disdained cold hum: "she will enjoy." Looking around, he secretly hated that his servant girl was not as smart and considerate as Jiang Ruan. He didn''t even prepare for a change. Jiang Su Su had something in mind. Seeing that Jiang Ruan was still in the mood to drink tea and eat snacks, his face under the veil tightened and he whispered, "I want to die!" But Jiang Dan was sleeping by the carriage window, not in the least. The road in front of cave Yi cliff is still easy to walk. I don''t know how long it took to get to the most dangerous part of the road. The terrain here is narrow, and there are valleys on both sides. There is only one path in the middle, just like the mouth of a gourd, so it is named "gourd mouth". The valleys on both sides of huluzui are dense forests. When the first carriage arrived at huluzui, there was a sudden sound of rustling in the forest. The carriage came to a sudden stop. Forsythia and Angelica hand meal, are some nervous. Dew began to exude sweat on his forehead, and Jiang Ruan was still slowly tasting tea. She is very graceful. The horse felt the danger and refused to step forward despite the driver''s whiplash. The bodyguards of Jiang''s house all drew out their swords, but the two bodyguards sent by Jiang Xinzhi stood in front of Jiang Ruan''s carriage, motionless and bloody. Jiang Li screamed and took the lead to shout out: "what''s the matter!" It''s like finding a vent, only listening to a loud "boom" sound, shaking the ground. I don''t know when a large number of black people appeared in the valley on both sides of the gourd mouth. The Coachmans were startled. These people, dressed in cloth clothes and dressed like bandits, rushed towards the carriage. "Withdraw! Get out of here The guard of Jiang''s house was busy protecting the carriage and wanted to leave, but the bandits were unexpectedly quick and almost came to the front in the blink of an eye. In addition to Jiang Xinzhi''s two bodyguards, Jiang''s house brought 20 bodyguards. They had no choice but to fight with these mountain bandits. For a moment, they could only hear the sound of "bang bang bang" coming from the collision of swords and swords. The wind was like frost. From time to time, bundles of hot blood burst out and splashed on the curtain of the exquisite carriage. "How can there be bandits? How can there be bandits! " Jiang Li screamed loudly, but as soon as she lifted the curtain of the carriage and saw the terrible scene outside, she suddenly fainted. Jiang Dan was tight in a corner of the carriage. Two servant girls were protecting her. They all clenched their lips and refused to speak. The calmest, only three carriages. Jiang Chao''s carriage is at the front, but these murderous mountain bandits have all bypassed the carriage. At a glance, only Jiang Chao''s carriage is clean. It''s very strange that the provincial bodyguards of Jiang''s house go to rescue. Jiang Su Su sat in the carriage with a cold smile on her lips. The more fierce the fighting outside was, the more happy her smile was. She could hardly help going to Jiang Ruan''s carriage to lift the curtain and look at Jiang Ruan''s panic. Jiang Ruan was still drinking tea. The two guards beside the carriage were more useful than the ten guards of Jiang''s house. They didn''t even splash a drop of blood on the curtain of the carriage. The bodyguards of Jiang''s house are outnumbered. There are at least hundreds of people outside. The more they fight each other, the more frightened they are. They are not like bandits. Although they try their best to cover up, they are obviously excellent martial arts practitioners. What''s more, where there are mountain bandits who come up and kill people, they don''t ask where the money is. However, in spite of the doubts in his heart, the guards of Jiang''s mansion still fell behind. It seemed that the other party didn''t want to kill the people in the carriage, but wanted to kill all the guards. Just as there were fewer and fewer bodyguards in Jiang''s house, Jiang Ruan put down his tea cup and said, "dewdrop."Dew meal, immediately opened the carriage curtain, exclaimed: "help On hearing this, the two bodyguards beside Jiang Ruan''s carriage jumped up at the same time. The two bodyguards acted very quickly, and the people around them did not react. The two bodyguards had already jumped to the front of the carriages behind them, stabbed the knife in their hands and turned the horse around. At that time, the horse was in pain, suddenly raised his front hooves and rushed to the distance like an arrow! as like as two peas modeled on the two guards, Chiang Ruan''s carriage had not been let off, so he saw the gourd mouth and four identical carriages fled in four directions. The man hiding deep in the jungle immediately raised his bow and arrow and was stopped: "stop it!" The man in grey stood up slowly, and his eyes were cold and gloomy engraved into the bone marrow: "do you want to escape? Hum, but the battle of the trapped beast The four carriages that were stabbed by knives ran so fast that the coachman overturned them. All the young ladies were sitting in the carriage. Jiang Su Su didn''t know what was going on outside, but somehow the carriage suddenly went crazy. She was knocked upside down in the carriage and cried out in panic: "help! Help Only the wind answered her. as like as two peas, four different carriages, four of them are behind the mountain bandits, but suddenly they are not sure which one to pursue. I can''t help looking at all the people in grey in the deep jungle in the distance. The man in grey looked at him from a distance and suddenly made a sign. The mountain bandits seem to have suddenly got the command, and suddenly divided into four groups. Their actions are fast and orderly. How could ordinary mountain bandits have such momentum and contingency to deal with other mountain bandits? The two guards sent by Jiang Xinzhi immediately looked at each other and saw the surprise in each other''s eyes. They came from the military camp, which is not strange. This is clearly the only change in the army! I have long guessed that these people are not ordinary mountain bandits, but I didn''t expect that this is an army! It''s still a good army! Aware of this, they suddenly realized the danger Jiang Ruan might encounter. Even if they followed Jiang Ruan''s orders, they had to protect him. Jiang Ruan wanted to blur these people''s vision with four carriages, but he didn''t know that huluzui was in danger. There was only one way. And along the way, there were such excellent troops. Even if Jiang ran away, it was like catching a turtle in a jar! They must catch up with Jiang Ruan and at least protect him for a moment. At the same time, the two guards soared into the air, threw away the soldiers dressed by bandits and ran to the west of huluzui. The man in grey on the mountain turned up and showed an interesting smile: "the ending is so, why bother more." After that, his tone changed and he said coldly to the people around him: "go and catch up with the two bodyguards." Jiang Ruan''s carriage was running fast in the jungle. It scraped countless thick branches all the way. Forsythia tried to pull the reins to stop the mad horse, but it didn''t work. Dew spread all the cushions behind the carriage and held Jiang Ruan''s hand tightly, so as not to hurt her head. Jiang Ruan pursed his mouth, calm, a pair of clear eyes deep not to see the bottom, it is a bit cold to kill. After the mountain bandits, Jiang Ruan look unchanged, forsythia suddenly exclaimed: "not good! There''s no way ahead! " Gourd mouth has come to the end, the front is the cliff edge of cave appropriate cliff, the carriage so regardless of the rush down, only the end of the car destroyed. Jiang Ruan had a certain look, and suddenly took out the dagger handed to her by Angelica dahurica in the morning from her sleeve. The point of the dagger was still blunt. She pulled the bridle of the carriage with one hand, and suddenly slashed it down hard with the other hand. With a bang, the rope of the carriage broke in half from the middle. The whole carriage turned to the side and was pulled out a few meters by the horse in front. Finally, it was a few feet away from the cliff It stopped far away. But the horse didn''t turn back and rushed into the cloud in the cliff, and disappeared in an instant. The carriage overturned on the ground. Baizhi covered her head and got up. She went to help Jiang Ruan: "is the girl OK?" "It''s OK," Jiang Ruan tightened the dagger in his sleeve and stood up holding the dew. The three were disheveled and dishevelled, rolling on the ground, looking embarrassed. At the same time, Jiang Xinzhi''s two escorts also rushed up. Seeing that the rope of the carriage was cut off and fell so close to the cliff, they were all relieved. Looking back at Jiang Ruan, they were very appreciative. Rarely when she was so flustered, she was so calm, with clear judgment in her mind. She even cut the rope decisively and saved her life. Even after escaping from the dead, she looked as plain as ever. She had never seen a young lady with such courage. On second thought, there was such a majestic elder brother who was not afraid of life and death, and her younger sister would not be worse. But they heard the approaching sound of footsteps coming from behind, and they stood in front of Jiang Ruan with a look of awe inspiring. These soldiers dressed as mountain bandits were divided into four groups, and there were more than 100 people in the team chasing Jiang Ruan. They all stare at Jiang Ruan with evil spirits. In front of them are hungry wolves. Behind them are cliffs. They are like lambs to be slaughtered. There is no way out. Jiang Ruan looked at it quietly, only to hear the applause of "Pa, PA, Pa" coming from the front. A familiar voice came over: "Miss Jiang is so elegant. She is still calm in such a dangerous situation."The soldier automatically gave way to a road, and the man in grey came out from behind. He walked very slowly step by step, as if he was deliberately announcing something. Jiang Ruan smile: "Li Er young master is really good measure, has become a lost dog, still dare to go out in the daytime." This remark touched Ang Lee''s pain, and his face suddenly changed. He looked at Jiang Ruan fiercely, and suddenly thought of something, just like a smile: "if I were Miss Jiang, I would not show the benefit of my tongue in front of me, so that I would not suffer from skin and flesh in the future." "I Pooh!" Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to open his mouth, forsythia had already bent over and scolded: "a prisoner, dare to flaunt around. My girl is good, but you are lawless. Be careful, your head will fall off the next day, and your body will be displayed on the city gate for three days! " She stood in front of Jiang Ruan. The soldier nearest to her immediately slapped her on the chest. Forsythia flew out and fell heavily on the ground, puffing out a mouthful of blood. "Forsythia!" Angelica screamed, dew will protect Jiang Ruan more tightly, Jiang Ruan looked at Forsythia dying, eyes flashed a trace of anger, and then turned to look at Ang Lee, is very calm asked: "Li Er young master in the end what do you want? It doesn''t seem like a big deal to bully a girl. " Ang Lee said with a smile: "after all, she is just injured on your behalf. Miss Jiang still attaches so much importance to a servant girl, but I don''t know how heartache she has hurt my elder brother. " Jiang Ruan scoffed in his heart, only to hear Ang Lee say: "before I was not as good as Miss Jiang, but I didn''t expect Miss Jiang to be so cruel. Now I''m helpless to be your enemy. Don''t blame me, Miss Jiang." The more amiable he said, the more interest he felt on his face. It seemed that the beast had finally found a prey that interested him, and his eyes were burning with light. "Young master Li Er wants to take me away?" Jiang Ruan said, "are you not afraid to be more responsible for your crimes?" Ang Lee laughed: "it''s just miss Jiang''s bad luck. When she came out, touzhuxiang was taken away by bandits. She lost her innocence and didn''t get the protection of touzhuxiang. What do you have to do with Li?" The two bodyguards looked at Ang Lee angrily. Such a thing happened to a young lady who was waiting for words, and her life would be ruined. But the two men knew that so many soldiers would not just take people away. The possible treatment of Jiang Ruan after taking them away made them both sweat. "Mountain bandits?" "Isn''t it a soldier?" he said with a smile After a meal, Ang Lee narrowed his eyes and said, "Miss Jiang, Bing Xueming is clever. It''s a pity that the outcome of this game has been decided. You have no other way to live. Let''s go with me." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "the outcome is still unknown." "Don''t fight for nothing." Lee reminds me. Jiang Ruan suddenly smile, that pair of beautiful eyes suddenly show a little dimple of joy, but the joy of the very fast precipitation down, into a cold pool. "Is it?" "Red, thunder and army," she said word by word Ang Lee''s pupils suddenly widened, and unconsciously stepped back: "you..." In the heart like the rough sea general, she unexpectedly knew! The red thunder army is the army that the prime minister''s house keeps outside. Even Xuanli doesn''t know about such a private army. On weekdays, these soldiers disguise themselves as farmers. The red thunder army is the last trump card of the prime minister''s house. They only obey him. How can Jiang Ruan know the secret that Li Dong and Li Yang didn''t know! Jiang Ruan smile: "Li Er young master afraid? What are you afraid of? Because the perfect secret has been exposed? " The red thunder army is ready to move. Looking at Ang Lee''s face, they also know that Jiang Ruan is a great threat to Ang Lee, and their weapons are unconsciously aimed at her. "If you keep a secret too long, it''s not a secret." Jiang Ruan''s voice was light, but Ang Lee felt that she seemed to be reminding something. He held back his panic and sneered: "nonsense." "What young master Li Er has done today is to rehabilitate Prime Minister Zai''s family." Her hair was disheveled, and her clothes were covered with dirt because she had just rolled in the mud. She was standing in the same place with a delicate style, and she had a kind of beauty close to killing. She said: "unfortunately, since you made this decision, the prime minister''s office has no chance to turn over. You lost Ang Lee''s uneasiness expanded rapidly. He wanted to order his subordinates to arrest Jiang Ruan immediately and not let her go on. However, Jiang Ruan quickly said, "it''s very important to raise troops without permission, to rebel, to have a rebellious heart, and to have a clear accusation?" She said: "now your action is really the death of prime minister''s house." Li Anru was struck by lightning. Slowly, slowly, he raised his head and asked in a dreamy way, "those rumors, you let them out?" Jiang Ruan gave him a smile. The prime minister''s house has been standing in the court for many years. How could it collapse completely because of the reservoir''s default? If the emperor executed the prime minister''s house in this way, it would make the courtiers feel cold, and the situation of the court would go through a sudden change. He who is king is most afraid of the instability of the people. The various forces in the DPRK and China check and balance each other. Even if such a balance is to be broken, it must be done step by step. How can it be reversed at one stroke.Unfortunately, Ang Lee''s concern was chaotic and he lost his old calm. Jiang Ruan asked Jiang Xinzhi to help spread some rumors to Ang Lee. Ang Lee is bound to fidget. True or false, false or true. Once the most intelligent people lose their sense and become confused, they are definitely inferior to ordinary people. He made the red thunder army appear in the dark, disguised as a mountain bandit. Now the only thing he has is the red thunder army. He thought it was safe, but Jiang Ruan told the secret. He suddenly understood that the reservoir was not a crime to death, but he was charged with raising troops without permission and intending to revolt, and the prime minister''s house had no way to live! There is no charge in the prime minister''s house, so she gives the prime minister''s house a charge of treason by his hand. She wanted to take all the prime minister''s house and never turn over! What a poisonous mind, what a cruel means! Ang Lee stepped back, his face as white as paper. He was conceited all his life, but he was planted in the hands of a young girl who was raised in the boudoir. How willing he was! Jiang Ruan suddenly thought of something and laughed: "luoshumen, yanluojiao, chilei temple, Ziyun society, the red thunder army there must have been subdued." Ang Lee''s face suddenly turned blue again, because all the places mentioned by Jiang Ruan were private places hidden by the red thunder army. These places were very secret. No one in the world should know about them except the red thunder army itself and him. How could she know, her words What do you mean? Jiang Ruan answered: "Zhao Jiajun and Guan Jiajun help your majesty arrest the rebellious minister "My Lord." She glanced at Ang Lee and said, "of course, the real elite of the red thunder army is here. In order to catch me, you don''t hesitate to use such elite soldiers. Ruan Niang is very honored." Ang Lee stares at him. His eyes are completely different from before. There is a kind of crazy despair on his face. Jiang Ruan gently puts the last straw that killed the camel: "young master Li Er, you lost." As soon as Ang Lee''s throat was sweet, he spat out a mouthful of blood and said in a loud voice, "I didn''t lose. I didn''t lose. Go and catch this enchantress! Kill her She yelled at the soldiers around her. Jiang Ruan''s two bodyguards immediately lit their swords. It seemed that there was a flash of light in the distant sky. At the moment when the bodyguard was wrong, Jiang Ruan suddenly whispered: "don''t worry about me, chop Ang Lee''s clothes, chop hard." Although the bodyguard was puzzled, one by one, he saw that Jiang Ruan was not afraid of Ang Lee. Instead, he turned Ang Lee''s face white. He believed in her decision. Without saying a word, he raised his knife to chop Ang Lee''s clothes. The red thunder Army thought that the bodyguard wanted to protect Jiang Ruan, but unexpectedly, he went straight to Ang Lee and rushed forward to resist. Unexpectedly, the goal of the bodyguard was not Ang Lee at all. Through the crowd''s sword spirit, he was surprised to draw Ang Lee''s robe away. Ang Lee subconsciously stepped back. The bodyguard was an excellent one in the army. He immediately grabbed a sword flower and his sword spirit drove him away Ann''s robe was completely scratched. The clothes broke into pieces. They didn''t expect this change. The red thunder army was also stunned. They didn''t know whether to find a dress to put on Ang Lee or go back to deal with Jiang Ruan. However, after seeing Ang Lee clearly, there was a sound of breathing in the crowd. After a moment''s consternation, Ang Lee immediately recovered and covered his lower body, but he died of shame and indignation. "He''s a eunuch." The bodyguard murmured, suddenly realizing that Jiang Ruan was still around him, he was busy. Ang Lee was terrified. The first secret of his life was told by Jiang Ruan, and the second one came out in full view of the public. These two secrets were the death places he hit! Even if he covers it now, people can see it clearly just now. Ang Lee''s lower body is a lump in one''s heart, which makes people sick. Ang Lee was shocked and angry. If Jiang Ruan had just said that after the red thunder army, he still had blood hatred aroused by anger and despair in his heart. Now he was flustered before his darkest secret was exposed to the public. He was not only flustered, but also frightened. He didn''t understand why the bodyguard next to Jiang Ruan suddenly cut off his clothes. Only Li Dong and Xuan Li knew about it. No one else could know about it! He slowly turned his eyes to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile. Ang Lee was born with a disease, or such a hidden disease, which Xuanli once heard in his last life. Xuan Li holds the secret of Ang Lee, and Ang Lee is loyal to him. Otherwise, after so many years in the prime minister''s office, Li Yang''s sleeping in flowers and willows is more popular with Li Dong. Ang Lee is extremely intelligent. Li Dong is more polite to him than close to him. What''s the reason? Otherwise, when Li Yang''s body was castrated, Li Dong would be so angry, just because Ang Lee was a eunuch, Li Yang would become a useless person, and the prime minister''s house would be no successor. Jiang Ruan said softly, "young master Li Er, the secret has been hidden for too long, it''s not a secret." Ang Lee just felt that all the blood on his body was rushing to his head, and his whole body was almost frozen. He suddenly raised his head and uttered a heartrending scream, which was so sad that everyone couldn''t bear to listen to it any more. Ang Lee raised his head fiercely. His eyes were bloodshot and crazy. He yelled, "siren, I''ll kill you!"The red thunder army behind him realized that he was also rushing towards Jiang Ruan. He had already issued an order to pursue him. There was no reason to let him go. The two bodyguards around him tried to stop him. Jiang Ruan''s eyes sank slightly. He only heard the sound of horse''s hoof running in the distance, which reverberated in the valley. The head of the army is tall, and behind him is a mighty army, which is no less than that of the red thunder army. Jiang Ruan suddenly cried out: "Ang Lee, you are the prime minister''s office, secretly supporting troops outside the country, intending to rebel. Now you have to kill people and my family members!" Her voice clearly resounded through the whole valley: "even if it is dead, I will not die in your hands!" After that, he turned around and jumped into the cliff. "Girl!" Angelica dahurica screamed and almost fainted. Dewdrop also opened her eyes, but she heard the sound of "whoosh whoosh" arrows breaking through the air. She saw a large group of soldiers and horses coming with strong wind and rushing into the red thunder army to fight. The leading horses went straight to the cliff. Zhao Yuanfeng quickly turned over and dismounted, grabbed the guard''s collar and roared, "where''s Miss?" The bodyguard shook his head and said angrily, "I jumped off the cliff." Walking in the back of Zhao Yi body a stiff, Guan Lianghan frowned: "what, impossible?" Jiang Ruan''s mind is cunning. How can he jump off the cliff suddenly? But Ang Lee was stunned for a moment, and regardless of his soldiers, he burst out laughing and said, "retribution, retribution! The witch should have died long ago! Retribution Guan Lianghan kicked him: "shut up." Look at Xiao Shao coming back: "what should I do?" Xiao Shao, dressed in black, looks strangely cold. Looking at the edge of the cliff, his mood is unpredictable. When Fang turned his head, Angelica dahurica suddenly grabbed his sleeve and sobbed: "help my girl! Please, help my girl She couldn''t help kowtowing to the ground, and soon her head was covered with blood. Zhao Yi wanted to pull it. Xiao Shao pulled off her sleeve, and Angelica dahurica pulled it too tightly, but from the sleeve rolled out the same glittering thing. It''s a pendant inlaid with Jade Butterfly and flower. The butterfly perches on the magnolia flower. The craft is lifelike. It''s also inlaid with a good emerald cat''s eye stone. It''s a noble thing at first sight. That thing just rolled in front of Angelica dahurica, angelica looked at, suddenly a Zheng, said: "how can you have my girl''s things?" .. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 92 The pendant is on the ground. Dahurian angelica is about to bend down to pick it up. Xiao Shao has already picked it up and held it in his hand. Angelica fingers a little tremble, tone is full of doubt: "how can you have a girl''s things?" Xiao Shao seemed to be slightly shocked: "Jiang Ruan?" "This is my girl''s Pendant." Angelica dahurica said: "it has been gone for many years, how can you have it?" Xiao Shao turned to see the night Maple one eye, night Maple stiff looking at him. Zhao Yuanfeng several people don''t know why they look at him. Xiao Shao goes to the edge of the cliff. To everyone''s surprise, he suddenly lifts the corner of his clothes and sweeps it down. He moves too fast and people can''t stop him. Yefeng only has time to shout: "master!" Cave appropriate cliff clouds curl, only to see the mountain stream dense jungle, quiet and far away, but it seems to contain unlimited killing. Yefeng rushes to the cliff with a look of remorse. After a moment''s shock, Guan Lianghan gradually calms down and comes up to pat Yefeng on the shoulder: "Xiao Shao''s lightness skill is outstanding. He can''t do it without full assurance. You go back first. Mr. Zhao and I will send troops to search. " Although he was shocked why Xiao Shao suddenly rushed down the cliff, he also understood that this fellow martial brother was never a willful man, and something must have happened. Night Maple listen to him so a say, understand with Xiao Shao''s Kung Fu, pour not to happen what accident, then tidied up mood, walk back to Guan Lianghan side. When passing by Angelica dahurica, I couldn''t help looking at her with a complicated look. When Baizhi hears Guan Lianghan saying that she is going to search for forsythia, she is relieved and goes to check the forsythia fallen on one side. She is also suspicious that King Jinying and Jiang Ruan are not related. Why is the pendant on him. The pendant is Zhao Mei''s favorite. It was brought from the general''s house before she got married. She has always loved it very much. The earrings were exquisite in workmanship and rare in materials. As Jiang Ruan grew up, Zhao Mei gave the earrings to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan gang got this pendant, which he wore all the time. Later, he didn''t know which time he went out. When he turned back, there was only one pendant left. One eardrop can''t be worn any more, so it''s put away. Later, because it was Zhao Mei''s relic, Jiang Ruan locked the only one left in the box and wiped it from time to time. Now the earrings in the box are still there, but the other one is on Xiao Shao. What''s the reason? Angelica how also don''t understand. Zhao Yuanfeng and Zhao Yi were also present. In their eyes, Xiao Shao swept down the cliff for Jiang Ruan Cai''s sake, but with their understanding of Xiao Shao''s temperament, he was not such a person who cherished jade. If two people have any friendship, look at the expression of the servant girl beside Jiang Ruan, but also not like. Zhao Yuanfeng waved his hand: "I''ll take the prisoners of Ang Lee and the red thunder army back to the city. Yi''er, follow general Guan to find out the whereabouts of ruan''er." After thinking about it, he added in an emphatic tone: "we must find it." Although Jiang Ruan had been close to their Zhao family for a short time, the Zhao family really took her as the little lady of the general''s family. As an uncle, he was already so heartbroken that if Jiang Xinzhi knew Zhao Yuanfeng shook his head and sighed in his heart. He was afraid that there would be another chaos. Deep mountain jungle, cliff terrain is too high, the middle of the snow has not melted, spent half of the snow and ice is half a foot high, a foot down, like needle stabbing. The rain keeps falling. The colder the wind is, the colder the body will feel. Jiang Ruan Shen was walking at the bottom of the cliff. His clothes had already been dirty by the mud and snow water, and he was in a mess. Ignoring the gloomy surroundings, she kept walking until she saw a cave in the distance. She tightened her tight clothes, found the entrance to the cave and went in. The cave is not spacious. The entrance is covered by dense shrubs, which can barely block some cold wind. As the weather gradually darkened, Jiang Ruan sat down against the wall of the cave in the depth of the cave, and relaxed slightly. Then he rolled up his sleeve and revealed the injury on his shoulder. The plain clothes were already wet, and they were tightly attached to the arms. The smell of blood was faint. When I pulled them with my hands, the sound of slight skin tearing came. The clothes were slowly pulled open, and the adhesion with the wound gradually appeared. A deep bloodstain, the flesh turned out, when it was accidentally falling, it was scratched by the sharp bush. She had taken the wound medicine, but she didn''t know whether she fell out when she fell, and she didn''t know where she was now. Jiang Ruan allowed the wound to be exposed in the cold air, but his eyes were staring at the entrance of the mountain. The cave is suitable for the cliff. The terrain of huluzui is very dangerous. It''s the most romantic place to see the clouds on the cliff. Especially in the spring morning, before the clouds disperse, the sun comes first. Standing on the top of the cliff, you can see the blood color and the glow. It''s a fairyland in the world. Xuanli had brought her here to see the sunrise in the last life. She was shocked by the beauty of the scenery at that moment, but Xuanli jumped down with her arms around her waist. She was so frightened that she cried out, but heard Xuanli''s voice and laughed. Originally, there was a man outside the man and a heaven outside the heaven. The cave was suitable for the bottom of the cliff, and there was such a scenery. Under the cover of clouds and fog, it is not rocky, on the contrary, the slope is flat. Even if you step on the air and fall down, you will only fall into the stone platform which is not high from here.She has always cherished every moment with Xuanli, especially after entering the palace, and from time to time recalled the beautiful scenery in her mind. She knows better than anyone about the topography of cave cliff. As a result, I jumped under the cliff, in the clouds, on the stone platform, and then climbed down the road in my memory step by step. Officers and soldiers from another down the cliff, can not see the stone platform, will only call her name all the way in the cliff bottom search. She tore her skirt all the way and tied it to the branches along the way to make a mark. As soon as the people sent by the Zhao family saw the mark, they could find her. She closed her eyes a little tired and raised her troops without permission, intending to rebel. This crime is enough for the prime minister''s office. However, her various ways are suspicious, so she has to pretend to be forced under the cliff by Ang Lee. In this way, Ang Lee''s accusation is more than one of murdering the family members of the government, and she can be completely removed from the matter and dispel the suspicion. Just, calculate everything, but didn''t calculate that her body would be delayed at this time, so she had to find a shelter to hide. She was sent to Chuang Tzu from a small body, weak and ill. She was abused by the Zhang Lan family for several years, and her illness was even more lingering. Later, because Chen Zhao fell into the water that time, it was almost worse. In this life, she returned to the mansion ahead of time, and watched Forsythia suspense and Angelica dahurica in Jiang''s mansion. Her body was much better than before. However, today''s bumpy and chilly place made her feel extremely weak. If she was in the jungle waiting for people''s help, she would faint and be taken away by wild animals before the officers and soldiers arrived. I can''t find such a cave. Although I can avoid the cold, I still feel chilly. My clothes are soaked in snow water. Now I have nothing else to warm myself. If I really want to wear cold clothes to freeze all night, I really don''t know what will happen in the end? Jiang Ruan rubbed his forehead and was just about to think whether to go outside and find some more stones to block the entrance of the cave. Then he heard a slight sound of footsteps. As soon as her face changed, she sat up very quickly and listened carefully to the outside. The sound of his steps was mild, steady, slow and firm, but there was no shouting or other noise. It was not the officers and soldiers. Jiang Ruan''s heart sank. It was late here, and ordinary prey would not come. Who was it? The sound of footsteps came straight to Shandong. Jiang Ruan''s hand went into her sleeve, and the dagger was still there when she left. She held the cold dagger tightly and stared at the cave mouth covered by bushes. Step by step, step by step, step by step on her heart. The footsteps stopped a few paces away, and Jiang Ruan was relieved. The next second, the Bush puffed open by something, and a slender figure appeared at the entrance of the cave. It was dark, and it was evening. In the dim light, his face was clearly reflected in Jiang Ruan''s pupils. In a flash, looking at each other, one was surprised and the other was slightly stunned. Jiang Ruan stares at him closely. Xiao Shao is dressed in black and has a long body. His excellent appearance and natural elegance make the dark and dirty cave shine. Xiao Shao is also looking at the person opposite. The girl''s clothes are tightly attached to her body. Her black hair is disheveled, and her eyes stare at him with vigilance and surprise. She had never been gentle and calm, laughing and playing with others, but now she was in such a mess for the first time. After a little thought, he came in with great strides. "Lord Xiao." After a long time, Jiang Ruan looked back at him and said, "how did you come here?" "It''s getting late. There are many problems on the road here. You are extremely weak and can''t walk. You''d better stay here and wait for the officers and soldiers." Xiao Shao light way. Jiang Ruan recognized the meaning of his words and laughed: "is Lord Xiao going to save me?" Her heart is still suspicious, Xiao Shao this person unfathomable, mind is no one can guess. Last time he helped Jiang Su Su, but now he helps him again and again. She can''t see what it means. Xiao Shao turned his head to look at her, a pair of beautiful eyes like the night sky sprinkled with diamonds, with bright stars: "kill the enemy 10000, self damage 3000, this is your way?" Looking at her way of dealing with the prime minister''s house, she kept quiet, pressed step by step, led the snake out of the hole, and finally beat down at one stroke, so that the prime minister''s house had no place to turn over. The ruthlessness of the means and the meticulousness of the mind are unique in such a young age. At the moment, it seems that she is jumping into the cliff, which is also in her calculation. This kind of plan, if the calculation deviates by one point, is the end of her life. It''s just a cruel means, but it''s also cruel to herself. It''s just a daring defecation. It''s just so bold. "Wrong, it''s killing 100000 enemies and losing 3000." Jiang Ruan corrected his statement. When she thought of the desperate situation of the prime minister''s house, she felt a little happy. However, she knew that it was not enough. Li Dong''s pain to her and pei''er''s pain must be paid back one by one. Xiao Shaoruo thought: "what is the deep hatred between the prime minister''s house and you?" Originally thought she was Xuanli''s person, but later saw that she made Xuanli feel embarrassed every step of the way. It''s natural that Prime Minister Tsai''s house is full of people to be buried with. However, he can''t find out what happened between Jiang Ruan and Prime Minister Tsai''s house. Even when Li Yang and his son went to Jiang''s mansion, it was the first time that Jiang Ruan met the prime minister''s mansion. Why did they fight hard the first time? Is it that simple?Jiang Ruan smile: "no comment." To Xiao Shao, she is really hard to rest assured, however just finished saying this words, suddenly cough, body cold strange, a faint in the brain. Xiao Shao stood up. Before Jiang Ruan could see what he was going to do, he felt warm. Xiao Shao''s black gold rain silk brocade crane cloak floated on her. The crane cloak was very warm, but it was light without any weight, but it was very light, because it was just taken off from Xiao Shao and had his temperature. Jiang Ruan was stunned, and Xiao Shao went out. Jiang Ruan hugs his crane cloak, which is like sending charcoal in the snow. Just now, Xiao Shao comes back, but he doesn''t know where he picked up some dry firewood. The rain in the cliff doesn''t stop and the snow doesn''t melt. It''s harder to find firewood that won''t get wet than to go up to the sky. Xiao Shao is covered with frost and snow. He puts the dry firewood on the ground and uses it for fire The fold ignites. Firewood crackling burning up, dark caves suddenly have a bright, warm people illusion. Xiao Shao said: "sit over and dry your clothes, otherwise the cold will go to the bone and the disease will come down in the future." Jiang Ruan didn''t refuse, so he came forward with his crane cloak and sat down in front of the fire. Sure enough, as soon as he got close to the fire, he felt comfortable and tight. She could not help but put her hands closer, trying to warm them. Unexpectedly, Xiao Shao suddenly reaches out and holds her wrist. Jiang Ruan is stunned. Before he can react, Xiao Shao has already quickly pulse her, frown, let go of her hand and stare at her thoughtfully. When Jiang Ruan saw that he looked like this, he was surprised and said, "does Lord Xiao have something to say?" Xiao Shao shook his head, and his eyes fell on her shoulder again. Jiang Ruan was injured on his shoulder. Although he endured it, he was still a little strange. Xiao Shao paid attention to it and found something unusual at a glance. After thinking about it, he took out a celadon bottle from his arms and threw it into Jiang Ruan''s arms. Jiang Ruan took it over and took a pause. He pulled out the cork, and a cool smell came out. Xiao Shao''s voice was cold: "the golden sore medicine will not leave scars." Jiang Ruan smile: "thank you." But he was more suspicious. Xiao Shao''s help made him more strange. Why was he so considerate? But how could he be a doctor? Xiao Shao is a mysterious man. He wants to win over Xuanli. In his last life, he has no idea about Xiao Shao, let alone his medical skills. Seeing that Jiang Ruan took the medicine, Xiao Shao didn''t stay much, so he got up and went out of the cave. For example, Jiang Ruan changed his dressing. In order to avoid suspicion, Jiang Ruan quickly sprinkled the medicine from the celadon bottle on the wound and bandaged it coarsely. But I don''t know what kind of panacea it is. The effect is amazing. The wound doesn''t hurt any more. It has a cool and comfortable feeling. Jiang Ruan put his heart down. After a while, Xiao Shao came in again, holding the new firewood and a skinned hare. Throw the firewood to the ground, pick two branches, tear the rabbit meat, and roast it on the fire. Jiang Ruan looked at his movements in a daze. Xiao Shao roasted very seriously. He had a wonderful appearance. Now he was just in front of the fire. The light of the fire reflected his side face. He only felt beautiful and heroic. His eyes were like paint, his eyebrows were like ink painting, and his thin lips were tightly pursed. It was just like a rabbit roasted in the wild. It was also elegant as flowing water. The black brocade made him tall and straight, which was cold to the bone, but the fire light softened his complexion, showing the right warmth. This young man is really incomparable in appearance and style. He handed the roasted rabbit meat to Jiang Ruan, looked at him strangely, picked his eyebrows, and said, "how?" Jiang Ruan looked back at the roasted and burnt rabbit meat. It was delicious and delicious. Today, she was very tired and hungry. When she saw the delicious meat, she took it without hesitation. For a moment, she forgot to be alert to Xiao Shao and said with a smile, "Lord Xiao is very good at cooking." Xiao Shao baked his share, long eyelashes drooping down, cover the mood in the eyes, not much to say. Jiang Ruan took a bite of the rabbit meat and said, "King Xiao, Jin Zunyu, you know all these trifles. It''s unexpected." The noble children with golden spoon background not only know how to do medicine, but also do these things. Jiang Ruan can''t help but think of the rumors about Xiao Shao in the last life. After the death of the ten-year-old King Jinying, he took over the royal guards. At the beginning, everyone was waiting to see his jokes. They thought that the young man who was not dry in milk would only laugh and be generous. Who knows that he took office with iron and blood, and soon established himself in the royal guards After gaining absolute prestige, the 300000 royal guards bowed to the young master. People always see glory but not pain behind him. Xiao Shao had this achievement, so he should have suffered a lot. Such a tough person, however, can not be underestimated. She went to see the young man by the fire. However, she was in her early twenties, but it was very easy to ignore his age. It was the calmness after years of precipitation, domineering and introverted, arrogant and full of bones. The night travel of Royal Guards was romantic. It was this dark and frosty place, and it seemed that because of this person, she had a sense of security. However, it is the enemy and friend that cannot be distinguished. Did Xiao Shao save her because of prime minister''s office? In the last life, Xiao Shao was on the side of the crown prince. Xuanli and he were at odds. When she dealt with the prime minister''s office, she was like Xiao Shao''s friend. Is that right?Jiang Ruan gently opened his mouth and asked the question he had always wanted to ask: "Lord Xiao, why did you save me?" In Chiang''s mansion, it was like a mess. as like as two peas, four identical carriages went away in four directions, except for Chiang Ruan''s carriage. The other three eventually hit the stone wall or tall trees, and the people in the carriage rolled down the mountain. Guan Lianghan sent people to the rescue, Jiang Li and Jiang Dan were more or less injured, but I don''t know whether it was intentional or unintentional, finally found Jiang Susu, Jiang Susu was the most seriously injured. The butterfly and dragonfly both scratched their forehead, but Jiang Su Su Su''s carriage collapsed on a steep slope. When the carriage turned over, Jiang Su Su Su fell out and just landed in a bramble. The brambles were full of barbs. Wearing heavy clothes, he didn''t have any injuries. Instead, it was his face. Under the veil, there was only a shallow scar on his face When the guards found Jiang Su Su Su, her face was covered with blood, her face was horrible, and she was hoarse, shouting for help, like a ghost. Guan Lianghan ordered the injured Miss Jiang family to be sent back to the Jiang family. Xia Yanzheng and other anxious, unexpectedly see the boy to report, said the soldiers sent the carriage back. The heart is a click. How could it be so fast? It took the government half a day to get to the cave. How could it be so fast? It was obviously more than that that that frightened her. The boy said, "the second young lady is also injured." Xia Yan suddenly stood up, and when he saw Jiang Su Su''s unconscious appearance, he almost fainted. How could Jiang Su Su have been so badly injured? Partial or hurt in the face, if in the future, who dares to marry a disfigured woman to be the wife? She grabbed one of the officers and soldiers and said, "officer, what happened?" When the soldier saw that she was the mother of Chiang''s family, he was very gentle: "Ang Lee of the prime minister''s family secretly raised his troops and deliberately conspired against him. He has been taken down. Several young ladies have been injured and sent us back." Has been taken down? Xia Yan''s face turned pale. Did Ang Lee fail? How could such a good soldier fail? However, she suddenly panic up, if Ang Lee is really taken, will give her. When she thought of a crime of collusion with the imperial court, she was very frightened. She said cautiously, "how can there be a sudden rebellion?" When the soldier saw that she didn''t care about the injured lady in his family, instead, he came to care about these unimportant things. He couldn''t help looking at her suspiciously. Seeing this, Xia Yan immediately said, "what''s the relationship between this villain and my girl? My girl has been wronged so much. I want to strip his skin and teach him to go to jail." The soldier did not doubt that he was there, so he said, "I''ve been escorted back to Beijing. The other ladies in my family are safe, but the eldest lady..." Xia Yan''s heart jumped, and then he found that Jiang Ruan had not come back. He forced himself to suppress the surprise in his heart, and his face was very anxious: "what do you mean by this? What happened to Ruan er? " The soldier looked at her apologetically: "the eldest lady of your family was forced into danger by Ang Lee and jumped into the cliff by herself. The general has sent someone to look for her. Don''t worry too much, madam." Xia Yan swept the haze of disfigurement on Jiang Su Su''s face in his heart. He just felt that he wanted to laugh and Jiang Ruan died! Jiang Ruan is dead! How can you survive jumping off a cliff? I''m afraid the bodies were eaten by wolves and there were no bones left. As soon as her face changed, she suddenly burst into tears. It seemed that she had suffered a great blow. She murmured: "my Ruan er..." "Don''t worry, madam. If you really want to worry, you can worry about your second young master." "Chaoer?" Xia Yan laughs a stiff, in the heart once delimited a silk of ominous premonition: "how is Chao er?" "The anti soldiers pursued and killed the four young ladies, but did not touch the second young master. When the general found the second young master, he was still enjoying tea in the carriage. The general suspected that he was in collusion with the anti army and had been detained with Ang Lee. " Some of Xia Yan couldn''t come back: "what? How can chao''er be a counter thief? You must be mistaken. Chao''er is innocent. " The soldier saluted her: "what''s the matter will only be known after interrogation." After that, he was about to turn around and leave. Suddenly he thought of something, and then he turned back and said, "although the eldest lady of your family has fallen to the bottom of the cliff, King Jinying himself has gone down to the bottom of the cliff to save people. She should be able to return safely. Madam, you are relieved." After that, he left without looking back. Xia Yan stood in situ for a moment, suddenly in front of a black, fainted. Tea tea thinks that quality is the most important thing compared with the number of words, so don''t worry about it. Slow work is the best way to do it ~ spoon is really a silver man with cold appearance and warm heart, who can kill people, know medicine and cook. What''s the sexiest man to cook! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 93 The light and shadow swaying in the cave is the simple environment, and it is moving because of the fire. The bushes were tightly blocked at the entrance of the cave, and the cold wind could not blow in. Jiang Ruan leaned against the stone wall in front of the fire and closed his eyes wearily. When she was so nervous, she was relieved that Xiao Shao would not do anything to her. In the last life, she was famous for her indifference to women. Xuanli tried to send beauty to him many times, but in the end she had to return in vain. Besides, now that she is only eleven years old, she is in such a mess. If Xiao Shao really has any intention, she will be blind. After taking Xiao Shao''s medicine and food, he gradually warmed up and ran around all day. He was so tired that he couldn''t help sleeping. Before going to bed, she thought, how did Xiao Shao answer the question she asked him before? He said, "Xiao owes you a life." What does that mean? After a long sleep, Jiang Ruan looked at the young man in the fire, turned his face and stared at him thoughtfully. The girl takes off her usual sharp and fierce confrontation, leaving only her gentle and beautiful appearance. Her natural facial features are bright, and there is a faint beauty in the light of fire. In time, she must be a vivid beauty. However, Xiao Shao''s heart was not affected by the beautiful scenery. He just lowered his head and felt out a thing in his sleeve, which was the pendant embedded with Jade Butterfly. He dropped his eyes slightly, rubbed his slender fingertips from the pendant, and his eyes were gradually filled with inexplicable emotions. Time seems to go back five years. Five years ago, he had accepted the Royal Guards for five years. As soon as he got out of the school, he took on a task. The other side was a fierce commander in southern Xinjiang. The commander himself was not afraid. He was surrounded by a wizard with strange means. In order to be neutral in the royal guards, and for the secret of the mission, he went to the South alone. Seven days and seven nights, he killed the commander and the wizard, the wizard also made use of the familiarity of the terrain of Southern Xinjiang to get him bewitched. People in southern Xinjiang can''t help him. A 15-year-old boy rode his horse back to Beijing and died all the way. There were countless people in Beijing who wanted to kill him. People in southern Xinjiang sent out the news that he was seriously injured. There were all kinds of murders in Beijing. However, despite his excellent martial arts, he could not prevent the poisonous insects from coming. He was so weak that he was ambushed all the way back to Beijing. He was scarred, and he was the most seriously injured since he was born. There was an ambush in front of him and a pursuer behind him. In a hurry, he hid in a Buddhist temple in Baoguang temple. But there was someone in the Zen room. In the moonlight, a girl who was only five or six years old was staring at him. Xiao shaomei''s head was wrinkled, and the light of dagger in her hand suddenly appeared. However, the girl clumsily rushed over, surprised: "are you hurt?" He was seriously injured, and his black clothes were soaked. Although he could not see it, he was full of blood. He was in a trance, and the girl knelt down beside him and took out a small porcelain vase from her arms: "this is the wound medicine. Are you ok?" The wound medicine is just ordinary wound medicine. The girl carefully pulled away his clothes. He was alert, but he was amused to see that the other party''s posture was clumsy. I don''t know which maid is such a small girl. He confirmed that she was a servant girl, because the little girl was dressed as a servant girl, and her words were simple and smart. When the moonlight came, she could see her face clearly. She was full of jade and pearls, and her aura was compelling. Her big eyes were smart and clear, and she was born beautiful. Although she is a servant girl, she doesn''t look like a servant girl. He was slightly surprised. The girl insisted on taking medicine with him. He was very weak and could not move. He thought that he would die tonight. Even if he escaped the chase, he would not be able to endure the attack of poisonous insects. He would let the girl toss about as soon as he died. The girl looked at him, breathing gradually weak, eyes are tears, suddenly stood up and ran out. He thought that the girl must have gone out to ask someone to go, but he didn''t have the strength to stop her, and he didn''t bother to stop her. So he sat in the room, waiting for the moment when her life was over. With the fading moon, the young man''s face is peerless, but his expression is cold. He stepped on it all the way, and the higher he went, the more stable he was, but the more lonely he was. Do not know the meaning of living, do not know what to live for. But soon the girl came back. She was holding food and clean water in her hand, but her face was still a little dirty. She timidly pushed things to him: "eat, eat and you will have strength." Xiao Shao can understand the medical skills. Looking at the trace on the little girl''s face, he knows that she has been hurt. How could anyone beat such a smart and beautiful girl? He frowned and looked at the food on the ground. Then he understood again. He thought that the little servant girl should have stolen food for him. When someone found her, she was hurt. He moved a little in his heart. The girl looked at him eagerly. Seeing that he didn''t move, she put up a bowl to his lips. He was really thirsty, so she bowed her head and drank. The girl, though laborious in her actions, was very skillful in watching. She wanted to serve people and drink tea on weekdays. "Don''t you die." The girl looked at him and said, "I won''t tell anyone you''re here."Xiao Shao did not speak. The girl began to feed him steamed bread again. She spoke slowly, but in a few days when the sun is good, the pear blossom in Xishan will bloom, and the peach blossom in Dongshan will bloom. She wants to go to see Huaer grass with her parents, and make new clothes and shoes. The girl next door has a little hound, and she wants one too. Her brother''s recent article has been praised by her father and son, and she will be the number one scholar in the future. Nagging, trying to say something interesting to make him happy, not to fall asleep. Her intention was so immature that Xiao Shao didn''t understand it. It was just that although she was not interested, she had the right to listen as a joke. He felt that the child must have a happy family, and that he was born so kind and warm, because he was full of interest in the things he was spitting out. The poison didn''t break out unexpectedly that night, and the crude medicine and food also made his strength recover gradually. In the Zen room behind Baoguang temple, the moon is full in one night, and the spring breeze is full in one night. Young people and girls sit quietly and talk about each other. The picture is surprisingly harmonious. She talked all night. The next morning, when the temple bell rang, someone outside whispered: "girl, girl." Huo stood up and said, "my servant girl has come to see me. If you are well hurt, you can go quickly. Be careful not to be found It turns out that she is not a servant girl. Xiao Shao said in a low voice, "thank you very much." The girl had already walked to the door. When she heard his words, she suddenly turned around and looked at him with a smile: "don''t thank me. I saved your life today. In case I am in danger in the future, and you happen to pass by, just save my life again." That day, he didn''t die at last. After Baoguang Temple recovered, he sent a signal to the royal guards. When he returned to the city, he solved his assassins with unstoppable momentum. After holding the master of 300000 royal guards for a while, the people in Beijing were killed secretly. Since then, everyone in the court taboo, named "disorderly ministers and thieves.". He didn''t know who the girl in Baoguang temple was that night. He just picked up her earrings. Xiao''s family will repay their kindness and send Yefeng to check. Yefeng finds out that on that day, Miss Jiang''s family went to offer incense. It was Miss Jiang''s second family. Therefore, on Linglong boat, Jiang Su Su was in a desperate situation. He remembered his promise of "in case I get into trouble in the future, and you happen to pass by, just save my life again" and helped her once. Xiao Shao lived a life of licking blood on the edge of a knife when he was young. He had endured the unbearable experience of ordinary people and experienced the unbearable experience of ordinary people. His intuition was amazing. After he saved Jiang Su Su Su, he already felt that something was wrong. Jiang Su Su has a good reputation in Beijing. He is also known as a fairy. He is good and naive, and has excellent talent. He is the apple of his eye. It''s very consistent with the girl who was kind-hearted that night. But at a glance, he could see the hypocrisy and affectation of the woman. In fact, it was difficult to connect them. At this time, Jiang Ruan appeared. Jiang Ruan''s eyes are very similar to those of the girl, but they are not. In Jiang Ruan''s eyes, the murderer was too fierce and cruel, and the murderer with a knife was even better. In this way, the city was different from the girl that night. Moreover, what Jin Yi and Jin Er found out was that Jiang Ruan had been ignored in Jiang''s house since he was a child. Jiang Quan was not happy. His mother died early and his brother was depressed. How could he be as happy as a girl said. Intuition and reality are very different. But now the truth is clear, all of a sudden, the original Jiang Su Su is really not that night girl. Since Jiang Ruan was a member of Baoguang temple at the beginning, why did he change his naive and good nature and become so aggressive? Five years of oppression from Zhuangzi and the difficulties from his father and stepmother can make people change their nature? It''s a change of disposition. How can these means be made by young girls? And her mystery, huijue''s prophecy is all thanks to her, and the flood in Beijing can be predicted ahead of time. Who is she? Xiao Shao put the pendant back into her sleeve, her eyes shining like stars at night, and she pursed her lips. Taking this fall as a letter, he owes Jiang Ruan a life and will repay him in the future. "Thank you very much." He whispered. Jiang Ruan had a dream. This dream time interval is too far, she is a little unclear, vaguely five years ago. Five years ago, Zhao Mei was seriously ill in bed. When the doctor came to see him, he said that he was powerless and would wait to prepare for the future. She looked at Zhao Mei''s bony figure lying on the bed, and she couldn''t help herself. It''s the day when she goes to Baoguang temple to offer incense every year. The pillar incense of Baoguang temple is the most effective. She wants to offer incense, but Jiang Quan says that Zhao Mei is seriously ill. She was born as her own daughter and should stay in the house to wait for her illness. At that time, she was very angry, but she didn''t dare to refute Jiang Quan openly. She decided to follow Xia Yan''s mother and daughter''s carriage secretly, dress up as a servant girl of Jiang''s house, and go there together. When she got to Baoguang temple, she asked the abbot to let her put on a lamp to make Zhao Mei better. So she called Forsythia to go with her and asked Angelica dahurica to dress up as her in the house. She dressed up as a servant girl and went to Baoguang temple.That was the most daring thing she had ever done. After she succeeded in mixing into the crowd, she was very proud of herself for a while. However, she didn''t know that Xia Yan had already known that she was in the crowd and let her go on purpose. Then she took advantage of people''s inattention to hide in the meditation room, trying to find a time to slip out. Since those who sneak in, they can''t eat vegetarian food together with those servant girls, so that they won''t be found out. I had to steal food from the kitchen in the temple. I didn''t want to be found out, so I sent it to the leader of Jiang''s house, the old lady, and told her to discipline her. The woman really "disciplined" her. She was beaten black and blue, but did not dare to say a word, for fear of being found to be the identity of Miss Jiang. At that time, she was scarred and barely got a share of food. The next day, touzhu incense was not burnt. It''s a big temple like Baoguang temple. In fact, it''s also incense money donated by people. Xia Yan donated a lot of money for incense, and she was the one who made the incense. To think of it, her wish at that time was nothing more than Zhao Mei and Jiang Ruan''s death. In the last life, this incense was really effective. On the way back, Xia Yan "accidentally" found her in the crowd. When she went back to the house in panic, everyone knew that she was disguised as Bai Zhi. Jiang Quan was furious when he knew that Bai Zhi was disguised as her in the house. He asked Bai Zhi and she to kneel in the main hall of the house, and all the servants were present. Shame, indignation, anger, grievance, the emotions at that time, but in the end can only turn into useless tears. Jiang Xinzhi was punished by Jiang Quan for kneeling in the ancestral hall for three days in order to fight against her. When Zhao Mei heard about it, her condition worsened and she was dying. Things are so stormy that Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su come to plead for her again. Now, I really want to peel off the skin of the two mothers and daughters. It seems that since then, she has been banned. People in Beijing only know that there is a second miss of the Jiang family. They don''t know who the first miss of the Jiang family is. This place of Baoguang temple has become her nightmare ever since. In this life, Xia Yan still wants to calculate her in Baoguang temple, and also wants to see whether she agrees or not. If Baoguang temple was her execution ground in the last life, this life is the starting point of her killing. The prime minister''s house is just the beginning. At the end of the dream, there seems to be a touch of moonlight. It seems that in the soft night, there are a pair of eyes like cold stars, shining and looking at her faintly. Who is that? It''s like, in the memory of stealing food, it seems that the food was not eaten by her in the end, and something special happened in the meditation room. Time is like the old colored gossamer that covers the treasure and covers the memory quietly. If one day the spring breeze just passes, a corner of the gossamer will be lifted, and the memory will be as fresh as new, still emitting light luster. Ear seems to have a light and cold sentence: "thank you." Who is it? The sunlight gradually passed through the thick bushes and into the cave. Because of the sunlight of this star, the cave shows mottled green. The long lost warm sun is reflected in the verdant mountains and forests. In the empty mountains and valleys, there are clear birds singing and watchtowers chirping. Suddenly, Ling rushes away with her wings flapping. The green lake at the tip of her tail is rippling. The rain stopped. Jiang Ruan slowly opened his eyes. As soon as Fang opened his eyes, he saw that the long lost sunlight had entered the cave and had a good night''s sleep. His spirit was surprisingly good. She tilted her head and suddenly froze. The place where the body is leaning against is warm, the arms are tightly around the strange waist, and the cold and hard black brocade material looks up all the way, facing a pair of beautiful and drooping eyes. Jiang Ruan suddenly retracted her hand. She held Xiao Shao in her arms. No, she held Xiao Shao''s waist and slept all night? Look at that posture, it should be her warm initiative to embrace up. Jiang Ruan took a breath. Xiao Shao didn''t realize it. When she woke up, she stood up and said, "I made a mark outside. They will come soon if they see it." Jiang Ruan''s clothes were dry, so he took off his black golden crane cloak and returned it to Xiao Shao, saying, "thank you, Lord Xiao." Xiao Shao seemed to think of something. He turned to Jiang Ruan and said, "your body is very weak. You have chills. In the mansion, pay more attention to tea and food." When he stopped, Jiang Ruan understood that someone had poisoned him? Xiao Shao saw her question and said, "the cold syndrome is in the fetus. It has been aggravating for many years." Jiang Ruan lowered his head. Is there anything like this? In the last life, whether Jiang Quan and Xuan Li had already known about it, they did not hesitate to let her enter the palace instead of Jiang Su Su Su and keep the healthy and perfect daughter of Jiang family as the empress of the new emperor. No, it''s not. Even if she did not have such a cold disease, Jiang Quan would not leave her. Xuanli and Jiang Quan chose to be victims at the beginning. But Xiao Shao did her a favor. He helped her so much that Jiang Ruan thought of Xiao Shao''s words last night. Did he owe her a life? Want to ask a clear, but suddenly heard in front of the sound of horse hooves, Xiao Shao swept away the bushes at the entrance of the cave, really heard a surprise voice ring: "Lord!"Jiang Ruan went out with him. The sun was shining outside. A group of soldiers and horses in the jungle saw them and came here one after another. Jiang Xinzhi of Guan Lianghan is the most outstanding one. "Ah Ruan!" "Old three!" After a night''s search, Guan Lianghan and Jiang Xinzhi were extremely anxious. Jiang Xinzhi, in particular, just wanted to turn the whole mountain over. His hands were shaking all the way. Now when he saw that Jiang Ruan was safe and sound, he gasped in his heart, called Jiang Ruan''s name and rode over. The soldiers came running with them. In front of the cave, the young man in black and the young girl in plain clothes are bathed in the sun. From a distance, they are also pleasing to the eye. As Jiang Xinzhi approached, his face became more complicated. Jiang Ruan''s hair is disheveled, his clothes are a little untidy, and he still holds the black gold rain brocade silk crane cloak that men wear in his hands. Because he just woke up, he still has some scarlet on his face, which is as beautiful as the most beautiful cloud in the morning. Xiao Shao''s eyebrows were cold, but he didn''t know what he was thinking at that time. His eyes were slightly soft. Such a picture fell into the eyes of everyone, and suddenly he had different thoughts in his heart. These two people''s faces are rare beauty in the world, even if they are in a mess, they don''t hide their demeanor. With the action of smiling at the moment, it reminds us of a sentence. It''s really It''s very harmonious. The incident of violent wounding in Yunnan the night before yesterday was so infuriating. I don''t know if my relatives are in Yunnan. Please protect yourself and try to avoid going to places with too many people. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 94 Jiang Xinzhi turned over and got off the horse, walked quickly to Jiang Ruan, quietly pushed Jiang Ruan to the area behind him and stood in front of Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao took a panoramic view of his movements, and said nothing. Guan Lianghan also stepped forward and said, "is it OK?" Xiao Shao shook his head. Jiang Xinzhi turned around and began to look at Jiang Ruan. When he saw that she was in a mess and her arms were bleeding, he turned cold and said, "Ruan, are you hurt?" "It''s just flesh." Jiang Ruan comforted him. After a pause, he stepped forward and said, "thank you for saving my life." Wen Yan, Guan Lianghan and Jiang Xinzhi look a little strange. Guan Lianghan saw it with his own eyes, while Jiang Xinzhi listened to others. In any case, Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan couldn''t get together. Xiao Shao himself swept down the cliff to save people. It was incredible to hear that. Guan Lianghan didn''t believe Mo Cong''s nonsense. Xiao Shao was cold-hearted. How could he like a little girl who had only met a few times. Besides, Guan Lianghan looks at Jiang Ruan. Although he is beautiful, he is still young. There are more women in Beijing than she has, and there is no special charm. Can think of just see a scene, Guan Lianghan feel uncertain in the heart again. Jiang Xinzhi is different from Guan Lianghan. He had little contact with Xiao Shao. He left Beijing five years ago and knew nothing about the affairs in Beijing. Now Jiang Ruan is his favorite sister. When he looks at Xiao Shao, he looks like a disciple. He held on to Jiang Ruan and refused to let her go forward. He said abruptly, "thank you for saving your life on behalf of shemei." He thought that since Jiang Ruan was young, he naturally did not understand men. Xiao Shao is a real man. He is still in a high position. Jiang Ruan is a young man who listens to and believes in others. If he is taken advantage of, he will be taken advantage of. Thinking of this, Xiao Shao''s eyes were full of hostility. Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xin were brothers and sisters. Naturally, they knew what Jiang Xin was thinking. They were helpless for a moment. Yefeng is full of anger. She thinks about her master''s wisdom and martial arts. How many women in Beijing want to stick it up. What''s Jiang Xinzhi''s expression? It''s clear that Jiang Ruan took advantage of their master. Thinking like this, he stares at Jiang Xinzhi. Unfortunately, he is seen by Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao gives him a light look. Yefeng suddenly remembers the story of Ming Jade Butterfly falling in love with flower pendant. He shakes his body and droops his head. The atmosphere became strange. Jiang Xinzhi took Jiang Ruan back: "Lord, general, a Ruan was shocked and hurt. Xinzhi first took her back to the house for medical treatment. The next thing, after escorting shemei back to the house, Xinzhi will see the general again." Guan Lianghan, accustomed to Jiang Xin''s love for his younger sister, waved his hand and said, "go, go, we are like wolves." Jiang Xinzhi blushed slightly, but his attitude was persistent. Jiang Ruan pondered for a moment and broke away from Jiang Xinzhi''s hand: "brother, I have a few words to say to Lord Xiao alone." As soon as the words came out, there was a sudden silence around them. Even if a needle could be heard clearly, people were staring at them with burning eyes. The night maple is standing in the same place with a low eyebrow, but her ears stand up. The expression on her face seems sad and happy. She says in her heart that it''s not good. The master''s innocence is gone. Guan Lianghan took a meaningful look at Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao, and suddenly raised a smile. It''s all right. It''s absolutely wrong. Jiang Xinzhi looks at Jiang Ruan in a daze. A trace of grief flashed across the film. He looks at Xiao Shao like an enemy. Everyone''s "absolutely problematic" expression was staring at them, but they were calm and calm. Xiao Shao nodded: "good." Jiang Ruan took a look at the expression of the gossip and sighed in his heart. She didn''t want to be involved with this person. It''s better to be a stranger. However, some things have to borrow his hand, which makes life misunderstood. They walked towards the woods in front of them. Xiao Shao was in front of them. When they got out of the distance, Xiao Shao stopped and turned to her and said, "so far, they can''t hear you." Guan Lianghan and others all have martial arts skills, and her ears are surprisingly good. Since she wants to avoid people, she can''t be heard by others. Xiao Shao was very considerate when he thought of this. Jiang Ruan raised his head to see him. It happened that the sun was rising in the mountains. The golden sun made his face more beautiful. His dark eyes were as elegant as gems. She was almost dazzled by this, but only for a short moment, she said with a smile: "Lord Xiao said last night that he owed me a life." At that time, she was so tired that she didn''t have time to think about what Xiao Shao''s words meant, so she went to sleep. This morning, she saw Jiang Xinzhi before she could find out the answer. "Yes." Xiao Shao replied. Jiang Ruan stared at him: "does Lord Xiao want to return this favor?" She changed her mind. She no longer asked about the whole story. She asked what she was doing. She should make use of all the things she could use, such as Xiao Shao in front of her. "Yes." Xiao Shao replied. "When Lord Xiao helped her, did he recognize her as me?" She asked. It was strange that Xiao Shao had helped Jiang Su Su for no reason before, but later all kinds of signs showed that he didn''t seem to be on Jiang Su Su''s side. There are many strange things about Linglong boat. After Jiang Su Su, Xiao Shao helped himself many times. Just now, it occurred to Jiang Ruan that if Xiao Shao had regarded Jiang Su Su as her, he might have done what he did at that time.She looked at Xiao Shao tightly, Xiao Shao nodded: "yes." The three "yes" words, though short, are extremely firm. "I see," he said with a smile. Since Lord Xiao wants to repay this favor, he has a chance now. " She said steady and fast, almost no thought to take this sentence, obviously it has been hidden in the heart for a long time. Xiao Shao stares at her, also hears her words in business talk business general tone, way: "what do you want to do?" "The prime minister''s family conspired to revolt. In this life, there is no excuse for their crimes, and they are bound to die. I want Lord Xiao to protect their lives and hand over Li Dong and his son to me. " Xiao Shao took a serious look at her, did not ask why, nodded: "good." It''s Jiang Ruan''s turn to be surprised. It''s said that King Jinying is cold and heartless. Now he''s seeing it, but he has a surprisingly good temper. She frowned a little. Did he really attach so much importance to saving lives? However, she had to do it again. She wanted to give it to Jiang Xinzhi, but now Jiang Xinzhi is the deputy general. It''s really difficult for him to get Li Dong out of prison. He just managed to succeed. In the future, if someone with a heart finds out what happened, he will bring disaster to Jiang Xinzhi. Not to mention the Zhao family, and Zhao Guang is stubborn and neutral, such a risk, do not necessarily agree. Even suspicious of what she did. However, she was not willing to let this matter be settled. Now this opportunity is rare. Although she didn''t know Xiao Shao very well, she knew that in the last life, this man had a firm heart and carried out his words. In some ways, he was a rare real man. What''s more, Xiao Shao had a wide family and great power. If he came forward, he would have 70% confidence. She said to Xiao Shao with a smile, "thank you, Lord." On the way back to the mansion, Jiang Xinzhi made a side attack on what happened to Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao last night. Jiang Ruan only said that nothing happened, but Jiang Xinzhi didn''t believe it. On the other hand, he said, "ah Ruan, you are still young and many things are not clear. When you meet a man in the future, you must open your eyes and see clearly. Don''t let people cheat you with sweet words." Is this the way she was raised to look at men in the future? Jiang Ruan sighed in his heart and said to Jiang Xin, "brother, what kind of expectation do I have when I look at my father?" Jiang Xinzhi was stunned. Looking at him, Jiang Ruan said seriously: "I have seen the most ungrateful man in the world since I was young. How can I be easily fascinated by other people''s rhetoric. Not to mention now, I and Ji will be married in the future, and I don''t want to marry a stranger for the rest of my life. I''ve been intriguing in the house all day. As long as you can follow elder brother, it''s OK not to marry all your life. " This is the truth. In this life, she came here with hatred, only to go to hell for the sake of cutting the enemy. The man Jiang Xinzhi said was the one she couldn''t and didn''t want to entangle. Looking at his sister''s serious appearance, Jiang Xinzhi was shocked. Jiang Ruan clearly had no expression. But at that moment, he felt a kind of deep-rooted desolation, that is, his closest siblings. He could not share the slightest bit. He could only look at Jiang Ruan''s lonely back and imitate the ghost that would disappear from the world in the next second. A moment later, he whispered, "that''s not right Although all the men in the world have the same virtue, you can always find one or two not so bad In a word, if you don''t marry all your life, it won''t be possible. " Jiang Ruan Two people returned to Jiang Fu, dew and Angelica had already got the news, waiting at the door of the house, saw Jiang Ruan are red eyes: "girl!" Dewdrop Forsythia came forward to hold Jiang Ruan. Seeing the clothes on Jiang Ruan, she exclaimed: "girl is hurt!" Angelica looked at her in some panic, and Jiang Xin said: "a Ruan, I''ll go to find a doctor. You go back to your room first. You two girls went to find some ginger sugar water. You stayed out all night last night. Don''t have to suffer from the cold. " Angelica dahurica and forsythia should be in a hurry, supporting Jiang Ruan back to the house. Back in the yard, lie down on the couch, Angelica dahurica to find ginger sugar water, dew to Jiang Ruan put on a clean clothes, Jiang Ruan asked: "how about Forsythia?" At that time, forsythia was hit by Ang Lee and vomited blood. I don''t know how it is now. Dew bead way: "Forsythia elder sister has nothing to do, young master invited a doctor to see, only say to want to raise half a month to hurt.". Is the girl hurt She carefully helped Jiang Ruan to clean up the wound that he had treated carelessly last night. She said strangely, "Gee, the wound is actually scarred. Fortunately, it''s so fast, but it doesn''t get bigger and bigger." Jiang ruanshun looked into her eyes. Sure enough, the wound that was scratched last night had a shallow scar. After thinking about it, he took out the celadon bottle that Xiao Shao gave her last night from his sleeve and said to Forsythia: "this is the wound medicine. Put it away." This medicine is so effective that it can''t be used in the future. Dew saw the medicine, smelled it, and knew it was a good thing. Without saying a word, she took the porcelain bottle to find a place to put it away. Angelica dahurica came back with a bowl of ginger sugar water. Jiang Ruan took a sip of it. He felt his cold limbs warm up and asked, "what''s the matter with Yanhua garden?" Angelica dahurica is a smile, said: "turned the sky, two girls came back yesterday when the face is full of blood, as if the carriage turned over and fell into the thorns, after a long time officers and soldiers to find, delay the opportunity, the doctor said may want to leave scars."Lost time? Jiang Ruan picks his eyebrows. The people he searched yesterday were all Guan Jiajun and Zhao Jiajun. Needless to say, the Zhao family also obeyed Jiang Xinzhi''s orders. Didn''t they do it deliberately? Naturally, she would not feel sympathy for Jiang Su Su. Bai Zhi then said, "it''s nothing, but the two young masters are full of straw bags. They were safe in the carriage that day, and they were caught as bandits. At the moment, Yan Hua Yuan is full of people, thinking about how to save the second young master. " Jiang Ruan was a little surprised. He put down his bowl and said, "I was caught." "This is the result of self eating." Dewdrop put the medicine back, said: "I heard that the second young master was sitting in the carriage that day, enjoying tea leisurely. He was very comfortable. As a result, when the officers and soldiers came, his face turned green." Then he also felt funny, "poof Chi" a laugh out. Jiang Ruan pondered in his heart that, with Jiang Chao''s temperament, it was not that he could not do it. He was conceited, and he didn''t know how to endure. Once you feel that the situation is slightly favorable, you will be overjoyed. I''m afraid it must have been Jiang Ruan who had an accident that day. Jiang Susu and his carriage were just in a state of panic. What''s more, they didn''t expect that the officers and soldiers would come so fast that he didn''t have time to look frightened by the mountain bandits. It''s a real straw bag. But Jiang Ruan also knew that it was impossible to let Jiang Chao commit the crime of collusion with thieves on this basis alone. As long as there was no definite evidence, no one could convict Jiang Chao. However, it is not so easy to escape from the cannibal prison even though the crime is not to death. Xia Yan, I''m afraid I''ll have to worry about it again. Thinking about this, a third-class servant girl at the door timidly knocked on the door. Jiang Ruan motioned her to come in. The servant girl said, "girl, sister Linlang beside my wife wants you to go to Yanhua garden." That''s the idea on her? Jiang Ruan smiles a little, the satire in the eye passes in a flash. Gently picked up in front of the ginger sugar water shaking, warm color of the sugar water transpiration curl fog, separated her eyes. Angelica eyes a stare, learn weekdays Forsythia pungent appearance way: "are blind, did not see the girl to escape, and injured, very weak.". I''m afraid I don''t have the strength to walk. I''m waiting for the doctor to see me. My wife is kind-hearted. How can she be so inconsiderate? You must be talking nonsense. " The third class servant girl was stunned. She shook her head and said, "I dare not lie." Dewdrop impatient way: "still keep to do what, don''t hurry to go over to reply, our girl at present just need to rest, don''t want to be hurt by you body just good." Then, regardless of what the servant girl wanted to say, she pushed the servant girl out of the door and closed the door cleanly. "Girl, the maidservants are doing well." Dewdrop said with a smile: "let Yan Huayuan worry about herself. The girl was shocked last night. Today she has to eat something to make up her body. What kind of medicated food is good?" In Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan, after listening to Lin Lang''s reply, angrily falls the teacup in front of her and grits her teeth and says, "she dares!" How dare you say such shameless words! Who doesn''t know that she was only slightly injured when she came back today. She fell off the cliff that day and was rescued by Xiao Shao himself. Now Jiang Xinzhi is sending her back with such a high profile. What does it mean? She looked at Jiang Su Su lying on the bed, her eyes flashed a touch of pain, Jiang Ruan even said that she was weak, then her su''er, now she is lying on the bed, what should she do when she wakes up? Xia Yan clenched his fist, and Jiang Chao, now in prison also don''t know how? Jiang Quan has gone to negotiate with the officials over there, but colluding with thieves is not a small crime. I thought Jiang Ruan had a good relationship with Xiao Shao. Maybe I could use Jiang Ruan to let Xiao Shao help me. If you come up with the reason for being a sister of Jiang''s family, it is for the sake of fame that Jiang Ruan will have to go to Xiao Shao for help. Who knows that she just turned her own people away, and used such high sounding reasons to hurt her body? Weak? Bitch! Xia Yan clenches his fist tightly. This matter matters a lot. Xia Cheng just wants to protect himself and won''t muddle through this muddy water. What should he do? After struggling for a while, she finally made up her mind and said, "go and get the key to my warehouse." "Madame?" Li said. "I can''t bear the child to trap the wolf. At present, chao''er''s life is the heaviest." Xia Yan gritted his teeth. Jinying palace, night Maple suddenly knelt down: "there is a mistake, please punish." Wrong Xiao Shao''s life-saving benefactor, but also the enemy of Xiao Shao''s life-saving benefactor as a life-saving benefactor, night maple is ten lives is not enough to die. He was not afraid of death. He was afraid that Xiao Shao would not let him follow him. He couldn''t help feeling a little discouraged. Who could have thought that Jiang Ruan was disguised as a servant girl in the procession that night. It happened that on that day, he said that only Miss Jiang Er went to Shangxiang. It was really a bad fate. Xiao Shao light way: "go to hundred Zhang Lou to receive punishment." Night Maple heart square relaxed tone, just listen to Xiao Shao again way: "your seat, temporarily by brocade one for up." Ye Feng Night Maple dejected to go out, just went out to see the pickpocket door eavesdropping housekeeper Lin, a face of sympathy looking at him, said: "ah Feng, how do you make the king angry? Hey, wait. Don''t go too fast. Tell me what happened to Wang Ye and Miss Jiang last night? Why did you jump down to save people? "After Yefeng left, Xiao Shaocai wrote a few words on the paper in front of him. Then he rolled the paper into a small roll and sent it into a small straight copper tube. Fiddle with the bell on the table, "Goo Goo" twice, a white pigeon flew in from the window and landed on the desk in front of him. Xiao Shao tied the copper tube to the leg of the snow pigeon. The snow pigeon looked at him and pecked his fingers. Xiao Shao touched its head, raised his hand, and the snow pigeon flew out of the window. He lowered his head, eyes on the table inlaid jade butterfly flower pendant. Cha Cha has renewed her microblog account. Ma Jia is 123 romance Qianshan tea guest. Welcome to hook up ~ \ ( ) / ~ with her www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 95 After several months of rain, it finally stopped. The next day, the sun was shining. The people rushed to tell each other that it was God''s blessing that prevented the disaster from spreading. The flood destroyed houses and farmland. Since the sun came out, the old and young people in the city have been busy repairing houses and restoring damaged shops. Even so, they still have three points of joy. In the end, they still have a chance to make a fresh start. In the most prosperous corner of the street in Beijing, the former Golden prime minister''s house is now covered with a layer of light dust. The vermilion gate seems to have fallen off the paint overnight, and no longer looks as bright as before. The two seals are stuck on the lock of the faucet. It''s shocking to look at them. In front of the door, there are few cars and horses, and there is no more prosperous scene in the past. There are lots of garbage and debris on the ground. When you look at them, you only feel dirty and messy. Sometimes people pass by and have a look at them. It''s hard to hide their contempt. It is also a heinous evil in the hearts of ordinary people to recuperate from illness without permission and to seek rebellion. In addition, Li Dongping only covers the sky with his hands every day, which has long been hated by the people. Seeing him in trouble at this moment, it is natural for him to get rid of his hatred. Only scolding the villains has their own way. On the contrary, Guan Jiajun and Zhao Jiajun, who had captured the rebels with their officers and soldiers, were highly praised. Zhao Yi and Jiang Xinzhi, in particular, gained their reputation from the flood so quickly that they were almost known to all. The rebellion has been settled, the flood has been averted, and the peace of the past has been restored in Beijing, but there is still some stability for the rest of its life. However, it is quite different from the joy of the people in Beijing. The dungeon is gloomy and humid, and the jailer with a knife turns around in front of the prison, turning a deaf ear to the groans of the prisoners in the prison. Here are the prisoners who have committed great mistakes. Once they enter this place, they have no chance to turn over. In the innermost room of the dungeon, on the hay sat three prisoners in prison clothes. Although these three people are in a mess, they look at them, but they are noble people who come out of the noble family. Every move has the air of command. It''s Li Dong and his son. Li Dong has a big stomach and a snow-white prison clothes. He is dirty and can''t see the original color. He looked very anxious and yelled at Ang Lee, "it''s all your work. Do something quickly!" Ang Lee didn''t move. He closed his eyes and didn''t seem to hear what he said. Li Dong was impatient, but helpless. He said all he could in court, but the emperor was determined to deal with him this time. As usual, it''s just a matter of paying some money, but no one dares to take his money this time. As a matter of fact, the prime minister''s house has been ransacked. Meiji, who has long been in the news, has taken the rest of her property away. Now she has nothing. He leaned back, involuntarily generating a wave of anger and fear. All his life, he wanted wind and rain, and there was nothing he couldn''t do. Now he is in prison, and he has to be beheaded. Li Dong has been afraid of death since he came. At the moment, he is unwilling to fight for a way to live. His only dependence is Ang Lee. Ang Lee is extremely smart and can think of a good way to escape from the world. But this time, Ang Lee let him down. Li Yang looked at Ang Lee beside him and sneered. He knew that Ang Lee was smart and had a deep mind. He was afraid of his intelligence. But Ang Lee is also a eunuch, and his heart is full of disdain for Ang Lee. Now, when he is dying, he shows his disgust for Ang Lee: "it''s not enough to succeed, it''s more than defeat!" Ang Lee turned a deaf ear, but the shallow smile of a young girl appeared in his mind. Her words are still in my ears, every one of which is a curse that leads people into the abyss. When his thoughts gradually cleared up in prison, Ang Lee combed the things carefully, and finally saw the clue from these things. As early as when Li Yang first went to Jiang''s house and met Jiang Su Su Su who was castrated, he fell into the trap of Jiang Ruan. Li Yang''s affair is just a introduction. What she wants to deal with is the prime minister''s office. However, Li Dong and Ang Lee, including himself, unconsciously entered into the ending designed by Jiang Ruan for them. Jiang Ruan calculated everything, and he even had an absurd illusion. Jiang Ruan knew about the red thunder army and his physical defects for a long time, but he carefully arranged a play for them, and the two trumps of the red thunder army were the weapons that she finally made people collapse. How can there be such people in the world? Ang Lee was worried that his wisdom and conceit had been Jiang Ruan''s stratagem all his life. At this moment, he was able to figure it out gradually, but there was one thing that he could not understand even now. That is, why did Jiang Ruan do this? What is the purpose of her doing this? She is so unremitting to deal with Prime Minister''s house, it is bound to be prime minister''s house before she married. But he had sent someone to check it before, and there was no reason for all this. Do it for no reason? Is it possible? Ang Lee fell into his own meditation and did not find that the jailer in the dungeon had disappeared at any time. When he noticed the excessive quietness around him, and a wonderful intuition reminded him, Ang Lee suddenly opened his eyes and saw two masked people in black coming in the dark.He glanced around and saw no jailer. Li Dong and Li Yang found the two men in black at a glance. They were surprised and said, "are you here to help us out The two men in black went to the prison door without saying a word. They didn''t know where they got the two keys and quietly began to open the prison door. Ang Lee stares at these two people''s movements tightly, and there is a doubt in his eyes. At this moment, the only one who comes to rescue them is the eighth Prince Xuan. However, Xuanli was mild on the surface, but in fact he was cold and thin-hearted. If it was good for him, he would be well received. If it was useless, he would be abandoned. The prime minister''s house is now charged with the intention of rebellion. The emperor''s eyesore is that as long as he is involved in the prime minister''s house, he will be the enemy in the eyes of the emperor in the future. With Xuanli''s disposition, he would only abandon the car to protect the commander. How could he find someone to rescue them? Before he asked the questions in his heart, Li Dong and Li Yang stood up and looked at the two men in black with burning eyes. After the two men in Black opened the prison door, one suddenly stepped forward, one hand clamped down Li Dong and Li Yang, the other hand lifted, Li Yang and Li Dong did not know what was thrown into their mouth. Li Yang and Li Dong were stunned. The man had already dealt with Ang Lee in the same way, and Ang Lee was forced to swallow something like that. Li Dong felt something and looked at the man in black suspiciously: "what do you want to do?" One of them said coldly, "it''s just something to keep your voice down." After that, he didn''t say any more. When he reached for his hand, he chopped at the back of Li Dong and Li Yang''s neck. Li Dong and Li Yang fell down in an instant. Before he could react, Ang Lee felt that his back neck was cold and his brain was empty. He lost consciousness. Qiling road is a common place for poor people in Beijing. It is adjacent to the place where the most hardworking people live, and the lowly Untouchables often come and go here. These people are usually of low status and have no money to live. They usually live by selling their coolies and have a very difficult life. Among such people, it is often difficult for a man to escape to his daughter-in-law. Therefore, the kilns and swineherd houses in Qiling road are the most prosperous. Needless to say, the women who bought kilns in the Qiling road are different from those in the brothel in the middle of Beijing. They receive guests all day long. The mother of the kilns is also very strict with these women. She can only get a meal every day. If she is sick, she has to come to receive guests because of illness. She can''t stand it. She throws a roll of mat to the mass grave and asks the wolf to eat it Doing Er Jing is a common thing. And the small swineherd house in Qiling road is different from the kiln. Occasionally, there are one or two low-class Untouchables who have unusual tastes. Women are weak and can''t help tossing. The young people in Xiaoguan are different from those in Beijing. They are not delicate and white young people. Most of them are poor at home, and it''s hard for coolies to sell their lives here. These teenagers are strong and vigorous, but appearance is not the most important thing. But even such a tough young man is often tossed to death. On this day, another business was taken up in the Xiaoguan restaurant in Qiling road. My mother met the three people and looked at the first two with a smile, but the last one frowned. She pointed her short and thick fingers painted with Codan and gave a wink to the man opposite: "Sir, what do you mean? The first two are good goods, but this one...". You are playing with slaves The people on the ground were in a mess. The first two people were young. Although their hair was disheveled, their faces were delicate and delicate. It''s enough to be the first card in this restaurant. But the one behind the two looks like a middle-aged man in his 40s and 50s, with a big belly. It''s really. It''s disgusting. Brocade a pair of small swineherd''s mother''s scratched head make a gesture to turn a blind eye, take out the silver ticket from the dress way: "this is silver." When the mother saw the banknote, she was overjoyed and said with a smile, "if you can trust me, please give me this man. Although I''m older, my body is tender. Some people here like excitement, so they turn off the lights in the room. It''s more fun. If this person doesn''t look at his face and adjusts his body a few times, he will become a natural person. " She is so big of La La La of say these things that overturn Yin and Yang, brocade one also some uneasiness, then way: "these three people all want to be good to adjust, boss Niang much trouble." The mother of Xiaoguan has been working in this business for so many years, so she is not a good person. After hearing Jinyi''s words, she knows something. She only says which big family has had a grudge. She is only responsible for collecting money and doing things. Seeing that the person in front of her doesn''t look like an ordinary family, she laughs and says, "can''t you trust me? Don''t worry. In that case, we''ll arrange for them to meet us today. " She looks at brocade one, the PA son in the hand almost throws brocade one face, tired of voice way: "Ye can want to see with own eyes?" Jin a shook to shake the goose bumps on the body, way: "thank you." When Ang Lee wakes up, Li Yang and Li Dong are still awake. Ang Lee has practiced martial arts in the past few days. He has a little foundation and wants to use his internal power. When he moves, he finds that his whole body is soft and has no strength. He was stunned, squinted, eyes gradually clear up. Ang Lee looked around and saw that it was not a big room. There was a strange smell in the room. It was like the smell of powder on a woman''s body, but it contained something that could not be explained clearly. The decoration in the room was cheap and flowery. At the moment, he was sitting on a side bed with a pink cigarette tent, which looked like a woman''s boudoir, but not like a woman''s boudoir.Rao is Li Anping. No matter how clever he is, he can''t figure out where he is. Looking at the unconscious appearance of Li Yang and Li Dong lying on the bed, we can see that there must be Tao in their hearts. Since the other party dares to kidnap them out of the prison, they will know that they have nothing to fear, but they just do this, and they don''t know where they are and what they are thinking? Just thinking about it, I heard the door "creak" was pushed open, and a person came in. Then from the outside slowly came the footsteps, Begonia color skirt color warm, look up along the delicate train, slim body, charming face, smile gentle, eyes are as cold as a knife. "Miss Jiang, it''s really you." Ang Lee gave a sneer. He had this intuition for a long time. When he saw Jiang Ruan, he couldn''t tell exactly what he felt in his heart, whether he was angry or gnashing his teeth, or whether he was inferior to others and willing to bow to the downwind? Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "the second young master is really different from ordinary people. The first young master and the prime minister have not yet woken up, but the second young master has woken up." She pause: "but now wake up, may not be a good thing." "What do you want to do?" Asked Ang Lee. Jiang Ruan said, "don''t you look at this place, second young master?" Ang Lee looked at her with deep eyes, only listening to Jiang Ruan''s gentle explanation: "this is the small swineherd''s house, not the ordinary small swineherd''s house. The small swineherd here is specially for those who sell coolies." When he heard Jiang Ruan''s words, Ang Lee''s disdainful face suddenly changed and his body became stiff. "What do you mean?" After a while, he squeezed a few words out of his teeth. "The prime minister calls the wind and the rain all his life, and regards human life as a mole ant. Countless Untouchables have died in his hands. The first young master and the second young master are the same. If they have to struggle and cry under your so-called pariah one day, would it be better? " Ang Lee stares at her. His eyes are not as calm as at the beginning. He wants to yell at her, but the medicine makes him weak and unable to increase his voice. He said, "bitch!" This kind of means, also owe her a boudoir woman can think out! He can not be afraid of death or suffering from other torments, but if he wants to do those dirty things under the Dalit, Ang Lee will feel cold all over as soon as he thinks about it, and he wants to vomit! Jiang Ruan looked at him with great interest and said with a smile, "it turns out that young master Li is also afraid. I thought that nothing in the world can defeat young master Li. How can I be defeated repeatedly?" She didn''t stop at this point and continued with a smile: "I think the second young master wants to be the leader in everything in his life, but this time the prime minister''s house collapsed. The second young master has no chance to taste the first taste in his life. So Ruan Niang has the heart to help the second young master. " She was very happy with a smile: "I think you father and son are beautiful. From today on, father and son will receive guests together. I don''t know if the second young master can be the first one." Ang Lee''s eyes seem to be congested. He has faced countless opponents all his life, and he can easily knock them down. But never met such a person as Jiang Ruan, her every move is like a good plan for terror, and even in the end, also clearly understand what his real weakness is, death is not terrible, terrible is to live, and this kind of day is endless. He was so frightened that he tried to find a way to escape. But when I saw the girl''s slightly ironic eyes, there was a kind of despair in my heart. It''s impossible to escape. The girl in front of her is not a human being. She''s a devil. She''s a poppy growing from the depths of hell. She looks beautiful. But once she gets close, she will entangle people with bloody branches and drag them into hell. She doesn''t do it, she just makes people lose everything. Ang Lee slowly raised his head to look at her and said, "why do you want to deal with Prime Minister''s office?" Jiang Ruan looked at him quietly. That pair of up in the eyes, gentle and charming smile suddenly and all disappeared, for the first time to show his hatred. It''s like a sea in calm. There are only black waves. However, there is blood hatred in the black mood. Being stared at by such a pair of eyes, Ang Lee felt cold on his back. He suddenly felt that it was the stupidest decision he had made in his life to fight against the girl in front of him. Jiang Ruan Duan is standing in the room, the girl''s beautiful face is extremely cold, with a kind of frightening fear. She folded her hands in her sleeves and folded them flat in front of her chest. In a dignified and elegant posture, she seemed desperate. She sighed softly and said, "it''s probably because the prime minister''s house owes me a huge debt in the last life." Ang Lee was stunned. Jiang Ruan''s words were inexplicable, but he had a sense of absurdity, as if Jiang Ruan''s words were true. He fixed his eyes on Jiang Ruan and suddenly gave a miserable smile: "I''m willing to accept defeat, I''ve lost." "Wrong." Jiang Ruan looked at him with a sweet smile: "I''ve never compared with young master Li Er. I just want to destroy the prime minister''s mansion, but second young master, you didn''t keep itShe said faintly, "there are 103 people in the prime minister''s family. They were all beheaded at the Meridian Gate yesterday. Your majesty is very angry. They are of nine nationalities." The debt of the last generation is just right. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 96 The dim light of the cottage, white lit a few lanterns, bright pink lanterns are made of poor quality cloth, the house incense exudes a disgusting fragrance. The smell of smoke is curling. The more it is inhaled, the more it makes people feel dull and hot, as if they are scratching their chest with something. The door was kicked open with a bang. From the outside, three middle-aged men came in. The three men, with dark skin and dirty clothes, were slaves selling coolies. As soon as Fang came in, their eyes fell on them. The two young men on the bed were white in complexion, handsome in the dim light, slim in stature, but tender in skin. The man at the head brightened his eyes and praised: "Liu Sanniang said that there are some good things coming today. It''s true." Then he walked over with great strides. First he touched Li Yang''s face, then he looked down at the other side and frowned: "what''s the matter with this man? Is Liu Sanniang teasing our brothers? " Li Dong was pale, angry and frightened. He had a lot of sex with boys all his life, and naturally understood what it was. But who would have thought that he would be a mermaid in such a place today? It''s unbelievable! Although the heart is angry, the body is soft and unable to move, the voice is also powerless. Another middle-aged man laughed, with a bit of evil on his face: "whatever, it''s not the same to turn off the light, although it''s older, it''s better that the note is tender. The three of our brothers will be very happy tonight. Liu Sanniang asked us for one or two silver. Today, we''ll pay a big price. We''ll have a good time. " Li Yang looked at the three people in fear. The man at the head squinted at him and put his hand into his clothes. The room was lit with aphrodisiac fragrance, and the man was * again. Looking at him closely at the moment, Li Yang''s handsome face was filled with three points of fear, and he immediately began to think about it. Without saying a word, he picked up Li Yang''s clothes. Li Dong closed his eyes in pain. Even though Li Yang sleeps and sleeps in his daily life, he is his own son. Now he will be insulted by these low-level Dalits under his eyes. The other two had been eager to try and walked to Ang Lee. Ang Lee couldn''t move, so he looked at them fiercely. His eyes were sinister, which made them stunned. When he reacted, he could not help but become angry. One slapped Ang Lee in the face, and Ang Lee staggered. The other could not wait to tear open his clothes and trousers. He was stunned and burst out laughing: "it''s a eunuch!" Then he stroked up: "since the body of heaven eunuch, the body should be below. Let us teach you, so that you can understand what''s going on." Ang Lee''s white face shows a palmprint of Ba, and the expression of staring at people fiercely makes people feel more rampant. His face began to turn red gradually. Liu Sanniang gave the three of them the most powerful medicine here. They had to keep on being happy with others, otherwise they would not be able to bear it. For example, although he glared at others at the moment, his body began to disobey him. The two men looked at each other, said nothing more, and rushed up in a crowd. The room suddenly rang with suppressed grunts and thought-provoking shouts. I don''t know how long later, Ang Lee and Yang Lee have been changed beyond recognition. These three people are fierce and strong, and they almost torture them. They were lying on the ground, covered with stains. The three people looked at each other and saw Li Dong shivering on the bed. With a wave of his hand, the light went out, and they hugged him again. Outside, Jiang Ruan stood quietly in front of the door, listening to those painful voices, with an indifferent look. Floating in the brain, it is the last of the last life, young and frightened eyes, and Li Dong laugh ugly face. Pei''er, who was regarded as her own son, was played to death, but she couldn''t speak and couldn''t move. She had nothing to do but watch. To blood and tears as an oath, this life, also teach Li Dong taste such a taste! She thought that after such a long time, at this moment, there would only be happiness in her heart. She thought that love and hate had been covered up well and would not rush out of her heart easily. Until now, listening to the screams of Li Dong and his son, she realized that hatred had been lurking in her heart, and it was far from enough! It''s not enough. The prime minister''s house has collapsed. Who''s next? Not far behind, Xiao Shao looks at her back. When he heard that she was going to send Li Dong and the three into the restaurant, he was also slightly surprised. At the moment, she looks cold, dark eyes, I do not know what to think of, it seems to be brewing a storm like mood. Although he tried his best to hide it, he was angry after all. Only hatred can make people feel like this. After a long time, Jiang Ruan slowly turned around and was stunned to see that he was still there. However, he soon recovered as usual and came forward and said, "thank you, Lord Xiao." Xiao Shaoruo looked at her thoughtfully: "no, I owe you a life. I will always help you." Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "please send someone to take good care of this restaurant. You must take good care of the prime minister''s family." The feeling of surprise flashed in Xiao Shao''s heart again. As a lady in a boudoir, she knew all these things very well. Even the little swineherd in Qi Lingdao knew who would teach a lady all these things. What''s more, I know that I''m still standing at the door so big that I can''t see any embarrassment. It''s amazing that I''m so magnanimous.He nodded, "OK." After thinking about it, he took something out of his arms and handed it to Jiang Ruan. It is a very beautiful bracelet, emitting a faint blue light, carved with small and complex patterns, but it does not appear cumbersome, has its own meaning. The bracelet was so familiar that Jiang Ruan looked at it and said, "blood moon bracelet?" She and Zhao Jin have been to the newly opened jewelry building in the capital, the second floor of the weapons and treasures, and have seen this bracelet, but they don''t have so much money to buy it. It''s just a beautiful bracelet. It''s actually a delicate concealed weapon. Pressing the mechanism can send out a silver poisonous needle from it. This needle can be used repeatedly. It''s really a treasure. She raised her head and looked at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao''s dark eyes were cold and quiet. She said, "if there is any danger, you can use it." Jiang Ruan hesitated. The blood moon bracelet is indeed a rare treasure, which is exactly what she needs. But now Xiao Shao has just said that she is on her side. Is it trustworthy? However, her love for the bracelet temporarily overcame her doubts. She took the bracelet and said with a smile to Xiao Shao, "thank you, Lord." Xiao Shao pursed her lips, turned around and walked with her, reminding her: "Jiang Chao has been released from prison." Jiang Ruan thought slightly: "I know." She had never thought that Jiang Chao could be defeated with a single blow. Without any definite evidence, Jiang Chao was at most suspicious. Xia Yan will try his best to save Jiang from prison, but Jiang Chao may not have been able to pay any price. Needless to say, fame alone will make it impossible for Jiang Chao to look up in his life. Who cares about a man who has been in prison? And Xia Yan, the price may not be so simple, in short, the two people this time is lost his wife and folded soldiers, think it is a little happy in the heart. Let''s do this one by one. It''s natural for us to pay off our debts and exchange our lives for our lives. In the Yanhua garden of Jiang''s mansion, Xia Yan looks at Jiang Chao with his lips shaking. Jiang Chao''s face turned white, and he seemed to be in extreme fear. His cheeks were deeply sunken, his eyes were absent, his hair was stained with a lot of filth, and his whole body exuded a disgusting smell. However, after just a few days in prison, he turned into a different person. Where did he still look like a good young master. The doctor had already come to see Jiang Chao. He said that Jiang Chao''s lower body was torn and he was surprised. He had to keep it in the house. Although the doctor''s words were very obscure, Xia Yan''s ears were struck by lightning. Jiang Chao, insulted in prison! She looked at Jiang Chao in disbelief. He was all huddled up in a corner of the room, shivering and muttering: "don''t Don''t... " Xia Yan can''t stand it at last. He hugs him in his arms and screams: "chao''er!" Jiang Chao pushed her desperately, his eyes were full of fear, and he bit her crazily: "go away, go away!" Xia Yan was bitten on his hand by him. The bite was very deep. Immediately, his stool was like a spring of blood. Lin Lang was so scared that he came to help: "madam, what''s the matter with you?" Xia Yan waved his hand and hugged Jiang Chao, crying: "my chao''er, open your eyes and have a look. I''m a mother, I''m a mother!" She hugged too tightly, Jiang Chao could not get away, and gradually calmed down in Xia Yan''s arms, shaking his voice and said: "mother?" "It''s me, I''m my mother," said Xia Yan painfully. "Chao''er, who did this to you?" Jiang Chao trembled all over, grabbed Xia Yan''s sleeve and repeatedly said only one sentence: "mother help me, help me, mother help me..." In his mind, he rolled over the unbearable pictures. Was the prison a place for people to stay? The prisoners were all ferocious people, and the prison guards there did not know who had given them the order to lock him up with them. Those people are extremely dirty, regardless of men and women. We should insult him by force. In a few short days in prison, he was tortured out of shape. Thinking of that, Jiang Chao only felt a burst of sour water in his stomach. He vomited, and Xia Yan was all over his face. Several servant girls in the room were surprised. He came to help. Xia Yan felt dizzy and asked people to take Jiang Chao back first. After it was so easy to calm Jiang Chao to sleep, Xia Yancai went to change his clothes. He seemed to be ten years old in one night. He was no longer as gentle and beautiful as before. Now he put his hands on his forehead and heart, just like an old middle-aged woman. Lin Lang worried: "Madam..." "How dare you treat chao''er like this?" thinking of Jiang Chao, Xia Yan felt a pain in his heart: "I need that bitch to give back thousands of times." She knew that Ang Lee should be blamed for this, but Ang Lee had already been put into prison, so she pushed all her faults on Jiang Ruan. If it wasn''t for her, how could Jiang Chao have done it! "Madam, the money over there is ready, and the account book in the warehouse needs to be revised." There are many reminders. Mention this matter, Xia Yan chest is stuffy again, at the beginning of Jiang beyond the hundred flowers building, after that, the silver has spent 7788, is her own dowry also compensate into a lot. Now it costs a lot of money to rescue Jiang Chao from prison and walk around. The rest of her dowry will be left to Jiang Su Su as a dowry in the future, and the money in the public is not much now, so she came up with the idea of dowry for her husband Jiang. Old lady Jiang was the daughter of a noble at the beginning, and the dowry was very rich, because in the future it was all left to Jiang Quan, but Xia Yan didn''t think of anything else. A few days ago, however, Chiang Kai Shek was so angry that she just sat by and ignored him. She had to ask Chiang Kai Shek for help. Jiang refused without hesitation. As usual, she could still ask Xia Cheng for help. But recently, Xia Cheng and Jiang''s family have a lot of grievances. Xia Yan couldn''t help it. She couldn''t get the old lady Jiang''s bank note in her own hands, but Chuang Tzu and the fields in her name were dead. Xia Yan then sold those shops and fields without telling the public, and rescued Jiang Chao in exchange for money.Now that Jiang Chao is back, he still has to find a way to figure it out. Xia Yan only feels dizzy. She never looks at the world on the surface, but in fact she is very smart. But these things rush up, which makes her have no idea for a while. She shook her head and said to the other side, "help me to walk in the yard." Linlang Yiyan, holding her, just walked to the door of the hospital, saw Jiang Ruan and forsythia pass by, Jiang Ruan saw Xia Yan stopped and saluted her: "mother." Xia Yan forced to squeeze a smile, nodded, inadvertently with her to play the drama of motherhood and filial piety, eyes do not hide hate. However, Jiang Ruan stepped back slightly and said with a smile, "how can mother have this smell? I''d better go back and clean it up first. Ruan Niang will go back to the yard now. " Then he left with forsythia. Xia Yan looks at the back of Jiang Ruan Shi Ran''s leaving. He thinks that Jiang Chao has vomited all her filthy things, and almost bites her teeth. When one of Jiang Xin came back, he went to Jiang Ruan''s yard first. Jiang Ruan was instructing forsythia and Angelica dahurica to replace the things that had been affected by damp a few days ago. Seeing Jiang Xinzhi coming in, forsythia went to make a cup of tea, and Jiang Ruan sat down opposite him. Jiang Xin''s pause, straight to the point: "a Ruan, Li Dong, father and son died in prison yesterday." Jiang Ruan slightly raised his eyebrows: "Oh?" "The jailer found it this morning. He said it was suicide. Your majesty is angry and wants to split them up. " When Jiang Xinzhi said this, he said angrily, "it''s called the reincarnation of the way of heaven. It''s not that the time has not come. They want to marry you, but they don''t want to die. " Jiang Ruan smiles lightly on his face and thinks in his heart that Xiao Shao should be responsible for Li Dong and his son''s suicide in prison. Although he doesn''t know what method he used, even Jiang Xinzhi hasn''t found anything wrong. Naturally, he should be perfect. She looked down with a smile, but in Jiang Xin''s eyes, she felt a movement in her heart. Her voice was Judo: "in a few days, your majesty will have a palace banquet to reward the minister who has made great contributions to water control. I will go with you when you are a family member. At that time, big brother will plan a future for you. " What he meant by this, Jiang Ruan naturally understood that Jiang Xinzhi wanted to change her status with his contribution, or an opportunity to make her status higher. Let Jiang family no longer dare to bully her easily. Jiang Xin said: "now the greater my contribution, the more your majesty looks at China. The west is not very peaceful. It is inevitable that one day you will lead troops to the army. If you have a shelter, it will be very good." "Shelter?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "how do you want to protect me? Another princess? Brother, don''t forget that thunder, rain and dew are all grace. Now your majesty values big brother. It''s his chance. But if big brother guesses the sacred heart, and even takes this attitude of exchanging things for things, I''m afraid it will make your majesty unhappy. But I didn''t mean to say that about the identity of the princess. My brother''s credit is not enough for the time being. " Jiang Xin''s words stopped. He understood that what Jiang Ruan said was right. However, he was so rich that now he only wanted to live a good life. But what''s the place of Jiang''s house? Jiang Xinzhi can see the faces of these people clearly these days. He is only shocked by the past days of Jiang Ruan. How can he put Jiang Ruan in such a dangerous place when he goes out to fight in the future. Jiang Ruan looked at him and said with a smile, "if it''s not for changing the status of a princess, there is still a way to protect me." "What is it?" Jiang Xinzhi asked. "It''s very simple. Find a powerful person to make an engagement with me. Once I have an engagement, I''m just half of Jiang''s family. If that party is powerful, people here dare not make it difficult for me." Jiang Xinzhi said, "no, you are still so young. How can you rush to find someone to make an engagement?" Looking at Jiang Ruan''s unassuming and generous manner, he was convinced that Jiang Ruan Gen didn''t understand what engagement was, and said: "besides, the Jiang family and Xia family are friendly, and Xia family and eighth prince are friendly. It''s not so easy to find someone who can compete with eighth prince." At this point, he seems to think of something, suddenly a Leng, did not speak for a long time. Jiang Ruan looked at him: "big brother?" Jiang Xinzhi looked at her strangely and said, "Ruan, what do you think of Xiao Shao?" Jiang Ruan He even thought about it seriously. Jiang Ruan glared at him, sighed for a long time, and said softly, "brother, did you forget that I said I didn''t want to get married?" Without waiting for Jiang Xinzhi to reply, she said, "besides, things in the world are changing so fast that my husband''s family may become a starving wolf eating people. Does elder brother forget his mother?" Zhao Mei was so innocent that she lost her youth and flower like life in Chiang Kai Shek''s mansion. Isn''t it because of Chiang Kai Shek''s ruthlessness. In her last life, she was reduced to the point that death was better than death, and her relatives were slaughtered to the end. Wasn''t it because Xuan Li cheated her of her trust with a gentle mask? Human heart is the most unreliable thing in the world. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were so cool that he was stunned. He reached out and touched Jiang Ruan''s head: "but I''m still a little girl. How can I talk so mature?" He said: "with big brother, you won''t be wronged." "You don''t have to worry about me, I have a way to achieve your wish at this Palace Banquet. Big brother also promised me one thing, don''t gamble my happiness with his future. For a Ruan, if elder brother takes a step higher, he will be safer, and a Ruan will be more assured. "Jiang Xinzhi looked at her and nodded: "OK, I promise you." At the eighth Prince''s house in the capital, Xuanli looked anxious, and his eyes, which were always gentle and affectionate, were full of anger at the moment. Li Dong three people actually committed suicide in prison, with Li Dong''s temperament, definitely will not make such a move. But now his every move is under the eye of others. When the prime minister''s house had this incident, the censors were all eyeing him. They wished he had made any mistakes at this time. The people who sent out didn''t get any useful news. When he thought that he had lost a good chess for no reason, Xuanli felt indignant. Although he had thought of abandoning prime minister''s office, it was not at this time. In his hands, he always wants to squeeze out the last point of value. Even if the prime minister''s house is to be destroyed, it will be valuable to destroy and pave the way for his progress. Who knows Li Dong three people died in prison for no reason, without proof, those doubts about him will become a thorn, deep into the heart of the emperor, unable to pull out. How could he not be annoyed! The subordinate next to him said, "Your Highness, I have found out that it was Miss Jiang that young master Li was going to deal with that day, but somehow it attracted officers and soldiers, and even the red thunder army was destroyed at one stroke." Jiang Ruan, it''s Jiang Ruan again! Xuanli suddenly stood up and sat back again, feeling stuffy in his chest. Ang Lee thought he had concealed the real strength of the red thunder army. In fact, everything was under his control. When he thought of a certain time, he took the red thunder army back to his own use. However, once there was a great change, the red thunder army became a hot potato. He could only watch it being captured by the officers and soldiers. Thinking of that day, several red thunder troops were suddenly destroyed, he could not help suspecting that the officers and soldiers were all from the Zhao family and the Guan family. Needless to say, the Zhao family is just too coincidental. At the moment, listening to his subordinates say that Ang Lee wanted to deal with Jiang Ruan, he gradually understood something in his heart. If it was Jiang Ruan who did all this, she would be too terrible. He remembered that before Ang Lee was arrested, they chatted with each other. Ang Lee once said, "Miss Jiang''s mind is incomparable. If you have a chance, your highness can consider taking it for your own use. If you don''t succeed, you must kill it. Otherwise, you will have a serious trouble in the future." He scoffed at it at the beginning, but now he remembered it with a dignified look. What was the implication of Ang Lee''s words? This time, if Ang Lee really fell into the hands of Jiang Ruan, he would have to take a good look at this young lady of the Jiang family. If Jiang Ruan''s intelligence can''t even compare with Ang Lee''s, it will be an excellent help. Anyway, he wanted to win over the Xia family of the Jiang family. It was no different to marry Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu. Jiang Su Su''s reputation is now bad, but Jiang Ruan is so smart When he thought of Jiang Ruan''s young but charming face, he suddenly sighed with comfort. If you can take it for your own use, if you can take it for your own use. He suddenly a smile, a sweep before the look haze, way: "prepare, I want to enter the palace to see the mother imperial concubine." It is not known who will win. Today is Cha Cha''s 20th birthday. Happy birthday to cha cha! This year 20, next year 19, next year a flower ~ ha ha ha XD ~ this chapter has been revised many times Tired or not_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 97 Green tiles, red walls, heavy curtains, the magnificent palace looks bright, but I don''t know how many bones are buried. Simeng hall is located in the southeast corner of the imperial palace. It has a quiet environment and is adjacent to a large area of peony garden. It was specially sent by the emperor from Luoyang. It was carefully planted here by craftsmen. Every time the Peony Blossom Season, the peony garden is the most beautiful. Living here is one of the four imperial concubines, Chen Guifei, the mother of the eighth prince. When the emperor first ascended the throne, his foundation was not stable. Chen Guifei''s father took military power and sent her to the palace to show his support for the emperor. For the emperor, the stability of the throne was guaranteed. The Chen family had a certain kindness with him, and the princess Chen was gentle, graceful, beautiful and talented. She never quarreled with all the beauties. The emperor loved her unconquerable temperament and protected her intentionally or unintentionally. Later, the princess Chen gave birth to the eighth Prince Xuanli, and her mother leaped to the top of the four concubines. The empress gave birth to the prince, the virtuous one gave birth to the fourth prince, the virtuous one gave birth to the fifth prince, and the Shufei gave birth to Princess Yi. As the courtiers all know, the eighth Prince Xuanli is intelligent and gentle, the fifth Prince Xuanhua is loyal and brave, the fourth Prince xuanlang is mediocre, and Princess Heyi is pretty and beautiful. The crown prince is mediocre and incompetent, and can''t be used to a great extent. The fourth Prince xuanlang is kind but has no intention. Now the wind in the middle is inclined to Xuanli and Xuanhua. The emperor has always been very good to Princess Chen. Although Xuanhua is also very powerful, her mother, Princess De, is not as popular as Princess Chen. The imperial court is full of ups and downs, but the temple of dreams is warm and prosperous. It seems that this place is far away from intrigue and jealousy. There are just a lot of time to have a peaceful dream of missing the misty rain in the south of the Yangtze River. In the room, the white jade flat is covered with thick Persian wool blanket, slender white plush, and inlaid with bright gems. The four maids in thin white shirts are all pretty, standing quietly in the same place with their heads down. The light wind outside blows slightly and raises a corner of the curtain, just like the fairies on the nine heaven palace. The woman on the seat is seriously making a complexation. Qianqian''s hands are not coated with a little bit of cardan. Her fingernails give off a light pink luster. Qianqian''s fingers fly up and down flexibly. Different from other women in the palace, this woman did not have the slightest air of supremacy. She bit off a piece of silk thread, showing a white and pretty face. Her facial features are beautiful, without the slightest aggressiveness, with a kind of water like tenderness. It seems that she is not an unattainable imperial concubine in the palace, but a young girl in a family''s waiting room in the corner of the south of the Yangtze River. She is clear, sweet, gentle and graceful. Jiang Su Su has been born incomparably pure and beautiful, but there is a bit of deliberate element. This woman is not exactly, even in the nine palace, there is also a kind of out of place gentle and graceful. It''s as soft as water carved into the bone. Her lips gently smile, if someone passes by at the moment, I will think that the scene in front of me is the same as the name of the hall, just a romantic dream. When the curtain was lifted heavily, a figure came in and said with a smile, "mother concubine." Chen Guifei put down the hand of the son, looking at the person, suddenly a smile: "how also don''t let a person report." Xuanli looks at the woman close at hand. Her restless heart calms down slowly. Princess Chen has a special magic, as if the world is more complex things to her hands, like this dense silk thread in general, always easy to clear, into a colorful complex. Xuanli said, "do you know what happened to the prime minister''s house, mother concubine?" Chen Guifei looked slightly and said, "I know." The palace is so big that so many people go in and out of the palace every day. Even things they don''t want to know will come into her ears. Chen Guifei knew about the prime minister''s office, but she was not worried about Xuanli, and Xuanli was not depressed. He said, "I want to ask my mother to do me a favor." "What''s up?" Princess Chen gave a smile. "I beg my mother and imperial concubine to persuade my father to marry me and Miss Jiang." Open your mouth. Chen Guifei was gentle and calm. She was stunned when she heard him and frowned: "what?" "My father has already begun to doubt my son''s ministers about the affairs of the prime minister''s house." Xuanli said, "but my mother can''t help me with this." Now Princess Chen is in favor in the palace. Apart from the gentleness and gentleness of Lord Chen and Princess Chen, more importantly, she is smarter than the other three concubines. She is always gentle and considerate. She does not discuss the affairs of the imperial court or influence the emperor''s decision. When the emperor comes to Simeng hall, he will always have a wonderful dream. The emperor was interested in her unyielding temperament. If she pretended to plead for Xuanli or expressed a little bit of this kind of meaning, since ancient times, the monarch was suspicious, and she would never be favored as she used to be. Chen Guifei knew this, Xuanli also knew this, so he would not easily ask Chen Guifei for help. He knew that even if the emperor doubted him, as long as Chen Guifei''s favor continued, the emperor would not really give up on him. "There is a connection between Jiang''s house and Xia''s house. When the prime minister''s house has an accident and the wind changes in the middle of the court, the children''s ministers have to consolidate their own power and show the relationship with Xia''s house to the public. If you do it rashly, your father will suspect that Miss Jiang is not allowed to be spoiled in Jiang''s family. In her name, you can let your father relax his vigilance, but you won''t lose all contact with Xia''s house. "Chen Guifei quietly looked at Xuanli: "Your Highness, you didn''t tell the truth to our palace." Xuanli''s eyes stagnated, and he knew that the mother Princess was smart. Otherwise, in the cannibal harem, how could the position of the head of the four concubines be so stable? The emperor knew that she must not have no intention, but she was still willing to favor her. This is her grasp of the people''s heart. In fact, on the road of his seizing the throne, imperial concubine Chen gave him a lot of advice, and even the seven and nine princes who had disappeared quietly in the palace were inseparable from imperial concubine Chen. But so what? Now those people have already become a handful of peony flowers, but Chen Guifei''s chair is more stable. He thought about it: "Miss Jiang is not an ordinary person. The sudden collapse of the prime minister''s office has a lot to do with her. Ang Lee once reminded me that Jiang Ruan is very intelligent and can be used for help. My son thought, since she has the talent of heaven, maybe she can use it. " "The talent of heaven?" Chen Guifei shook her head: "Ang Lee is perverse. He doesn''t know that there are people outside the world. It''s no surprise that he is planted in other people''s hands. Our palace has known for a long time that there will be such a day. But it''s amazing that he fell into the hands of a woman. " Xuanli said: "exactly, so the minister thought that if he could get married, he would take the woman for his own use." Princess Chen laughed: "Your Highness is still young now, and relies too much on Ang Lee, so he believes his words. However, our palace thinks that the woman has the talent of heaven, which is exaggeration. However, since your highness said that, in his eyes, that woman is different from ordinary women. Your highness and our palace are mother and son. In a few days, our palace will bring this up in person. Our palace will only give her one year. If she can''t show her talent, she won''t be worthy of the name of your Highness''s fiancee. Her fiancee can be changed. Then Miss Jiang may die. What do you think of Her Highness? " She talked lightly about the matter of seeking people''s lives, but her eyes were as gentle as lotus, as gentle as a fairy with a good heart. Xuanli thought for a long time, then raised his head. A trace of ruthlessness flashed across his face, which was very similar to that of Princess Chen. He said: "well, if it can''t be used for me, it must be removed. The province will become a serious trouble in the future." Chen Guifei satisfied smile: "Your Highness is wise." She picked up a basket of a few dozen good complexes: "yesterday, the Japanese palace made a few new complexes, and you see fit." On the day before the Palace Banquet, Mrs. Jiang specially ordered Ruyi Lou to send her new clothes. All the clothes were made of Miss Jiang''s own materials. When Liu Ruyi sent them over, she looked at Jiang Ruan with regret and said, "Miss Jiang''s skin is white. The fire cloud Satin made the clothes the day before yesterday is actually excellent. Although this peach pink is better, it''s not as red as that one It''s very bright. " In Liu Ruyi''s opinion, Jiang Ruan is actually very suitable for scarlet clothes. Her appearance is bright and gorgeous, and her scarlet clothes are even more charming. She has a certain temperament and calmness. When she wears the fiery color, it is as cool as ice. Fire and ice are two extremes, but they fit in her very well. Her beautiful color is matchless, and her eyes don''t turn. Jiang Ruan himself knew this well. Most of his clothes were red. This time I went to the Palace Banquet, but for the first time I chose a pink peach. Although Liu Ruyi gently hints, Jiang Ruan''s mind is determined, but in desperation, Liu Ruyi has to do the same with her. "Thank you for your kindness." Jiang Ruan smile: "however, I still prefer this one." Although he didn''t understand why Jiang Ruan insisted, Liu Ruyi came down several times and also understood that this Miss Jiang family was a person with great ideas. There must be some reasons at the moment, but he didn''t talk to her. Thinking about it, she said with a smile: "the eldest lady is matchless in beauty. She looks good in everything she wears. She''s a slave. It''s just that the other ladies in the mansion attached great importance to the banquet, and their clothes were complicated and changed several times. " She gently reminded, Jiang Ruan smile: "Palace Banquet is very important, sisters don''t want to lose the face of Jiang Fu, it should be so." Where is the palace banquet? If it wasn''t for the flood in Dajin Dynasty this year, maybe these government daughters would not have such a chance in their whole life. Not only that, there are naturally young gentlemen of noble families at the Palace Banquet. Everyone wants to make a good impression. If they can make a marriage in the future, it will be a good thing. Therefore, the Palace Banquet is more important than life for the officials, especially the concubines. After Liu Ruyi had sent her clothes, she got up and left. Jiang Ruan ordered dewdrop to go out to see her off, but he didn''t want Jiang Xinzhi to go into the yard again. When he saw her, he said, "ah Ruan, are you ready for the Palace Banquet tomorrow?" Seeing the new clothes on one side, he said: "since he has made new clothes, tomorrow a Ruan will surely surprise four people." In the eyes of Jiang Xin, Jiang Ruan must be excellent, beautiful and gentle, sensible and strong. He didn''t know anything about red clothes and pink clothes, but he thought that Jiang Ruan looked good in everything. Jiang Ruan was too lazy to pay attention to his nonsense. He did not want Jiang Xinzhi to sit down in front of her again. He said seriously, "the palace is no better than your family. You have to obey the rules. People in Jiang''s family have never taught you the etiquette of entering the palace. They have not even sent anyone to remind you now. They must want you to make a fool of yourself in front of everyone tomorrow. You must remember...""Elder brother," without waiting for Jiang Xinzhi to finish, Jiang Ruan interrupted him: "what''s wrong with me when elder brother comes back Jiang Xin one Leng, shakes his head way: "does not have." This is a fact. Since he returned to Beijing, he felt that Jiang Ruan had grown up a lot, and even his temperament was very different from that of the past. In recent days, he walked around with Guan Lianghan and met many ladies of high-ranking officials and nobles. But he felt that these people were not as good as Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is still young. Jiang Quan has left her in Chuang Tzu for five years. Unexpectedly, she is not only not cultivated as a village woman, but also as a lady in the palace, even as a princess. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "since there is nothing wrong with it, why worry about it. I can deal with Jiang''s house, so I can deal with the palace. There is no difference between the palace and Chiang''s, but the conditions are more harsh. " Jiang Xinzhi frowned: "but you haven''t been to the palace after all..." "Elder brother," Jiang Ruan interrupted him, "I know the ranks of all kinds of maids in the palace, the rewards of eunuchs, what kind of rites I should give when I meet a noble man, and which side hall I can''t enter." She said faintly, "how much do you know? When you enter the palace, do you know who is the most trusted father-in-law around the emperor? Which of the most humble eunuchs around my father-in-law is his son? Two of the four maids around the Empress Dowager are skilled in martial arts? Which beauty has the most fierce temper, and it''s better to avoid doing nothing? " What she said was slow and firm, but Jiang Xinzhi was thrilled to hear it. He felt absurd and incredible, but he never doubted Jiang Ruan''s words. Jiang Ruan''s tone seemed to be familiar with the secrets of these palaces, even like It''s common to see it with your own eyes. Naturally, Jiang Ruan could not have witnessed it with his own eyes, but how did a lady in her boudoir know the most private things in the palace? It''s a great event to take out everything here. With a strange feeling in his heart, he looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "Ruan, how do you know this?" "What does big brother think?" Jiang Ruan looked at him and asked. One of Jiang Xin''s chokes made him think of Xiao Shao. The relationship between Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan was not ordinary. Xiao Shao was deeply trusted by the emperor, who was powerful and could almost walk horizontally in the palace. If Xiao Shao told Jiang Ruan this On the one hand, he was glad that Xiao Shao trusted Jiang Ruan so much. On the other hand, he was a little annoyed. Jiang Ruan had nothing to do with those things in the palace. Why did Xiao Shao talk about these things without any reason? Jiang Xinzhi only wanted Jiang Ruan to live happily and simply without knowing the human suffering. The more Xiao Shao talked to Jiang Ruan, the more complicated his life became. He looked at Jiang Ruan cautiously and said, "ah Ruan, don''t mention these things to others." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "naturally, I won''t mention it to others. I just want to tell my elder brother that I''m no stranger to things in the palace. Elder brother, don''t worry about me. On the contrary, it''s inevitable that someone will trip me in the Palace this time. Elder brother, be careful and don''t be impulsive. " Jiang Xinzhi nodded: "I understand." Suddenly thinking of something, Jiang Xinzhi took out a thing from his arms: "it hasn''t been given to you before, but now it''s returned to its original owner." In Jiang Xinzhi''s hand, there is a half moon amber lying quietly. The amber is bright and moist, and half of the butterfly wings inside are lifelike. Last time in Wulin Road, those people tried to lure Jiang Xinzhi into a trap with the amber. Jiang Xinzhi took the amber away and never gave it back to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan said: "five years ago, before I entered Chuang Tzu, the amber disappeared. I don''t want to keep it until now." She was cold in her heart. The amber was lost five years ago, but it only reappeared when Jiang Xinzhi came back. Did Xia Yan use her to kill Jiang Xinzhi as early as five years ago? It''s a good calculation. Jiang Xinzhi handed amber to her: "those who secretly use the scheme, I will not forgive lightly." Jiang Ruan looked at him and shook his head: "don''t act rashly." One of Jiang Xin raised his eyes, but his eyes fell on Jiang Ruan''s wrist. He said strangely, "when did you have this bracelet?" Jiang Xinzhi didn''t know that it was a blood moon bracelet, but it didn''t look like it was made of ordinary material. It gave off a faint light, so he knew it was a rare treasure. He didn''t see Jiang Ruan in Zhao Mei''s house. He couldn''t have been sent by Jiang''s family. He was suspicious for a moment. Jiang ruanshun looked at him, pulled his sleeve down, covered the bracelet, and said, "a gift from a friend." Jiang Xinzhi wanted to ask, but Jiang Ruan turned the topic aside. After Jiang Xinzhi left, dew sent Liu Ruyi back. Both forsythia and Angelica dahurica are nervous about the Palace Banquet tomorrow. They choose jewelry in the box in the dresser early. Forsythia picks a golden silk cat''s eye. Angelica dahurica shakes her head and says, "look, it''s frivolous. Tomorrow, the palace is full of noble people. It''s better to be solemn." After that, a jade flower jumped out of the box: "how about this one?" But Forsythia waved her hand again and said, "no, this one is too quiet. It doesn''t match the girl''s clothes. It''s not nice to wear like this." Jiang Ruan put down the book in his hand and said, "don''t pick it. Tomorrow I''ll comb a single bun and shake it with the rose." Jiang Ruan was not very interested in dressing up. He was always tossing about with two servant girls, but this time he was so clear. "It''s too easy for a girl to wear this," said the dew"I have my reason." Jiang Ruan said, "that''s it." Forsythia and Angelica look at each other, are not clear, so, but did not ask, dew spit tongue, busy to help clean up the box. Looking at the book in front of him, Jiang Ruan''s eyes became long. What''s more, concubine Chen is the real one. Green tea whore ~ don''t look down on her ~ everyone www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 98 God seems to be in compensation for the rain raging some time ago, a few days in a row is sunny, warm weather. The cloud color is light, the sky is blue, the shoots of the branches spit out a little green, and the spring quietly covers the capital of the great Jin Dynasty. Forsythia and Angelica get up early in the morning to prepare food for Jiang Ruan. I''m afraid they have to wait too long in the Palace Banquet, and they can''t eat too much. They have prepared small dishes early. A dish of ham and egg stew, bigong porridge and hibiscus crisp. Simple and light, after Jiang Ruan ate it, Dewdrop came in with a small box made of rattan and said with a smile: "there are many rules in the palace. The maid prepared some small snacks for the girl, and she can''t make up when she ate them." Forsythia way: "this pour is." Dahurian angelica side for Jiang Ruan bundle hair side way: "what else to prepare, don''t forget." She was very skillful. After a few turns, she made a beautiful single bun. She picked out a light red rose from the jewelry box and gently inserted it in Jiang Ruan''s hair. She said with a smile, "OK." Jiang Ruan raised her eyes and looked into the mirror. She was charming and charming. Her facial features were bright and profound. Because of her experience in the last life, she always looked at a style beyond her age. But Shan Luoji is pretty and lovely. She looks a little naive when she is wearing it. Her eyes deepened slightly. In the palace of the last generation, she had to comb heavy and complicated flower heads according to the rules. The hairpin on her head was full of steps. How could she be so fresh and simple now? Forsythia also surprised way: "girl so also quite good-looking." "When is the girl not good-looking?" "Dew said:" is such a refreshing dress, but also natural beauty, hard to give up "You also know that natural beauty is hard to give up," Forsythia narrowed her eyes and said with a smile, "but she can really say it." A few people laughed for a while. The colorful sparrow next to Mr. Jiang came to inform him that Jiang Ruan could start. The carriages were all carved and gilded sandalwood carriages at the gate of Chiang''s mansion, which gave off a faint fragrance. The lady''s house was even more delicate and compact. The curtains of the carriages were all new after rain, with small sachets hanging on them. Old man Jiang was standing at the door talking to Jiang Xinzhi when he saw that Jiang Ruan had come and said, "when you enter the palace today, you must be careful, big girl. Don''t say anything wrong." For Mrs. Jiang, Jiang Xinzhi made contributions and earned face for the Jiang family. Jiang Xinzhi was the honor of the Jiang family. As for the contradiction between Jiang Xinzhi and Xia Yan, it''s just the young people''s temporary thought. It''s all the people of Jiang''s house who break the bone and connect the tendons. In the end, they still want to plan for Jiang''s house. Standing next door, Jiang Su Su Su was still wearing a light white carved silk four Xi Ruyi pattern, a narrow sleeve with a cross collar of diamond brocade, a crescent moon skirt with Ruyi pattern, and a white jacquard thin tobacco gauze satin. She wore a delicate chignon with a blue Phoenix crown in her hair. It''s a good lanolin jade bracelet between the wrists. She has a clear look. At first glance, she looks like a fairy. When I walked in, I could see the thick powder. I think it was to cover up the scar left by the thorns some time ago. Even so, it is meaningful that she will enter the palace. Jiang Su Su is still beautiful and refined. Jiang Li, as always, chooses a Lotus Blue stand collar with long sleeves and a light purple jacquard and Lily skirt. Although she is noble, her complexion is not as fair as Jiang Su Su and Jiang Ruan. Looking at her, she can''t set off the noble of her clothes. On the contrary, she is a little out of place. Jiang Dan is dressed in a duck yellow embroidered crane pattern plain face Hangzhou silk round neck slant placket Shashan, with a chic Yaotai bun. Beside Jiang Su Su Su and Jiang Dan, he is like a small animal that attracts people''s love. Although not outstanding, but also a special small and exquisite. Looking at several young girls with their own merits, Mrs. Jiang''s eyes fell on Jiang Ruan, and she could not help frowning: "how do you dress up?" In Mrs. Jiang''s eyes, it doesn''t matter how the common women dress, as long as they don''t go out of the way, but the legitimate women are different. Going out is the face of the mansion. Jiang Su Su is pure and elegant. He wears high-quality materials on his head. It''s no better to be a guest in the palace than to be a guest in other people''s houses. What he wants is solemnity. Although Jiang Ruan''s appearance was good, he was not as formal as Jiang Li''s. She looked up and down at Jiang Ruan. The more she saw, the more dissatisfied she was. She was thinking of asking Jiang Ruan to change his clothes again. She listened to Jiang Xin''s words: "it''s late. Don''t delay the time. Several younger sisters should go on the road as soon as possible." Old man Jiang had to give up, and he gave orders again and again. He turned to Xia Yan and said coldly, "I''ll give you some girls today, but you have to be careful. Don''t let anything happen again." Xia Yan was very unconvinced in his heart. He taught her in front of all the people that she had no face. Then he clenched his fist and took a hard breath in his heart. Then he raised a gentle smile and said, "my daughter-in-law will listen to my mother''s instruction." Looking at Xia Yan, Mr. Jiang''s expression was quite discontented. She had not liked her daughter-in-law since long ago. Zhao Mei was too warm and simple. She had no brain. This daughter-in-law''s heart is too much. During these days, Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao have frequent accidents, and she is even more unhappy with Xia Yan. The two good children have been cultivated by Xia Yan. When you think of them, Mrs. Jiang is very angry.Jiang Su Su said with a smile: "grandmother, mother is not a child. Naturally, she understands these things. Grandmother loves her mother so much. If she makes everything clear, granddaughter will be jealous." She helped Xia Yan out of the siege. On weekdays, old lady Jiang would not say anything about her, but she still didn''t slow down her expression and said coldly, "she just knows!" Then he walked away without looking back. Xia Yan''s anger faded slightly. One of Jiang Xin''s smiles turned around and mounted the horse. Jiang Su Su Su''s look had a moment''s stagnation. As if nothing had happened, he said: "mother, let''s go." The wives ride in the same carriage. Naturally, Jiang Li won''t take the initiative to talk to others. Jiang Dan also looks timid. On weekdays, Jiang Su Su Su and Xia Yan pretend to be gentle and say something to ease the atmosphere. Today, I don''t know if they are popular with Jiang Lao Fu, and Xia Yan is too lazy to deal with them. Jiang Su Su was also silent, and Jiang Ruan would not care about these things. Just one hand holding chin, one hand looking at the embroidery on clothes. Xia Yan saw her half crescent amber outside, and her complexion was a condensation. Thinking that today Jiang Xinzhi could enter the Imperial Hall to receive the emperor''s reward, Jiang Chao could only lie on the bed and was shocked. He could not help but feel very depressed. This road has never been silent and dignified. I don''t know how long it took, but the carriage finally stopped. Jiang Xinzhi was taken to the palace by the eunuch who led the way in front of the palace. The women in the carriage followed the other half to the main hall where the women were waiting. Naturally, the carriage of Chiang''s mansion would not stop in front of the palace. The carriages of high officials and nobles all stopped. At this moment, many ladies of the official family got out of the carriage and pointed out when they saw the carriage of Chiang''s mansion. The events of the past few days have caused a lot of trouble. Everyone knows that Miss Jiang''s first lady can''t be underestimated when she comes back after the end of the new year. However, Miss Jiang''s second lady has changed her appearance as a refined fairy and made many mistakes. It''s people''s nature to watch the excitement. The carriage of Jiang''s family is right in front of us. For a moment, many people''s eyes are all on the carriage of the wives of Jiang''s family. The curtain of the car was lifted up by the servant girl, and the girl who came down first was wearing a light yellow train. She had a pretty face and a timid look, which made people love her. Then the girl in Lotus Blue came down. She was also very beautiful. She was a little mean, and her clothes were too gorgeous. After the two girls got out of the car, they came down to a middle-aged beautiful woman. She looked gentle and beautiful, but for some reason, she looked a little haggard and gave a discount to her beauty. After getting out of the car, the beautiful woman did not rush away, but stood beside the carriage, waiting for the people inside to come down. After Jiang Su Su got out of the car, the people around him were shocked. Even though Jiang Su Su Su''s reputation is still not as good as it used to be, after all, he was beautiful, refined and charming. Just standing there makes people feel that he should be cared for. Who could have thought that such a beautiful fairy would be corrupt? It was some doubters before. Seeing Jiang Su Su Sheng''s moving, he was shaken in his heart. Jiang Su Su deliberately dressed up in Japan today and covered all the scars on his face. In addition, clothes and jewelry are all elaborate, so it''s easy to attract people''s attention. When they saw the pure and refined fairy, they felt that there was a flash of red shadow in the carriage. The next second, the curtain of the carriage was lifted and a pretty figure came down. At a glance, there was only a touch of gorgeous pink, and I felt that it was rather vulgar, not more beautiful than Jiang Su Su. When the man got out of the carriage and stood beside Jiang Su Su, he was graceful and graceful. People could not help but hold their breath when they looked at her face. The face is very charming, with a dark eyebrow, vermilion lips, dark eyes and white skin. All are beautiful and all are charming. However, she was born with such a bright and charming face, but she wore a fresh and bright single bun, which immediately dispersed the charm into three parts, leaving only more charming and moving. Three sets of gold long peach brocade robe, meandering floor sweeping rose make-up flower fairy skirt, wearing Dan gold bottom engraved silk beads, round flower brocade pattern and Ling brocade. Just like a rose in full bloom, with the fragrance of morning dew, green and delicate, natural but not cover the wind. She didn''t apply any powder, and there was only one rose in her hair. There is no extra jewelry on hand, only a bracelet emitting blue light. Although I don''t know what material it is, it''s not ordinary. People look at her and then at Jiang Su Su. After such a comparison, he felt that the powder on Jiang Su Su''s face was too thick, and the hairpin ring on his head was too cumbersome. Fairies are not so fresh, but this vivid beauty has a different kind of beauty. Naturally, Jiang Susu also felt the change of people''s eyes and bit his lower lip tightly. He just wanted to tear Jiang Ruan to pieces. Since Jiang Ruan returned to Jiang''s house, her life has changed into a new situation. Jiang Ruan robbed her eldest daughter''s seat, her brother''s position as the head of Jiang''s family, and now she has to rob her reputation as the first lady in Beijing! Xia Yan''s eyes flashed a trace of coldness, but he still didn''t say anything. With a smile on his face, he talked to the maid of honor who led the way. Jiang Li has been waiting impatiently, see this scene quickly follow up. Each family member arranged a separate maid to receive her. Xia Yan talked to the maid, but his eyes were swept to Jiang Su Su. As early as before entering the palace, she invited a well-known mammy from outside Jiang''s house to teach Jiang Su Su etiquette, just to make her famous. Jiang Su Su''s fame has spread far and wide, but it''s his first visit to the imperial palace. There are many opportunities in the imperial palace. As long as there is a little possibility, life in the future may be very different.Xia Yan boasts a scholarly family and attaches great importance to the rules. He can''t hide his complacency when talking with the maid in waiting, but he ignores the contempt in the eyes of the maid in waiting. Who is the maid of honor? After so many years in the palace, I have seen more noble people than Xia Yan. Although Xia Yan knows etiquette, Xia Cheng was born as a commoner, so he didn''t have to be a decent son. Xia Yan is bound to be a small family. Even Jiang Su Su, who is carefully made by her, has the same formality as Xia Yan. Although they tried their best to show that they were indifferent, they also had a sense of hypocrisy in front of these people with unique vision. Looking back at Jiang Ruan, there was a flash of surprise in her eyes. There are many daughters of wealthy families who obey the rules, and there are many people who have excellent manners, but there are few people who have done so well. Look at the way she walks. She does not look askance. Her skirt does not move at all. Her hands overlap naturally. Her chin is raised slightly. She does not look askance. She looks modest but not humble, noble and not proud. It''s very well handled. She walked steadily, even without the fear and curiosity of others entering the palace for the first time. All kinds of emotions are hidden in that pair of beautiful eyes, people can''t see clearly. Her rules are not like the official lady. She seems to be a noble person who has lived in this deep palace for several years. She is familiar with the rules and regulations in every move. Naturally, the palace maids didn''t know that Jiang Ruan was in the palace. When Fang entered the palace, she was excluded by other beauties because of her appearance, so she always took the rules of the palace to trip her. Either she offended the rules here or she violated the taboos there. For the sake of the Jiang family''s unwillingness to offend those people, she transcribed thousands of almost harsh rules in the palace word by word and read them every day. Finally, she was able to do a good job. Even those who wanted to use her as a raft couldn''t find the slightest mistake. At that time, I didn''t expect that this life would be used in this place. There was a slight sneer in her heart. Along the way, some of the ladies could see the way. Some of the ladies in Jiang''s mansion and two common girls were not mentioned for the time being. Miss Jiang and Miss Jiang Er had their own good looks. However, in terms of the rules of qifengyi, Miss Jiang was better than Miss Jiang. Although there was nothing wrong with Miss Jiang, they were not as tough and tender as Jiang Ruan. After several people turned over the palace wall, there was a lady in front of her. Before she could see who it was, she heard a clear voice and said, "sister Ruan!" Jiang Ruan looked up and saw that it was Dong Ying''er. She was also very particular about her clothes today. She was very generous and lively. After the ceremony with Xia Yanxing, she spoke to Mrs. Jing Zhaoyin again, took Jiang Ruan''s arm and went to one side, whispering as she walked. When Dong Yinger saw Jiang Ruan''s dress, he said, "I usually know you are beautiful, but I don''t know that today''s dress is also interesting." Jiang Ruan smiles: "sister Dong is very beautiful." They are all young girls. When people praise their looks, Dong Ying''er''s face is flushed. Suddenly, she thought of something, then approached Jiang Ruan''s ear mysteriously and said in a low voice, "do you know that today, Princess Chen is going to choose a fiancee for her eighth highness?" Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. In his last life, there had never been such a thing. She looked frozen, and suddenly burst into a smile: "what does that mean? Eight his highness good how can suddenly pick a fiancee "It''s said that it means Princess Chen." Dong Ying''er''s voice was even lower: "you think, your eighth highness is now old enough to get married, but she doesn''t even have a room around her." her face was a little red, and she continued: "Princess Chen is anxious. There are so many young ladies at the palace banquet tonight. Princess Chen said that she would personally choose a marriage for her eighth highness. Your majesty has given me permission. " Jiang Ruan looked at her and said, "how does sister Dong know?" "There is a maid''s sister in our family who works as a servant in the palace. She said it when she went home to visit her relatives yesterday. It''s not a secret now, and all the servants in the temple know about it. " Dong Ying''er stamped her foot: "my mother wants me to dress up like this today. She says that if only I could become the eighth Prince and concubine in the palace. But I don''t want to marry your highness at all. I''m only willing to find someone I really like to live my life with. " Dong Ying''er thought for a moment, then suddenly laughed: "but there are so many women in the palace tonight, his eighth highness will not like me. Sister Ruan, you are always smart, but think about who will be favored by Princess Chen tonight and become the eighth Prince and princess? " Seeing that Jiang Ruan didn''t move, she pushed Jiang Ruan''s arm. Jiang Ruan turned his head. Dong Yinger was surprised by the deep meaning in her eyes. The dark color in Jiang Ruan''s beautiful eyes is deep, like a whirlpool that can draw people''s indulgence. The dark color is dense. However, large pieces of indifference spread all over the sky, which makes people cool. She called, "sister Ruan?" Jiang Ruan smile: "I do not know." The haze just cleared away, as if it was just an illusion of Dong Yinger. Her fingers tucked in her sleeves were slowly squeezed into the palm of her hand. It turned out that they had this idea. It turned out that Xuanli had this idea. There was a cold smile on her lips, but tonight, no matter the weather or the location, the people or her own mind, the thoughts of Princess Chen and Xuanli might be lost. In this life, she will not repeat the mistakes of the previous life and marry Xuanli? Even if she married a cat and dog outside, she disdained to be tied up with that man. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 99 Yuping hall is already full of ladies and ladies. Almost all of them are the relatives of high-ranking officials and dignitaries, and there are many dignitaries in the palace to take care of them. At the moment, they are all elegant and quiet greetings. They are neither too formal nor too presumptuous. On the high seat, the queen was in the middle, and the four concubines sat down in turn. At the moment, I also looked at the lady with a smile, occasionally exchanged greetings, and looked very kind. The little eunuch waiting for the order sang in a high voice: "lady shangshufu is here -" everyone''s eyes looked at the door together. Jiang Quan, the Minister of the Ministry of war, has been in the limelight in Beijing recently. It''s not because of anything else. It''s just because the young master Jiang, who Fang returned to Beijing, is now the fastest and youngest deputy general in the Dajin Dynasty. Besides, he has done many meritorious deeds as soon as he returned to Beijing. I heard that his majesty liked him very much. I think that in the future, he should be one of the people with smooth official roads and a bright future. As ladies, you will hear one or two words from your master. Many of the young ladies present are old enough to be married. Some of them want to get married with the Jiang family. Now people say that Jiang Shangshu''s family has arrived, so naturally they will look at him. Xia Yan really thought that her husband was looking at her, and she could not help straightening her back. Her smile was gentle and dignified, and she walked very safely. They all watched in silence. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su were both gentle and elegant. Jiang Li was a little flighty, but Jiang Dan was delicate and timid. On the contrary, Jiang Ruan, who was walking behind Xia Yan, walked slowly, with a smile on his lips. His smile was bright and charming, and his every move showed the noble demeanor of a palace talent. At this point, people remembered that Xia Yan was not Jiang Xinzhi''s mother, but Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi were real brothers and sisters. If Jiang Xinzhi was promoted and made a fortune in the future, Jiang Ruan would rise with the tide. If Jiang Ruan''s advance and retreat were appropriate, there would be no tension in the grand scene of going to the Palace Banquet. It was not like the character raised by the elder of Chuang Tzu in Shanye. Some of the ladies also began to think about other things. They just wanted to decide whether or not to return the young lady of the Jiang family to her home early. Xia Yan several people came forward to salute the empress. The empress is not confused and well maintained, but she doesn''t look very old. She is in a high position all the year round, but she doesn''t have the air of being superior. Maybe she is not favored. Only the respect of the emperor and the son of the crown prince look like an ordinary official woman. She makes Xia Yan stand up with a smile, and they look very kind. Xianfei was a little younger, and she was charming and innocent. No wonder she gave birth to a son like xuanlang, the fourth prince. Princess De is an old lady. She is dignified and virtuous. She is worthy of the word "Virtue". Xuanhua, the fifth prince, is also very stable in the court. She is loyal, filial and brave. At least she is a virtuous person. Shufei is beautiful and charming. If we say that Chen Guifei is the misty rain in the south of the Yangtze River, Shufei is a bright color on the exotic grassland. She is also very headstrong and shrewd, born and Yi Princess inherited her beauty, also inherited her temperament, the same headstrong domineering. And sitting beside the queen, the most tender and beautiful one is Princess Chen. If the empress and the other concubines have the elegant demeanor of some noble people in the Imperial Palace, this one is just like an ordinary girl in the south of the Yangtze River. She has no sense of carving. Sitting here is out of place with the Imperial Palace, as if she had brought this area into the misty rain of the south of the Yangtze River. Jiang Ruan went down with a smile, but his heart seemed to stay in that moment. All the people here are old acquaintances of the last life, but she is too humble to see these concubines from time to time. However, Princess Chen is an exception. She would not laugh at her and belittle her like other imperial concubines. Instead, she often called her to the dream hall to talk. Chen Guifei is gentle and she is Xuanli''s biological mother. In her last life, Jiang Ruan regarded her as her best friend and sister. They are trusted relatives in the cold palace. However, what this princess Chen did behind her back made her feel like a joke in the end. She is like a venomous beauty snake, gentle hidden fatal trap. She and Xuanli are both a kind of people, thoroughly cool thin, unreservedly use, and then abandon and kill. Looking at Xia Yan, concubine Chen suddenly said, "you are Miss Jiang. Come forward and let us have a look." The empress was stunned and looked at Jiang Ruan thoughtfully. Jiang Li reluctantly looked at Jiang Ruan, eyes hard to hide jealousy, Jiang Dan lowered his head, dare not lift his eyes. Jiang Su Su''s face was stiff, as if he could not believe it. Jiang Ruan slowly raised his head. At the moment of raising his head, he put away the smile on his lips. As soon as he raised his head, he had a slightly cold face. Chen Guifei looked at her carefully. She didn''t seem to see her unhappy face. She said with a smile, "if you are a beautiful child." The ladies around began to whisper when they saw the scene. Sitting on the side, Dong Ying''er was a little uneasy. She thought of what her mother had said before that Princess Chen wanted to choose a concubine for the eighth prince. She could not help but sweat for Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan light way: "thank you for your praise, Ruan Niang ashamed." There was no warmth in her words, not even the basic respect, but a slight resistance. The gesture of resistance was a light meal in the ears of Princess Chen. For a moment, her smile became more and more cordial: "I don''t know if Mrs. Jiang is married?"Xia Yan''s body was stiff, and a nameless fire suddenly appeared in his heart. Jiang Ruan, it''s Jiang Ruan again! Who is the imperial concubine Chen? The most favorite woman in the palace today is Jiang Ruan, not Jiang Susu. Are these people blind? Jiang ruansheng''s foxy face is not the master of Ansheng. However, even though she thought about it in her heart, she didn''t show it at all. Still humbly replied: "back to Niang''s words, Ruan Niang is eleven this year, and has never promised others." "Ah, that''s good." The smile on Chen Guifei''s beautiful face is more sincere, and her white and smooth face seems to be covered with a light layer of smoke, but her emotion is beyond speculation. She said astonishingly: "such a lovely child can''t be easily married. I really like Miss Jiang. I really want to marry her myself. " This is too explicit, around the lady''s face can''t help showing surprised and clear complex expression. The virtuous imperial concubine looked at Jiang Ruan with great interest. The virtuous imperial concubine kept silent while the empress kept smiling. But the virtuous imperial concubine couldn''t help but open her mouth and said, "elder sister Chen, what''s the point? The marriage depends on the young lady''s own liking. Is elder sister Chen old enough to do the same thing as ice cream Shufei and Chen Guifei have never dealt with each other. Shufei can''t stand Chen Guifei''s appearance beyond the world of mortals. Of course, more importantly, she is jealous of Chen Guifei''s amazing son Xuanli. And the one who crawls out of her stomach is a daughter, which means that no matter how much she is favored, she will not have a son as a prince. Although the five princes also have a high voice, but Princess De is not a pet, even very low-key, compared with the most annoying is Princess Chen. Whenever Chen Guifei said something, Shufei would choke on it. Chen Guifei listened to Shufei''s words, but she was not angry. She just looked at Jiang Ruan and said nothing. She was born with soft facial features. She looked at a person with such a gentle smile. I don''t know. She only thought that she really loved Jiang Ruan and couldn''t put it down. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were slightly low and did not look at Chen Guifei. Outsiders look at her is shy, but no one knows that her heart is full of hatred at the moment. Just a few quarters of an hour, just like a master, the lady who was present could not see anything. Only Jiang Ruan himself knew what she was thinking. Chen Guifei''s eyes where is gentle, clear is to see the snake of prey. Snake? She has a way to deal with it. Xia Yan was very depressed because of Chen Guifei''s "great love" for Jiang Ruan. Her next reply was perfunctory, but she was still reluctant. It''s just as usual, but when master huijue said that she was a lonely star, people doubted her virtuous and generous attitude. At this moment, we are more sure that Mrs. Shangshu is also a sweetheart. Otherwise, Princess Chen would like to inquire about Jiang Ruan, why she didn''t look happy or even unhappy. Chen Guifei asked a few more words, and the queen beckoned Jiang Ruan to step down. Jiang Ruan Gang sat down with Xia Yan in his seat. Dong Ying''er got up, went to Jiang Ruan and sat down. He said in a low voice, "I''m really worried about you just now. Are you ok?" Then he said with admiration: "sister Ruan, you are so bold. I just saw that you were not nervous when talking with your concubine. If I had been changed, I would have been too scared to speak." "It''s nothing to be afraid of. I didn''t do anything and I won''t be punished," he said with a smile Dong Ying''er hesitated and said, "but The lady seems to like you very much. Does she want to point you out to her eighth highness? " Aware of this, Dong Ying''er glanced anxiously at Jiang Ruan. Seeing that Jiang Ruan''s expression had not changed, she was a little relieved and said, "your concubine seldom cares so much about people. Today, I''ve just asked you for a long time. Don''t blame me for being so thoughtful. I''m afraid all the ladies here now have the same thoughts as me. If that''s true, what should you do? "what is it?" "No," he asked Her tone is not as mild as usual, with a faint chill. Dong Ying''er''s heart jumps when she hears it. Only when Jiang Ruan was angry and didn''t want to marry the eighth Prince did he say so. He said hastily, "you don''t have to worry too much. I guess it all at random. Maybe the concubine just likes you. You are still so young now. It''s really not urgent. " This comfort is too weak, Dong Ying''er also feels guilty. But Jiang Ruan didn''t show any special emotion from the beginning to the end, as if he was watching other people''s affairs coldly. After a while, seeing that the time was almost up, the queen got up and asked all the ladies to go to the main hall to start the Palace Banquet. In the main hall, the emperor and the men''s family members had already taken their seats. Because the flood had just passed, the State Treasury became a little nervous because of the disaster relief. The banquet was simple and not extravagant, which was quite different from the past. The dishes and cakes at the banquet are very simple. The women''s families sat down on the women''s seats. The emperor and the queen sat on the high seats. Next to them was the present empress dowager, empress Yide. The Empress Dowager Yide is now in her prime of life, and her temples have become white. Turquoise gold wire inlaid with jade, auspicious cloud pattern buckle, magnificent atmosphere. Even from the face of empress Yide, you can see the original style. At the beginning, empress Yide was known as the first beauty in the great Jin Dynasty. When she was young, she had two sons and one daughter with the former Emperor. When the eight kings seized the throne, she vindicated the emperor and ascended to the throne of God. She sacrificed her eldest son, and even made her daughter Princess Yuanrong and other countries to support the new emperor to ascend the throne. It can be said that without empress dowager Yide, there would be no present-day Dajin Dynasty and no emperor. Empress Dowager Yide is a person who is vigorous and resolute, even a little cold.She lightly looked at the bottom of the crowd, the ruby armor on her fingers exuded a compelling luster. When she saw one of them, empress Yide was shocked. She could not help but sit up straight and look at the man. It was a young girl, because she could not see her face clearly in the next seat, only the black top of her hair. She wore a simple single bun with a rose in a magnificent color on it. A peach pink dress is simple and warm, especially fresh and beautiful among all the well-dressed ladies. Too far apart, the girl suddenly felt empress Yide''s eyes and raised her head. When I saw empress Yide''s eyes, I didn''t panic. After a little surprise, she returned to empress Yide with a smile. The smile was clean and clear, and there was a kind of calm and sensible that didn''t match her age. It coincides with another person in the memory of empress Yide. It was so easy for her to resist the impulse to go down and hold the girl. After laughing, the girl talked to the ladies around her, as if she didn''t notice. The Empress Dowager Yide was sitting in her seat, slightly absent-minded. Jiang Ruan and Dong Ying''er are talking, but the corners of their lips are involuntarily slightly crooked. Yu Guang sees empress dowager Yide sitting still, and can feel her eyes following her all the time. Jiang Ruan took a sip of the tea cup in front of her and saw that her original goal was achieved. For this simple purpose, a simple action, she practiced dozens of times in the mirror. It seems that he has already been granted a reward. Seeing Jiang Xinzhi''s smiling eyes, it should be a very generous reward. Jiang Quan''s face was not very good. Gu Yi hasn''t seen Jiang Ruan for a long time since the last time. Now he sees Jiang Ruan sitting in the women''s seat. The longer she lives, the more moving she is. Her eyes are very warm. Xuanli''s lips were full of a gentle smile, which seemed to be no different from the past. But his left hand was unconsciously rubbed, which he often did when he was upset. Obviously, the prime minister''s house is that he is trying to appear calm, or can''t hide the gloomy color in his heart. Xiao Shao sits next to Guan Lianghan. Today, he is dressed in Huanhua brocade and black brocade. There are gold unicorns embroidered on the neckline of his clothes. He is more and more cold-blooded, handsome and unmarried. Many daughters in the wedding banquet secretly look at him. Soon after, another beautiful girl came from outside. She was about 14 or 15 years old. She was dressed in a blue and round flower golden rooster heart collar, a straight neck brocade, a silver red dark pattern silk cut dress, and a colorful flower grass pattern tulle. It was a very gorgeous dress, but it didn''t look mixed when she wore it, on the contrary, it had a kind of gorgeous beauty. Her facial features were deep and exotic. She came forward and said with a smile, "father." "Heyi, why are you here now?" The emperor blamed the strange way, but his tone was very intimate. Princess Heyi was very popular with the emperor. "My son''s minister has made a fuss about his clothes. He can''t disgrace his father." Princess Heyi winked at the emperor. The emperor burst out laughing. She glanced at Xiao Shao in the men''s wedding banquet. When she saw Xiao Shao, her heart jumped. However, Luo Hua was merciless. Xiao Shao never looked at her, and a trace of loss flashed in her eyes. Dong Ying''er touched Jiang Ruan''s arm: "sister Ruan, is it true that Princess Heyi likes Prince Xiao Dong Ying''er has always been very fond of listening to these gossip. Now that we have ready-made materials, we will not let it go. Jiang Ruan smiles a little. It''s no secret that he and Princess Yi were infatuated with Xiao Shao in their previous life, almost to the point that everyone in the great Jin Dynasty knows. Princess Heyi had also vowed not to marry Xiao Shao all her life, and even wanted the lady to persuade the emperor to marry her. But the emperor chose Xiao Shao among his beloved Princess Heyi and Xiao Shao, and asked Xiao Shao what he meant first. Xiao Shao was cold and indifferent, so he refused. After hearing the news of Xiao Shao''s refusal, Princess Yi and Xiao Shao look for life and death every day. They even go to Jinying''s palace to find an explanation in person, but the other party is stubborn. At the end of the last life, Princess Heyi never had anything to do with Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan''s eyes drooped, and the experience of Princess Yi was a pity, but it didn''t include her. Just because she was in the palace with Princess Yi in the last life, she didn''t stop her. Princess Heyi is narrow-minded and jealous. When Jiang Ruan entered the palace, she was the most beautiful of a group of beautiful girls. She was very charming, but Princess Heyi was gorgeous. She didn''t want to be taken away from her. They often find some people to make trouble for her. Even once, she slandered her maid in the courtyard for stealing things and killed all the second-class maids in the palace. That scene appeared in Jiang Ruan''s dream many times, which often frightened her to the extreme. There are no old friends in this palace who are kind to others. But just at this time, the Empress Dowager suddenly said, "deputy general Jiang, you said today that tomorrow is your sister''s birthday?" In the previous conversation with the male relatives, empress Yide didn''t avoid it. She had a good relationship with the emperor, and she didn''t need to guard against anything. Now, it''s thought-provoking. Jiang Ruan was a little shocked. She forgot her birthday. After the last life in the palace, except Xuan Lihui came to see her on her birthday, there was no news from other people. But the warmth is also false. Now, after another lifetime, Jiang Xinzhi even mentioned her birthday in front of the emperor, which made her not know what she felt."If you go back to the empress dowager, that''s right." Jiang Xinzhi went out of his way. "Where is the eldest daughter of the Jiang family?" Empress Yide, after all, was a man who had gone through the battle of the king of chaos, and her tone was slightly dignified. Jiang Ruan stood up and said softly, "my daughter, Jiang Ruan, knocks at the Empress Dowager." Say goodbye to the general. She was polite and modest, even with a kind of inexplicable piety. The ceremony was clearly the ceremony of ordinary courtiers'' families meeting the empress dowager, but somehow it contained a kind of inexplicable emotion. It was solemn and incomparable. It was not like a meeting ceremony, but had a kind of farewell taste. The Empress Dowager Yide looked at her quietly, looking at the white neck down, the rose step swaying and swaying, the peach colored clothes gorgeous and lively. Such a charming and moving girl, all over the body actually sent out a calm atmosphere. It''s like that man. Her eyes were in a trance. When the emperor saw that the Empress Dowager was distracted, he coughed gently. It seemed that empress Yide had come back to herself. Looking at Jiang Ruan, he said, "flat out." "Thank you, Empress Dowager." Jiang Ruan stood up. She tried to ignore the pressure from the emperor and only looked at empress Yide with a smile. She was born excellent, deliberately maintain lips gentle smile, even more than the princess has Princess temperament. All the people around are red eyed. Empress Yide is hard-blooded and doesn''t get close to people on weekdays. Why Jiang Ruan got her green eyes? People were puzzled. Jiang Xinzhi looked at Jiang Ruan nervously. Although he mentioned Jiang Ruan, he did not expect empress Yide to make a sudden noise. God, the family''s mind is not so easy to guess. I can''t help getting nervous. Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan are not very good-looking. Today, first Chen Guifei, then empress dowager Yide, Jiang Ruan is really out of the limelight. At the same time, they have a doubt in their hearts. Chen Guifei is gone. The Empress Dowager Yide values Jiang Ruan so much. Does she really like Jiang Ruan as the crown princess? Which Prince, the eighth or the fifth? Or the fourth prince? "The eldest daughter of the Jiang family, the sad family agrees to meet your wish on your birthday. If you have any wish tomorrow, you can say it today, and I will satisfy you. " Empress Dowager Yide said. It was originally for the purpose of his birthday wish. I think Jiang Xinzhi mentioned it before the emperor, or exchanged his merits for Jiang Ruan''s birthday wish. Now I can tell what kind of protection Jiang Ruan wanted. Xia Yan and Jiang Susu are relieved that they don''t like her as a princess. If Jiang Ruan Zhen becomes a princess, they will not have a good face for Jiang Fu. The smile on her lips is not right. If Jiang Ruan takes advantage of the situation to propose which childe he wants to marry Jiang Ruan smile, tone a little lonely: "Empress Dowager grace, Ruan Niang nothing, just willing to go to ningshui Valley to see the new peach blossom." "But it''s impossible." She gave a sad smile. Empress Yide suddenly raised her head. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 100 People don''t know why. Why does Jiang Ruan say this at such a good opportunity? Xia Yan thinks it''s just a way for Jiang Ruan to show his hypocrisy and win the Empress Dowager''s sympathy. Nevertheless, there is no lack of official wives. Women''s family are always softer in this respect. It''s really pitiful to think that Jiang Ruan lost his mother when he was a child, and now his birthday is just around the corner. He can''t even satisfy his ordinary wish of watching peach blossom with his mother. Jiang Xinzhi did not expect that Jiang Ruan would say so. He sighed a little in his heart. As a elder brother, even if he wanted to make up for Jiang Ruan and let her live a carefree life, his mother would always be irreplaceable. No matter how steady his sister is, she is just an ordinary little girl who wants to seek maternal love. Zhao Guang, Zhao Yuanjia, Zhao Yuanfeng and Zhao Yi sighed at the Zhao family. Li had already burst into tears and said in a low voice, "how can mei''er go so early? It''s hard for ruan''er to read her like this. How sad it should be without her mother." Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou also sighed, only Zhao Yuanping had a deep vision. He doesn''t think that Jiang Ruan is just touching the scene just because he said so. In fact, in Zhao Yuanping''s eyes, Jiang Ruan was a man with a clear purpose. It''s incredible to say that everything has a purpose, and her purpose has a wonderful foresight. However, every seemingly ordinary move Jiang Ruan has made can become an indispensable part of her goal in the end. Moreover, in Zhao Yuanping''s mind, Jiang Ruan was not a sentimental person. At present, there must be some intention in his words. But what is that? Seeing this, the Xia family despised it. Xia Jiaojiao, in particular, scolds Jiang Ruan in her heart. She only says that she is just a fox and wants to be charming. The Xia family is not happy, but there are many people who are pitying for jade. See beauty dejected, only feel want to take care of this person in the palm. Especially Gu Yi, the heart will be a frown of Jiang Ruan to contain. Seeing this, Guan Lianghan said to Xiao Shaoqi, "what''s the matter with the Ku family? It seems that I have a crush on the girl of the Jiang family? " Mo Cong was surprised: "there are hundreds of women in one family, and Jiang''s deputy general is in power, so Miss Jiang, who used to be insignificant, has gone up with the tide. Good, good. " Then he casually said to Liu Min, who was sitting beside him, "Mr. Liu, do you think so?" Liu Min casually dealt with a few words, some absent-minded. Since the emperor appointed him the number one scholar, he trusted him very much, and almost achieved the position of the third grade with little effort. If we say that Jiang Xinzhi was the fastest promoted young general in the Dajin Dynasty, he was the fastest promoted young minister in the Dajin Dynasty. This is a good thing, but the more you enter the imperial court, the more difficult it is to deal with life. Many people trip him secretly, some are jealous, some are faking, and every day they take a false mask to deal with the public. This is not the official career Liu Min wants. At this time, he would think of the strangers who had corresponded with him in Guozijian before. The man once told him the way to be an official. At first, he only thought that the other party was too smooth and not pure. Now, he thinks that it is a kind of penetrating and clever way to look at everything. But the man never showed up again. Xiao Shao carefully looked at Jiang Ruan''s every move, and the Empress Dowager''s absence was also in his eyes. There was a trace of doubt in his heart. However, he didn''t show half of it. He sat alone and tasted tea, which made many women''s families obsessed. The Empress Dowager finally came back to herself and said, "what''s your wish? The reason why I want to hear from you." "Nothing in the world is better than the peace and happiness of relatives." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "however, my daughter and mother have long been separated from each other, and there is no such chance to see the new peach blossom in ningshui valley. Ruan Niang only hates that when her mother was still there, she didn''t watch it with her for several times. She just left this life regretting that it was impossible to make up for it. " Every time she said a word, the Empress Dowager Yide sat up straight for a minute, although her expression didn''t reveal the slightest. But Jiang Ruan knew that empress Yide had heard her words deeply. Yes, it is well known that empress dowager Yide is ruthless. Even her own son and daughter can make use of it. As long as she serves the world, she can give up everything. At that time, Princess Yuanrong was young and had a sweetheart. She didn''t want to marry in a foreign country, but she was locked in the palace and put under house arrest by Empress Yide. Princess Yuanrong begged, but empress Yide didn''t feel soft. Finally, Princess Yuanrong had no choice but to marry a foreign country. But after three years, she died in a foreign country because she was worried too much. Empress Yide didn''t even let the princess Yuanrong''s body be transported there. So Princess Yuanrong can only sleep in the land of other countries forever. All those who knew about it thought that empress Yide was too cruel, even her own daughter. But in fact, in the last life, Jiang Ruan learned from Xuanli that empress Yide was not a person who was thin and cool. In fact, she was very important to her three children. At the beginning, the death of the great prince was an accident, and Princess Yuanrong was also helpless. On the day of Yuanrong''s marriage, the Empress Dowager Yide shed tears in the palace for a whole month. When the news of Princess Yuanrong''s death came, empress Yide even wanted to go with her. If the emperor''s throne was not stable at that time and needed support, empress Yide would not live on her own. The one that empress Yide loved and felt most guilty in her life was Princess Yuanrong.Xuanli once asked someone to investigate the events of that year. Because the Empress Dowager Yide was too concerned about the emperor''s throne, Xuanli found a woman who looked like Princess Yuanrong to accompany her in the palace. Xuanli specially explained the woman. Soon after entering the palace, the woman was "unintentionally" seen by Empress Yide and called her to work as a servant in the cining palace. After a few days, the woman became a princess. Soon after, empress Yide died suddenly. In the last life, Xuanli said to Jiang Ruan that his grandmother was worried about her little aunt all day long, so she went to find someone like Princess Yuanrong to make her happy. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan thought Xuanli was filial. Now, the Empress Dowager Yide died suddenly, but she had something to do with the woman who was the princess. In any case, time is going backwards now, and she is lucky to catch up with the woman before she enters the palace, and even Xuanli has not thought of investigating the past of empress Yide. If she can''t win the trust of empress Yide, it''s really too much to say. The Empress Dowager Yide looks at Jiang Ruan quietly. Her eyes are unexpectedly soft. The Empress Dowager was moved by the tragic life experience of Miss Jiang, but no one knew her excitement and surprise at the moment. Just because, no matter Jiang Ruan''s dress, smile, or words, they are exactly the same as the original Princess Yuanrong! When the first emperor passed away, her position as the queen mother was not stable. It was still the prince''s eldest son who was killed by conspiracy. The second prince was appointed as the new emperor, but all forces were ready to move. Helpless, she can only think of the use of Yuanrong Princess and relatives. Princess Yuanrong stays in the deep palace all the year round, and there are few opportunities for people to see her. At that time, Princess Yuanrong was also fond of peach pink. She was already a hairpin girl, but she still used to wear a single bun with a rose in her hair. She only knew which family''s daughter she was. Princess Yuanrong has an excellent temperament. Although she is kind and simple, she is also sensible. When he learned about the marriage, although he was not willing, he was not as stubborn as the rumor. She still remembers the day when the princess was in the sedan chair, she went down to her long admiral and said goodbye with a smile: "my son is here, the mountains are high and the waters are long. I don''t know if I will go back to the land of Dajin Dynasty in the future and have a look at the peach blossom in ningshui valley with my mother." She said slowly, "take care." Empress Dowager Yide always thought of Princess Yuanrong''s farewell worship, but her heart felt extremely painful. Later, as Princess Yuanrong said, the mountains are high and the waters are long, and their mother and daughter are separated forever. They will never be able to see the new peach blossom in ningshui valley together again. Today, Jiang Ruan is just like Princess Yuanrong in her dress. She feels familiar when she goes down to visit the general for a long time. Her words make the Empress Dowager Yide seem to have seen Princess Yuanrong''s voice and smile for decades. She closed her eyes suddenly and took a deep breath. The people who knew what happened at the beginning are almost not in the court now, and no one will know what Princess Yuanrong whispered to her. Jiang Ruan is a little older now, so it''s not someone else''s intention to make her say it. She looked at Jiang Ruan and felt more like him. Is there reincarnation in this world? If so, will Jiang Ruan be princess Yuanrong? Empress Dowager Yide did not know that Jiang Ruan was indeed reincarnated, but she was not the kind-hearted and sensible Princess Yuanrong who sacrificed herself to achieve the overall situation. She was the reincarnation of Jiang Ruan, who was cowardly and ignorant in the previous life, and was deceived and full of blood and tears. Now she is the laughing and laughing Jiang Ruan who secretly killed people. Reincarnation in the world has its own cause and effect. What Xuanli said to her in the last life has become her best tool to deal with Xuanli. The longer the Empress Dowager Yide was silent, the more she felt in love with Jiang Ruan. When Princess Heyi saw that empress Yide was like this, a trace of displeasure flashed in her eyes. Looking at Jiang Ruan, her eyes were a bit sinister. Jiang Su Su''s face turned white. She was born white. In this way, she was more like a piece of snow-white paper. Her beautiful and refined facial features were now dull and tasteless. On the contrary, she had a kind of decline in illness. Seeing that Jiang Ruan didn''t put forward any other demands, the smile on her face was more tender and tender, with a touch of sympathy and comfort. It was like a girl passing by a lake in the south of the Yangtze River who accidentally saw an injured rabbit and held it in her hand with pained eyes. "She said:" poor child, Si people have passed away, you should look at the future The future? Naturally, we will see the future. Jiang Ruan bowed her head slightly. In the future, she would watch these people collapse and destroy little by little and become the sacrifice of revenge. "Thank you for your consideration." Jiang Ruan Dao. "I suddenly think of something in my palace," Princess Chen said with a smile to the emperor. "Your Majesty, when I saw this young lady of the Jiang family, I was a good one. She was very polite and liked her very much. Now I''m sorry to hear that. I''d like to ask the emperor to grant me a wish. " "What''s your wish?" The emperor was in a high position and had not many women''s benevolence. His memory of Princess Yuanrong was very shallow. Jiang Ruan was no different to him. Now listen to Chen Guifei so ask, take advantage of the situation to ask. Chen Guifei looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile: "I don''t know if I''m lucky for such a clever child. Let her be my daughter-in-law." Silence, full of silence. At the bottom, Jiang Su Su''s face turned pale, even her lips turned white, when she heard Chen Guifei say this. She was so shaky that she almost leaned back. Thanks to Xia Yan''s insincere support, otherwise there must be something unexpected.Zhao family''s facial expression also follows a coagulation, Chen Guifei this is what meaning? "Aifei means..." Asked the emperor. "Now Xiaoba is old enough to get married, but Miss Jiang is still young. You can make a reservation first. When you get to hairpin, you can go to Xiaoba''s house to be the mother and the concubine of Xiaoba." If it was still quiet just now, I could only hear the sound of people taking a breath. It turned out to be Zheng Fei. Although Jiang Quan''s status is not low, Jiang Ruan''s status as the eighth Prince''s concubine is still high. If the side imperial concubine is similar. In Chen Guifei''s words just now, everyone thought that she wanted to ask Jiang Ruan to be a side imperial concubine. But when she came, she wanted Jiang Ruan to be a positive imperial concubine. Now everyone who has a little insight knows that the eighth Prince may be the future prince, and the future emperor of the great Jin Dynasty. Isn''t Jiang Ruan the queen? This is a matter of huge profits. Jiang Quan''s complexion is complicated. He always wants to win over Xuanli. In order to maintain a more stable relationship, it''s best to marry a daughter. Now Chen Guifei''s words broke his secret desire in his heart. Naturally, she couldn''t get it. But how could that man be Jiang Ruan? Why not Jiang Su Su? But Jiang Xinzhi clenched his fists. He didn''t expect that his kindness would become the present situation. He didn''t like Xiao Shao, but he didn''t like Xuanli. Xuanli is a heavenly family no matter what. He has many wives and concubines. The backyard is more dangerous than the court. How can he let Jiang Ruan go to such a place? Why did Chen Guifei pull Jiang Ruan into the water? Wouldn''t it be better if it were Jiang Su Su. Why is it Jiang Ruan who is happy and has the best of both worlds. Jiang Xinzhi made up his mind that if the emperor agreed, he would fight against the edict with all his meritorious service, and change Jiang Ruan''s free body. Xiao Shao frowned when she heard Chen Guifei''s request. Her beautiful eyes had a cool luster, just like a good black gem. However, her long eyelashes hung down to cover her mood, and her whole temperament became colder. He raised his eyes and took a look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan lowered his head slightly. He couldn''t see his expression clearly. Xiao Shao moved in his heart. No matter how Jiang Ruan said it, he was just an 11 year old girl. She hated Xuanli so much. Although she didn''t know why, she would not marry Xuanli. Chen Guifei was favored by the emperor. If the emperor agreed, Jiang Ruan would never resist the order. In fact, his heroic brow was not helpless. If he came up to the emperor at this moment and said that he wanted to marry Jiang Ruan, he could avoid the fate of Jiang Ruan marrying Xuanli. But Jiang Ruan may not want to marry him. Xiao Shao took over the royal guards and wandered outside all the year round. He also got into some of the habits of the river and lake, but he also understood the rules of the disciples of the Jingzhong aristocratic family. He knew what it meant to a woman to get married. With his temperament, his life was not a marriage. Jiang Ruan was his life-saving benefactor. Even though the life-saving benefactor was only 11 years old now, if she was in danger, Xiao Shao would abide by her original oath and help her. Just from the eighth Prince''s house to Jinying palace, is Jiang Ruan really willing? Shufei suddenly burst out with a laugh: "how can my sister order Yuanyang''s music at random, not to mention whether her eighth highness knows it or not? Just Miss Jiang in front of her, but also miss Jiang Shangshu''s daughter. Why don''t my sister ask if Miss Jiang is willing to marry her eighth highness?" In such a tit for tat, Chen Guifei did not frown, but turned to look at Jiang Ruan. Her tone became softer and more amiable: "it''s our palace that forgot, Miss Jiang. Do you like my little eight?" This is a kind and witty question. It seems to be a joke from an ordinary woman. However, Jiang Ruan has a silent sneer in his heart. What can Chen Guifei say? If not, she looks down on Xuanli. Not to mention that in front of so many people, even the emperor will be the first to forgive her. Can say to like, isn''t that open to jump into the fire pit? Everyone held their breath, waiting for Jiang Ruan''s reply. The women''s families were indignant. Gu Yi, Jiang Xin and others of the men''s families just wanted to rush up and take Jiang Ruan away from this land of right and wrong. Dong Yinger and Zhao Jin secretly sweat for Jiang Ruan. For them, they naturally know that Jiang Ruan never wanted to marry into heaven. Zhao Guang is shocked in his heart. Fang''s granddaughter is about to be involved in the fight for the right. For the first time, Zhao Guang feels incompetent. He did not dare to block the whole general''s house to help Jiang Ruan resist the edict, even though his heart was bleeding at the moment. With his daughter-in-law, Li on the wedding banquet almost broke the handkerchief in his hand, and his eyes were full of pain. Jiang Ruan seemed very embarrassed, but he didn''t answer immediately: "this..." Her head is lower and deeper, but she is counting quietly in her heart. Chen Guifei''s smile is deeper: "it''s such a shy child. The emperor, I see that this is a wonderful marriage. Would the emperor like to be a month old? Find a nice person for Xiao ba. " The emperor looked at him with a happy look, and he didn''t want to stop him. Xiao Shao''s expression was cold. After thinking about it, he would stand up and ask the emperor to marry him. Who knows square wants to get up, then hear a cold voice to spread: "sad family does not want." On the count of three in his heart, Jiang Ruan chuckled and slowly raised his head. Following the man''s words, he firmly said, "if you go back to your concubine, Ruan doesn''t want to."It''s all over the place. - it''s a hundred chapters www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 101 Xuanli''s eyes moved. It was clear that Jiang Ruan was a fabricated excuse. How could Jiang Ruan feel humble? He also wondered why a suckling little girl always had a slight hostility towards him. Xuanli thought that he was a kind and easy-going person in people''s hearts, and countless women all admired his gentle appearance. Jiang Ruan is still young, and he doesn''t know what love affairs between men and women are, but where does hostility come from? He never behaved improperly in front of Jiang Ruan? Is it because of Jiang Su Su? Thinking of this, he slowly relaxed. If it was just because of Jiang Su Su, it would be very easy for him to gain her close trust. Chen Guifei sighed softly: "you child, what do you say to match? If Xiao Ba didn''t come to ask for it, how could this palace suddenly bring up this matter?" All of them were surprised, but the eighth prince took the initiative to propose it! Xuanli frowned, put away his gentle smile, got up and went to the palace. He had a handsome eyebrow, a gentle demeanor, and a noble and elegant temperament unique to the royal family. Pian also a serious face, in front of the high seat of the emperor knelt down solemnly: "report father emperor, is the son minister''s mind." He took a look at Jiang Ruan, and his expression became a little soft, like the spring breeze in early spring: "since Linglong boat, when I saw Miss Jiang, I was impressed by her brilliance, and after I went back to the palace, I fell into four years. My son was afraid that Miss Jiang would blame me for this move. I asked my mother to help her. " Xuanli said, "my son is willing to marry Miss Jiang and take care of her all his life." He turned to Jiang Ruan and said slowly, "Miss Jiang, would you like to be my wife Such a handsome young man shows his love in front of the civil and military officials. He is also the eighth prince who is always clean. There are countless maidens who love and hate each other. I love such a handsome man with outstanding appearance and deep affection. I only hate that I''m not the eldest daughter of Chiang''s family. I''m so lucky. After listening to what the eighth prince said, Jiang Su Su was tottering. At the beginning, the feeling of happiness has been replaced by hatred. There has never been such a moment of jealousy of Jiang Ruan as before, crazy jealousy! Why did Jiang Ruan take away the identity of her eldest daughter and her sweetheart! Jiang Ruan looked at Xuanli faintly. Since her rebirth, Xuanli was like a fly that had eaten in her stomach. She could always avoid it. This was the first time that she was so close to him. In his eyes, there was not a trace of ease, but his words were so sweet and sincere. In a trance, time goes back to the last life. The peach blossom in ningshui Valley is pink and affectionate. She doesn''t know how to be alone. Xuanli stands under the peach blossom and looks at her with gentle and considerate smile. He said, "ruan''er, I really like you." I really like you. It''s so sweet. He only said he liked it, but he didn''t ask for marriage. He said that if he could not give her fame, she would believe it and be considerate of her difficulties. In her last life, she hoped to hear Xuanli say: "would you like to be my wife?" In order to be her wife, in order to be worthy of his love? She wronged herself, instead of Jiang Su Su Su, into the deep palace full of murders. She was abused, insulted, ridiculed and crushed in the dust. How can he turn a blind eye? When he took advantage of her, he announced that she was the evil girl of the disaster country. When he saw her fall in the hall, he remembered that day in ningshui Valley, under the peach blossom tree, he said, "ruan''er, I really like you." In this life, she finally heard that sentence: "would you like to be my wife?" But so what? She''s not rare anymore. Xuanli looks at Jiang Ruan. He is confident. Jiang Ruan has never been loved by his father since he was a child. His mother died early and lived in Zhuangzi for five years. As long as someone treats her a little better, she will be grateful. It''s easy to move her heart. But with Jiang Ruan looking at each other, his smile suddenly slowly froze. What kind of eyes are they? Fen min''s beautiful Ruoshan spring is moist and clear, but the desolate one is like a black poppy in a desolate place. The emotion surging in those eyes is fierce and calm. It''s not admiration and moving, nor any kind of joy. It''s not love, it''s hate. Xuanli was stunned. He didn''t read it wrong. It was hate. It was like hate to the bone. He wanted to swallow his flesh and drink his blood. And there was a disgust in the hatred, as if he were some rotten thing. His face slowly froze. Why? In such a strong emotion, love and hate complex eyes, Xuanli had a blank in his mind, as if he did not know how to face it next. In the face of Jiang Ruan''s eyes, he had a faint fear in his heart. Why? He tried to make it clear, and then he saw the young girl in front of him suddenly show a sneer, with a touch of sarcasm, throwing a voice: "I, no, willing, willing." Jiang Ruan raised his chin haughtily, his tone was clearly modest, but his face looked like a princess on the top: "thank you for your Highness''s kindness, but I don''t want to be here. Your Highness''s words made me afraid. I really don''t dare to be high." Then he fell down and kowtowed to the Emperor: "I hope your majesty will do it." No matter what Xuanli said, she was as determined as a stone.The smile on Chen Guifei''s face is deeper, and the light and color in her eyes are changing. She is not angry at all. Although the emperor was angry at Jiang Ruan''s behavior, he could not force Jiang Ruan to agree to leave in front of civil and military officials. Then some fidgety waved: "in that case, you and old eight have no fate." Xuanli''s complexion is not good. I didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan''s cold and hard words would come to nothing today. He looked at Jiang Ruan and couldn''t understand why Jiang Ruan refused him even though he didn''t want to. He didn''t have a loose expression and why he showed such hatred to him. If it''s just for Chiang Su Su, why do you hate so much? Jiang Ruan looked Xuanli''s face in his eyes and sneered in his heart. In this life, he still used the same means as in the previous life, hoping to buy her heart and let her work for him. There is no such cheap thing in the world. Does Xuanli think that if he condescends to cheat others, others should be grateful to him? Mo Cong shook his head with regret: "these eight princes are so romantic. It''s a pity that they met the poison of Jiang family miss. Destined to be ignored. " Xiao Shao looks at Jiang Ruan faintly. The people who practice martial arts have good eyesight. Just now, Jiang Ruan looks at Xuanli. He can see it clearly. There is no love in it, but the hatred makes people confused. How could she hate Xuanli so much. For a moment, people felt that she would almost disappear, as if she did not belong to the world. Suppress the idea in the heart, Xiao Shao suddenly frowned, years of intuition let him sensitive to detect something wrong in the air. He gently pressed the dagger on his waist - ministers were not allowed to carry weapons in the Palace Banquet, and he was the exception. The emperor made an exception to allow him to take a taxi. Xuanli saluted Jiang Ruan and returned to his seat with regret. The women in the palace were deeply distressed by the gloomy appearance. On the one hand, they were glad that Jiang Ruan didn''t accept Xuanli, on the other hand, they secretly hated Jiang Ruan''s ignorance of good and evil, which made such an immortal sad. Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi smile slightly. After such a show, the emperor''s interest was disturbed a lot. With a wave of his hand, he said: "open a banquet." The maid in charge of the cloth dish came in with a tray in her hand. Among them, the leading palace maids are slim and graceful, with clear eyes and different clothes. Behind them, two other palace maids in different clothes walk towards the emperor with a tray. One of them stands in the same place, and the other two begin to pour wine for the Empress Dowager and the Empress Dowager. The maid of honor next to the queen took out silver chopsticks to dip in the wine. The leading maid was pouring wine. As soon as she picked up the wine pot, she suddenly took out a dagger from under the white cloth and stabbed the emperor in the chest. The sound of "Kua" was a strong wind mixed with something, which deflected the Maiden''s dagger, staggering the fatal part. It turned out to be a golden button. On the high seat, almost at the same time, Xiao Shaofei swept up and came towards the emperor. Guan Lianghan, with a look on his face, slapped the table and stood up. Where did the women around see this situation, they all screamed. Among the palace maids in powder clothes, there was another shock. Several of them suddenly jumped up, all of them pulled out their soft swords hidden in their waists and ran straight to the emperor''s face. "The dog emperor, take your life!" Cried the women. It''s mixed with the maid in waiting! Today, there are at least hundreds of maids serving the Palace Banquet. In such a mess, the palace is in a mess. When the emperor was shocked, the bodyguard said desperately: "escort! Escort The emperor''s side is protected, but the assassins are not limited to taking the emperor''s life. They are killing people in the palace. There are unarmed women and young ladies in the women''s seats. The assassins only listen to the blood and flesh, screams and shouts all the time. They also know how tragic it is . Jiang Su Su had been scared to hide under the table and saw a beautiful young lady cut into two in front of her. Scared face, but her temperament is only know the scream of Jiang Li to calm some. Xia Yan is also scared to death. He holds Jiang Su Su in his arms and hides under the table. They hide under the corpse and can''t see anything at a glance. Jiang Dan was scared to death, but she didn''t hide and scream like Jiang Li. He was calm in the confusion. After thinking about it, he made up his mind to run to the men''s table. No one expected that the emperor would be transferred so quickly. They thought the assassins would give up. But they would take care of the assassins. When there is chaos in the palace, it is easy to have an accident. Jiang Xinzhi could not see the figure of Jiang Ruan in the chaos. However, as a deputy general, he could not leave the room full of women and children. He had to search for Jiang Ruan in private while the poor resisted the assassins. Zhao jiaerlang also joined the war. However, these assassins seem to have received precise training, and they are not in a hurry to deal with those who have martial arts skills. They go especially to women and children. The guards and generals should consider that they can''t hurt the family members of their ministers by mistake. They are merciless, but they make these assassins more and more unscrupulous. Zhao Jin and Wen Feifei come from the family of military generals. In the face of such a situation, they don''t panic and show some rare calmness. Zhao Jin said: "Feifei, take some of their sisters out first. I''ll go to find sister Ruan and Yinger."Wen Feifei hesitated: "can you do it alone?" "It''s OK. I''ll be careful." Zhao Jin settles down the sisters and picks up the soft sword from a slain assassin on the ground. At the same time, Dong Yinger is forced into a corner by one of the assassins. The soft sword in the assassin''s hand is about to pierce Dong Yinger''s chest. Zhao Jin was in a hurry and threw a soft sword at the back of the assassin''s heart. She threw very hard, the assassin couldn''t dodge, was stabbed, and the sword in her hand slipped down. Dong Ying''er had already been scared to tears. Seeing Zhao Jin at the moment was like a life-saving benefactor: "jin''er." Zhao Jin ran over to help her: "it''s OK." Dong Ying''er looks at her back and opens her eyes in fear. Zhao Jin feels strange and looks back with a fierce face: "go to die!" Then a silver light flashed, and Zhao Jin closed her eyes in despair. However, she felt light. When she heard the sound of a heavy object falling to the ground, she opened her eyes and saw a young man holding her and Dong Yinger. He has a long sword in his hand and dances very well. Zhao Jin is in a military family. When she was a child, she saw her brother''s father practicing sword, but she had never seen anyone dance so well. He is not as rough as his father and brother, but as elegant and handsome as a scholar. Dong Ying''er was stunned, and her cheeks suddenly turned bright red. Jiang Xinzhi rescued them and put them in a corner: "stay here, don''t move." Then he joined the war without looking back. Dong Ying''er said softly, "who is he?" Zhao Jin shook her head: "I don''t know." Looking at the tall figure disappeared in the palace, my heart was a little nervous about the stranger. Not to mention what happened here, Jiang Ruan was very good at protecting himself at this moment. The emperor was transferred, and the queen was still there. There were many bodyguards around the queen, so there was no need to worry. As soon as Jiang Ruan turned his head, he saw several assassins approaching the corner of empress Yide. For some unknown reason, it turned out that Qi Qi wanted to deal with empress Yide. Xuanli Fang settles in Chen Guifei. Seeing this, she is stunned. She is about to run here. As soon as Jiang Ruan raised his eyebrows, without saying a word, the assassin in the center was about to shoot empress Yide in her chest. When he took a sword in her chest, he exclaimed, "Empress Dowager!" The movement is faster than the sound. He pours at the general and pushes the empress Yide to the side. He stands up to the point of the sword. She turned her head and gave a sneer to the startled Xuanli. You see, it''s just the beginning. It''s really hard to write Gongyan. This passage of tea tea has been deleted and changed. I''m so tired. I want to finish the chapter of Gongyan right away_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 102 Jiang Ruan stood up to the point of the sword. Her action was so unremitting that even Xuanli was in the same place. The assassin didn''t expect to kill a strange girl on the way. Her eyes narrowed and her hand was not soft. The soft sword in her hand was close to Jiang Ruan''s chest. At the critical moment, a dagger flew from the oblique stab and hit the soft sword a little bit. The sword Qi was blocked and did not insert into Jiang Ruan''s chest. It was just that the sword Qi scratched Jiang Ruan''s shoulder and chest, and the blood immediately dyed his clothes red. Jiang Ruan was excited by the sword and fell back. He suddenly found that his body was light and fell into a broad and cold embrace. The breath of youth sprayed in her ears, with the smell of bamboo on the man. Xiao Shao held her in his arms and grabbed a soft sword from an assassin. To the surprised empress Yide, she said, "it''s not suitable to stay here for a long time. Please avoid it first." Jin Yi and Jin Er suddenly appear in front of Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao gives Jiang Ruan to Jin Yi. Two secret guards guard Jiang Ruan and Empress Dowager Yide to leave. Xuanli saw everything he had just discovered. He wanted to save the empress dowager, but he was stunned by Jiang Ruan''s sudden rush out. Seeing her hurt, Xiao Shao saved her and left. The heart is not calm for a long time, as if there is a voice in the heart to remind him, no, not like this, should not have been like this. What happened tonight was so strange that Xuanli couldn''t figure out where the strange feeling came from. What''s the meaning of the smile Jiang Ruan gave him when he came to the top of the sword? It seems to contain the meaning of infinite distance, which is palpitating, but unpredictable. Seeing all this happened, Xuanli was not the only one. There was another person in the hall, Princess Heyi. When the chaos happened, the bodyguards around her protected her, but she was not entangled by the assassin. She wanted to search for the figure of that person in the palace, but when she looked up, she saw Xiao Shao holding Jiang Ruan in her arms. At that time, her beautiful little face was distorted. Who was Xiao Shao? He was extremely cold-blooded. On weekdays, he was not close to others, let alone a strange woman. Jiang Ruan is just a woman''s family member of the government. There are so many injured women''s families here, but Xiao Shao just saved Jiang Ruan. Besides just now and Yi will Xiao Shao in the eyes of the tension see clearly. He was really worried about Jiang Ruan. Heyi''s face was white and she bit her lower lip. At the beginning, Xiao Shao was just a beautiful and lonely young man. She fell in love with him when she saw him for the first time. Unfortunately, no matter what he said, Xiao Shao was as indifferent as a stone man. Today, Jiang Ruan''s appearance is too prosperous, and she has the green eyes of Empress Dowager Yide, which makes her unhappy. Seeing Xiao Shao''s protection, she is jealous and crazy. She just wants Jiang Ruan to die under the sword. All the guards outside the palace rushed in, and the assassins were also cleaned up. After all of them were subdued, Xiao Shaocai put away the dagger and said coldly, "leave a living mouth and find out who the master is." The palace is in a mess. There are many innocent family members who have died. No one expected this change today. A good Palace Banquet suddenly became a slaughterhouse. The palace came to help clean up the body, the nearest doctor came in a hurry, busy with the treatment of patients. Guan Lianghan was relieved. He patted Jiang Xinzhi on the shoulder and said, "boy, you have a good response today. You are not in a mess in the face of danger. You look like a general in those days." But Jiang Xinzhi''s mind is not here at all. He frowns and looks at the hall. He doesn''t find the figure of Jiang Ruan. He is very anxious. After thinking about it, he went to Xiao Shao and said, "have you seen my sister, Lord Xiao?" But he said that Jiang Ruan was escorted by the secret guards all the way back to the CI Ning palace with empress Yide. Although the knife wound is not deep, it can grow very long and lose too much blood. At the moment, there is no blood on the snow-white face, and the ruddy lips become very transparent. Seeing her appearance, the Empress Dowager Yide was in a hurry to go to the best doctor in the Xuangong palace, and at the same time, she ordered the palace female general Jiang Ruan to help her on her own bed. After all, Jiang Ruan didn''t lose consciousness. Seeing this, he was about to open his eyes and go down to the ground. He said forcefully, "the Empress Dowager is not allowed. The status of a minister''s daughter is low..." "Things start from priority," empress Yide said quickly, "you have saved the AI family. What if the AI family let you sleep?" Jiang Ruan still wanted to speak, but his face became pale and hoarse. He seemed to be extremely tired. He slightly turned his face and even lost the strength to speak. Seeing this, the Empress Dowager Yide''s face sank again. She said angrily, "why hasn''t the doctor arrived yet? If you don''t come back, I''ll cut off his head! " The aunt beside the Empress Dowager Yide is also surprised. The Empress Dowager Yide has been very cold these years, but today she shows abnormal emotions for this strange girl. It''s really strange. The highly respected imperial doctor in the palace came quickly. Hearing that it was empress Yide''s Yizhi, she was still very confused. As a result, the strange girl lying on the empress''s bed was even more suspicious. The girl''s face is tight, but she is not with Princess Yi. Why is empress Yide so nervous? Is there any close relationship between her and empress Yide? Although he was puzzled, the doctor didn''t say much. He just gave Jiang Ruan a pulse before he got up and said, "this girl just lost too much blood. Although she was wounded by a knife, the wound is not deep. If it''s deeper and more partial, I''m afraid it will be dangerous." The Empress Dowager Yide was relieved, and the doctor said, "I''ll make two prescriptions. I''ll take some medicine and feed the girl. Then I''ll wrap it up. These days pay attention to avoid food, otherwise it is not conducive to wound recovery"According to the doctor, will scar be left in the future?" The Empress Dowager Yide frowned. The wound happened to be cut from shoulder to chest. After all, it''s an unmarried daughter. If you leave a scar, it will affect the marriage in the future. Jiang Ruan''s skin was as white as snow, and there was a scar on it. It was a pity to look at it. In addition, she behaves like Princess Yuanrong today, and the Empress Dowager Yide''s question is sincere. The doctor wiped the sweat on his forehead: "if you go back to the empress dowager, if you keep it well, maybe you won''t leave a scar." This is to say or may leave scar, Yi De empress dowager Mou light sink, tone suddenly sharp: "know, you go out to take a person to fill medicine." The doctor then took up the medicine box and went out of the hall with the palace maid. The Empress Dowager Yide looks at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is lying on the bed with her beautiful eyes slightly closed. Her lips are as pale as her skin. She is trying to endure the pain, but she doesn''t frown. She still looks at her with a smile, as if she is relieved. Compared with her steady charm in the hall just now, she now takes off her coat and looks green and tender, with a more pitiful style. Especially the smile on the lips, sensible people heartache. The Empress Dowager Yide suddenly thinks of Princess Yuanrong. The precocious and sensible Princess Yuanrong never frowns when she gets sick. She just looks at her and smiles. The Empress Dowager Yide softened her voice at a certain place in her heart: "why do you want to block that knife for AI Jia?" With a shy smile, Jiang Ruan said softly, "I don''t know why. If you say something beyond the limit, the courtesan will feel cordial when they see the empress dowager, as if As if I had seen him somewhere, I didn''t think so much about it just now, and I don''t know what happened. " She didn''t say anything dignified and dignified, but a sentence like "I''ve seen you anywhere" made the Empress Dowager Yide''s expression surge again. The thought in my heart is more and more intense. She said slowly: "you have done a good job in rescuing me. I won''t let people get this knife in vain." With a smile, Jiang Ruan said, "can the Empress Dowager inform her elder brother that if he can''t find her, he must be anxious." "Don''t worry. I''ve already sent someone to talk about it." Empress Yide frowned slightly. Jiang Ruan only said that he would inform Jiang Xinzhi, but he did not mention Jiang Quan and Xia Yan. When this happens, the ordinary daughter''s family should not seek her father. However, she is bent on looking for Jiang Xinzhi, even without mentioning Jiang Quan. I knew before that the relationship between the two brothers and sisters of the Chiang family was very good. Now it seems that there is a lot in it. Just now I was in the palace. When I talked about Jiang Ruan''s marriage, Jiang Quan didn''t fluctuate much. He was not like a father. Empress Yide''s armor gently scraped over the edge of the bed, and the ruby gave off a bright red luster. Jiang Ruan closed his eyes and raised his lips slightly. He didn''t need to say something too clearly, especially for the wise people. He said something and stopped at once. Let Jiang Quan deal with the rest by himself. She knew there would be an assassination today. In the last generation, the emperor also held a palace banquet after the flood. In the middle of the Palace Banquet, an assassin came in. It was Xuanli who saved empress Yide''s life. Xuanli blocked the sword with his body and was seriously injured. At that time, the assassin was not clear, and all the princes of the emperor were suspected by the emperor. The palace was even cleaned at night, and even the prince who was not present that day because of physical discomfort was also affected. Only Xuanli, the eighth prince, had a clean harvest. After all, he had to play and was seriously injured, which was too much. Xuanli got the favor of empress Yide, and the emperor trusted him, which earned him a good reputation of loyalty and filial piety. After entering the palace of the last generation, Jiang Ruan learned about it from the chatting among the people in the palace. At that time, he was very anxious to describe Xuanli in the scene. Now I think there are some doubts about all of them. As for blocking the sword for Empress Yide, it''s just a joke. Xuanli would not have killed his father himself if he had been a man of love and righteousness as it is said. In fact, Jiang Ruan knew better than anyone that Xuanli was a man who kept a low profile and was especially cruel to himself. This life, she broke his plan. Empress Yide must be saved, but saving her is not necessarily Xuanli! Jiang Ruan just put all her eggs in one basket. Today, she thought that she would pretend to be like Princess Yuanrong, and then save empress Yide''s life like a way. If she made great contributions to her rescue, there would be a reward in the palace, though she didn''t know what it was. But also enough to make eight Prince and summer family temporarily dare not act rashly. However, after entering the palace, she knew that Xuanli was going to marry her, which she did not expect and had never happened in the last life. Now that she has saved the empress dowager, the Empress Dowager''s feelings for her will inevitably go up to a higher level. At this time, even if Princess Chen still wants to use some methods to force the Empress Dowager to let go, it is impossible for the emperor to marry her. As long as she showed a little unwilling, empress Yide would not agree to marry. Because at the moment, empress Yide must have regarded her as half of Princess Yuanrong. After that, Chen Guifei could not say anything more, which was a good thing for her. However, it''s not a matter of making money without losing money. It''s just dangerous. Now I think about it, I''m afraid. Although she broke the boat, she didn''t expect that the assassin''s sword point was so fierce. No wonder Xuanli would be seriously injured. Today, if Xiao Shao hadn''t missed the assassin''s soft sword with a dagger, she would not be so relaxed now. She''s not afraid of death, but she can''t die until revenge is over.She owes him a favor. Jiang Ruan slowly closed her eyes. In a word, today''s success was much better than she expected. Jiang Xinzhi and Zhao''s family were stunned when they got the news that Jiang Ruan was sent to the CI Ning palace for medical treatment. Empress Dowager Yide usually lives in a high position. Today, she only meets Jiang Ruan for the first time. However, it was different everywhere. At present, she was asked to stay in the palace, which showed that Jiang Ruan was not just the daughter of an ordinary minister in her heart. Jiang Quan and Xia Yan are waiting outside. Jiang Su Su is eager to hear of Jiang Ruan''s death. However, she hears that empress Yide has declared the imperial doctor to treat Jiang Ruan. This honor can be seen at a glance. She can''t help clenching her hands into a fist, and there is a trace of resentment in her eyes. Jiang Quan''s complexion is complicated. Today, Jiang Ruan has made great contributions to his rescue. In the end, this contribution will be attributed to Jiang Fu. But it was Jiang Ruan, who had been so brilliant in recent years that he had covered up Jiang Su Su''s light. He did not regard Jiang Ruan as flesh and blood in his heart. Jiang Ruan was brilliant. The more he got in the way of Jiang Su Su, the more dissatisfied he was. Now, Jiang Ruan is bound to be superior to Jiang Susu. He is determined to pave the way for Jiang Susu. What Jiang Ruan has done is really unbearable! In this way, Jiang Quan''s face was not worried at all, but calm and disgusted. Only to the little eunuch who informed her, he said: "I sincerely thank the Empress Dowager for her kindness, but the little girl is reckless and can''t bear the kindness. Please go back to the Empress Dowager and let me take her back to your house." Xia Yan listens to Jiang Quan say so, in the eye then flash a glimmer of complacency. At first, the eunuch was also surprised. Originally, his daughter was injured. If he was an ordinary father, he should at least ask about the injury. This eunuch would take someone back. The little eunuch was also in the palace. He could see the clue at a glance. In Jiang Quan''s eyes, there was only disgust but no warmth. Thinking of empress Yide''s special treatment to Miss Jiang, the eunuch brushed her dust and said, "I don''t dare to answer this. Miss Jiang has a doctor in the palace. I''m afraid that I can''t find such a good doctor when I take her back to Jiang''s house. What''s more, it''s the Empress Dowager''s virtue. The miscellaneous family is just a servant to deliver a message. If you have anything to say, you''d better go to the Empress Dowager and say it yourself. " Such a rampant attitude, intentionally or unintentionally, is to suppress. All the servants in piansheng palace can''t offend. Jiang Quan is famous for his nobility in the palace. Why was he ridiculed like this? His face turned red and he couldn''t say a word. The little eunuch looked at Xia Yan contemptuously, and sniffed in his heart. The two people in the Jiang family really didn''t know how they gave birth to the penetrating young lady like Jiang Ruan. Jiang Xinzhi couldn''t see Jiang Ruan''s injury with his own eyes. Although he knew that there was a doctor to treat him, he was still worried. He didn''t know why Jiang Ruan wanted to block the sword for Empress Yide. He had some blame in his heart. Although he said that he was rebellious, the Emperor''s life was in danger, and he didn''t want Jiang Ruan to take this risk. The little eunuch was about to leave when he came to the door. Fang ran into Xiao Shao. He bent down to salute him. Xiao Shao waved his hand, took out a small blue porcelain vase from his arms and threw it to him Yuji ointment is a good thing rarely used by women in the palace. This small bottle is also valuable and can remove scars on women''s bodies. Although Xiao Shao did not say to whom, the little eunuch also understood that the object should be Jiang Ruan lying in the palace of CI Ning. Although he doubted the relationship between Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan in his heart, he said with a smile: "don''t worry, Wang Ye. I''ll take it with me." Xiao Shao gave him a light look and turned out of the hall. During the night in the palace, Jiang and Ruan slept surprisingly well. When she woke up, the two beautiful maids around her changed her clothes. Jiang Ruan moved his body, and the wound on his chest didn''t hurt. A maid then said with a smile: "miss can wake up, the wound is not deep, well bandaged, nothing." After that, he explained in a low voice: "before, the doctor meant to leave scars. Fortunately, Lord Xiao sent Yuji ointment, so you don''t have to worry about it. No scars will be left." The tone was a bit envious. Jiang Ruan looked at her appearance, but was stunned. Xiao Shao sent jade cream? She pressed her forehead. The more she felt, the more she felt. Since her rebirth, she will certainly give the other party some equal rewards when she takes advantage of others. For example, to support Liu Min is also to help Gu Yi in the future. It also takes advantage of Gu Yi''s love for beauty. Xiao Shao came to help again and again. Even if it was to repay his kindness, what he gave now, I''m afraid it would be paid off early. Xiao Shao did not know how to repay his frank help. After thinking about it, I simply put it aside. She asked the maid, "who were hurt last night?" The maid gave a list of names. Jiang Ruan was relieved to hear that she didn''t know anyone. If you have to say yes, Jiang Dan fell into the arms of Zuo Lang last night when he was in a panic. Zuo Lang had little success in middle age, but Jiang Dan''s clothes were torn in the chaos last night. At that time, Zuo Lang agreed that he would be responsible for one of Jiang Dan''s daughters because she was so tender and crying. The palace maid said, "I''m afraid the wedding of the fourth lady of your family will be settled." Jiang Ruan raised her eyebrows. She looked at the cowardly and timid four younger sisters and looked at them with new eyes. It''s hard for her to think of such a chaotic scene last night. If she is not careful, she will lose her life. But Jiang Dan''s luck is good. He won the bet, didn''t he?Seeing Jiang Ruan''s ecstasy, the maid of honor said, "Vice President Jiang will see you in the future, and then he left in a hurry. The Empress Dowager should be back soon. When the young lady was in a coma, the deputy general and the Empress Dowager were very worried. " Jiang Ruan thought, "where are my father, mother and sister?" "The Empress Dowager has ordered them to go back to the Palace first." Replied the maid. The Empress Dowager asked Jiang Quan to return to the palace, but she didn''t like Jiang Quan? That''s good. She smile, some sorry to look at the maid of honor, said: "I''m a little hungry." "The meal has been arranged. I''ll serve the young lady." The palace maid said with a smile. In the imperial study, the emperor smashed the Paperweight on the table on the ground: "so, last night was a man from the state of Jin?" Guan Lianghan and Xiao Shao acquiesced. Tianjin kingdom was located in the north of Dajin Dynasty, and its territory was not broad. Because it was close to the sea, the business across the ocean was excellent. It has always been a non aggression relationship with the great Jin Dynasty. Jin Dynasty did not think of annexing Tianjin, but although Tianjin was a small country, its iron and steel smelting was excellent, and its soldiers wore more sophisticated weapons than Jin Dynasty. The former Emperor once tried to attack the state of Tianjin, but the state of Tianjin resisted the 400 000 troops of Jin Dynasty. The war lasted for a whole year until the Jin Dynasty was short of troops and the people were hard to live because of heavy taxes. The former Emperor realized that this was a situation of both sides being defeated and ordered to withdraw his troops. From then on, he only prevented the invasion and kept peace. But last night Xiao Shao and Guan Lianghan interrogated all night. Although these dead men had been very firm, there was something wrong in their words. Xiao Shao ordered the royal guards to check. What he found was that these assassins were from the state of Tianjin. "How dare you be so presumptuous in a small place!" The emperor was furious. Last night''s assassin''s moves were all directed at the emperor, but in the end, he killed a lot in the palace, causing panic among all officials. In this way, disturbing the court means provocation. What does Tian Jin State mean? Want to fight Jin Dynasty? "The state of Tian Jin has been making trouble in the frontier these years, ready to move." Xiao Shao reminded: "this assassination is likely to be a signal." "A signal of war?" Guan Lianghan asked. "I''m afraid of him!" No emperor can tolerate such reckless provocation. The dignity of the emperor can not be trampled on. What''s more, it is a matter of national security. He frowned: "general Guan, would you like to lead the army to Tianjin?" Guan Lianghan a smile: "happy to." He didn''t want to stay in the laoshizi capital. Facing these literate people every day, he returned to Beijing after winning the battle this year. The emperor said that he would stay in Beijing for the elderly in the future. He was very unhappy. Soldiers were born for the battlefield, especially Guan Lianghan. Only in the battlefield can he exert his greatest talents. The emperor thought, "take your deputy with you. If he is born to be a star, and comes back after winning the battle, I will give him many rewards! " Guan Lianghan''s face was very clear. The emperor''s words really gave Jiang Xinzhi room to play. He thought that Jiang Xinzhi had refuted Chen Guifei''s face, and the emperor would have some prejudice against Jiang Xinzhi. Now, as soon as Jiang Xinzhi''s brother and sister get together, they give him the chance to go to war. If he is brilliant in this battle, another young hero will appear in the grand Jin Dynasty, and Jiang Xinzhi will be able to really stand firm in the court. I just don''t know if that girl lover is willing to leave Jiang Ruan? The emperor then said, "there were so many assassins in the Palace last night. Were the guards dead?" He looked at Xiao Shao: "ah Shao, call out your royal guards." This is a big clean-up. The assassin of the state of Tianjin entered the palace like no one. He had already had an inside man in the palace. Although he didn''t know who he was, he didn''t get rid of it for a day, just like a cancer growing in the emperor''s heart for a long time. Xiao Shao nodded slightly: "yes." Guan Lianghan sighed in his heart that the palace was bound to be a bloodbath again. When they finished discussing other matters with the emperor, Fang came out of the imperial study and saw a beautiful girl standing outside. She was dressed in gold gauze dress, gorgeous and exquisite, a well-dressed face, beautiful and compelling, with a touch of exotic atmosphere. She came to Xiao Shao and said with a smile, "Lord Xiao." It''s Princess Heyi. Guan Lianghan winked at Xiao Shao and left with great strides. Xiao Shao''s light look down and happy, the vision unexpectedly is a little temperature also have no. Princess Heyi''s heart jumped when she was seen by his cold eyes, and she was a little timid. But as soon as she thought of last night, her eyes showed some resentment. She looked up at Xiao shaojunmei''s cold face and said, "what''s the relationship between King Xiao and Miss Jiang?" This words ask of puzzling, Xiao Shao don''t know what she mean, frown, cold way: "this and Princess what?" Princess Heyi''s eyes were red, and her whole body was chilled by his cold words. She said wrongly, "you know I like you." "Be careful, princess." Xiao Shao eyes suddenly cold: "Xiao to the princess do not mind." "What about Jiang Ruan," Princess Heyi asked harshly, "do you like her?" Xiao Shao frowned more tightly, as if she couldn''t understand her words. However, there was something more important at the moment, so she just gave Princess Heyi a cold look and turned to leave. This kind of action falls in the eye of Princess Heyi, it is acquiescence. She was stunned for a moment, and suddenly covered her face and burst into tears. After Jiang Ruan had a breakfast, empress Yide went back to the palace. Seeing her like this, she said, "how are you?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "if you go back to the empress dowager, it''s much better." Empress Dowager Yide looked up and down at her and saw that her spirit was much better than yesterday. She sat down on the soft couch with a cup of tea from the maid next to her. Empress Yide took the tea and took a sip of it. She looked at Jiang Ruan quietly. The girl in front of her is clever and clean. Although her face is charming, her eyes are clear and free of impurities. The most rare thing is her calm, which makes her beautiful color get rid of frivolity and become calm and noble. She seemed to ask carelessly, "is Jiang Quan not good to you?" Jiang Ruan seemed to be stunned by this question. He thought about it a little and said with a smile, "it''s not true. It''s just that the courtiers and daughters are raised in Chuang Tzu. They have not been very close to their father since childhood." She didn''t complain all the time, and she didn''t lie that Jiang Quan had treated her very well. What she said was the truth, but what she said was to excuse Jiang Quan. It''s very appropriate. Yide empress dowager lips a faint smile: "neither close, want to separate will not be sad." Jiang Ruan was really shocked in his heart and looked at her suspiciously. The Empress Dowager Yide looked at the ruby on her armor and said, "Miss Jiang, I''m going to the Royal ancestral temple next to the imperial mausoleum for three years. Would you like to go with me?" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 103 Jiang Ruan looked at empress dowager Yide with a smile, but there was a huge wave in her heart. What empress Yide said was to ask her to leave. The Empress Dowager Yide said faintly: "the AI family knows you are a smart child. If you think about it clearly, follow the AI family, and the AI family will protect you. Going back to the palace after three years is not an ordinary identity. " She looked at the ruby on her armor: "you have saved the life of AI Jia. AI Jia thinks about it. This reward can be called joy." Jiang Ruan was stunned. She understood what empress Yide meant. Empress Yide gave her a chance, a wonderful opportunity. It''s true that she was very unwilling to leave Chiang''s house and give Xia Yan three more years. But if she could go to the royal temple with empress Yide, her status would be different. Tonight, she just saved the eldest daughter of Jiang''s family who was the Empress Dowager of Yide. Although she was kind to the empress dowager, it was nothing. If she was rewarded afterwards, people would gradually forget about it. But if I had been with the Empress Dowager for three years, everyone would look at her with new eyes. When you see Jiang Ruan, you will subconsciously think that this is the person in front of the Empress Dowager. The reward of empress Yide is very generous. Even if she wants revenge, she can''t help but be moved. Three years, enough to happen too many things, Xia Yan may be able to regain power, but with empress Yide, she can also make empress Yide inseparable from herself. What you get, you lose. Jiang Xinzhi has just entered the imperial court, and his foundation is not stable. If he can get the support of the Empress Dowager. She raised her head and looked at the Empress Dowager Yide. She slowly raised a smile: "thank you for the grace of the Empress Dowager Three years is three years. The most painful thing in the world is not to lose it before you get it. It''s clear that you can''t help but watch it hold in your hand and be taken away by others. The higher you climb, the heavier you fall. She gave those people three years to climb to the height where they could fall to death, and then three years later, they broke into pieces. The Empress Dowager Yide smiles with satisfaction, and her red lips spit out two words: "very good." When Guan Lianghan told Jiang Xinzhi about the emperor''s plan, he saw Jiang Xinzhi frowning tightly. Guan Lianghan couldn''t stand his bleak appearance, so he patted him on the shoulder: "a real man should go on the stage to kill the enemy. Are you afraid of death because you are so talkative?" Jiang Xinzhi said angrily, "I''m not afraid of death, just..." He swallowed the following words. Guan Lianghan looked at him clearly: "I don''t want your sister. Brother and sister, what do you mean that your sister is more important than your daughter? Besides, to tell you the truth, your sister is not an easy loser. I''m afraid it''s just that other people haven''t been calculated by her. " Jiang Xinzhi quietly opened the distance from Guan Lianghan: "it''s a family affair of Jiang, and it doesn''t bother the general." Once talking about Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi, Guan Lianghan became very angry and said, "then you''ll make trouble for yourself. As soon as the emperor''s edict comes down, you have to go, unless you want to resist the edict, but even for your sister''s sake, you won''t resist the edict." Then he walked away. Jiang Xinzhi stood in the same place and his heart was in a mess for a moment. Naturally, he knew that this time was a great opportunity. In the battlefield, it was a place to show his fists. If he lost, he would not be able to win. If he won, he would be proud. He was not afraid of death, nor did he pursue glory and wealth, but if he wanted to get better protection for Jiang Ruan, he could only climb higher step by step. In this palace banquet, he saw clearly that even though Jiang Ruan zaohui was in Jiang''s house, it was too dangerous. Jiang Quan can push Jiang Ruan out anytime and anywhere. If it had not been for Empress Dowager Yide''s words last night, Jiang Ruan might even have married the eighth prince. If he had more power, he would not be allowed to influence Jiang Ruan''s future so easily. Thinking of this, he strengthened his will to attack Tianjin. But the thought that Jiang Ruan would live alone in Jiang''s house for three years worried him again. Thinking in this way, I felt a little somber. When he came out of Guanfu, Jiang Xinzhi planned to go back to Jiangfu first, and discussed the matter with Jiang Ruan after he returned. As soon as I got to the gate of Guan''s house, I heard a timid female voice saying, "Mr. Jiang." One of Jiang Xin was stunned. He followed his voice and saw that he was a pretty girl, followed by two servant girls. Look at what kind of lady you are. He felt familiar. For a moment, he was confused. Seeing that Jiang Xinzhi was staring at her, the girl hesitated for a moment, stepped forward and said, "last night, my Lord saved my life, my daughter I''d like to say thank you in person. " As soon as Jiang Xinzhi frowned, he remembered that he did pull up the girl last night, but he saved too many people. At that time, it was chaotic, so I don''t remember. The girl saw Jiang Xinzhi as if she didn''t remember her appearance, and a trace of loss flashed in her eyes. A moment later, he said with a smile, "my father is Jing Zhaoyin. I want to invite you to express my gratitude." But Jiang Xinzhi smiles. Today, when others enter the court, they see a tendency to climb up step by step again. Many court officials are ready to move. After a short wait-and-see yesterday, I''m afraid they have moved their minds. Is that what you want to do? Although Jiang Xinzhi was a military general, he was born in a family of literati and ministers. He did not know nothing about the cliques in the imperial court, and he also knew how to protect himself. Now his foundation is not stable, and the seizing of the right between the princes in the court is very fierce. Naturally, he will not be so stupid as to get involved in it.With such an unconscious smile, Dong Ying''er''s face was hot. Jiang Xinzhi said politely, "but you don''t have to remember what you do. There are still some things to do next time. Let''s go ahead. " After that, he left in a hurry without waiting for Dong Yinger to answer. Dong Ying''er was stunned at first, and the sentence "sister Ruan and I are also good friends" was still stuck in her throat. At the age of 14, she was so impressed by a man''s style for the first time. Last night was so chaotic that she felt at ease for the first time in the arms of this beautiful young general. When Dong Ying''er heard that he was Jiang Ruan''s elder brother, she didn''t know how happy she was. Even today, he sneaked out and learned that he was in Guanfu. He stayed at the door to see him. He abandoned the woman''s self-esteem, but Jiang Xinzhi didn''t seem to notice it at all. Dong Ying''er murmured: "does he hate me?" "Girl, how could vice general Jiang hate such a nice person?" The servant girl comforted him: "there must be something really important. Don''t be sad, girl." Dong Ying''er looks at the figure disappearing, and a trace of sadness flashed in her eyes. Jiang Ruan, the eldest daughter of the Jiang family, saved the Empress Dowager''s life by blocking the sword at the Palace Banquet, which spread all over the capital that night. Everyone knows that empress dowager Yide, who has always been cold and Su, personally brought Jiang Ruan back to the palace of CI Ning and called the imperial doctor for treatment. Everyone said that the eldest daughter of the Chiang family was a blessing in disguise and saved the Empress Dowager''s life. She would be her benefactor in the future. Others scoff that Jiang Ruan is just using his own life to gain a bright future. However, it is an indisputable fact that Jiang Ruan got the green eye of Empress Dowager Yide. And the next day there was another shocking news. The Empress Dowager Yide was about to leave for the ancestral temple beside the imperial mausoleum to pray. Three years later, she went back to the palace and issued a decree to accompany her eldest daughter of the Jiang family. This is more surprising than last night''s news, not to mention the daughter of a minister, even the granddaughter of empress Yide has no such treatment. Everyone said that Jiang ruanbi was favored by Empress Dowager Yide. Now the eldest daughter of the Jiang family, who had never been much favored, did not know what good luck she had taken. One after another, it is said that on the second day, Zhao Guang, the Assistant General of the State Council, went to court in person and made a compromise, which shows that Jiang Ruan is the flesh and blood of the Zhao family. At the beginning, the Zhao family was cruel and broke off the relationship with Zhao Mei, but now they don''t want anything else. Just ask the emperor to give a favor, in the future Jiang Ruan''s marriage can let Jiang Ruan make his own decisions. The great general of the auxiliary state devoted his whole life to the country and the people, and he did not ask for anything. In front of all the civil and military officials, the emperor could not refuse this simple request. So with a big hand: accurate. Jiang Ruan is famous. Forsythia and Angelica dahurica to meet Jiang Ruan back to the house, all the way is the envy of the eyes. Angelica dahurica worried: "girl can hurt where? The maidservants are very worried, but they can''t stay in the palace. They don''t know what to do. " "Nothing, just a small injury." Jiang Ruan waved his hand: "what''s going on in the mansion now?" Forsythia said: "after coming back that night, the master and his wife went to the study. They didn''t know what to say. The two girls were shocked. They went to the doctor and wrote a tranquilizing prescription and went to sleep. The second young master was very angry when he heard that the first young master was awarded a reward. He went out to drink There was a mockery in her tone: "I was carried back drunk the next day." Jiang Ruan nodded: "where''s the fourth sister?" "Miss four..." Forsythia said mysteriously: "the man from doctor Zuo''s family has been here several times. He seems to be a good man. He must be responsible to the fourth lady. He said that he would come to marry Gengtai in a few days, but..." Jiang Ruan picked her eyebrows and waited for her to go on. Sure enough, forsythia said: "after the third lady knew this, she went to the second aunt without saying anything. The second aunt went to see the master again. After looking back, the master called the fourth young lady into the study and said something for a while. When the fourth young lady came out, she looked pale. Later, Dewdrop went to inquire about it. Guess what, girl Jiang Ruan smile: "three younger sister think Li daitaojiang?" "How does the girl know?" Forsythia surprised, continued: "it''s not, I heard that the second aunt didn''t know what to say with the master, the master changed his mind, this is the fourth Miss Geng tie sent to the past, now decided to change to the third miss." "Is doctor Zuo willing to do so?" Jiang Ruan leaned against the cushion on the carriage seat and drank tea without hesitation. "Doctor Zuo doesn''t know about it. Listen to the second aunt''s idea. As long as you marry and worship the hall, doctor Zuo has nothing to do. When the time comes, the master will have a talk with doctor Zuo himself, and the matter will come to an end. " Dahurian angelica also sighed: "four young ladies also really too pitiful some." Jiang Ruan Dao didn''t think Jiang Dan was pitiful. Since she had such a plan last night, she had already made plans. But I didn''t expect that everything was made for her. As a common daughter, Jiang Li is not willing to marry as well as Jiang Dan. Jiang Li and Jiang Dan, Jiang Quan must be more inclined to Jiang Li. I don''t know what the second aunt said to Jiang Quan. It must be Xiao Yi''s interests that made Jiang Quan make this decision. Forsythia also said: "it''s not kind of the third lady to rob the fourth lady''s marriage, but the family of doctor Zuo is very good. It''s bound to be much better than the fourth lady in the future. Although the fourth young lady was comforted by the master, she was afraid that it was not the taste. "Jiang Ruan shook his head: "wrong, Jiang Li will not be better than Jiang Dan." Angelica dahurica doubt: "girl how to say this." "See, in a few years, you''ll see." Who is Jiang Dan? Jiang Dan is not the one who has been wronged and swallowed it silently. It would be a big mistake for Jiang Quan to think that he can handle Jiang Dan at will. It is undeniable that Jiang Li has buried the shadow of hatred in Jiang Dan''s heart. Such a poisonous snake dormant in the dark, once it has the opportunity, it will not hesitate to use the venom to kill all the enemies, and there will be no room for others. Jiang Li, I''m afraid some of them are worn out. The carriage was purring and stopped suddenly. Forsythia a Zheng, subconsciously to lift the carriage curtain: "what''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan tilted his head and looked at the corner of his black dress through the gap of the curtain. After a little thought, he said to the coachman, "let the coachman go down first." Here just to a lane, no one around, angelica some worry, Jiang Ruan has jumped out of the carriage. Sure enough, when I got out of the car, I saw the black figure in front of her. It was cold and elegant, and the dark lane seemed to shine because of him. She motioned to Angelica dahurica and forsythia to stay in the carriage and walk to Xiao Shao. When he came to Xiao Shao, he said, "Lord Xiao." Xiao Shao looked down at her, thought about it, and asked, "do you want to go to the ancestral temple with the Empress Dowager?" Jiang Ruan nodded: "yes. I''m lucky to be able to travel with the Empress Dowager. " After a pause, she looked at Xiao Shao: "on the day of the Palace Banquet, thank you for your help." "If you want to get hurt, I can only let sword Qi hurt you a little. I''m sorry to hurt you anyway." Xiao Shao said seriously. Jiang Ruan was stunned. He saw that she was taking the initiative to meet the sword, and his heart was a little complicated. But she said with a smile: "Ruan Niang is different from Lord Xiao. What Ruan Niang wants is nothing but her own calculation. If I don''t block that sword, I can''t get what I want. " "Have you got what you want?" Xiao Shao asked. Jiang Ruan looked at the distance: "soon." Xiao Shao''s beautiful eyes flashed with emotion. She pursed her lips and took out something from her arms and handed it to Jiang Ruan. It''s a delicate and small dagger with a good emerald cat''s-eye stone on it. It''s not ordinary at first sight. Jiang Ruan had seen the dagger Xiao Shao never left. She was stunned: "Mr. Xiao, is this "The temple is not infallible," Xiao Shao said faintly, "it can help you." He said, "I''ll go to miaojiang again. On the day I left, I can''t say goodbye to you." Jiang Ruan was surprised. He was so strange that he even mentioned leaving. The dagger fell on her hand like a heavy pressure on her heart. Jiang Ruan shook his head: "this thing is of great significance to Lord Xiao. I''m sorry I can''t take it." "Birthday present." Xiao shaodao. "Yes?" Jiang Ruan was stunned again. Xiao Shao explained: "this dagger is your birthday gift." After that, he said, "what Xiao sent out doesn''t make sense to take back." After that, he fixed his eyes on the dagger. He swore that he would never take it back. Jiang Ruan''s heart broke into laughter, and Xiao Shaoping looked cold and clear in the day, but he was so childish at this time. It''s amazing. She looked at the person in front of her. She was beautiful in black, high-quality, a beautiful face, cold and elegant, with a kind of abstinence. However, her eyes were dark and deep, as bright as the night sky. Now she was seriously staring at her, which was somewhat stubborn. Such a person ah, she was staring at the stars some cheeks hot. Then he came back to himself and scolded himself secretly. Now she is just a little girl. In Xiao Shao''s eyes, she is not even a woman. What can she be shy about. "Thank you, Mr. Xiao." She said. Xiao Shao''s eyes fell on Jiang Ruan''s wrist and suddenly said, "it''s very suitable for you." The blood moon bracelet on Jiang Ruan''s hand emits a faint blue light. By Xiao Shao''s eyes, Jiang Ruan put down his hand and covered his wrist with long sleeves. In her heart, she was annoyed. Why is it so abnormal today? I think it''s because she''s leaving the capital, and this ally has helped her many times. That''s a little strange. She said a few more words to Xiao Shao and got on the carriage in a hurry. The carriage purred out of the lane. The young man in black stood still in the lane, walking freely and gracefully among the beautiful bones and green pines. He lightly watched the carriage go away, and then turned to leave. In the carriage, Jiang Ruan was deep in thought. Three years after her last life, what was she like? Chiang''s house is a world shaking place. As soon as Xia Yan thinks of Jiang Ruan going to the ancestral temple with empress Yide, his heart is like a knife. Why does such a thing fall on that little bitch of Jiang Ruan! Jiang Su Su looks pale these days. All Xuanli''s words on the night of the Palace Banquet poked into her heart. The man who was so rich and handsome was actually Jiang Ruan, and she was unwilling. At the moment, hearing the news that Jiang Ruan was going to leave, he sneered: "well, it''s better to die in the ancestral temple." She looked at Xia Yan: "Niang, I want to go to the temple.""Are you confused?" Xia Yan was surprised: "what temple to go to? Do you know if you go to the temple, you will be ruined all your life? " But Jiang Su Su was not as excited as usual. His pale face was very calm: "mother, I''ve already thought about it. I''m going to the temple. I''ve asked my father, and he agreed "Su Su, what happened?" Xia Yan panicked and said that Jiang Su Su''s appearance made her more uneasy. "It''s nothing," Jiang Su Su Su said, turning his head away. "I''m just tired of the life in the mansion. It''s better to go to the family temple, calm down, isn''t Jiang Ruan also going to the Royal ancestral temple? Why can''t I go? Isn''t it because I want to get a good reputation? In three years, I can do the same Xia Yan had to persuade him again. Jiang Su Su had already said, "my mother doesn''t need to say more. I''ve made up my mind. I''ll start in a few days." Jiang Ruan wanted to go with the Empress Dowager to the family temple. Naturally, there was more than one person in Jiang''s family who was jealous. It is unnecessary for Jiang Li to say that although she has been married by a doctor, she is envious to think that Jiang Ruan can get involved with the royal family. In Jiang Dan''s Hospital, Jiang Dan was lying in bed. The servant girl said with tears: "girl, at least eat something. If you go on like this, you will break down. " "I''m just not reconciled." Jiang Dan hoarse voice: "I Jiji camp, but in exchange for such an end. Jiang Li took my marriage, and Jiang Su Su was protected by her father. Even Jiang Ruan, I thought she might not be much better than me, but now she has boundless scenery. What have I got? " Her eyes were cold for a moment, and she said in a low voice, "I''m just not reconciled. One day, I''ll be better than all of them. I want all of them to look up to me. " If we say that the happiest people in Chiang''s mansion are the old man Chiang. Jiang Ruan''s family name is Jiang. No matter what other people think, when they talk about Jiang Ruan, they know that she is the girl from Jiang''s family. The emperor''s favor to Jiang Ruan was the emperor''s favor to Jiang Fu. Thinking of this, I feel more and more that Jiang and Ruan are amiable. At this time, Jiang Xinzhi was talking with Jiang Ruan in Ruan Ju. Jiang Ruan knew that he was about to go to Tianjin. In the last world, the war between Tianjin state and Dajin Dynasty lasted for five years, but there was no Jiang Xinzhi at that time. Now that the old story repeats itself, she naturally knows that Dajin Dynasty won the battle in the end, but it was also a tragic victory. The state of Tian Jin has an extremely powerful military division. With this treacherous weapon, Leng almost makes the Jin Dynasty suffer a loss. In fact, Jiang Xinzhi has made up his mind, but he is a little worried about Jiang Ruan. Unexpectedly, as soon as he returns to the government, he learns that empress Yide is going to take Jiang Ruan away. A big stone fell in my heart. It was safer to follow empress Yide than to stay in Chiang''s house. However, he was also suspicious and said, "I don''t know why the Empress Dowager came to you, but being with you is like being with a tiger, so is the Empress Dowager. Ruan, you should act according to the circumstances and never let yourself suffer losses. " "Brother, don''t worry about me. I have my own opinion," he said with a smile She knew that Jiang Xinzhi''s expedition was for her. If he didn''t want to protect her better, why did Jiang Xinzhi lead a bloody life. I think that the gentle young master of Wen Chen''s family in the last life used to hold a pen with a sword in his hand. The white robes were changed into armor. She said, "thank you, big brother." Jiang Xinzhi touched her head and said nothing. On the day when the Empress Dowager left Beijing, there were 36 soft sedans, 900 elite guards, and 85 sets of damask emeralds. All the way is magnificent. The emperor stood at the top of the high palace wall and watched the procession go away. Jiang Xin''s eyes refused to give up. Jiang Ruan slipped the paper into Jiang Xin''s waist. Jiang Xin was stunned. Jiang Ruan smiles and whispers: "one of them is for elder brother and the other is for master huijue in Beijing. Take care, big brother. " It was something she had spent the whole night writing silently. Last time I was in the palace, I had heard about the war between the state of Tian Jin and the great Jin Dynasty. Some of the battles were particularly dangerous, so they were described in detail by the people in the palace. She searched for the information in her mind and wrote all the battles she could remember on paper to Jiang Xinzhi. Will Jiang Xinzhi doubt that she doesn''t want to think about it any more? She just wants to keep Jiang Xinzhi safe. Now she just wanted to remember more clearly, and regretted that she had not listened more in her last life, so that Jiang Xinzhi would have more chance to save his life. As for master huijue''s share, it''s just for the sake of three years away from Beijing, and some things have to be carried out as usual. One of Jiang Xin''s smiles: "a Ruan, take care." Turn around and leave. Dewdrop lifted the curtain of the carriage, looked outside and said, "it''s really angry. It''s just that the girl Fang is going to leave soon after she enters Beijing. I think it''s a little sad." "I''m not sad." Jiang Ruan smiles. It seems that you can still see Jiang Xinzhi''s flying robe outside. In the three years when she turned to the strange one she had never seen in her last life, the young general would step into the battlefield and fight on the battlefield to win his unique pride and dignity. Elder brother, I''d like to say goodbye. I hope I''ll stay for another three years. You and I are both good friends. They turned around, and neither turned back. Many years later, when the great Jin Dynasty became a prosperous river painting, this scene was talked about by many people. This legendary two brothers and sisters, the parting at the gate of the city, became the real starting point of their brilliant life.With a long hiss of the horse''s hoof, the sunrise spurted out and dyed most of the Jin Dynasty''s sky red. There were brilliant clouds in the sky. They threw themselves to the elite soldiers with high morale. They raised their chariots and watched the team go away with warmth and gentleness. In three years'' time, Ruan Mei will come back with great beauty and fierce means. Please look forward to it ~ by the way, thank you for your kindness, but the three-point evaluation vote will really lower the score ~ because you don''t need tea www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 104 In spring, apricot blossoms are all over the head. Under the tree, there is a bluestone table with a cup of fragrant tea on the table. Inside the Jade Butterfly is a delicate lotus cake. Breeze blowing, bursts of rain and flowers, falling in profusion, square fell on a person under the tree. At the Royal ancestral temple, the man, dressed in a black dress, looked down at the chess pieces on the table. He was playing chess with himself, black in one hand and white in the other. Because I can''t see my face clearly when I look down, I just look at the plain clothes. My lower body is slim and graceful. I can''t hold my waist. I have long legs and thin waist. My chest is beautiful. It''s a pleasure to look at it from a distance. A girl dressed as a servant girl trotted over from a distance. Her smile was sweet and lovely. She called from a distance: "girl, girl." Dai Yi girl eyebrows slightly move, standing on both sides of the two slightly older maid stare at the girl who trotted over: "dew, how can you be so bold, quiet, disturb the girl playing chess." Dewdrop spits out her tongue. Compared with the innocent little girl three years ago, she is a little longer now and more pleasant and smart. She slowed down and went to daiyi girl: "I''m too happy. Everything has been packed. The Empress Dowager has already ordered me to leave early tomorrow morning." The girl in Dai''s clothes had finished her last son. She raised her face and showed a face that was not as beautiful as the world could have. Even in the temple wearing plain clothes, also Leng is a kind of irresistible gorgeous. The small face, which used to be a little childish, is now thin and looks even bigger. A pair of eyes are crystal clear and moist, like a flowing spring and a transparent amber gem. The redder the lips and the whiter the teeth are, the looser the hair is, and there is also a kind of lazy charm. Forsythia is a stay, their own girls have been born well, these few years, more beautiful than words, even they are close to the servant girl sometimes look lost. I don''t know what kind of sensation it will cause in Beijing. If you think about it in this way, you will feel uneasy. Excessive beauty is not a good thing, especially the inability to protect beauty. However, the Empress Dowager Yide was protecting her, and there was nothing wrong with her. "It''s been three years," he said with a smile Time is fleeting. In the past three years, she followed the Empress Dowager to chant sutras and meditate in vegetarian clothes. She accompanies the Empress Dowager every day. Because of her excellent patience, she is not as impatient as an ordinary girl when she listens to the master chanting scriptures, which is quite popular with empress dowager Yide. Over the past three years, little by little, she has infiltrated into the life of empress Yide, quietly courting her and slowly letting her accept that she is not princess Yuanrong, but also making her feel like treating her daughter. Ten days ago, Empress Dowager Yide personally presided over her hairpin ceremony and asked people to send a letter to Beijing asking for her title of princess. The Emperor allowed her to be named Princess Hong''an. Tomorrow, I will leave for Beijing. When I return to the palace, everyone will know that the new princess of Dajin Dynasty, her identity will be different from the past. In the past few years, I have been raised by Empress Yide, but I have never deliberately inquired about the outside news. There was no letter from the Chiang family. Sometimes empress Yide asked her to listen to the news from the frontier battlefield between Tianjin and Dajin. It is gratifying that in the past three years, Jiang Xinzhi has repeatedly broken the war situation, made great achievements, fought side by side with Guan Lianghan, and even did not lose Guan Lianghan''s bravery. In addition, every time when the enemy has a surprise attack, he can always start first. Another god of war of the great Jin Dynasty falls on Jiang Xinzhi. Then the war had not been completely settled, and Jiang Xinzhi could not return to Beijing for the time being. So the legend became more and more popular. Empress Dowager Yide was lying on the couch, smiling faintly: "girl Ruan, you have a capable brother." Jiang Ruan nodded, and a layer of pride floated in his heart. For the past three years, she has settled down with the life of listening to Zen and chanting Sutras in the ancestral temple, and has no idea of what happened outside. In Empress Dowager Yide''s eyes, she is like an ordinary boudoir girl. She has never been different. But Jiang Ruan knew that those hatred had never been removed from her heart. She knelt down in front of the Buddha''s golden body, looking devout, but cursing in her heart. She smiles at the little Sami of Sasa, thinking about how to destroy all those people step by step. Every night, she leans on the head of the bed, and the scenes of her last life pass by. The more indignant she is, the more gentle her expression is. She''s doing evil things at the feet of Buddha, so what? The journey back to Beijing is about to start. I wonder if those people are ready to go to hell? With a faint smile, Jiang Ruan looked at the chessboard under the apricot tree. He saw that the white man had run out of sunspots and seemed to be in a mess. However, he was in a dilemma. The white man had no way back, and the black man was killed step by step. She gently flicked the chessboard, wide sleeve after, chessboard pieces rolling, win or lose back. Everything is just beginning. In the 11th year of Xuande, empress Yide returned to Beijing. The capital is very busy on this day. There are many people in teahouses and restaurants who talk about it. Empress Yide left Beijing three years ago and returned to Beijing today. It is said that the emperor welcomed her with all the civil and military officials, which is unprecedented. The ordinary people in Pingtou can''t see this grand occasion any more, so they have to think about it in their heart. As if I could see it with my own eyes. It happened to be a fine day again. The spring day came earlier than usual. In the morning, the sun seemed to know that today was a big day. It was even brighter than yesterday.In Jiang''s mansion, Xia Yan was gently arranging Jiang Quan''s official clothes. She said with a smile, "I''ve made the small kitchen the sweet scented osmanthus chicken that the master likes to eat today." Jiang Quan frowned slightly: "you don''t need to do these trifles. Just give them to your servants." His vision falls on the abdomen of Xia Yan: "you are good to raise the body." Xia Yan''s eyebrows suddenly flashed a ray of joy: "speaking, I haven''t arranged a room for my master these days, and I''m a clever girl around me..." "No need," Jiang Quan waved his hand. "There are also red tassels. I''ll go first. Your majesty has a metaphor today. Don''t delay the time." Then he buttoned the top two buttons of the neckline and went out in a hurry. After Jiang Quan went out, the smile on Xia Yan''s face suddenly disappeared. He thought it was a good thing to be pregnant, but he gave Hongying the opportunity to take advantage of it. Jiang Quan hasn''t been in her yard for a long time, so she has to give everything to Hongying. Now, she can''t even put Linlang in the past. She sat down in despair. Seeing this, she handed over a cup of jujube honey: "madam, don''t be angry with the master. Be careful to hurt the young master." "Mammy, I''m not willful," Xia Yan said with a trace of sadness: "he only knows that today is the day when the Empress Dowager returns to the palace, but he doesn''t know that today is also the day when su''er returns to the palace. Su''er has been in the temple for three years. I haven''t seen her for three years. But you see, he didn''t even ask today. Is there still su''er in his heart? " Xia Yan''s tone was so sad that mammy Li quickly said, "madam, don''t say any more of these words. If you are heard by that one, I''m afraid you''ll be gossiping in front of the master." "That one" naturally refers to the fifth aunt Hongying. In recent years, Hongying''s position in Jiang''s mansion has become more and more stable, and she can almost compete with Xia Yan. Although mother Li said this, Xia Yan was angry at the moment. He only said angrily, "bah, it''s just the girl who came out of the kiln. It''s not all by seducing men. She can''t get on the stage!" If someone passes by at this moment, he will be surprised. Xia Yan, who has always been famous as a talented woman in the capital, is full of such words, just like a shrew in the countryside. Seeing that Xia Yan was like this, Mammy Li quickly comforted her and said, "why do you have to worry with that starter? No matter how much you are favored, you can''t have a child. It''s not for your wife to handle it. Men are all fresh. The master was just confused by the fox for a moment. When she was old and had no children, she would not come to a good end. When his wife gave birth to a young master for him, the master naturally knew that only his wife really treated him. The lady has a young master by her side. What are you afraid of Xia Yan slowly calmed down and sighed: "you''re right, that bitch is just a chicken that can''t lay eggs. It''s not enough to be afraid. Now chao''er has gradually improved. In the future, he can also help me with this in my stomach. " Jiang Chao is now working under Xuanli to manage the business of shops in Beijing. It''s a big job, and it''s definitely a small job. In recent years, Jiang Chao worked hard, and he did a good job, which was appreciated by Xuanli. In the past three years, Jiang Quan, who had been disappointed with Jiang Chao, gradually changed his attitude towards his son. If Xia Yan''s biggest worry is Jiang Su Su. Jiang Su Su never answered the letter she sent to her, but she was told by a brief trustee that she was very good. Even I don''t want to see Xia Yan. At the end of three years, Jiang Su Su returned to Beijing today. Xia Yan was very happy, but he didn''t want to be so upset by Jiang Quan. She slowly stroked her abdomen. After three months, the fetus was stable. The doctor came to see it and said it was likely to be a male fetus. If she is really a boy, it means that she can have the upper hand in the confrontation with Hongying. Xia Yan looked down at his stomach and said, "my son, you must be safe." The Empress Dowager Yide returned to Beijing. In front of the palace, elite soldiers came forward, and the emperor led a hundred civil and military officials to greet her. A long line came from afar. The palace was magnificent in the sun, and the purple chariot was inlaid with gold wire, shining in the sun. The procession began leisurely, with civil servants on the left and military officers on the right. They were all long generals going down: "welcome the Empress Dowager back to Beijing." Hua Nian stops in front of the palace gate. The maid in exquisite clothes comes forward and lifts the bead curtain on Hua Nian. Empress Yide is dressed in a golden court dress, and the enamel bottom is inlaid with Turquoise gold buttons. She was helped out, a light glance at the people, only one eye, it makes people feel irresistible pressure. Behind the chariot was a soft sedan chair in the color of Begonia. The sedan chair was just as magnificent, and it sent out the fragrance of something or nothing. I don''t know why, everyone unconsciously looked at the sedan chair curiously, as if expecting someone to come out. The sedan chair also stopped, and the action of stopping the sedan chair was very gentle, as if it scared the people in the sedan chair. Then, two green maids came over, both tall and pretty. One looked calm, the other fierce. They stood on both sides of the soft sedan chair and reached out to help the people in the sedan chair. A jade hand stretched out. The hands looked white and clear, and there was nothing special about it. However, a bracelet with faint blue light between the wrists reflected the white hands very beautiful, soft as boneless, which made people feel numb for no reason.The maid on the left side opened the whole curtain, and the people inside bent down and walked down. At the moment, there was a breeze, and people subconsciously narrowed their eyes slightly. When you open your eyes again, you will see a hundred Li guard of honor. Before a thousand elite soldiers, you will be dressed in red from a distance. It''s a wonderful thing that we don''t have in the world. She was dressed in a red flowing dark flower brocade Palace Dress, and a flower cloud satin skirt was worn by a hundred butterflies with Begonia color. A light and frivolous scarlet embroidered and engraved silk dress with auspicious grass, cloud wild goose and wide sleeve double silk satin is approved. Comb a hibiscus cloud bun, crow color hair in the back of the head, more and more skin than snow. However, that group of red as if the sky splashed, fell on the big Jin Dynasty of a cut Yanxia. The eyebrows are like spring water, the eyes are like peach blossoms, and the lips are ruddy like cherry. The eyebrows and eyes are actually the beautiful women painted for thousands of years. If you don''t see the immortal spirit, you will fall into the charm of this land. She came slowly from afar, and her flaming red train fluttered behind her. As she came closer, she found that the woman''s makeup was exquisite and gorgeous, and her eyes were sprinkled with gold powder, which made her beautiful. That eye tail if have if have no of upward a Yang, the lip cape is smiling, the hands overlap in front of the body, dignified and charming, cool and charming. The evil girl of the evil country. There''s an idea in everyone''s head at the same time. Such a woman is worthy of the word "evil woman of the country". The eunuch dragged his voice and said: "welcome Princess Hong''an back to Beijing -" Princess Hong''an, everyone was moved. No one can forget that three years ago, the eldest daughter of the Chiang family saved empress Yide by blocking the sword. Empress Yide specially rewarded her and took her to the ancestral temple to accompany her. Not long ago, the emperor officially granted her the title of Princess Hong''an. Everyone knows that empress Yide doesn''t treat Princess Hong''an as usual. Now I saw with my own eyes that Princess Hong''an was born so beautiful that she was the first beauty in the world. Even the emperor could not help but squint his eyes. There was no need to talk about Jiang Quan in the crowd. When he saw the woman''s eyebrows, he knew it was Jiang Ruan. The body unexpectedly is can''t help but some tremble. He always knew Jiang ruansheng''s beauty and inherited Zhao Mei''s looks, but he didn''t know that his daughter would grow up like a young Phoenix, with her young feathers fading away and her whole body full of grace. This kind of beauty is enough to shake a man, but what she will bring to Chiang''s house is not necessarily glory. Xuanli, the eighth prince, stares at the gorgeous girl from afar. If he only controlled and used Jiang Ruan three years ago, now he can see that there is a kind of potential besides surprise. There are so many beautiful women in this world, but there are not many smart women. Smart women and beautiful women are unique in this world. Xuanli''s heart moved slightly. This woman is enough to match and stand beside him. In the future, he will be king, and she will be queen! Xuanhua, the fifth prince, is also in front of his eyes. The prince doesn''t have to say anything. There is a flash of surprise in his eyes. Even xuanlang, the fourth prince, can''t help showing a trace of admiration at the moment. Gu Xiuwen, the commander-in-chief, frowned. Long ago, he learned from Mrs. Gu that Gu Yi loved the eldest daughter of the Chiang family. At first, he thought that the Chiang family was high in the end. The important thing was that Jiang Ruan was not valued by Jiang Quan. Later, Jiang Xin rose step by step, Zhao Guang also admitted his granddaughter, and Jiang Ruan himself was granted the title of Princess Hong''an. He thought it was a good match. Today, seeing the girl''s outstanding appearance, he was worried. I''m afraid this kind of beauty will bring disaster. Princess Heyi nestles next to Shufei. She feels a little bit hostile when she sees the girl. She thinks that in the capital of Dajin Dynasty, her appearance is already flourishing. Who knows, when the girl in red appears, she looks like moonlight and fireflies. Her appearance is like a joke. When I heard the name of Princess Hong''an again, I clenched her fists and flashed a trace of resentment on her face. Three years ago, Xiao Shao''s words were always a thorn to Princess Heyi. She wanted to find a way to hurt Jiang Ruan, at least to make her life worse than death. Unexpectedly, with the Empress Dowager''s Yizhi, Jiang Ruan left and went to the royal temple, but she escaped. Ten days ago, when she heard that Jiang Ruan was going to return to Beijing, she was shocked. She thought about all the ways to harm others. But today, when she saw Jiang Ruan''s appearance, she felt as if she was going to turn the river into the sea. Foxy! Think to come, she is to use the face of this enchantress, bewitch the person like Xiao Shao! Jiang Ruan moved forward with a smile. His eyes had already swept around in front of him, and everyone had a panoramic view. Chen Guifei looked at her with a smile, as if she had not been affected by her expression. But Jiang Ruan knew what that smile meant: I''ve been waiting for you for a long time. She has been waiting for this moment for a long time. When her eyes fell on master huijue, who was not far away from the emperor, she gave another smile. Huijue is still as kind as he remembers, but he is more peaceful and stable than he was three years ago. At first glance, he looks like a Buddha worshipped in a temple. When Jiang Ruan left three years ago, he asked Jiang Xinzhi to bring master huijue a piece of paper, which detailed the major events that might happen in Beijing in the past three years. Huijue is clever and knows how to wait for the opportunity. With this piece of paper, it''s like adding wings to a tiger. According to the guidelines on the paper, huijue accidentally reveals the secrets of heaven, and finally gets the attention of the ninth five in the palace. It took huijue three years to climb to the position of national teacher. This piece of chess has finally come to the position that it should go.Her eyes once again swept over another familiar figure beside the emperor. The young man stood upright and had a kind of aloofness. Jiang Ruan noticed that his clothes had become authentic court clothes. Step by step, she walked forward with a deeper smile. Finally, Liu Min became the imperial master of the Dynasty and worshipped Yipin. Everything is very good, even if not in Beijing for three years, the chess game is still walking slowly. She went to the emperor and bowed down: "my son, please see my father." The Empress Dowager has recognized her as a righteous granddaughter, which means that she does not have to worry about being sent to the palace one day, becoming an emperor''s woman, and stepping into the same fate in the last life. Empress Yide did this just for her sake. Seeing that her appearance was becoming more and more beautiful day by day, and knowing that Jiang Ruan Zhi was not here, she simply asked for an invitation, which completely cut off the possibility of Jiang Ruan entering the palace. In this way, some people are secretly happy and others are disappointed. "Flat." Emperor light way. Jiang Ruan stood up. Yu Guang looked around and saw that there was no Xiao Shao. He was puzzled. According to common sense, Xiao Shao''s identity, he would attend today. Now there is no trace of Xiao Shao everywhere. She can''t help thinking of the sentence Xiao Shao said before she left: "I want to go into the Miao frontier again." Since ancient times, there have been many dangerous places in the Miao area. Is there any accident. Think of this, eyebrow is involuntarily frown up. After thinking about it, he denied this conjecture in his heart. In the last life, Xiao Shao did not live only to this time, but he thought that nothing would happen. She immerses herself in her own meditation and looks up at her smiling eyes. It is Xuanli. Xuanli looked at her, his eyes were very gentle, he was white, and he really was a childe like jade. I haven''t seen him for three years, and he looks more mature than he did three years ago, just like a smoother polished ancient jade, attracting more attention. However, she had already learned the true face of this man. Jiang Ruan light smile, turned his head, eyes do not cover disgust. Xuanli was stunned. Three years ago, he thought that Jiang Ruan only hated her because of Jiang Su Su. Today, three years later, he clearly realized that Jiang Ruan didn''t hate him because of Jiang Su Su Su. Jiang Ruan was from the bottom of his heart and seemed to have a natural aversion to him. He thought he didn''t do anything to dislike Jiang Ruan, but Jiang Ruan showed alienation and disgust every time he saw him. Xuanli frowned, thought about it, and then laughed again. Even so, he was confident that Jiang Ruan would give up his heart. How can the woman he likes escape easily. Then there was the same ceremony. After the complicated ceremony, Jiang Ruan accompanied empress Yide back to the palace. Three years later, the Empress Dowager Yide returned to the palace with some joy. The eunuchs in the palace are respectful when they see Jiang Ruan. Everyone knows that this princess Hong''an is now the red lady in front of empress Yide, the apple of General Zhao ''. Jiang Ruan spoke with the Empress Dowager for a while at the CI Ning palace. The Empress Dowager said that she was tired. She allowed Jiang Ruan to go out of the palace and return to Jiang''s house with some rewards. This is the Empress Dowager Yide supporting her. Jiang Ruan thanks with a smile and leaves the CI Ning palace. In the imperial garden, Princess Heyi pointed the cup in front of her with her slender fingers: "brother five, haven''t you thought about it yet?" The fifth Prince Xuanhua Junlang''s face was gloomy at the moment: "ten younger sister, are you allowed to use when you are the fifth brother?" "Why should brother Wu say that?" Heyi''s face burst into a smile, but it was as dazzling as a poisonous snake: "Princess Hong''an is not an ordinary person. If brother Wu can marry her, sooner or later, Jiang Xinzhi will lead one of the three armies. The old man Zhao Guang will also follow you, and the support of the Empress Dowager. Is brother Wu not moved?" Xuanhua''s eyes flashed slightly: "you said it very well, but it''s too risky." "Wealth is in danger," Princess Heyi said with a smile. "It doesn''t matter if brother five is afraid. I heard that brother eight and Xia Fu, Jiang Fu''s in laws, have always been good friends. I think the relationship with Jiang Fu is no different. Just now, my sister can see clearly. Starling looks at Princess Hong''an''s eyes. Tut Tut, I think that since Princess Hong''an has already reached her hairpin, Starling will come to propose marriage soon. At that time, Zhao Jiajun and Guan Jiajun are myna''s Xuanhua''s expression moved, and he said: "so what? At the beginning, Princess Hong''an refused to marry in front of the Palace Banquet, but now her father allowed her to choose her own son-in-law, so she would not choose Lao ba." "Brother five, you are so naive." Princess Heyi sighed: "since my sister has said such a way to my brother, my sister will tell my brother if he doesn''t agree. Five elder brothers are not willing, eight elder brothers are willing, isn''t that Hong an princess can only marry eight elder brothers? " "You threaten me?" Xuanhua was furious. "It''s just a reminder." Princess Heyi said with a smile: "if my mother''s wife doesn''t deal with her, I won''t really want to help him. That''s the worst way. I''m going to find five brothers. Five brothers, you can think clearly. That Hong an princess is a wonderful person, five elder brothers, you are not deficient Xuanhua''s charming face suddenly appeared in his mind, and his breath stagnated. Yes, he is a man. Seeing such a gorgeous beauty, it is false to say that he is not moved. What''s more, Jiang Ruan''s help behind him can not be underestimated. In the past three years, he and Xuan Li''s marriage has become more and more fierce. On the surface, the more courteous they are, the more they want to kill each other in private. If we have Jiang Xinzhi and the Zhao family, wouldn''t it be like a chip. There is also empress Yide''s view of Princess zhonghong''an, if she can win over her.Xuanhua sneered: "ten younger sister, don''t bluff my brother. What''s your purpose?" "Simple," Princess Heyi''s beautiful face became distorted for a moment: "I want that bitch to be ruined." Xuanhua was stunned, and then said angrily, "what do you mean, that is to be my imperial concubine, and how to be ruined?" "Brother five, don''t talk too much. Now if you rashly ask for a marriage, Princess Hong''an is in the limelight. How can Zhao family and Jiang Xinzhi be so willing? Besides, now the marriage affairs are in Jiang Ruan''s own hands. What if Jiang Ruan took the initiative to admire his five brothers and offered himself a pillow? At that time, in broad daylight, like Jiang Ruan himself, he had to cry and beg not to marry. The royal family will not tolerate such a shameless woman. Five elder brother this matter speaks again, is willing the wife''s position to hire, Zhao family and Jiang Xin''s difficult won''t be grateful to you? Five elder brothers already got the advantage, big Jin Dynasty also can know Hong an princess is not the surface of the peace, this is a win-win thing Xuanhua looked at Princess Heyi for a moment, then suddenly said with a smile: "it''s said that the most poisonous woman is popular. Now it''s the first time that I''ve seen ten younger sisters, who are also so well-informed." Princess Heyi sneered: "she should die." There are countless concubines in Xuanhua''s mansion, and they have a yard full of them. When Jiang Ruan entered the fifth Prince''s house, those women would not spare her. As soon as her reputation was destroyed, the Empress Dowager Yide would not treat her as warmly as before. The most despised woman in the Dajin Dynasty was the woman who suffered from cold and defeated virtue. She was always struggling in the future. Xuanhua is tired of playing with Jiang Ruan. It''s easy to deal with her again. "Deal." Xuanhua readily agreed: "I only want people and potential, it doesn''t matter how the process is. In the future, if ten younger sisters want to, I''m naturally happy to go with the flow." And Yi Princess smile: "so, thank five elder brothers." Jiang Ruan Fang followed the leading maid to the Royal Garden, and in front of them came two strange maids, who were not ordinary maids. After meeting Jiang Ruan, he gave a slight salute and said, "Miss Jiang, princess, please come and have a talk." That said, the tone was not respectful, and the eyes were looking. Jiang Ruan said nothing with a smile. The maid in charge of the way said: "two sisters, the maidservant is going to send Miss Jiang out of the palace. The Empress Dowager asked Miss Jiang to go back to Jiang''s house first." "The princess has an urgent matter to discuss with Miss Jiang. The princess is sincere. I don''t think Miss Jiang will give the princess a favor." One of the maids laughed. Is this forcing us to go? The maid who led the way also made trouble. She wanted to fight with Princess Yi in the palace on weekdays. The maid in waiting is also very taboo. The two maids looked at Jiang Ruan in their spare time, as if determined that Jiang Ruan did not dare to refuse. In fact, Princess Yi is domineering in the palace, and the emperor dotes on her, so all the people in the palace have to sell the same face as Princess Yi. Now that Jiang Ruan has just returned to the capital, he must not dare to offend the princess. Jiang Ruan looked at them with a smile. Without saying a word, he was not worried at all. After waiting for a while, Jiang Ruan''s posture didn''t change. One of the maids was a little upset and said, "is Miss Jiang going to embarrass the maids?" "Presumptuous!" Jiang Ruan suddenly tone a Su, facial expression no longer see, just smile, sweet gentle, cold way: "who give you so big courage, dare to shout to this princess?" The two maids were stunned. Before they could speak, they heard Jiang Ruan say: "my princess is your majesty. The Empress Dowager asked me to give her a name. When you two meet the princess, they call her Miss Jiang. How can you, as maidservants in the palace, never know the identity of the princess. Or, do you only know Princess Yi in your heart? " The palace maid who led the way was also surprised. She was in a dilemma just now. Although Jiang Ruan is popular with empress dowager Yide, Princess Heyi has also been favored in the palace for so many years. If she offends Princess Heyi for Jiang Ruan''s sake, she is a little uneasy. Looking at Jiang Ruan''s smiling appearance, I can see that Princess Hong''an is a soft persimmon. Don''t want to Jiang Ruan at this time out of the voice, the maid of honor just feel, Jiang Ruan is not also can let people bully. So he straightened up and said, "yes, two sisters, why can''t you meet the princess?" The two maids were stunned and clenched their teeth. They made a servant''s salute to the princess with Jiang Ruan and said, "it''s just the maidservants who are so bold. Princess kehong''an, my princess is still waiting for you. Are you... " "What if I don''t go?" Jiang Ruan looked at them condescensively. When they were looked at by those charming and cold eyes, the two maids only felt that they were just insignificant ants in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, and they were superfluous at a glance. Jiang Ruan said: "this princess and Princess Heyi are at the same level, and Princess Heyi is not qualified to order this princess. You are just slaves. I don''t know if the Lord has never taught you the etiquette in this palace, or if this princess is a bully?" She does not forgive people step by step. The two maids in the palace usually follow Princess Heyi. It is the mammy in the palace who is also courteous to them. She has already developed a domineering temperament like Princess Heyi. How ever was it said that she was extremely unconvinced for a moment? One of the maids was enraged and said: "Princess Hong''an, the maids are just slaves. You bully the maids like this. Are you not afraid to spread it out?"As soon as she finished, she saw that Jiang Ruan was smiling gently. The smile was beautiful and moving, and she was unconsciously stunned for a while. Then she felt that something was wrong. Before she knew what was wrong, she heard Jiang Ruan write lightly: "since you all said that, it''s not to remind the princess that if I don''t bully you and spread it out today, it''s not to make me bear the bad name for nothing. If you don''t take this bad name for granted, it''s not too bad. " She gently spat out a few words: "after all, you are just slaves." After that, he said to the palace maids who led the way around him, "is there a palace mother in the royal garden? I''m in a hurry to go out and don''t take her with me. Go and find some of them. These two slaves are disrespectful to me. They are abominable. I''ll give you thirty boards." "You, you dare!" One of the maids immediately said to the guide Maiden: "this, the matter is not clear, princess, you have to be reasonable..." "She dare not, I dare not." A cold voice suddenly stopped the maid''s words, and a young man in black came from the dark, with a faint chill in his voice: "I dare to be presumptuous with my master, the rules in the palace are too loose. Jinyi The bodyguard at his side immediately understood and hugged: "yes, master." After that, the body flashed, had picked up two maids and disappeared in a blink. Xiao Shao turned around and said faintly to the stunned maid in waiting: "go down." The maid in waiting ran away. Jiang Ruan turned to look at Xiao Shao. After a moment''s consternation, she calmed down and asked as if she had met an old friend: "why is king Xiao here?" Xiao Shao motioned her to move on until she reached the plum grove beside a rockery in the imperial garden. Then he turned around and said, "I''ve just returned to Beijing." Jiang Ruan was stunned and asked tentatively, "did Fang come back from Miao?" "Yes." Xiao Shao said: "just caught up." He took a serious look at Jiang Ruan and said, "you have grown up." Jiang Ruan was stunned and looked up at the young man in front of him. If three years ago, Xiao Shao was still a little green and astringent as a teenager, now he is completely green and astringent. He is only beautiful and mature. His voice is low, with inexplicable magnetism, only a pair of dark eyes or if sprinkled broken diamond general bright, long straight eyelashes droop down, straight to teach people to see the heartbeat. Jiang Ruan''s eyes are open. Compared with three years ago, this young man is more graceful. She said: "Lord Xiao is more. It''s neat. " Xiao Shao lips slightly a hook, unexpectedly contained smile, way: "now you are a princess, get what you want?" As soon as mentioning this matter, Jiang Ruan then collected eyebrow, light way: "what I ask is not the position of princess." Xiao Shao picks his eyebrows. Before, he saw Jiang Ruan step by step. Although it''s a bit mysterious, the royal guards can''t find anything. It can only be inferred that Jiang Ruan''s life in Jiang''s mansion was not easy. He fought his younger sister and stepmother for self-protection. Now, under the protection of empress Yide, Jiang Xinzhi has been promoted step by step and recognized the Zhao family. She should be able to be carefree. Now look at her, but the eyes of a trace of color does not reduce, as if a lifetime will not be removed like. Jiang Ruan turned around and avoided Xiao Shao''s inquiring eyes: "what I want, Lord Xiao will know one day." But at that time, I''m afraid he and she have long been strangers. The fate of the world is scattered, no one can guarantee who can walk with for a lifetime. In the days with Xiao Shao, Jiang Ruan saw clearly that although Xiao Shao was a cold man, his heart was not cold. He was just cold tempered and his blood was boiling hot. He attaches great importance to love and righteousness, and one day he will see clearly how vicious and ferocious the woman standing in front of him is. Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan was slightly disappointed. Xiao Shao thought about it and said, "it''s OK. I''ll help you." His eyes fell on the blood moon bracelet on Jiang Ruan''s wrist with a slight look. The girl in front of her is not as childish as she was three years ago. She is full of crimson dress, vivid and charming eyebrows, with the unique fragrance of a girl. She was a real grown-up girl, with beautiful looks and calmer temperament. In the past three years, when he was walking in the Miao area, he had endless opportunities to kill himself. Occasionally, he thought of Jiang Ruan, but he had a kind of inexplicable concern. Since the death of old Jin Ying Wang and his wife, he has been alone all his life without any concern. This feeling is quite novel. Now seeing the grown-up Jiang Ruan standing in front of him, I feel a little relieved. It''s like the care of the seedlings finally bloom, there is a light satisfaction. Jiang Ruan was staring at his beautiful black eyes. He didn''t feel comfortable and said, "thank you very much." "I''m out all day. If I have something to do, I can go to Dongfeng tower in the city to find Yefeng." Xiao Shao whispered. Yefeng has been staying in Dongfeng Building since he made a mistake three years ago. Dongfeng Building is also easy to collect information, but although this work is important, it is boring, but the position around him has been occupied by Jinyi and Jiner. Xiao Shao considers whether to find an opportunity to change Yefeng back and transfer a few people from the royal guards to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan a Leng, east wind building as expected and he has relation, no wonder at the beginning blood month bracelet so easily got. She slightly thought that Dongfeng Building was so hidden that it was also an important chess piece of Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao trusted her so much that she didn''t know what to do. But Xiao Shao didn''t notice Jiang Ruan''s expression. He walked forward. Jiang Ruan stared at his tall and slender figure for a moment. He suddenly shook his head and laughed and followed him.Deep in the plum grove, the path is winding, elegant in black and gorgeous in red. It is a perfect match, just like a poem and painting on Yunfang, which makes people feel intoxicated for no reason. As an aside, cough, Wan Geng offers you ~ tea is not a full-time writer, but also has classes during the day. Dear ones, don''t rush. Tea parties will be as many as possible to ensure that the disaster will be more and more wonderful. Thank you for your support ~ thank you for your support www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 105 Plain carriage slowly stopped at the door of Jiang''s house. Xia Yan, who went out to meet him, trembled. Then he saw two servant girls holding a beautiful girl coming down the carriage. That girl is Jiang Su Su. Compared with three years ago, Jiang Su Su is obviously a little taller. After staying in the family temple for a long time, he seems to have a stable temperament. From the previous indulgence is not at all, only a light sense of nobility. With a smile on her lips, the scar on her face could not be seen at all. The facial features are vivid and beautiful. I don''t know what''s going on. It''s clear that they are still beautiful, but they seem to have a kind of subtle seduction. If you really look at her every move, you will be distracted. At first, when Xia Yan saw her face, he was very happy. He walked awkwardly forward with his waist. Then he looked at Jiang Su Su''s face and said, "su''er, what''s wrong with your face?" The doctor who came to the mansion at the beginning said that the scar on Jiang Su Su''s face might not be good. In the future, if he looked for some valuable medicinal materials, he might look at it and fade it. But now if Jiang Su Su''s skin peeled eggs, where there are traces of disfigurement. Jiang Su Su looked at her with a smile and said, "when the time comes, it will be OK." Her eyes so gently looked at Xia Yan one eye, Xia Yan actually feel a mind swing. I don''t know why, but I feel that Jiang Su Su is strange and different from the past. But a closer look, it is still the original Jiang Su Su. She held back her suspicions and said, "su''er, it''s good for you to come back. In the past three years, you''ve been cruel and refused to see your mother..." Jiang Su Su turned a deaf ear, and his eyes fell on a soft sedan chair in front of the house. It was a soft sedan chair in the color of Begonia, which was carried by four guards in the palace. The sedan chair was exquisite and gorgeous, and did not indicate the identity of the people in the sedan chair. Along the way, there have been many people watching the crowd, who want to see which family is the noble. The sedan chair stopped at the gate of Jiang''s house. Jiang Su Su stared at the sedan chair and said nothing. From the rear of the sedan chair came out two gorgeous servant girls. They opened the bead curtain of the sedan chair and welcomed the people inside. The girl in red looks gorgeous, and she has a thrilling beauty when she walks. She walked slowly. Every step forward, the deeper the fingerprints Xia Yan pinched into her palm. Finally, the girl in red came up to Xia Yan and said with a smile, "Ruan Niang, I''ve seen her mother and second sister. I haven''t seen you for a long time." Xia Yan only felt that a depression in his chest came straight to his face. The grand occasion of Jiang Ruan in the palace was passed on quickly. Thinking about this, Xia Yan wanted to tear Jiang Ruan to pieces. How could such good luck not fall on Jiang Su Su. Now that Chiang Su Su Fang is back to his home, Chiang Ruan is picking up a chance to come here at this time. By contrast, people outside are not sure what rumors will arise in Beijing tomorrow. People are low and high. After entering the temple, Jiang Ruan returned in such glory, and Jiang Susu was just a carriage. She was so angry in her heart that Chiang and Ruan were on purpose! Jiang Su Su looked at Jiang Ruan quietly, and suddenly laughed: "big sister, I haven''t seen you for a long time Her expression is so flat that she is a bit out of the dust. But somehow, her whole body shows a special meaning, that is, women can''t help but feel a little excited when they see her. If you have to use one word to describe it, it''s the demon nun. Yes, Jiang Su Su is still wearing sandalwood, green clothes and no powder. It''s really like a fairy. But every move With a different kind of temptation. Don''t look, don''t look, you will lose your soul. Jiang Ruan took back his eyes and said with a smile, "the second sister is far away. Now the Empress Dowager has asked me to be princess Hong''an. Although you and I are sisters, and my mother and I are also mother and daughter, the rules must not be abolished. I''m afraid there will be words of contempt for the royal family. So Ruan Niang bravely reminded that in the future, the rules that should be set up should be set up. It''s not necessary to ask the censors to hear it, and they have to take part in my father''s book. " Jiang Su Su''s face was calm. When he heard this, the muscles of his cheeks pulled out, which was somewhat unnatural. She slowly looked up at Jiang Ruan, and for a moment her mood changed. Finally, we return to calm. She gave Jiang Ruan a little smile and said, "Su Niang has seen the princess." Jiang Ruan smiles and asks her to get up. Xia Yan is about to break her teeth. Jiang Ruan thinks a little, and his eyes fall on Xia Yan''s abdomen thoughtfully: "mother, please forgive me. Now mother is pregnant. If she hurts her body, even Ruan Niang can''t blame her." Xia Yan saw her eyes, startled, hands subconsciously protect the abdomen, vigilant staring at her, barely said with a smile: "where words." Jiang Ruan laughed more gently: "mother''s protection is so tight. I don''t know what I think I''m going to do to my mother''s baby. My mother is worried She turned her head and saw that Jiang Su Su was looking at Xia Yan''s stomach. Her eyes were so bright that she felt shivering. Jiang Ruan was wary in his heart and said with a smile: "looking at the appearance of the second younger sister, she is also very fond of the little guy in her mother''s belly. It seems that her mother will soon be able to add a little brother to her family." After that, he didn''t wait any longer. He made the servant girl follow him to the mansion with a smile. Xia Yan subconsciously looked at Jiang Su Su''s eyes, but he was surprised. Jiang Su Su looked at her belly. It was not her belly, but a dish of delicious food. The next second she was about to come. Eat her up.Xia Yan now regards this in her belly as the lifeblood. Seeing Jiang Su Su''s terrible eyes, he immediately steps back. She moved too much, and Jiang Su Su recovered. In the eye that greedy immediately vanishes, smiles a way: "mother, I also went first." After that, he took a meaningful look at Xia Yan''s belly and walked into the house slowly. Xia Yan was in the same place, still thinking about Jiang Su Su''s eyes. I don''t know why, his heart was cold. After living in the mansion for a few days, nothing special happened. The Empress Dowager offered to move back to Chiang''s mansion one by one, but no one dared to make up her mind. Jiang Chao followed Xuan Li around all day, but he had never seen him enter the mansion. Jiang Quan would not take the initiative to talk to his daughter. Dewdrop heard that Jiang Dan didn''t like to go out in the past three years, and she was more introverted. Old lady Jiang''s body also began to decline obviously. On the day of returning to the mansion, she only asked Jiang Ruan to go there for a while, and then she was exhausted. Xia Yan''s fetus has passed the first three months, and it''s OK to keep it carefully. The child in Xia Yan''s stomach was not born in the last life. It was found that it was Hongying, the fifth aunt, who moved her hand at that time. In a rage, Jiang Quan put Hongying in the Chaifang. However, Hongying found a rope to hang herself and died in the Chaifang. Now it seems that there are all sorts of doubts. Although Hongying is very likely to do it, she is not able to hang herself. This life is to follow the traces of the previous life, Xia Yan''s fetus can not be preserved. It''s just Hongying She is also very curious. Is it really Hongying''s hand? Just thinking about it, forsythia lifted the curtain and said, "girl, the fifth aunt is coming." Jiang Ruan picked his eyebrows, but Hongying''s action was very fast. I ordered someone to welcome Hongying in. Hongying''s clothes are much more exquisite than they were three years ago. Although she still doesn''t look magnificent, all her jewelry is good. It seems that Jiang Quan has treated her well in the past three years. I think so. It was at this time when she first returned to Jiang''s house in her last life. At that time, Hongying had already reached the point of competing with Xia Yan. Now that Xia Yan has a body, it''s more convenient for Hong Ying to serve Jiang Quan. Hongying sat down carefully opposite Jiang Ruan. In the past three years, she had a very comfortable life. What Xia Yan had done before made Jiang Quan have a knot in his heart. They were not very close, but she had a chance to take advantage of it. In the past three years, Jiang Quan paid more and more attention to her, but Xia Yan was pregnant at this time. Fortunately, Jiang Ruan came back. Hongying always has a kind of inexplicable awe for Jiang Ruan. Since she saw this seemingly gentle young lady''s various powerful methods in the mansion three years ago, she has the intention to attract her. Now it turns out that her vision is right. Jiang Ruan has the green eye of empress Yide, Jiang Xinzhi has been promoted step by step, and Zhao Guang also values it. Now she has become a princess. By her means, this house is not her world? Think of here, Xia Yan submissive look, humble way: "cheap concubine has seen the princess." "Aunt, why be polite." Jiang Ruan picked up the teapot in front of him: "my aunt and I are our own people, so we don''t have to be polite." She looked at the woman in front of her with a smile: "after three years of parting, my aunt had a good time." "It''s all thanks to miss Tuo." Hongying said with a smile, "the first lady is the one who is blessed." Jiang Ruan then began to greet her with a smile. Not long after, sure enough, Hongying asked tentatively, "do you know that madam is pregnant?" "Father always comes with children. Who knows? Ruan Niang is not deaf or blind. " Jiang Ruan''s tone was full of light irony. She heard red Ying''s eyes jump. However, as the play continued to sing, a look of sadness suddenly rose on her face: "let the eldest lady laugh, that''s what I''m worried about." "Oh? What''s my aunt to worry about? " Jiang Ruan asked with a smile. "I''m a confidant when I''m a young lady, so I''ll talk to her with shame. Madam, it''s true that she has a good baby, but in recent years, because of the master''s relationship, madam has many misunderstandings when she treats her concubine. If you give birth to a young master, you don''t know how to attack your concubine. " Red tassel''s face was in a state of panic. She looked very uneasy. "My aunt is serious." Jiang Ruan comforted her with a smile: "mother is kind-hearted, how can she attack aunt? Besides, my father will not let it go. If my aunt is wronged, my father will not let it go. " Hongying took out her handkerchief, wiped her eyes, wiped away the unnecessary tears, and said with a bitter smile, "it''s a blessing for you to treat me well. But when a woman gives birth to a child, it''s always very dangerous. It''s hard to say. If there''s something wrong with her wife, she''ll blame her. If she''s suffering, I''m afraid she can''t get rid of her injustice. My humble concubine will live alone in this house. If she is really charged with that crime, I''m afraid I''m afraid I can''t even die and leave a whole body. " Jiang Ruan looks at Hongying quietly. I don''t want to mention the truth of her words, but I can see that she is a smart man. She has thought about it. But since I thought of this, how could the last life follow the path of Xia Yan. Jiang Ruan didn''t believe that she was the victim of Xia Yan''s miscarriage in her last life. In fact, Hong Ying was a very smart woman who could judge the situation very well. She would not do anything risky but uncertain. In this case, the miscarriage was just a crime imposed by Xia Yan on Hongying, but how did Xia Yan''s last child fall?In spite of this thought, Jiang Ruan still gave a smile to Hongying: "what my aunt said is really terrible. There are so many people in my family protecting my wife''s belly, but my aunt is afraid of nothing. Ruan Niang thinks that her aunt''s top priority is not to study her wife''s children, but to have a child by herself. " She is an unmarried maiden in the boudoir. She discusses the birth of a child with her family''s aunt in a dignified manner, without any shyness, as if it were very natural. Although she was shocked, she blushed and said, "Miss, it''s not that I don''t want to have a baby, but. It''s... " Girls born in brothels have to take a kind of medicine since childhood. That medicine can make women''s body white and smooth, and also make women''s body emit strange fragrance. Naturally, this is the means for girls to win over benefactor. But this kind of medicine also has a side effect, which will destroy fertility. When Hongying entered the mansion, she really only wanted to please Jiang Quan and get his favor. She did, but the longer she stayed in the house, the more she wanted to have a child. A man''s love may not last long, but if she has a child, if she is a son, her status will be greatly improved. She didn''t ask for a step to overthrow Xia Yan, because Xia Yan still has Xia Fu''s support behind her, but it''s also good for Jiang Quan to think that she and Xia Yan are equal. Every time after Jiang Quan had a rest in her yard, Xia Yan would ask mammy Li to bring the soup to watch her drink. Every time after mother Li left, she pinched her throat and forced herself to spit out all the soup. Even so, when she was young, she took too much medicine in the brothel. She had secretly asked the doctor, who said that she had little chance to be pregnant. It''s a thorn in her heart that she can''t conceive her child. At the same time, Xia Yan is pregnant again. Seeing that she has achieved everything in front of her with painstaking efforts, does she want to return everything to its original shape? She was not reconciled. But what can I do? She''s never pregnant. Jiang Ruan took a sip of tea and said, "how can I not be pregnant? There is no woman in the world who can''t bear a child. " Hongying was stunned and looked up at Jiang Ruan: "what does that mean, miss?" Jiang Ruan looked at her pitifully: "what should I do? Fifth aunt, Ruan Niang also sympathizes with you. But if you want to live safely in the government, you have to have a child first. Do you understand? If you want children, you will have them. " Hongying was stunned for a moment before digesting the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words. She was shocked and looked at the woman in front of her, who did not know her Jiang Quan smile: "in the end is my aunt''s life, Ruan Niang has no right to intervene." Red Ying''s heart was in a mess. The meaning in Jiang Ruan''s words was a vague one: to transplant flowers and trees! If it is successful, her position in the government will be further improved. But it''s too risky to do so. Once it''s found out, it''s a big crime of confusing the descendants of the clan, and it''s going to be beaten to death. She was shocked by Jiang Ruan''s light voice. She was surprised that Jiang Ruan was also the daughter of Jiang Fu. How could she take the initiative to inherit the status of Jiang Fu with other people''s blood. Did she ever think of herself as Jiang''s family? Red Ying was so restless that she couldn''t think of any clue for a moment. Although Jiang Ruan''s words were frightening, they somehow moved her. But she couldn''t make up her mind for a moment, so she could only say in a hurry: "if you''re a young lady, I''ll I heard that. I just remembered that there are still some things to do, so I won''t disturb you. " Jiang Ruan didn''t want to stay either. He said with a smile: "aunt, think about it carefully. You don''t have to be in a hurry for a while. As long as Just wait until mother has an accident. " Red Ying hears this words, in the heart is a jump again, no longer long stay, then took the servant girl to leave in a hurry. Forsythia looked at her appearance of running away, pushed the door and came in, and said: "how could the fifth aunt be so scared?" Dahurian angelica stood silent, forsythia touched her nose: "must be scared by the girl''s demeanor." Jiang Ruan smile, dew just pushed the door came in, a face of excitement and fear, back to lock the door tightly. Then he closed the window, closed the curtain and went to Jiang Ruan. Several people were puzzled by her appearance. Dewdrop bent down and said in a low voice, "girl, let me check things in suxinyuan. I have found out." Jiang Ruan looked at her: "there must be something wrong with this. What''s the matter?" "There''s nothing wrong with it," said dewdrop with a mysterious smile. "I just heard from the kitchen that the second young lady lived a hard life in the family temple, and her body was weak and tight. The butterflies and dragonflies around her these days made the kitchen prepare hens, and they helped the second young lady with soup every day." "What''s so strange about that?" Forsythia road. Dewdrop shook her head: "I remember that the second young lady used to hate chicken soup most. Besides, if the second young lady practiced in the family temple, she would be very devout. Can be so devout, a back to the house to keep killing and eating meat, is not that. It''s broken. " Jiang Ruan laughed and looked at dewdrop admiringly. Dewdrop''s ability of observing words and colors is stronger now. It''s not easy to think of so many things.Dew see Jiang Ruan''s expression, also very proud, then said: "maidservant heart strange, then pay attention to it, find really strange, you guess what?" Dewdrop really took this place as a storyteller''s, and forsythia couldn''t wait. She said, "what''s the matter?" "Butterfly and dragonfly say they want soup, but they have nothing but chicken. To make soup and tonify the body, angelica always needs to put it, red dates always need it, can''t you put a whole chicken in it? " Dew bead way: "maidservant then gave Su Xin Yuan a sweep to sprinkle girl two liang silver, let maidservant go in to look for.". The maid took Xiao Huang, the doorkeeper, with a good nose. Leng is that the dead chicken came out from under the rose in Suxin garden. It was all drained of blood and its feathers were torn to pieces. " Dewdrop some palpitation: "the wound is very ferocious, maidservant looked at fear. He quickly buried the dead chicken and rushed back. " Forsythia and Angelica did not speak, both look dignified. After a long time, forsythia asked: "girl, the two ladies are not possessed by ghosts, or how can they do such magic?" "Miss, the second young lady is so evil at the moment. Do you want to live in the palace for a while? The two ladies dare not follow the Empress Dowager. " Angelica also reminds. Jiang Ruan looked at the dew: "when you look at the dead chicken, it was cut by a knife and put into the blood?" "No," said dewdrop, wringing her eyebrows, "when I was a child, I was fond of playing. The Luhua chicken from the aunt''s house next door pecked me, and I caught up with her and bit her. It was not a knife wound or an animal bite, but a human bite. " Angelica dahurica and forsythia take a cool breath. Jiang Ruan lowered his head and pondered. Since he met Jiang Su Su at the gate of Jiang''s mansion a few days ago, Jiang Ruan felt that Jiang Su Su was very wrong. Although I can''t say it in detail, it seems that I''ve changed a person, and I always have a feeling of monstrosity. In recent days, Jiang Su Su never went out of Suxin garden, and even rarely went to see Xia Yan. Staying in the hospital all day, I don''t know what to do. It''s too abnormal. Jiang Ruan ordered dewdrop to check, but he didn''t expect to find out such a result. It''s incredible. "The maidservant also thought that the second young lady was really evil," said the dew. "That day, I could see clearly that there was no scar on the second young lady''s face. At the beginning, I was so badly hurt that I can''t see it at the moment. If it wasn''t a monster, how could it be like this? " "There are no ghosts in the world." Jiang Ruan light way. Even if she had, she was determined not to be afraid. She was a person who had died once. If she was known by others, she would not be a monster in other people''s eyes. But Jiang Su Su was so abnormal that she had a feeling of uncertainty in her heart. It forced her to be vigilant. But she couldn''t help herself with it. She thought for a while, then suddenly said, "dewdrop, go and get a carriage ready. I''ll go out in a minute." "Where is the girl going?" Angelica asked curiously. "Dongfeng Building." In the imperial study the emperor, who had always been watching the daze, frowned tightly and stared at the fold in front of him, as if he had encountered a very difficult matter. After a while, he began to ask: "according to you, there are already people from southern Xinjiang in the palace." Standing in front of the desk, the young man, dressed in black, said faintly, "yes." "I''ve been careless these years." The emperor repressed his deep anger: "before I settle accounts with them, they have come up with my idea first. I don''t know what to do "Not only that," said Xiao Shao, "the sudden dispatch of troops by the state of Tian Jin has a lot to do with that side." "Those barbarians in southern Xinjiang are fierce, cunning and cruel. I didn''t expect that they still have such tricks. Since they talked about Tianjin, they must have benefited. Ah Shao, you stay in Beijing and look into the internal affairs. Even if I turn over the whole capital, I will find that person! " Xiao Shao nodded. The emperor''s eyes fell on him, and suddenly sighed: "in the past three years, you have been dying in miaojiang. I know what you think. But now you see, "the emperor''s brow appears a touch of worry:" all the people in the palace wish I had died earlier. I can understand the thoughts of the eight and five more clearly than they can see. The prince''s virtue can''t be guaranteed for a lifetime. As for the civil and martial arts of Manchu Dynasty, they are just clowns in my eyes. Do you really think I don''t know their thoughts? Shao, you... " "Your Majesty," Xiao Shao interrupted, "if there''s nothing wrong, I''ll leave first." If someone passes by here, he will be surprised at the relationship with the emperor and King Jinying. The emperor''s voice, a moment later, weakly waved his hand and said, "just back off." When Xiao Shao came to the door, he heard the emperor''s voice coming from behind: "you are now old enough to start a family. If you want to see a girl, tell me, I will marry you." Black clothes stop also did not stop, without hesitation of out of the imperial study. Only the sigh of the emperor. Although Dongfeng Building is the biggest treasure shop in Beijing, few people go there. It''s just that although there are so many things in it, the price is too expensive. Everything is rare and precious. There is no money to buy things here if it is not for the well-off officials.Today, however, a carriage stopped at the gate of Dongfeng Building. The people who passed by were curious to see which family it was. But seeing a gorgeous girl dressed in red coming down from the carriage, everyone knew immediately. It used to be the hot Princess Hong''an in Beijing. The beauty of Princess Hong''an''s life is not to mention, but now the Empress Dowager''s green eyes. There are countless rewards. Naturally, she can go to Dongfeng Building. After admiring for a while, they saw that the girl in red with two servant girls went into the building. When Jiang Ruan Fang went in, a beautiful maid came over and said, "girl, do you want to see jewelry?" Jiang Ruan looked at her: "I want to see Yefeng." The maid was stunned. She shook her head and said, "is the girl in the wrong place?" With a smile, Jiang Ruan reached out from his sleeve and shook something in front of the maid: "is it ok now?" When the maid saw clearly what was in Jiang Ruan''s sleeve, she suddenly changed her face and said respectfully, "girl, please come with me." Jiang Ruan took the dagger given by Xiao Shao back into his sleeve. His mind was really easy to use. When Fang went to the weapons shop on the second floor, the maid pressed the celadon lion''s head on the wall. A small door opened and an elegant room appeared next to it. The maid blessed the body: "girl, please come in, the night leader is in it." When Jiang Ruan Fang stepped in, he heard an impatient voice saying, "with so many things going on all day, does the master really intend to put me under house arrest for the rest of my life? Can''t I go to apologize to Miss Jiang?" Jiang Ruan stepped and asked with a smile, "I''m sorry." Night Maple impatiently back: "of course, is treasure..." The rest of the sentence in his mouth, he was surprised to grow his mouth: "Miss Jiang?" Jiang Ruan sat down in the chair opposite him and said, "I have something urgent to see your master." Yesterday, Cha Cha mistakenly wrote the granddaughter of the Empress Dowager as her adopted daughter, which has been changed. Recently, her brain often makes OTZ. Sorry, tut is not available www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 106 As soon as Xiao Shaofang returned to Dongfeng Building, the maid downstairs told her that someone was waiting in the elegant room. Stay on the second floor of the secret room, a door will see night Maple look nervous staring at the people in front of. See Xiao Shao came, night Maple busy stand up, bow way: "master." Xiao Shao waved his hand, and Yefeng bowed back. Jiang Ruan raised his head, Xiao Shao sat down opposite him, looked at her and said, "what''s the matter?" "Is there a kind of medicine that can make people look better. Or is there a way to make people more and more. Charm. Like a goblin. " Jiang Ruan came to the point. There are so many strange things about Jiang Su Su. If we only look at his appearance, it would be suspicious. There was no scar on the face that had been scratched by thorns. Moreover, Jiang Ruan could see clearly that day that Jiang Su Su''s face had not been powdered. If there''s any panacea, it''s almost the same. The deliberate attraction between Jiang Su Su''s actions is even more strange. Since Xiao Shao was good at medicine and had a wide range of knowledge, he might have known better. Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan suspiciously, thought for a while, then nodded: "yes." Jiang Ruan Yizheng: "what is it?" "A kind of secret skill," Xiao Shao said, "women in southern Xinjiang are good at using flattery skill. What you say is that they have probably practiced this kind of secret skill." Jiang Ruan''s heart sank: "Southern Xinjiang?" When Xiao Shao saw her like this, he said thoughtfully, "do you have such people around you?" "I want to ask Lord Xiao, what do people who have practiced this kind of secret skill need to do? What''s the price? Like blood? " Asked Jiang Ruan. "Not necessarily. There are many kinds of secret arts in southern Xinjiang, that is, flattering arts. Different people pay different prices. Generally speaking, the secret art is actually a kind of medicine. The deeper the fusion, the better the effect and the greater the cost. People who practice this kind of flattery have different behaviors from ordinary people. Some people need to add some blood or other things. But I''m not sure Xiao Shao patiently answers her questions. Jiang Ruan''s brows began to frown. If there were only three points of doubt before, now it has become seven. Jiang Su Su''s unusual behavior and smooth and white face are quite similar to Xiao Shao''s secret arts. But she just went to the temple to recuperate. How could she have something to do with Miao? The more I think about it, the more confused I am. The appearance of Jiang Ruan''s frowning was seen in Xiao Shao''s eyes. Naturally, he began to think about it. The people of Southern Xinjiang seemed to be brewing a great conspiracy, and Jiang Ruan never asked anything meaningless. Just now she asked like that, there must be someone who looks like practicing flattery around her. If it''s true, you can start from here. Thinking of this, Xiao Shao said, "I want to meet the person you are talking about." Jiang Ruan was thinking about how to get Xiao Shao into Jiang''s house and meet Jiang Susu to confirm whether it was related to the secret arts of Southern Xinjiang. It was a little startled to hear Xiao Shao''s words. This person thought of going with her. She didn''t know that Xiao Shao still had things to deal with in southern Xinjiang. She just thought that this person was considerate and tight. There was a little emotion floating in her heart. She couldn''t say that she was grateful. She just felt that Xiao Shao was not as cold as the rumor. "Naturally," she said with a smile, "it''s just that the man is not elsewhere. He is in Chiang''s mansion." Xiao Shao raised his eyes and looked at her. His beautiful eyes were as deep as Tianhe. He said, "Jiang Su Su?" "How do you know?" Jiang Ruan was surprised. "The women in Jiang''s mansion only heard that Miss Jiang ER was as beautiful as a fairy, so she was." Xiao shaodao. Jiang Ruan Leng Leng, Yang lip said with a smile: "Xiao Wang Ye also think that the two younger sisters are as beautiful as immortals?" Xiao Shao didn''t expect Jiang Ruan to ask suddenly. He frowned, took a serious look at Jiang Ruan and said, "not as good as you." Xiao Shao''s reply was unexpected. No matter how calm Rao Shi, Jiang Ruan''s heart was, he was still a little stunned when he heard what people always said. For a moment, he didn''t know what to reply. When I looked up, I saw Xiao Shao looking at her interestingly. There was a smile in her eyes. I even laughed. This is A joke? Jiang Ruan was stunned for a moment before he said with a smile, "it turns out that Lord Xiao can also laugh." Xiao Shao picked to pick eyebrow: "when to go to your home?" Jiang Ruan felt that the conversation seemed strange. He pondered for a moment and said, "how about tonight?" Ya outdoor lie in the door eavesdropping night Maple almost legs a soft kneel down, next to the pretty face of the maid also can''t help but wink at him. I can''t see that the master usually has a clear mind and few desires. When he comes up, he goes to the girl''s home. The future young lady is also a heroine, and she is not shy. It''s tonight. Make a couple tonight? Xiao Shao said, "well, I''ll come to you at midnight tonight." Jiang Ruan looked at him and said, "how do you get in?" Although Xiao Shao is good at martial arts, Jiang''s house is not a household. Besides, he is still a young man wandering with people in his house in the middle of the night. He thinks something is wrong. However, both of them were very human. Although Jiang Ruan had something different in his mind, he would not be as pedantic as he was in his life. Besides, she was eager to find out about Jiang Su Su. "Don''t worry, I''ll come to you when it''s time." Xiao shaodao.After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan nodded: "thank you, Mr. Xiao." Forsythia and Angelica stand on one side, are silent, but each other exchanged a look. My girls are more and more trusting in Lord Xiao. They knew what nature Jiang Ruan was. As close servant girls, they knew best. However, since they fell into the water and woke up in Chuang Tzu, they became extremely vigilant, never willing to easily believe the people around them. He also had some reservations about his grandfather Zhao Guang''s family. Although he was a little cold tempered, he helped Jiang Ruan a lot several times. If can become a pair of marriage, two servant girls think in the heart, that is better than to marry other people. Jiang Ruan didn''t know that her two servant girls had sold her unconsciously. He bowed his head and drank tea. Because he thought that he could find out Jiang Su Su''s secret, he was very happy in the past few days. "This is not on the table of the Fu powder, unexpectedly also in front of me, when the miss is good to fool? Get out of here A small round box "pa" was thrown out, inside the grinding of fine powder scattered all over the ground, in the air accumulated a small trace. Jiang Li extremely corrupt things on the table to the ground: "a group of waste!" Xi Liu An, the maid beside her, comforted and said, "don''t be angry, girl. In a few days, the people of doctor Zuo''s family will arrive. She was pretty and happy at that time." Not to say it''s OK, Jiang Li is angry: "I don''t understand. I''m not good enough. The left family are still so unhappy. It was actually the dead seedling who was ill. " Xiliu advised: "doctor Zuo is a good man. He keeps his promise. I think he only likes his promise to the fourth girl. When the girl gets married, he will be good to her." "It''s a mistake to treat fish''s eyes as pearls!" Jiang Li said angrily. Three years ago, doctor Zuo saved Jiang Dan''s life at the Palace Banquet. When he turned back, he sent a matchmaker to propose marriage to Jiang Dan. The second aunt talked with Jiang Quan for a long time, and the candidate who married into the left family changed from Jiang Dan to Jiang Li. Unexpectedly, the doctor was also a man with a solid eye. He was furious when he knew about it. At that time, the Geng script had been exchanged and the eight characters of his birthday had been combined. It was not easy to go back. Unexpectedly, doctor Zuo made another request. When she thought about it, Jiang Li was very angry. Doctor Zuo even told Jiang Quan that he was willing to marry Jiang Dan. It''s a good story that the sisters work together. It''s just that Jiang Li is a narrow-minded person. Naturally, she is not willing to accept the ending. And Jiang Quan was not willing to put his two daughters in Zuo Lang''s house. The most surprising thing is Jiang Dan''s marriage. Jiang Quan and Jiang Li have not yet taken an attitude towards her orders, but Jiang Dan has voluntarily refused such a marriage. When they arrived in the capital, it was said that the fourth young lady of Jiang''s family didn''t know what was good or bad, and she didn''t even look up to Zuo Langzhong''s wife. As a matter of fact, as Jiang Dan, to climb up to the left doctor''s house is to fly into the branches to be a Phoenix, not to mention a flat wife. After Jiang Dan refused, things were much easier. Jiang Su Su had already passed his hairpin ceremony the day before he returned to his home. Then he could start to make a marriage with doctor Zuo as soon as he passed his hairpin ceremony. On that day, doctor Zuo would also come to watch the ceremony in person. It was a good thing, but who would have expected that Jiang Li would have a toss at this time. It''s not for anything else. It''s just that all the rouge powder that she sent to her hospital these days was disliked by Jiang Li. Although the second aunt was only an aunt, she had some spare money in her hand. Besides, she had only one daughter, so she was willing to give up on weekdays. These Rouge powder are all good goods from the best shops in the capital. They used to be used well, but Jiang Li didn''t like them now. In fact, it''s not for other reasons. In the past three years, only Jiang Li and Jiang Dan have been in Jiang''s mansion. Since Jiang Dan changed his marriage, he has become more isolated and reserved, and almost never leaves the yard. Jiang Li is the most frequent social intercourse between Jiang''s family and her daughter''s family in Beijing. In recent years, Jiang Li seems to be the legitimate daughter of Jiang Fu. Unexpectedly, Jiang Su Su and Jiang Ruan suddenly came back. There is no need to say that Jiang Ruan has changed into a princess, and the Zhao family protects him. Jiang Su Su thought that when he went to the temple, he would not be able to look up. But now he is more beautiful than ever. With Jiang Ruan and Jiang Su Su Zhu Yu in front, Jiang Li''s proud appearance became a joke. Naturally, nothing was right. She clenched her fists: "what about Jiji ceremony? With those two in the front, everyone went to see them. Who else would look at me? " "Don''t say that, girl." Hsiliu said in a low voice: "the eldest lady is a princess now, but she can accompany you like a tiger. There are so many mistakes in the palace. Who knows what will happen in the future. Let alone the second young lady. After three years, we have heard about what happened at the beginning, and it will be very difficult for us to talk to each other in the future. Miss, now you are the most comfortable one in the mansion. As soon as the hairpin ceremony is over, doctor Zuo will marry you. Even the master can''t manage this marriage. You have to get married before the first and second ladies. Isn''t that good? " Jiang Li listened to the maid''s words, but her heart slowly calmed down: "you''re right, what can I worry about? At least, my husband is better than them!" Fine willow and gently comfort for a while, Jiang Li finally eased the mood, also no longer lose his temper, fall rouge. The night sky is so dark in the middle of the night in spring, which makes the stars shine brightly and almost fall from people''s heads.It was late at night, and the courtyard was quiet. The whole capital of the great Jin dynasty fell into a deep sleep. Chiang''s house was surprisingly quiet, and the needles on the ground could be heard. Ruan Curie also lit a small lamp quietly, which was so weak in the night that he could hardly see clearly the flower window in front of his desk. Forsythia some distressed handed a small cup of honey water: "girl, if you don''t rest for a while, I will guard for you. If Lord Xiao arrives, I will wake you up. It''s time. The girl is looking carefully Forsythia heart secretly scold, this Xiao Wang Ye pick what time is not good, but pick in the night, Jiang Ruan always go to bed early, this time already sleepy, but also guard the lamp waiting for the man''s arrival. Forsythia looked at the hourglass: "ah, it''s almost midnight." Jiang Ruan Ben held his chin in one hand and looked at the lamp in front of him bored in the other hand. He heard Forsythia''s words and had some spirit. I don''t know what it is like to enter Chiang''s mansion now. Is it difficult to turn over the wall? Or a dog hole? Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing at the thought of the handsome face in the dog hole. "Are you happy?" The cold and hoarse voice rang out from my ears, and at the same time, there was the faint fragrance of green bamboo on the man''s body. Jiang Ruan slightly surprised, forsythia has "Oh" a cry. Although Jiang Ruan was also surprised, he could always pretend that he was in a little panic. He just looked up and down at Xiao Shao and blinked. He was disappointed and said, "it''s not." "Not what?" Xiao Shao took a look at forsythia, forsythia hastily lowered his head and retreated. Jiang Ruan looked at the man on the other side. He was dressed in black fragrant silk and had a golden rhinoceros belt around his waist. He outlined his sharp figure. He looked more like a teenager than usual. Under the light, Xiao Shao''s facial features were more and more soft and beautiful. His dark eyes were even brighter than the stars in the sky, with a smile that seemed to be absent. His thin lips were tight and his throat was moving. From the lamp to see beauty, this young man under the lamp, even more beautiful than a hundred days. Jiang Ruan''s heart was in the way of a demon, then he turned his eyes. I thought he would dress up as a flower gatherer. At least when he visited a woman''s boudoir at night, he would always appear a little stiff and timid. This Xiao Shao is not like ordinary people, generous magnanimous surprising. Moreover, from the beginning to the present, elegance is not reduced by one point, where it seems to be to explore, it is clear that it is to be a guest. Xiao Shao looked outside: "bad, let''s go." Jiang Ruan looked at him in surprise: "just follow you?" "No need." Xiao Shao then reached for Jiang Ruan''s back collar and jumped out of the window without waiting for him to make a sound. Jiang Ruan was startled. Subconsciously, he put his hands around Xiao Shao''s waist. The wind was blowing in his ears, but he was very nervous in his heart. This kind of tension is different from the tension when calculating people and working step by step on weekdays. It''s a simple tension because of the unknown. It seems that when Zhao Mei was still there, Jiang Xinzhi took her to sneak out of the house to see the temple fair. When she went out, she was afraid of being found out and felt nervous. The tension with a little excitement, as if back to the time when nothing to worry about. That kind of long lost stimulation made her forget the fear of being "brought" into the air and feel a little at a loss. Xiao Shao saw that Jiang Ruan was so quiet that he couldn''t help looking down at her. He saw that on her charming little face, she was at a loss and had a kind of cautious desire. It''s quite different from the usual calm. It seems that this is what a young girl of this age should look like. It''s rare to see Jiang Ruan like this. Xiao Shao is slightly stunned. His eyes fell on Jiang Ruan''s waist, and his slender and soft fingers clung to his dark clothes, which made him look as white as jade. I don''t know why, then I just feel that the waist that I''m holding with both hands is unconsciously hot. In the twinkling of an eye, Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan were in a courtyard. Jiang Ruan Fang stood still and let go. At first sight, he was stunned. It was Suxin garden. She looked at Xiao Shao suspiciously: "how do you know if you have ever been here?" Xiao Shao went out of Chiang''s house like nobody, and found Chiang Su Su''s yard so easily, which made people suspicious. Xiao Shao Although it''s not the first time he came to suxinyuan, the last time he was in a tree when Jiang Ruan castrated Li Yang, he watched the scene from beginning to end, and finally helped Jiang Ruan. At the moment, however, it''s not good. "Jinyi checked and drew a map for me." He explained. Jiang Ruan nodded: "I see." Expression is not believe, Xiao Shao will feel more helpless. They went to the corner of the courtyard, on the back of Jiang Su Su''s room, where there was a small vacant room. They walked around the back of the empty room and suddenly heard a strange sound. The voice was a little abrupt in the night sky, but I could still hear something similar, such as something struggling, something fluttering on the ground, sweeping out a large sound. Xiao Shao frowned and picked up a small stone bullet from the ground to the window. The window was quietly ejected with a small hole. Xiao Shao came forward and looked at it with a serious look. When Jiang Ruan saw that, he patted his arm. Xiao Shao stepped back, and Jiang Ruan put his eyes together to look inside. Then I saw the picture that people couldn''t help breathing. There was a weak light in the room, even the weak light was enough to see clearly. A man was holding something in his hand and gnawing his head. When he turned his head, Fang saw clearly that what he was holding in his hand was a hen with disordered hair. The neck of the hen was about to fall off, and the blood was stained with feathers. He was dying. The man''s complexion was white and almost monstrous. His eyes were shining. He was dressed in white and looked like a fairy. However, his mouth was bloodstained and looked like a ghost on the grave.It''s Jiang Su Su. It''s a digression - well, it''s a cursive essay, not a fantasy essay. Don''t worry too much ~ about it www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 107 Jiang Ruan''s eyes stagnated, but at this moment, there seemed to be a sound from someone''s footsteps outside. Xiao Shao, with a look of movement, grabbed Jiang Ruan''s arm and hid behind the side door of the hut. But the butterfly went in, and soon came out with the dead chicken. He dug a hole under the peach tree in the yard and buried the dead chicken. Look at that skilful action. It''s not the first time. Jiang Ruan Fang wanted to make a move. Without noticing the step on his head, he wrapped it around the collar of Xiao Shao''s chest. Only then did they find that they were very close to each other. Xiao Shao''s green bamboo breath came as if it were nothing. The clothes were ice cold, and he felt at ease. The light went out when the butterfly went out. It seems that you can go to sleep after all this. Waiting for the voice of no one in the courtyard, Xiao Shaoru just carried Jiang Ruan back to Ruan Ju. House forsythia and Angelica dahurica are waiting for heart up and down, see two people safely back after just relieved. Forsythia and Angelica see Xiao Shao two people have something to say, then retreat out to cover the door, also be regarded as a guard. Xiao Shao sat down at the table. Jiang Ruan reached out and poured him a cup of cold tea. He asked, "you can see that just now, she...". But the secret of practice? " "Yes." Xiao Shao took the tea but didn''t drink it. His eyes fell on the floating tea in the cup. He said, "it''s a long time to practice. After a while, there''s no need to use chicken blood." Jiang Ruan frowned. Jiang Su Su went to a family temple three years ago. How could it be related to the secret arts of Southern Xinjiang. She said, "how did the secret art of Southern Xinjiang spread to the Central Plains?" Xiao Shao picked an eyebrow and said, "someone is helping Jiang Su Su secretly." "Help or use?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao shook his head: "before we find someone, everything is variable." Jiang Ruan lowered his head. Xiao Shao took a serious look at her. From this point of view, she could just see Jiang Ruan''s slender neck. Maybe the light reflected people more gently, or she was very gentle from beginning to end tonight, but she didn''t have the usual alienation. At the moment, the appearance of frowning makes people feel that the expression shouldn''t appear on her face. It makes people want to do something for her. So before Xiao Shao could figure out what he thought in his heart, he heard his own cold voice: "Jiang''s house is no longer safe. I''ll find someone to protect you." Jiang Ruan slightly a Leng: "no need." "Jiang Su Su has been influenced by the secret skills of the people of Southern Xinjiang, and the people of Southern Xinjiang can''t do it any more. I guess they are very close, and Jiang Su Su Su will come into use one day. If there are people from southern Xinjiang in Jiang''s house, you will be in danger. " Xiao Shao thought, "I''ll send the woman over." Jiang Ruan looked up at him. The young man in front of him was cold and handsome, but thoughtful everywhere. It''s undeniable that it''s really exciting to have a martial arts man around to protect you. If there is anything that can be used, she thought, "thank you very much." Xiao Shao nodded: "I''ll go back first, and I''ll send people here tomorrow." Jiang Ruan nodded. Xiao Shao took a look at her. The next second, he jumped out of the window and disappeared into the night. Will forsythia and Angelica call in, two servant girls are a little surprised: "Xiao Wang Ye how a blink of an eye disappeared, just now the servants will look closely at the door, but no one came in." Jiang Ruan shakes his head, but Xiao Shao has made a thorough impression of Jiang''s mansion. He is the only one in the whole brocade who is so elegant as Liang Shangjun. Thinking of the person Xiao Shao will send tomorrow, I feel a little curious. Forsythia see time is not early, busy way: "girl first rest, tomorrow later up." Then he helped Jiang Ruan to the bed and lay down. He blew out the light and went out. Because he slept too late the first day, Jiang Ruan woke up the next day. When Forsythia came in with water to wait on her, she wanted to say nothing. Looking at her appearance, Jiang Ruan said, "if you have anything to do, please tell me." Forsythia blinked: "girl, is the fifth aunt happy?" "So fast?" Jiang Ruan Dao was not surprised. He said with a smile, "she can understand." "Did you know that Wu Yi Niang would do it so quickly?" Forsythia surprised. "She''s not stupid. The longer she waits, the greater her risk." Jiang Ruan light way. Hongying is the most intelligent person, and he analyzes the advantages and disadvantages thoroughly. Now that Xia Yan has a body, he is the biggest leader of Jiang''s family. No matter how much Jiang Quan dotes on her, if Xia Yan takes the young master who will be born by his family to make a raft, Hongying will not be dead by then. Look at the end of the last generation of Hongying. When Jiang Ruan mentioned her in this life, Hongying immediately figured it out. If Xia Yanzhen''s hand, if Hongying has a child in her belly, it''s for the sake of the child, and Jiang Quan won''t act rashly. The child is Xia Yan''s pass and Hongying''s death proof card. I just don''t know what kind of expression Xia Yan had when he knew the news that Hongying was pregnant with her body? In Yanhua garden Xia Yan suddenly broke the cup in front of him: "can you see clearly? Does she really have a pulse of joy? " Standing in front of Xia Yan, the middle-aged man was dressed in brown cloth, holding a medicine box in his hand, and said: "I''ve already had a pulse for her. It''s really a happy pulse.""Bitch! I can''t believe it Xia Yan is furious. Red tassel is in her bosom friend mother Li''s eyelid son under drink avoid son medicine, but don''t want to, but now suddenly spread happy news. In this way, the medicine must have not been drunk by Hongying. Now it''s too late to think about it. Her eyes fell on the doctor in front of her, and suddenly moved: "doctor, do you know what method can make people unconsciously miscarriage?" The doctor has been treating the lady in the big house all the year round. Naturally, he knows this very well, so he whispered: "yes, but..." "I''ll trouble the doctor." Xia Yan touched the gold hairpin on his head: "after it''s done, my wife will certainly pay a lot of money." The doctor''s face lit up. Xia Yan saw it, and a trace of poison flashed in his eyes. But just pregnant, what coke, is the palace of those dignitaries, give birth to children can grow up safely is a variable, not to mention a seed has not yet landed. Want to have children, a brothel concubine, also depends on the blessing. The happiest people in the mansion are Jiang Quan and his husband. But now Mr. Jiang is getting old. His body is not as good as before. He seldom talks when he is sober. After a while, he is tired. Jiang Quan was very happy. Although he had four daughters, his only sons were Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang Chao. Jiang Xinzhi has never been treated as a son since he was born. No matter how old he was, and how prosperous he was in the court, he could not be controlled by him. Although Jiang Chao is now working under Xuanli, he made such a big mess in baihualou at the beginning. Later, he became the laughing stock of the whole capital because of the affair with Prime Minister''s office. Subconsciously, Jiang Quan was disappointed with Jiang Chao. However, he was not confused when he was old, but Xia Yan was pregnant, which made him very happy. He wanted to add a little son to Jiang Fu. However, Hongying was pregnant at this time, which surprised him. Although Hongying was born in a brothel, she was gentle and sensible, and had the style and pride that Xia Yan didn''t have. If she could give birth to a son as talented as Hongying, even a common son, he would take good care of it. Xia Yan is dignified and proud. With a beautiful wife and concubines in mind and a large number of sons and daughters, we are proud of our official career. Isn''t life beautiful. Jiang Quan had such a dream, but he didn''t know that his concubine Fang swallowed a pair of medicine in the room. Ping''er, the servant girl, asked, "aunt, do you want more water?" Hongying shook her head. You know, she spent a lot of money to get this pair. When she fried it and drank it, her pulse would be like a bead. When the doctor came, she could not see the problem. She just thought it was a happy pulse. Now he has cheated the doctor in the house, and the doctor invited by Xia Yan has not found anything strange. I think he can settle down for a while. She relaxed slowly. Her eyes glided over the tonic piled up as high as a hill sent by Jiang Quan on the shelf, with a smile of satisfaction on her face. Jiang Ruan Zheng wanted to pick a time to see Hongying. When he saw Hongying, he heard the maid at the front door running to dewdrop and saying, "sister dewdrop, there''s a girl kneeling in front of the house. She must want to see a big girl." Jiang Ruan went out and asked the maid, "who''s looking for me? Who is it? " The maid shook her head: "I don''t know. It looks like a girl from an ordinary family is dressed up and looks white. He only said that he wanted to repay the girl''s kindness, but he would not say anything else. " Jiang Ruan thought about Xiao Shao''s words last night and said, "OK, I''ll go and have a look." As soon as I got to the gate of Jiang''s mansion, I saw a young girl kneeling on her knees. She was about seventeen or eighteen years old, dressed in blue cloth, with her head down. There was a large crowd of people outside the door of Jiang''s house, all of them wanted to see why the young girl came. Jiang Ruan went over and asked, "are you looking for me?" The young girl was kneeling with her head down when she heard Jiang Ruan''s voice. She raised her head and showed a pretty face. She really looked at her. "She said:" Tianzhu to fulfill the day''s oath, from now on to serve the girl around Jiang Ruan picked an eyebrow and didn''t take over, waiting for her to continue. Sure enough, the young girl said to herself: "when Tianzhu''s parents were killed by the bandits, they wanted to sell themselves to bury their relatives, but they were entangled by the villain. Fortunately, the girl helped them. Otherwise, there would be no bones left by the villain. The girl gave Tianzhu silver to bury her parents, but she left without saying anything. She is Tianzhu''s benefactor. Now she has found her benefactor. Tianzhu is willing to serve her forever. " Hearing this, it was clear to the crowd. I think it''s the heart of this young lady Bodhisattva who was born by the Chiang family. At the beginning, she saved people and left without leaving a name. Fortunately, the recipient also knew that a drop of water''s kindness should be rewarded by a spring, so she came to the door to repay her kindness. Jiang Ruan looked at the girl who claimed to be Tianzhu. Her face was filled with gratitude and pain. She was really like repaying her kindness. She was a great actor. However, Jiang Ruan was speechless. What did Xiao Shao mean by that? He made up such a life experience for Tianzhu. Could it be that he wanted to praise her character and make her have a good reputation among the people. It doesn''t matter. She''s used to hearing the name of the enchantress and the heart of the Bodhisattva, but now it''s really not suitable for her. "Since you want to repay your kindness wholeheartedly, if you really want to ask you to go back, you will not." Jiang Ruan smile: "then you stay with me."So crisp, the crowd was stunned. The woman was also unbelievable. According to common sense, ordinary women should not say, "I didn''t save you to repay you. You''d better go back." yunyun, Jiang Ruan''s Frank acceptance just wasted all her words? However, the woman was only stunned for a moment, then said respectfully: "please give me a name." "No, your original name is very nice, just Tianzhu." Tianzhu nodded: "yes, girl." Jiang Ruan then let the people outside disperse and returned to the yard with the cheap maidservant he had just asked for. Once back to Ruan Ju, Jiang Ruan went into the house. The dew was watering the flowers outside. When he saw Tianzhu, he blinked and looked at her curiously. Tianzhu followed Jiang Ruan back to the house. Forsythia and Angelica backed out and closed the door, leaving only Jiang Ruan and Tianzhu. Jiang Ruan seriously looked at the woman in front of him. When he was alone in the room with her, Tianzhu was different from the docile and humble woman at the door of Jiang''s mansion before. The whole person exuded a kind of cold temperament, but there was one or two Xiao Shao''s shadow. "How long have you been with him?" she said "Ten years." Tianzhu did not lift her head, and quickly replied, "my life is saved by the master. The master asked me to protect the girl." "Since your master has given you to me, from now on, your master is no longer Xiao Shao, but me. If one day I want you to betray Xiao Shao, you can only obey. " Jiang Ruan light way. Tianzhu was stunned for a moment and suddenly looked up. It turns out that she is also very confused. Who is the girl who can make the master punish Yefeng for three years? The whole royal guards are very curious. However, all they could hear was rumors. Except for those who specially inquired about Jiang Ruan''s information, others were not qualified to know. She was brought back to the royal guards by Xiao Shao when she was very young. She is one of the most outstanding members of the royal guards. Although she was born a woman, her martial arts are not weak. Xiao Shao wants to send her to an official lady for personal protection, but Tianzhu is not convinced at first. Just now, Jiang Ruan accepted her at the gate of Jiang''s mansion, which surprised her a little. Now, what he said is unbelievable to Tianzhu. She can''t help but be slightly stunned at Jiang Ruan''s eyes. It is a kind of vision, absolutely cold and heavy, as if with the examination engraved into the soul. They have been used to killing people since childhood. Only killers have such cold eyes. But Miss Jiang can''t be a killer. She had a little uneasiness in her heart under the cold eyes of Jiang Ruan. She pursed her lips and did not speak. "The old lord is hard to abandon, I understand." Jiang Ruan said lightly: "but Tianzhu, you should remember that you can''t regard me as your master now, and I can''t regard you as my confidant. My servant girl, you know martial arts. Maybe I will only tell you to do some things, but I won''t treat you sincerely until you treat me as the master. " This is so magnanimous that it makes people feel cold. They even refuse to cheat others. Tianzhu just felt a tremor in his heart. He was silent for a long time and said, "Tianzhu understands." Jiang Ruan knocked on the tea cup in front of him: "these days, you should pay attention to my second sister''s yard, and don''t let go of my wife''s yard." Tianzhu bowed his head: "yes." The passing of the day is so dull, as if everything is peaceful and serene. Jiang Quan is busy with his official business every day, and Jiang Chao is not very much in his office. Xia Yan and Hongying stay in their yard all day long to have a baby, but there has never been any conflict. Jiang Su Su came out again, but she seems to be more gentle than before. Even her husband praised her for going to the temple. Now she has more Buddha nature, and her nature is more gentle than before. In this way, things three years ago were blamed on the "possessed" ghosts. If there is anything, it is Jiang Li''s and Jiang Dan''s hairpin ceremony. Jiang Li''s hairpin ceremony is very lively, and the second aunt is always noisy. Because Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu''s hairpin ceremony were not held in the capital, Jiang Li''s hairpin ceremony was just like that of her daughter. The family of doctor Zuo also came, but they didn''t say anything. The wedding date was set at the end of this summer. The main reason is that Zuo Lang''s middle age is not small, and his family has been pressing for it. Besides, the marriage was decided three years ago, and neither family said anything. Jiang Dan also appeared at Jiang Li''s hairpin ceremony that day, but he didn''t show any unwillingness. He was very clever and sincerely wished Jiang Li and hairpin to be adults. In this way, some people who originally despised Jiang Dan thought that the common girl was very gentle and generous, and she won a lot of favor in a short time. But Jiang Dan''s hairpin ceremony is not as good as Jiang Li''s. Because Xia Yan is pregnant now, and so is Hongying. Jiang''s husband is not in good health, and her great aunt has been invisible for many years. The hairpin ceremony of Jiang Dan falls on her second aunt. Second aunt in any case will not let Jiang Dan and hairpin ceremony better than Jiang Li, that day is very perfunctory. However, Jiang Dan''s face was devout, and he was not happy at all. Jiang Ruan looks at it with a smile. Jiang Dan''s mind is getting deeper and deeper day by day. Jiang Quan thinks she is a clever girl, but Jiang Ruan knows that her fourth sister is not so simple.But without that, life is very comfortable. It seems that Jiang''s house has always been such a harmonious and warm family, not a dangerous Shura. When the peach blossom period in front of the door had passed, Xia Yan''s stomach was already very obvious, and he also had the reaction of pregnancy. His appetite became very good, and his body became fat. This time, he was more fierce than when he was pregnant with Jiang Su Su''s brothers and sisters. Maybe he was old and didn''t pay attention to maintenance. He was very different from his elegant and elegant appearance in the past. The same is pregnant with the body, but the red tassel is more and more beautiful, I do not know if it is pregnant with the body of the reason, the whole popularity color has become much ruddy. Different from Xia Yan, although she has begun to show her mind gradually, she cleans herself up very easily every day. Compared with her lonely and arrogant appearance, her body is a bit more charming and more attractive. On the one hand, there are some fat wives, and on the other hand, there are more beautiful concubines. Jiang Quan is not a lustful man on weekdays. However, men like fresh and beautiful things after all. Besides, Xia Yan has given birth to Jiang Su Su Su and Jiang Chao for him, but Hongying is the first one to have her baby. Although Jiang Quan also made people take good care of Xia Yan, he went to Jiang Su Su''s yard more frequently. I suddenly found that the monthly tickets had rushed to more than a dozen people, and I was moved by QQ Tea tea did not expect that there will be so many pro vote monthly, tut only by example! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 108 The good times of spring always pass quickly, and the heat of summer comes in the twinkling of an eye. Dewdrop bought large pieces of ice outside and put them in the house. The Empress Dowager rewarded her with a lot of money. Although ice was a good thing, Jiang Ruan did not lack it. The iced lotus leaf and lotus seed porridge was served by Forsythia suspensa. Jiang Ruan tasted it. It was sweet and delicious. It was cool and pleasant. It was really delicious in summer. In the west corner of the courtyard, although there are not many bamboo plants, the green color is really beautiful enough, so although the sun is burning outside, Ruan Curie always has a sense of comfort. Dew greedy cool, in the room to take all the embroidery work, Jiang Ruan also don''t say her. Tianzhu looks like a decoration. She sits by and looks at the dew embroidered handkerchief. As a matter of fact, Tianzhu is not outstanding enough. On the contrary, no one doubts that her embroiderers are famous embroiderers in Beijing. It''s just like this that makes people feel confused. Although Jiang Ruan pingri wore bright clothes, he didn''t care much about these things, so he simply told Tianzhu not to do it. Just pay attention to the information. It was cooler in the room, but the sun outside was getting bigger and bigger. It was already afternoon. After lunch, he used a bowl of cold sweets. Jiang Ruan was also sleepy. Just thinking of getting up and taking a rest on the couch for a while, people came to the yard. The visitor was a cuckoo beside Mr. Jiang. Tianzhu asked, "Why are you here?" The cuckoo said with a smile: "the old man''s colleagues came to see the old lady and sent two pieces of silk and fish to the maid to send one to the girl." Jiang Ruan said, "do you have three sisters and four sisters?" Du Juan looks at Jiang Ruan with a smile. Now no one in Jiang''s mansion dares to look down on this young lady. Although the old lady was neglected by the master when she was alive, the old lady and the young lady are slaves in the mansion. They can be abused at will. They thought that they would never be able to turn over in their life. Who knows that now the young master has become a general of the Jin Dynasty, and the young lady has become the princess of the current Dynasty. Without the name of princess, the general''s office clearly supported her. Who dares to underestimate her. Therefore, the fate of people is really wonderful. She said, "no, there are only two in all. The old lady wanted to give them to her, but she said she was old enough to wear them for the girls in the house. In terms of status, you and miss two deserve it. Besides, miss three and miss four are actually younger. " Jiang Ruan almost lost his smile in his heart. Jiang Li and Jiang Dan are big girls with hairpins now. Their four sisters are of the same age. They want to separate themselves from each other. Originally, there was nothing wrong with this. Piansheng was proposed by Xia Yan. Jiang Ruan asked Baizhi to take the silk fish and said to cuckoo, "in this way, please thank my grandmother for me." The cuckoo is busy to smile to refuse: "big girl, this is to break the evil slave." She looked at Jiang Ruan''s smiling face and sighed even more. It is said that Jiang Ruan didn''t hold airs in his daily life. Even after he became a princess, he didn''t ask his servants to treat her as a princess. However, as long as she stops there, she will feel heavy with a light glance. It''s like the elegant demeanor of the noble talents in the palace. After talking with Jiang Ruan for a while, Du Juan left in a hurry. After the cuckoo leaves, Jiang Ruan orders Angelica dahurica and forsythia to open the silk fish silk brought by the cuckoo. Silk fish silk comes from Persia. It''s rare in the great Jin Dynasty. It''s worth a hundred gold. It''s actually a kind of bright colored silk thread. Sure enough, as soon as the cuckoo and Angelica dahurica were opened, the dewdrop exclaimed. The silk thread is as white as jade. It seems to have a faint luster of pearls. It makes people happy to see it. If you use it to embroider a flower on your clothes. I really want to be in the limelight among the expensive women in Beijing. Dewdrop was already excited and said: "this silk thread is really beautiful. If you don''t let Tianzhu embroider a flower, no, no, the flower is too gaudy. If you spoil such a beautiful silk thread, it''s not like embroidering fireflies. Tianzhu''s hand is so skillful. It''s bound to be wonderful." Tianzhu went up to the silk and stroked it with her hand. The dew said painfully, "be light. Don''t break the thread As soon as the voice fell, he saw Tianzhu bending down and sniffing something on the silk thread. Jiang Ruan looked at her thoughtfully. A moment later, Tianzhu stood up straight, stretched out her hand, rolled the silk and put it aside again, and frowned quietly. Jiang Ruan looked at her thoughtfully and said, "what''s the problem?" "Silk fish itself is no problem," Tianzhu said, "but this one has a kind of spice added to it. It will have a special effect with silk fish." Jiang Ruan picked eyebrows: "what role?" "People who are pregnant will have a miscarriage within three days when they smell the fragrance. Even the innocent girl will not be pregnant if she hears too much. " Tianzhu light way. "What?" Forsythia was surprised, almost rushed up and tore the silk thread: "how can it be like this? How could the old lady send such silk thread? " Tianzhu said: "the spices on the top are still very new. They should be soaked and dried overnight." "It''s not grandma, it''s Xia Yan." Jiang Ruan smiles. Although Xia Yan is pregnant now, many things can''t come out, Zhongfu is still firmly in hand. If the things sent by old lady Jiang''s old friend are to be recorded, they naturally need to go through Xia Yan''s hands. It''s easy for Xia Yan to do anything. As early as Dujuan said that she and Jiang Susu were only given silk and fish silk, she felt that it was not right. Xia Yan didn''t let her down."What does she want to do? What a brave man! He dares to murder a girl in this mansion Angelica dahurica is also angry, but it is no longer thinking about Jiang Quan as she was. "She''s not just for me." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "five aunt''s belly, but now it has been three months." Red Ying''s stomach is getting bigger and bigger. Xia Yan is afraid that she can''t sit down for a long time. But Hongying never let out a single drop of water. She kept her yard strictly away, and even a fly couldn''t fly in. Jiang Quan promised red Ying to let her use her own small kitchen again. It''s hard for Xia Yan to start. However, the child in Hongying''s stomach is always a thorn in her heart, and the son of Jiangfu can only climb out of her stomach. Xia Yan is also urgent ruthless, will think of this method. Although Jiang Quan didn''t like Jiang Ruan, the family knew that Hongying had a good relationship with Jiang Ruan. Compared with Xia Yan''s stepmother, Jiang Ruan is naturally inclined to help Hongying, but he can understand. So although Jiang Quan was unhappy, he did not stop him. Hongying often comes to Ruan Curie to sit down. This silk fish silk is so precious and beautiful that a daughter of such age as Jiang Ruan can''t wait to use it on her clothes. And really put on embroidered silk fish silk clothes and red Ying sit for a while, red Ying back on the miscarriage. At that time, when it comes to clothes, Xia Yan can say that there is no problem with the silk, fish and silk. The problem must not be in the material. In the end, it will become an accident that Jiang Ruan poisoned the fetus in his aunt''s womb. Kill two birds with one stone, not only the child in Hongying''s stomach, but also let Jiang Ruan get a vicious reputation. Is the princess how, such a charge pressure on the body, the same let her bear. Xia Yan has a good abacus, which is amazing. Jiang Ruan smile, waiting for so long, and finally wait until the soft tortoise stretched out his limbs, since the move, it depends on who started the neat. Tianzhu pondered: "girl, will my subordinates exchange this silk thread with Jiang Su Su''s?" Even now that she has been with Jiang Ruan, Tianzhu, like Xiao Shao, calls herself "subordinate". "How can we use an ox knife to kill a chicken?" Jiang Ruan shook his head. "There''s no need for you. Someone will solve this problem for us." Since Xia Yan is dealing with Hongying, how can Hongying not fight back? She said to Tianzhu, "do you know poison?" "I know a little about the people who used to deal with southern Xinjiang with my master. The spices on it are not rare. " Tianzhu Road. "Very good. Is there any way to detoxify?" "I''ll try." When Hongying came to ruanju as usual, she took the tea poured by Angelica dahurica and looked at Jiang Ruan''s clothes. She was slightly surprised: "your embroidery is very beautiful, and the silk thread seems to shine." Jiang Ruan''s red Ju pattern upper garment is clearly embroidered with a snow-white Luan bird. The embroidery process is very exquisite. The Luan bird embroidery is lifelike, and the partial silk thread also gives off a kind of pearl light, which makes the Luan bird almost fly out of the garment. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "the silk and fish silk from my grandmother is very beautiful. If my aunt likes it, she can take the rest of the silk back." This kind of silk thread is rare, and Hongying loves beauty very much. She is overjoyed to hear that, so she immediately takes the material back. After Hongying left, Tianzhu looked at Jiang Ruan strangely, kept silent for a while, and asked, "why do you want to do this, girl? Why don''t you ask the maid to change the silk thread directly? " "Nature is not good." Jiang Ruan smile: "Xia Yan naturally want to clean up, but Hongying is too smart, smart people, if there is no handle, it is difficult to guarantee the mind in the future." Of course, the most important reason Jiang Ruan didn''t tell Tianzhu. Because of Peier''s relationship in the last life, although she will not pity Xia Yan''s children, she will not take the initiative to kill them. It''s one thing to let Tianzhu do it, and another to guide Hongying. Xia Yan and Jiang Susu are very good at killing people with a knife in the last life, and she will not be bad in this life. "Tomorrow morning, you will go to tell the fifth aunt that there are spices in the silk thread that cause miscarriage. It''s the wife''s hands and feet," Jiang Ruan phene told Hongying The next morning, when it was dark and Jiang Ruan Fang was still washing, Hongying rushed into Ruan''s house with the silk and fish. Xu suddenly heard the news with a heavy heart. Hongying''s expression was with rare anxiety. There was no peacetime elegance. She immediately asked, "what''s the matter, big girl?" Yesterday, she really liked the silk and fish, so she brought it back to the yard, thinking about what kind of pattern to make. She didn''t want to come to tell Jiang Ruan that the silk and fish had been handmade in the early morning, which would be a small product. Jiang Ruan poured her a cup of tea: "don''t worry, aunt. I''ve been caught in this too. She sighed. If this kind of spice is used by girls in boudoir, I''m afraid it will be used in the future Infertility. " Hongying was stunned, which she had never thought of. Hesitated to look at Jiang Ruan: "big girl, what do you do now?" "What else can we do? Get a doctor to watch." Jiang Ruan shook his head. Hongying said: "how can this be done? Madam is so vicious that she even wants to hurt the girl and the child in my belly. This kind of behavior is really hateful. My concubine is just a servant girl, but she is a beautiful girl. How can she bear this tone. The Empress Dowager loves her. If she tells her about it, she will be in charge of her. "Jiang Ruan looks at her with a smile. Hongying is not a fool. Do you want to use her to deal with Xia Yan? How can there be such a cheap thing in this world? She is not a Bodhisattva. Why should she clear the stumbling block for the world. "Does my aunt really think it''s better to go into the palace and tell the Empress Dowager?" Jiang Ruan Dao. Red Ying heart a jump, hear Jiang Ruan words inside have words, hesitation way: "this...". What''s wrong? " "Aunt, I think it''s very clear. This silk fish silk will make people have a miscarriage in three days. To be honest with you, Ruan Ju is not very clean. What''s more, when my aunt took the silk fish silk back yesterday, many servant girls saw it on the road. Jiang''s house is not big. You can know such a small thing if you check it carefully. Now that my aunt is pregnant with her body and holds silk and fish silk, she has no reaction to miscarriage. My wife knows. I don''t know what she will think? " Red Ying a Leng, suddenly understand the meaning of Jiang Ruan words, only feel behind a burst of cool. Jiang Ruan continued: "I can go into the palace to tell the empress dowager, but if my wife is found out, she won''t be arrested. She hates her aunt so much that she will die. At that time, the imperial doctor in the palace is not something that ordinary people can buy. If you have any problems, you can see. I''m afraid my aunt will come to a dismal end. I don''t have anything. My wife will pay me back, but my aunt is willing to get everything she has worked hard for? Is my aunt willing? " A sentence is like a charm to bewitch people''s mind. Red tassel murmurs: "not reconciled, I am not reconciled." Jiang Ruan Wei smiles. Red Ying looked at Jiang Ruan and grabbed his sleeve: "girl, girl, help me. I don''t want to be murdered by my wife. I just want to have a foothold in the house! " She finally realized that only the young lady in front of her could save her. Although Jiang Ruan didn''t say anything, Hongying knew that she must have a way. "Aunt, don''t worry." Jiang Ruan patted her hand, and her smile became more and more gentle: "now my wife is sure that my aunt will have a miscarriage. If my aunt does not have a miscarriage in three days, my wife will suspect my aunt. But what if my aunt didn''t take this spiced silk fish shred? " Hongying slowly released her hand and looked blankly at Jiang Ruan. "There are two pieces of silk fish, one to my yard and the other to my second sister''s yard. Since we want to show that everything is clean, I think the second sister will also make such a dress. If the maid takes the wrong material, then my aunt has no miscarriage, but she is lucky. " Hongying slowly recovered. If you change it into Jiang Ruan''s material, it will be fine. Jiang Susu''s material is spiced. Naturally, she won''t have a miscarriage, because the miscarriage Someone else. Hongying opened her mouth and looked at Jiang Ruan incredulously: "it''s easy for the big girl to say. How can I exchange materials?" She thought for a moment, "there are so many talented people around the big girl. Can you let the big girl..." "Five aunts," Jiang Ruan interrupted her before she could finish her sentence: "although there is a festival between my wife and me, I''m not in a hurry. If I want to revenge in the future, I''ll find a way. But Auntie can''t wait. Auntie, if you can''t exchange materials in three days, you can only, "she said with a smile," try to have a miscarriage. This method is also feasible naturally, but my aunt''s chips are gone. " Red Ying heart "clap Deng" once, Jiang Ruan every word poke in her key. Yes, in order not to arouse suspicion, she can only pretend to have a miscarriage, but in this way, her chips will be gone. If you can exchange the materials, it will not only make Xia Yan''s stomach empty, but also get all the spices from it. Isn''t that Xia Yan''s own hands and feet! Jiang Ruan''s voice came gently and softly: "does my aunt really want to get rid of the baby in my wife''s belly? Why don''t you ask your heart? " Red Ying''s body trembled and trembled. Yes, she hated Xia Yan, and even more hated the meat in Xia Yan''s stomach. Without that meat, Xia Yan was in the mansion. Now it''s a good time to fight. Jiang Quan will put more thoughts on her! Red Ying took a deep look at Jiang Ruan, and suddenly stood up: "I thank you for your advice." Jiang Ruan is smiling and speechless. This is how people''s hearts are. Jealousy, unwillingness, comparison and hatred only need a little to devour people''s reason. Hongying has made a choice. This is what happens in the world. Whatever she needs, she has to pay the same price. Before leaving, Hongying turned to Jiang Ruan and said softly, "big girl, when you sent me silk thread, did you really not know that it was mixed with deadly spices?" Jiang Ruan took a sip of tea and said, "I don''t know." Hongying said nothing more and turned away. After Hongying left, Tianzhu went to Jiang Ruan and said, "does she really have a way to get silk thread?" "Naturally." Jiang Ruan''s eyes, from the dust woman in the land of fireworks to the concubine''s room who can compete with the main room, were still in favor of Jiang Quan, who was quite noble. Hongying is naturally not an ordinary woman. She has been safe and sound for so many years in the case of Xia Yan''s eyesore. She has no ability and has been gnawed to the bone for a long time. Hongying is not Zhao Mei. She is much smarter than Zhao Mei and much more cruel.Tianzhu looked at Jiang Ruan and said nothing. This matter does not need Jiang Ruan''s hand, but also has a handle on Hongying. Naturally, it is much better than her changing the silk thread. Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes, but a strange smile appeared on his face. No mother has no pain in losing her child. How painful she was in the last life, Xia Yan felt it in this life, and it was far more than that. Thank you for your support. There is no need to vote for more tea. If you can have more tea, there will be more tea. If you can''t. It''s just that there''s really no time_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 109 June day woman''s face, said to change, clear morning or clear, but in the afternoon it began to rain. The ferocity of the rain brought a refreshing coolness to the hot summer. Xia Yan sits in front of the window, the window is open, the coolness brought by the rain is fresh on her face, and the haze of the past days is swept away. Because I was afraid of the cold, I didn''t use ice in the house in summer. Today''s rain has relieved the summer heat. Feicui gently criticizes Xia Yan''s coat: "madam, don''t catch cold carefully." "No harm." Xia Yan narrowed her eyes comfortably. She seemed to be in a good mood. Even her complexion brightened a little, but she had some former appearance. The sleeve edge of the dress is embroidered with a flying white butterfly, whose beauty seems to be shining. Xia Yan looked down and was very satisfied. Since I was pregnant, I can''t wear the original clothes. I only wear some big ones. A woman''s family doesn''t love beauty, but tries every means to do something about the patterns. Jiang Su Su divided the silk and fish, sent some to her, and she used them on the sleeve edge of her clothes. On the one hand, silk fish silk is really beautiful. On the other hand, something happened to Hongying, so some people will doubt her. Only when it is also used on herself, can people not doubt her. Think of the red tassel, Xia Yan mouth and show a happy smile. She bought the medicine from outside at a high price. There was no medicine in the capital and ordinary doctors could not smell it. It''s all Jiang Ruan''s crime. The servant saw with his own eyes that Hongying took silk fish back. Xia Yan was about to laugh. God was helping her. Hongying was looking for her own death. Today is the second day. It''s not today. Tomorrow''s Hongying is bound to have a small production. Feicui gently fans for Xia Yan. Xia Yan twists a sour plum and puts it in her mouth. Recently, she has become more and more fond of sour plum, which makes the kitchen pickle a lot of fresh green plum. Plum just in the mouth, sour has not yet had time to open, Xia Yan suddenly feel a pain in the abdomen, her hand a shake, the plum in the mouth when vomiting out, covering the abdomen called: "good pain!" Feicui and Linlang were startled and went to help Xia Yan: "what''s wrong with madam? Where does it hurt? " Xia Yan felt more and more that his small abdominal pain was like a knife, so he fell down from the stool and covered his stomachache and rolled on the ground. The two servant girls turned pale with fright, and feicui said, "is it difficult for madam to have a baby? But it''s not yet. " "Ah Linlang screamed, and her body could not stop shaking. Xia Yan''s lower body had spilled a large amount of blood. They were not boudoir ladies who knew nothing. Naturally, they understood what it meant. When feicui saw such a scene, she had no idea what to do? Hold on, madam. I''ll go to the master and ask the doctor to come here! " "Station Stop Xia Yan''s forehead exudes big drops of sweat, but he still keeps awake and calls for jadeite. She vaguely understood that it might be a miscarriage, and she felt both pain and shock in her heart. But at the moment, she said, "do it secretly, and don''t let other people in the house know." Then there was another scream, covering his stomach and rolling. On the front page of Jiang ruanhe''s book, Tianzhu quickly walked up to her and said in a low voice, "Xia Yan has a miscarriage." "It''s really the power of medicine." Jiang Ruan light way. "But she didn''t disturb anyone else." Tianzhu thought, "I only found a doctor from outside. Now that doctor just went out, he should have collected a lot of money." "Do you have company?" Jiang Ruan looked at Tianzhu and said, "think of a way to protect the doctor''s life. Xia Yan will certainly kill people. I can still use the doctor." Tianzhu said, "I''ll go now." After Tianzhu left, Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the snack basket in front of him. There was a tiny plum in it. This season''s plums are not yet mature. Today they are picked by dewdrops. The plum is green and unsophisticated, but it''s not the time to harvest. Jiang Ruan held Li Zi in his hand and slowly spilled a smile. In Yan Hua Yuan, Xia Yan is lying on the bed, pale as a dead man. There was a great smell of blood in the room. Looking at the bloody things in the wooden basin, Lin Lang felt cold all over. The doctor said that Xia Yanhuai had a male fetus, which had already taken shape. Today, I don''t know what kind of perfume caused abortion, so I had a miscarriage. This spice is extremely overbearing, not only that, but also hurt the root, and will never have a child in the future. Xia Yan already has Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su. Even if he can''t have children in the future, he still has a foothold in the mansion. But they all knew how the spice came from. It was the silk fish silk Xia Yan used in Jiang Ruan. They wanted to use it against Hongying! Xia Yan''s eyes are dull. He stares at the fine pattern on the curtain. If he doesn''t turn his eyes after a long time, I''m afraid some people doubt whether she is dead. Silk fish, silk fish? Xia Yan gave a bitter smile. It was so. Red tassel that bitch, unexpectedly changed silk fish silk to come over? Could it be that the spy in the yard exchanged two pieces of silk thread? Now the slut in Hongying''s stomach is still there, but her child lost her life! This kind of blood feud, not together! Thinking of the child in her stomach, Xia Yan felt like a knife. The child stayed in her stomach for so long, but she was about to give birth, but died in the middle of the way. Besides, it''s a boy! What will Jiang Quan do when he knows? She must be very disappointed. How can she tell him the news? If I told him, the humble species in Hongying''s belly would be more like fish in water. When her child died, she must be buried with the base of Hongying!Lin Lang stepped forward timidly: "madam, does the second lady say that..." "Don''t tell her that I have a miscarriage," Xia Yan said difficultly. "You only say that there is something wrong with the silk thread. Tell her not to use it." Xia Yan Qi you if silk: "this matter, if want anyone to know, your family''s life is not guaranteed." Feicui and Linlang a shock, Qi Qi lowered his head and said: "slaves save." "Get out of here." Xia Yan obviously didn''t want to talk any more. When feicui and Linlang were about to leave, Linlang suddenly asked cautiously: "that What about the body of the young master? " Xia Yan was stunned and looked out of the window. In this weather, I''m afraid it won''t last long. But looking at the bloody things in the wooden basin, she felt upset for no reason. Then he sneered: "death is dead, of course it is thrown out." She some disgust don''t overdo: "do clean, don''t be caught." Jadeite and Lin Lang are both cool, and their own flesh and blood, Xia Yan is really a little cold. But there is really no other way at the moment. Naturally, they didn''t know what Xia Yan was up to, so they had to go out. Xia Yan was lying on the boat, and a tear fell from the corner of his eye. She leaned over, tears disappeared, and a trace of malice flashed in her eyes. Her child ended up in such a tragic death. The base seed in Hongying''s stomach must be 1000 times and 10000 times worse than him! At night, a small room in Yanhua Garden lights up. It''s raining. There is still some wind at night, which makes the candle light flickering. A low voice said, "how''s that thing going?" "For fear of being suspected, I wrapped it in coarse linen. It was clean and nobody found it." The other answered in a low voice. "That''s good. Ah, looking at the gloomy sky this night, I feel strange and seeping. You say, is it not a ghost..." "Go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go Slightly low voice seems to be very taboo, urgently interrupted another voice, said: "it''s so late, since things are handled, I go back first." "Good." Another voice replied, followed by the sound of footsteps leaving. The candlelight in the room slightly illuminated the person in front of the table. It was Xia Yan''s maid beside him. Today, she gave the dead baby to a mammy in the room. She only said that it was the dirty body of the servant girl in the courtyard who gave birth to it. She asked the baby to be sold far away. Although it was taboo, the money that Lin Lang gave the old lady was enough, and the old lady accepted it. Clearly everything is done very properly, but somehow, Lin Lang always feels uneasy, as if something is going to happen. However, Xia Yan can''t be separated from others now. She pretends that she hasn''t had a miscarriage, and the baby continues to raise her baby like a stable one. But Linlang has to boil tonic for her body. After the woman and Lin Lang separated, she went to touch her heavy purse with a smile. Although enough silver was given, the dead baby could still be sold at a good price. The Ziheche attached to the dead baby is a good thing. There is a drugstore in Beijing doing such business in private. On weekdays, the dead babies are sold to others. The women in the big house often need to use Ziheche to look good. However, Ziheche is a bloody thing after all. They can''t eat it openly on weekdays, so they have to buy it secretly in private. Today, the woman got the dead baby from Lin Lang, sold it to the drugstore, and then collected two pieces of money. How unhappy she was, she went out to drink and eat with great enthusiasm. In Suxin garden, butterfly holds a Lin long clear glass bowl and hands it to Jiang Su Su on the couch: "girl, drink while it''s hot." It was steaming hot in the bowl, but there was a disgusting color. Although it was fragrant, it also made people bet in their stomach for no reason. Jiang Susu put down the new Rouge in his hand, took the glass bowl in butterfly''s hand carelessly, stirred it gently with a jade spoon, and said carelessly, "today again?" "There are very few of them in Beijing these days. The shopkeeper of the drugstore said that they are new today. They are very fresh. It took me two hundred taels of silver to buy it back. " The butterfly looks the same. "I see. Go back to the account and get the money." Jiang Su Su lifted the bowl to the tip of his nose and sniffed it gently, showing an intoxicated look. It''s not a day or two to eat Ziheche. Thanks to Ziheche, the scar on her face is getting better so quickly. It''s precious, but it doesn''t come often. She''s not afraid of other people''s blood. For this face, what are these? After all, recently even chicken blood can be broken, and her face must be more beautiful. It seems that it''s time to come out for a walk. Jiang Susu picked up the bowl and slowly tasted the delicious food, but the butterfly on one side could not help but vomit in his heart. In the debris pile at the gate of suxinyuan maid''s room, there was a piece of cloth lying quietly. It was a piece of coarse cloth with some dark brown stains. Afraid of catching cold at night, dew will cover the window, leaving a small gap, neither too much cold wind into the room, but also two pieces of ventilation. It''s cool today, so there''s no need to use ice. Tianzhu came in from the outside, went to Jiang Ruan who was preparing to go to bed, whispered a few words with her, Jiang Ruan''s eyes flashed, a smile: "that''s what happened."Tianzhu can''t help but frown. Xia Yan sends her dead baby to be dealt with, but she is bought back by people in suxinyuan. That Jiang Su Su is to eat his own brother''s Purple River car, a thought of here, feel creepy horror. Jiang Ruan said, "there is only karma in the world." Tianzhu said: "Xia Yan conceals the news of miscarriage. Is it hard for him to want to transplant?" "How can Xia Yan be reconciled to such a big loss? If it''s a transplant, doesn''t it seem that she''s too kind-hearted? " She will block in front of the broken hair do not to the back, the earlobe is more and more yingbai Ruyu. "The girl Jiang Ruan shook his head and said, "don''t worry. She''s all on Hongying now. How could Hongying not hold her firmly? Let''s just sit and watch the play. " When it''s not time to do it, she won''t do it rashly. Tianzhu thought about it and went out. After Tianzhu went out, Jiang Ruan pressed his forehead and sat for a while. Then he felt a little tired. When I got up, I was about to take off my coat. I heard a familiar voice: "wait a minute." Jiang Ruan was surprised. Before he could react, he subconsciously reached for the dagger at the bottom of the pillow. In the shadow of the lights, a man came out. He came closer and closer, and stopped a few steps away from Jiang Ruan. He was elegant and elegant in black, and he had a beautiful face. Who was Xiao Shao? So he came uninvited. Rao, who was used to smiling in his daily life, could not help but look cold and said angrily, "what is the purpose of King Xiao? Is that how the clan rules are taught? " As soon as she said it, she regretted it. Although she was Princess Hong''an now, Xiao Shao was the leader of 300000 royal guards. Now the leader of Jinying palace, she had to be a lot worse than Xiao Shao. Today, however, Xiao Shao came uninvited, which made her feel frightened. In addition, Xiao Shao never deliberately put on airs in front of her on weekdays, so Jiang Ruan forgot the strength of this man in the great Jin Dynasty. Only now did she realize how rude her words were. However, she couldn''t take back the water she spilled. She pretended to be angry and glared at Xiao Shao, but she muttered in her heart. Xiao Shaoping is used to Jiang Ruan''s calm appearance in advance and retreat, and he can smile whenever and wherever he goes. Unexpectedly, he was shocked to see Jiang Ruan''s explosive hair today. Although he was born in the imperial clan, the etiquette of aristocratic children is never lacking, but because he accepts the relationship of the royal guards, he walks outside all the year round, and he is also infected with some of the habits of the Jianghu. He is a natural and unrestrained person who does not stick to the secular world. Now he even regards Jiang Ruan as his own, but he never thought that the other party is a girl who has not come out of the cabinet. More did not consider the middle of the night, a turn back in the room quietly more than one person will cause Jiang Ruan how much fear. Thinking of this, Xiao Shao felt ashamed, pursed his lips and said, "I''m not thoughtful. I''m sorry." Then he went to see Jiang Ruan seriously. He saw that Jiang Ruan clearly had a guilty attitude in his eyes, but he still glared angrily. He was stunned again. He just felt funny. King Xiao of the grand Jin Dynasty personally apologized to himself, but Jiang Ruan was not good at making any gesture. I was so worried that I couldn''t calm down today. After a while, I went to the table and sat down. He poured a cup of tea for himself and Xiao Shao, and said, "it must have been a matter of great urgency for Lord Xiao to break into the boudoir in the middle of the night." Xiao Shao just ignored the irony in her words, and her heroic eyebrows wrinkled slightly: "did you use the silk and fish silk sent by Xia Yan?" Jiang Ruan a Zhi, did not expect Xiao Shao is actually for this matter. It must have been Tianzhu who reported this to Xiao Shao. When Tianzhu first came to her, Xiao Shao was her food and clothing parent, and Jiang Ruan didn''t expect Tianzhu to be loyal to her now. He nodded. Xiao Shao disagreed: "it''s mixed with spices. You shouldn''t be so reckless." "The geranium has been perfumed." Jiang ruanhun didn''t care. At that time, in order to make Hongying put down her guard, she let Tianzhu use the silk thread to remove the fragrance, which would not cause any harm to her body. "Tianzhu will miss, too. It''s hard to avoid accidents." Xiao Shao light way. Tianzhu, who is standing outside the window, has been practicing martial arts since childhood. Naturally, the conversation in the room can also be heard. It''s a pity to hear Xiao Shao''s words. Although she is not one of the best detoxification experts, such a small poison is not a problem. What else does Jiang Ruan want to say? Xiao Shao suddenly reaches out his hand and holds her wrist. He is a man, and his strength is beyond Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao pays attention to her pulse. Although Jiang Ruan feels strange, he doesn''t struggle. His eyes fell on the hand that held his wrist. Different from some of Jiang Xinzhi''s dark and strong hands, Xiao Shao''s hands are slender, well proportioned, with a thin layer of cocoon on his finger belly. When he was practicing martial arts, it was cold, but the palm was warm and dry. Xiao Shao finished his pulse and took back his hand. There was a moment of strangeness in his eyes. Jiang Ruan, who was an observant, saw something from Xiao Shao''s expression and said, "but there are residual spices?" To tell you the truth, she didn''t worry much about spices. She just couldn''t have children. In this life, she never even thought about getting married. "No Xiao Shao thought about it, shook his head, looked at her and said, "you are too weak."Jiang Ruan smiles and doesn''t speak. Weak? In the last life, when she came back to Jiang''s house from Zhuangzi, she was so weak and bony that she could hardly see her figure. After spending several years in Chiang''s house, she has been taking medicine, but she is not very well. If it was not for the emperor''s draft girl''s will, she would be ill for several years. In this life, although she came back early from Chuang Tzu, her early illness still fell, and her body was not refreshing. Now looking at the good recuperation, only she knows the rot in her body, she still pays great attention to recuperate her body, because she wants to save her life for revenge. When Xiao Shao saw that Jiang Ruan''s eyes crossed him, he seemed to think of something. He only felt that the girl opposite seemed to be very far away for a moment. Can''t help but slightly frown, there is a trace of uncomfortable feeling in the heart. Xiao Shao didn''t understand this feeling. He thought for a moment and said, "if I have the chance to take you to my master in the future, his medical skill will make you better." Jiang Ruan was pulled back to his mind by Xiao Shao''s words. Seeing that the young man in black was serious in his dark eyes, he was stunned and said, "thank you very much." When I get along with Xiao Shao, it seems that the most I can say is "thank you". Xiao Shao stood up and said, "it''s late. I''ll go back first and you''ll have a rest earlier." Then he took a look at her and flew out of the window. When he said that, he said that he would leave. Is it really their backyard? After staying for a while, Jiang Ruan suddenly thought of what Xiao Shao was doing today, just to feel her pulse? Is this man stunned? Jiang Ruan blew the lamp and collapsed. His sleepiness was stirred by Xiao Shao, and he had already gone to the sky, but he didn''t feel sleepy at all. Xiao Shao saw that the light in the room had gone out. After standing for a while, he turned and left. It was just a summer rain, and the next day was a sunny day. Different from the heavy haze of the day before yesterday, it was sunny for several days in a row. The house is in good order, the fifth aunt is in the yard, and Xia Yan is often in the garden with a big stomach. It doesn''t look any different. The appearance of Enron does not mean real peace. For example, the fifth aunt Hongying is not as safe as the servant girl''s rumor. Instead, she anxiously asks the servant girl, "what''s the matter? Can''t you find out at all? " "Back to my aunt." The servant girl said: "I''ve asked in Suxin garden. I''ve never heard of a miscarriage in Yanhua garden. No doctor has been here these days. The medicine that my wife asked me to go to the drugstore is just some medicine to relieve miscarriage." "How could it be?" Red tassel murmured. These days, she is very anxious to hear the news of Xia Yan''s Xiaochan. But somehow, Yan Hua Yuan is made of iron. She can''t even fly in, let alone beat her to hear any news. Only go to suxinyuan to get some news. Xia Yanzhen has a good or bad news. Jiang Susu always knows. The maid who goes down to inquire brings such news. How can Hongying accept it? What did Xia Yan find? "Aunt, don''t worry," the maid advised, "Madam Xu is lucky. She hasn''t used the silk yet, so she doesn''t have a small production." Hongying''s mind is certain that Xia Yan may not use the silk and fish silk. It''s a waste to wear anything for pregnant people. Maybe Xia Yan wants to use the silk and fish silk in postpartum clothes? Thinking of this, Hongying was relieved, but immediately, her expression became resentful again: "how can she be so lucky?" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 110 Xiao Shao gives the letter to Jin Er, who leaves the door in a hurry. Guan Lianghan saw it and was stunned: "before the end of the new year, what letter do you write to the old man?" "Old man" is Guan Lianghan''s name for their master, Mr. Baqi. Xiao Shao has never met him since he came back from southern Xinjiang. Xiao Shao said, "I''m going to mount Canaan." Mount Canaan is the place where Mr. Baqi lives, and also the place where the eight brothers of this school practice on weekdays. Mr. Baqi is also a strange man. He knows both astronomy and geography. He is proficient in the art of Qihuang and knows how to defend the enemy''s battlefield. When the emperor was alive, he once asked him to go out of the mountain to help him, but he was rejected by Mr. Baqi, who was still a young man at that time. He only said that the way of heaven is irreversible and can''t go against heaven. The array was set up on Mount Canaan, and there was no one in the world to solve it. On weekdays, people could not find it. "On Mount Canaan, wait for me." Mo Cong jumped up: "I''m going too!" "What are you going to do?" Guan Lianghan''s strange road. Mo Cong''s temperament is jumping. He used to be afraid of Mr. Baqi when he was on the mountain. "Recently, Liu Min, the imperial master of the imperial court, has been more and more trusted by the emperor. Last time I made a compromise, I was stunned by Liu min. It''s just normal. This guy is a smelly and hard stone. He has to be absolutely fair. He can''t hold a grain of sand. I''m so angry. " Mo Cong is a true son of a noble family. Although he was clever and cunning from childhood, he also had a sense of justice. But he was brought up in the officialdom with his father in his arms. He knew well the way of no fish when water was clear. Meet Mo Cong such unreasonable nerd, almost to be angry vomit blood. This is not only to seek help from master. "Is that the new champion?" Guan Lianghan has always been a bit prejudiced against scholars: "pedantic, talk so much to sour scholar, just beat him up." "You''re not afraid of the censor when you beat the court officials?" Xiao Shao looks at Mo Cong, who is eager to have a try. Mo Cong suddenly withers down like a ball. Guan Lianghan was disappointed to see that the general was not successful. Turning to Xiao Shao, he said, "when will you start?" "Now." Xiao Shao replied. He didn''t see Xiao Shao for several days, but Jiang Ruan was not used to it. When she came back to her mind, she had a faint worry and was used to living alone. However, it took Xiao Shao only a short time to get her used to his existence, which was not a good thing for Jiang Ruan. Now, although I don''t know what Xiao Shaoping did in Rili, I also know that it must not be an easy thing. There are so many dandies in Beijing. Xiao Shao is different from the dandy. There is not a trace of cynicism in his whole body. It''s easy to overlook his age by looking at him on weekdays, which makes people feel relieved. However, what Xiao Shao did had nothing to do with her. Compared with her, the ghosts in the house were more concerned. For example, Hongying pestered Jiang Quan a few days ago to invite a doctor to look at the pregnant women in the mansion. Xia Yan, the wife of the chief chamber, was about to give birth. She was in a fickle mood and refused Hongying without saying a word. Hongying is coquettish with Jiang Quan. In the end, Xia Yan is almost forced to ask for a pulse. The doctor answers that she looks stable, but Xia Yan is moved by Hongying''s action. Jiang Quan is a little angry. He doesn''t go to Hongying''s yard these days. Because of guilt, he always accompanies Xia Yan when he goes back to the government. Dewdrop strange way: "really strange, madam belly obviously no child?"? Why did you find out? " "If Xia Yan suffers a loss, he will be smarter. If you didn''t even keep this hand, wouldn''t you have been beaten by Hongying long ago? " Jiang Ruan is going through the post Dong Yinger gave her, inviting her to play in the house of Jing Zhaoyin tomorrow. This time back, she had never seen these nominal handkerchiefs. In fact, she went back to Beijing from Zhuangzi, and followed the Empress Dowager out of the city from the capital. The time was too short, and she did not really communicate with anyone. Now that he is returning to Beijing with a high profile, he wants to enter the upper class circle in Beijing. These relationships need to be well maintained. "Then let''s watch the fifth aunt suffer?" Dewdrop way: "the girl also does not like five aunt actually, right?" Although Jiang Ruan has always been partial to help Hongying, it seems that she is warm, but a few servant girls can see from the silk and fish affair that Jiang Ruan doesn''t regard Hongying as her own. Jiang Ruan smiles. People''s love is endless. Maybe Hongying just wanted to be a peaceful aunt, but after being promoted, she wanted to be the wife of Jiang Fu. Never trust such a greedy person too much. What''s more, she always hated everyone in Chiang''s house. How could she like it? Forsythia said with a smile, "if you don''t talk about it, the girl hasn''t seen Miss Dong for three years. I heard from outsiders that Miss Dong is now the right age to get married, and she will get married to Chang''s family at the latest." Dong Yinger? Jiang Ruan frowns slightly. Dong Ying''er married Chang''an, the salt transportation envoy from Sanpin capital. Their marriage was decided from childhood. They should be a team of mandarin ducks and beauties. Later, they were very comfortable. During the last Palace Banquet, Jiang Ruan had seen them from a distance. At that time, Dong Ying''er and Chang''an were very affectionate and envied. Now, time is fine. It seems that after the end of summer, Dong Ying''er should have married. Dong Yinger married a man, and Lin Zixiang soon got married. In the last life, Lin Zixiang married Xuanxin, the third prince. Xuanxin''s mother died early, and no one was in charge of him. He became a dissolute son. Since he left home, he hardly appeared in the palace. He was the most humble prince in the palace. Because the prince was still licentious, there were many concubines. In the last generation, Chen Guifei personally referred to Lin Zixiang and Xuanxin. In the end, Lin Zixiang died with Xuanxin''s concubine, and the Lin family was defeated. Jiang Ruan frowned. Now, it''s still some days before the imperial concubine''s kiss. What should we do to avoid it, or to ask empress dowager Yide?He shook his head and put these things aside for a while. Jiang Ruan wanted to see Lin Zixiang tomorrow and ask for more information. Jiang Ruan said gently, "don''t be too polite. Today, since it''s just a gathering of ordinary sisters, don''t worry about so many rules and etiquette. Just call me by my name." "You Rong Ya has never been fooled like this before, but she can hardly hold her breath. He glared at Jiang Ruan. Lin Zixiang couldn''t help laughing at the sound of "puff". Rong Ya felt insulted and couldn''t stay in this place any longer. She immediately stood up and said, "you are here to bully me today, aren''t you? I''m going After that, he walked away angrily. As soon as Rong Ya left, several ladies who had made friends with Rong Ya left one after another. Soon, only a few of them were left. Dong Ying''er wants to chase people back. Lin Zixiang pulls her: "let them go. It''s really annoying to put on the airs of ladies and try to flatter them one by one. You too, good. Why invite her here? " Dong Yinger sighs. She is not as straightforward as Lin Zixiang. Jing Zhaoyin usually has a lot of affairs to deal with, so he has to do well from top to bottom. If Lin Zixiang inherits Lin Changshi''s impartiality, Dong Yinger has learned Dong''s tact by 10%. Dong Ying''er has a good reputation among the high-ranking women in Beijing. She is lively and cute, and she has a flattering temperament. Everyone is willing to sell her face. Zhao Jin also said: "what are you afraid of? If you have a princess, you''ll have one more. You''re afraid that nobody can''t eat snacks." Now Dong Ying''er couldn''t help laughing. Smile, but gradually frown up. Wen Feifei looked at her: "Why are you unhappy again? It''s rare for sister Ruan to come back, so she''ll put those worries aside. " "What happened to sister Ying''er?" Jiang Ruan asked with a smile. "What else can I do? Isn''t it the marriage of the Chang family?" Lin Zixiang said. "Chang family is a good family in Beijing." Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "besides, what''s wrong with your childhood." Dong Ying''er is a little irritable: "I don''t want to get married yet." "What are you talking about?" Zhao Jin said: "we always say that if we don''t go out of the cabinet, we will be old girls, but we will take Joe at this time. Aren''t you shy? " "It''s all said, No." Dong Ying''er said, "I don''t want to get married yet." Jiang Ruan looks at Dong Ying''er''s appearance. She is about to be a wife, but she doesn''t look shy, unless there is no one in her heart. This is different from the last life. She thought about it and said with a smile, "sister Ying''er is not satisfied with master Chang? Or did master Chang make you angry? " Dong Ying''er was stunned and shook his head. Chang''an is her childhood sweetheart. She thought they would live like this all their lives, which is not bad. But since she met that God like man three years ago, she has no one else in her eyes. Now I understand that it''s not love for Chang''an at all. In Jiang Ruan''s eyes, Dong Ying''er''s uneasy appearance made him think that Dong Ying''er had fallen in love with others. Just now she seemed to think of something, the corner of her mouth up, is not the girl read the beloved''s shame? She was shocked. How could it be different from the previous life? Dong Ying''er seems to think of something. She suddenly looks up at Jiang Ruan and asks unintentionally, "sister Ruan, your elder brother has won battles in succession. Will he write to you this year and say when he will come back?" Jiang Ruan a Zheng, but ignore the side Zhao Jin strange appearance, the body suddenly a stiff. Could it be that. She looks at Dong Ying''er as if she wants to reflect what she thinks. Dong Ying''er looks at her, her bright eyes are full of expectations. That vision is too familiar, in the last life, she has seen such a vision in the bronze mirror countless times, it is the admiration for the sweetheart. Dong Yinger''s sweetheart is Jiang Xinzhi! This life generally follows the previous one, but many things have changed because of her arrival. For example, Dong Ying''er, who was deeply in love with Chang''an, fell in love with Jiang Xinzhi in this life. Now that this thing has changed, what about other things? Looking at Jiang Ruan some dejected, Lin Zixiang pushed her: "what do you think, do not speak." "Oh," Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "it''s OK. I haven''t sent a letter." Dong Ying''er''s eyes flashed a trace of disappointment. Jiang Ruan saw it in his eyes and became more convinced of his conjecture. I don''t know why, in the heart unexpectedly rose an unknown premonition, this premonition to inexplicable, she also don''t understand why. Lin Zixiang frowned: "if Yinger gets married, it will soon be my turn. Recently, my father always asks me about it. I really don''t know what to do." Jiang Ruan pondered for a while and said with a smile, "what information has Lord Lin disclosed?" Lin Zixiang never cares about worldly vision, but he is not so coy: "it''s not. I just saw him frowning recently. I think it''s not going well. I''ve already said that with my temperament, it''s very difficult for Beijing to find a suitable and tolerant family."Jiang Ruan frowned slightly. transitional chapters www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 111 The snow on Mount Canaan does not melt all the year round. The mountains are high and the valleys are deep. It is summer, and the snow is just beginning to melt. The mountain stream water mixed with broken ice flows slowly, scouring the brightly colored pebbles on both sides. The pine forest is covered with ice crystals. At a glance, it looks like the scenery of northern China. Xiao Shao went through the plum blossom array at the foot of the mountain to the Lvyang villa at the top of the mountain. The plum blossom array was set up by Mr. Baqi himself. There are eight rings in all. It spreads from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain. No one can break the array except our disciples. Xiao Shao has been here many times, but he is familiar with it. When Fang entered the gate outside Lvyang villa, the big green haired parrot at the gate began to flap its wings and yell: "someone''s coming! Someone''s coming Different from the scenery of Canaan mountain, Lvyang villa is full of birds singing and flowers fragrant, and flowers blooming, just like early spring. When Xiao shaochao walked into the villa, the repair of the huge villa was exquisite and wonderful, but there was no one. A moment later, a low voice came from the yard: "ah Shao?" The sound is melodious like a bell, close to the ear, listen carefully, but it seems to come from far away, misty. Xiao shaochao walked into the yard. Under the pear tree, an old man with a white beard in a gray shirt was sitting at the chess table, holding a box of chess pieces in his hand. "Master." Xiao Shao walked over to him. The old man in grey is Mr. Baqi. Now he is in his old age. He looks like an immortal, but he has a pair of smart eyes. Without looking up, he devoted himself to studying the chess game in front of him and said, "come back from southern Xinjiang?" "Yes." Xiao shaodao. After he came back from southern Xinjiang, he was busy dealing with all kinds of things on weekdays, but Mr. Baqi was still closed. It was only these days that he found a chance to go to mount Canaan, and it was time for Mr. Baqi to go out. Mr. Baqi put down his chess box and finally raised his head. Mr. Baqi has eight disciples in total. Xiao Shao and Xuanli have a gentle smile, modest and full of ambition. Xia Cheng and Jiang quanyue feel that their choice is right. Xuanli had the talent to manage the world. At that time, he was now the only one in the world. On the other side, Xia Yan is talking with Shen Rou, the eldest grandmother of the Xia family. Shen Rou looks at Xia Yan''s stomach and says with a smile, "my aunt''s stomach is more and more pregnant. When I was pregnant, it was not so big. I can''t say it was twins." Xia Yan''s face was stiff, and he gave a bitter smile in his heart. His twin son, whose child had already died, only said that as soon as he thought about the miscarriage that night, Xia Yan would like to tear Hongying and Jiang Ruan to pieces. Although I don''t know how the two pieces of silk and fish were exchanged, I''m sure it must be the hands and feet of these two people. Xia Yan''s eyes twinkle slightly, smile, then let them smile, and let them cry later. Although Shen Rou is a woman who has given birth to a child, she looks more and more beautiful and plump, which is quite a young woman''s style. In this way, it set off the sallow complexion of Xia Yan, who had just had a miscarriage, as if he was ten years old overnight. Shen Rou looks at Xia Yan, but she is also suspicious. Xia Yan should have a good life in Jiang''s mansion now. How can she look so haggard. Where is the original elegant and indifferent appearance of talented women? If you think about it again, you can understand the rumor that Jiang Quan had a preference for his aunt who was born in the brothel. I don''t think I can tie my man''s heart. Shen Rou can''t see Xia Yan''s lofty and magnanimous appearance. Now she sees it, comforting on the surface, but gloating in her heart. The girl on the other side suddenly said, "why hasn''t Jiang Ruan arrived yet? Is that the way the Jiang family treats guests?" The girl was wearing a light purple crepe robe and a cloud butterfly skirt. It''s a pity that she is a bit irritable. It''s Xia Jiaojiao, Shen Rou''s own daughter, who came from the big house of Xia family. "I haven''t received a message from my wife before, nor heard of coming to accompany her. I don''t know if someone is coming. How can I treat her?" The voice rang out from the door. Several people in the room looked up and saw Jiang Ruan coming. Xia Jiaojiao clenches her lower lip tightly and stares at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is wearing a simple Suzhou embroidered Yuehua brocade shirt. Her skin is better than snow, her lips are red and her teeth are white, and her eyes are amazing. Xia Jiaojiao, who had seven points of beauty, had less than 10% left by Jiang Ruan''s comparison. Xia Jiaojiao is very angry. What makes her even more angry is the irony in Jiang Ruan''s words. Isn''t it? Once they came, they didn''t post. Secondly, they never said that they wanted Jiang Ruan to accompany them. At present, the strange people are coming late, so it''s unreasonable. "Ruan''er, here you are. Jiao Jiao has wanted to see you for a long time. " Xia Yan digs the topic with a smile, but she still mutters in her heart. She thought it would take a lot of effort to invite Jiang Ruan out. She also thinks about some reasons, but she doesn''t think that none of these reasons are useful. Jiang Ruan Shuang quickly agrees to come. But it''s just right for her to take the next step. Xia Jiaojiao turns her lips and doesn''t care about Xia Yan''s words. Shen Rou also looks at Jiang Ruan carefully. When Jiang Ruan came to Xia''s house, she only thought that Jiang Ruan was a good orphan, but it was the girl who looked good at her that made Xia Jun suffer. Now she has changed into a princess of the dynasty. In the past three years, I heard that she was very popular with the empress dowager, and I think she should be rewarded with a lot of money. Shen Rou has a plan in mind. Xia Cheng intends to tell Xia Jun about Jiang Ruan. On the one hand, Xia Jun is bitter about what happened at the beginning, and has vowed to marry Jiang Ruan over the years. On the other hand, the forces behind Jiang Ruan will help him a lot if he marries him. Besides, he may have a lot of money.However, Shen Rou and Yu Ya, the second daughter-in-law of the Xia family, have never dealt with each other. Naturally, she doesn''t want Xia Jun to have a good life. Shen Rou thinks that instead of taking advantage of Xia Jun, she doesn''t want to take advantage of her brother. Shen Rou has a nephew in her family. Now she''s at the right age to marry Jiang Ruan. If she does, she''ll be considered a rich man. Shen rouwu''s good abacus, looking at Jiang Ruan''s eyes, he has some strange fanaticism. Tianzhu frowned. Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "this is Madame Xia." "Exactly. Ruan''er, I didn''t expect that you would be so old in the twinkling of an eye. " Shen Rou re Luo Dao. "Bold! I didn''t salute when I saw the princess Tian Zhu drinks with a cold face, which makes Shen Rou jump. Jiang Ruan said gently, "nothing. Madam Xia met me once. I think she was just too excited to forget it. It may as well be This answer made Shen Rou''s face red and white, white and red. When Jiang Ruan was in the ancestral hall, everyone could see clearly. Now the old story comes up again, but it''s the face of the Xia family. Xia Yan can''t hang on her face, and Xia Jiaojiao is even more angry. However, she remembers her grandfather''s instructions before leaving, and then she bears them down again. Xia Yan suddenly bent down, covered his mouth with a handkerchief and retched twice. Lin Lang came over and patted Xia Yan''s back and said, "madam, but you''re not comfortable again?" Xia Yan shook his head: "Xu is too stuffy in the room, and his chest is blocked." She laughed: "Jiaojiao, sister-in-law, ruan''er, why don''t we go to the garden, the air is fresh outside." Jiang Ruan looked out of the window. It was a very hot day and there was no cloud in the sky. At this time, he was not afraid to get rid of the heat. However, she said with a smile, "well, just in time, I also want to go for a walk in the garden." Shen Rou and Xia Jiaojiao are guests, and naturally they will not refuse. The three of them got up and went to the summer garden. To be fair, although it was hot outside, Xia Yanhuai was afraid to use ice, so he had to work in the yard. The courtyard was clean and tidy. Half an hour later, someone sprinkled the cold water from the well on the stone slab. With the shade of the trees, it was cool. It''s much better ventilated than the room. A few people walked, then went to the courtyard of the small pond next to the pavilion. The pavilion is Xia Yan''s most proud hand. Xia Yan once had the name of a talented woman in Beijing. After entering Jiang''s mansion, he had his own yard finished. The pavilion is next to the small pond, taking the scene of "Moonlight in the lotus pond" in summer. Cool summer night, full of lotus leaves green pool, lotus delicate, moonlight such as water, the scenery elegant to the extreme. After the pavilion was repaired, Jiang Quan loved it very much. I often drink with Xia Yan in the pavilion at night, which is a group of loving couples. In Jiang Ruan''s heart, there was a silent sneer. This place was the place where Jiang Quan and Xia Yan loved each other, but it was also Zhao Mei''s sad place at the beginning. When Jiang Xinzhi was a child, he once had smallpox. Zhao Mei kept him for several days and nights. When Jiang Xinzhi woke up, he asked where his father was. Zhao Mei was sad, but she was drinking and having fun with Xia Yan when she found Jiang Quan. At that time, she was a child who didn''t know anything. She only looked at the happiness of Jiang Quan and Xia Yan''s smile and felt her mother''s tears. Looking at the pavilion, Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "the lotus leaf skirt is cut in one color, and the Hibiscus is opened to both sides of her face." When Zhao Mei and young Jiang Ruan came to Yanhua garden, they heard that the complacent Jiang Quan said to the gentle Xia Yan. The tenderness and affection in her eyes were something that their mother and daughter had never seen before. Xia Yan was stunned and laughed: "Ruan Er, your father likes to sing these two poems most." Shen Rou turned her eyes and said with a smile, "if you want me to say, my aunt can really enjoy it. It''s hard to find such a good place in our house with lanterns on." Xia Jiaojiao timely interjected: "naturally, my aunt was the first talented woman in the capital. Naturally, ordinary mountain women can''t match her." Xia Jiaojiao always thinks that Jiang Ruan was raised by Chuang Tzu when he was young, and she was raised by Zhao Mei when she was not versed in poetry. Jiang Ruan only did not hear, still smile Yingying, Xia Jiaojiao see this, more angry in the heart. But Xia Yan suddenly felt sad: "it''s been more than ten years. When my sister was still there, she once praised the pavilion as beautiful. Ruan''er, now that you are so old, you will soon reach the age of matchmaking. I''m afraid that when you grow up in Chuang Tzu, there will be no one to educate you. My mother wants to find a nurturing mother for you, OK Jiang Ruan gazed at her and said with a smile, "mother, what do you mean? Isn''t the nurturing mother around the Empress Dowager a mother?" Xia Yan is a Leng, but didn''t think of this one layer, a time some language plug. However, when he started, he had to go on. He grabbed Jiang Ruan''s hand and gently advised: "my mother knows you are a good and smart man. But the nurturing mother in the palace teaches you the rules of the palace. You will marry in the future. Naturally, you should learn the rules of being a woman. " Jiang Ruan looks at her with a smile, but Xia Yan is a little flustered by the smile. She suddenly widened her eyes and said in a high voice, "Ruan Er, what are you doing?" Then, Xia Yan''s body suddenly retreated, but it seemed that Jiang Ruan gave her a hard push. It happened to be facing the steps of the pavilion, and Xia Yan fell heavily under the steps."Ah With a scream, Xia Yan''s lower body suddenly dyed red, and his clothes were soaked with blood. "Jiang Ruan!" A voice full of anger and terror came from the opposite side. Jiang Ruan looked up and saw that Jiang Quan, Xia Cheng and Xuan Li were standing opposite the pavilion. Jiang Quan''s eyes were sinister and angry, as if he wanted to eat her. Jiang Ruan stroked the bracelet on his hand and raised an unidentified smile on his lips. The tortoise put out his head. I''ve caught a cold recently. I feel dizzy every day. Please keep warm. Spring is coming. Don''t wear too thin all of a sudden. It''s hard to catch a cold. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 112 "What are you doing! Go and get the doctor Jiang Quan came forward in a hurry and saw Xia Yan''s blood. He didn''t care much about it. He raised his hand and slapped Jiang Ruan in the face. "Pa" sound, straight listen to everyone''s ears is a heart jump, Jiang Quan start very heavy, then see Jiang Ruan white face appear five clear finger print, instant red swollen up, lip corner overflow a little blood. Jiang Quan was stunned. He was so angry that he didn''t expect Jiang Ruan to stand still and accept the slap. Xia Jiaojiao eyes floating up a trace of pleasure, hearing the news from Xuanli is quietly frowned. Jiang Ruan took out a handkerchief from his arms and wiped the blood from his lips. His face was light and he said, "my father is not angry?" It''s disrespectful to do anything in front of the Tian family. Jiang Quan was speechless for a moment. Seeing Xia Yan, who was dying on the ground, he was angry again. He pointed to Jiang Ruan''s nose and scolded: "evil girl, she has such a vicious heart that she dares to murder her mother in broad daylight! It''s insane Xia Cheng follows Xuanli and is naturally very happy to see the picture in front of him. He originally resented Jiang Ruan for planning Xia family''s only sun Xiajun. Now he is very happy to see Jiang Ruan''s death. Even in spite of his own daughter''s safety. But in such a scene, in front of Xuan Li''s face, he naturally wanted to say a few polite words, and then he pretended to persuade: "in laws, I''m afraid that girl Ruan didn''t mean to do it. Is there any misunderstanding?" "Yes," Jiang Ruan said softly, "why didn''t my father ask my mother? Maybe there was some misunderstanding. How could I know that I deliberately pushed my mother down, but if my father didn''t get angry, I would like to slap my father again." Her tone did not distinguish between joy and anger. There was not even a trace of extra emotion in her beautiful eyes, as if the slap was just an illusion. Xia Jiaojiao wanted to see Jiang Ruan''s embarrassed appearance, but she didn''t expect that even now, Jiang Ruan is still calm, and she can''t help gnashing her teeth in her heart. Xuan Li looks at Jiang Ruan. Is it too special for such a woman to be happy or angry? When Jiang Ruan said this, it seemed that Jiang Quan''s action was unknown. What''s more, Xuanli''s servants couldn''t help thinking that this daughter of the Jiang family was Princess Hong''an who was granted by the Empress Dowager. How could she be so humble in the mansion? Listen to Jiang Ruan''s meaning, is it always Jiang Quan''s outlet? Isn''t Jiang Quan beating the royal family in the face? Jiang Quan was angry and wanted to slap him again, but he couldn''t do it in full view of the public, so he had to shout: "dare to quibble!" "Why didn''t father ask his mother? The sufferer is in front of us. " Hearing the news, the servant girl is about to carry Xia Yan away. When she hears the news, she stops. Xia Yan is also secretly resentful. What Jiang Ruan said is wonderful. With Xia Yan''s usual friendly and magnanimous face, we can only say that Jiang Ruan didn''t mean it. But if you say it, won''t you give it to Jiang Ruan? When Xia Yansi reached this point, he groaned bitterly: "it hurts so much..." In this way, the maid didn''t dare to delay any longer, and quickly carried Xia Yan back to the house. Seeing this situation, Jiang Quan could not take care of others and quickly followed up. Naturally, the Xia family was eager to see the excitement, and Xuan Li stayed. When all the people are together, Jiang and Ruan will not fall down. When Tianzhu passes by Jiang and Ruan, he looks at the wound on Jiang and Ruan''s face with some worry. Jiang and Ruan shake his head at her, and Tianzhu bows his head and just does not know. When several people arrived at Xia Yan''s room, Xia Yan was in the room, and the invited wenpo was in it. From time to time, Xia Yan''s screams came, and people were shocked. Second aunt heard about this, with Jiang Li came to Schadenfreude, Jiang Su Su and red Ying also rushed over. Jiang Dan stayed in his yard and never came out. Red Ying saw the wound on Jiang Ruan''s face. Before she heard that Jiang Quan had beaten him, she didn''t think it was so serious. She was shocked. Seeing Jiang Quan''s anxious look, he went over to comfort him. Under the comfort of Hongying, Jiang Quan looked a little better, and his eyes were still worried. After all, it''s the woman he really loved. Even if she is upset, she doesn''t pretend to be anxious. Naturally, Jiang Su Su was also furious. Although his temper had been reduced a lot these days, he didn''t slap Jiang Ruan like Jiang Quan, but he was vicious and resentful in his eyes. Jiang Li and her second aunt were the happiest. Jiang Li said to Jiang Ruan, "elder sister, how can you push your mother like this? If the younger brother is gone, how sad the mother would be. " On hearing this, Jiang Quan was a little more angry with Jiang Ruan. At this time, the door of the house suddenly opened, and the tired looking wenpo came out. Linlang and feicui saw Jiang Quan. Without saying a word, they both knelt down and cried: "master, my wife has a miscarriage." Jiang Quanru was struck by lightning. He stepped back two steps and said in a trance, "what?" That steady old woman also apologetically shakes head: "adult, the old body is really helpless, is a young master." Jiang Quan turned his head and glared at Jiang Ruan. Suddenly he raised his hand and was about to hit him again. He growled, "you rebellious girl who killed my brother!" "Pa", but this time it didn''t hit Jiang Ruan in the face. Tianzhu couldn''t do it. At the last moment, he stood in front of Jiang Ruan and took the slap for Jiang Ruan Sheng. Jiang Quan was furious: "what are you, somebody, drag this Diao Nu down to fight and kill me!""That''s enough," Jiang Ruan said coldly, "father, before you know what''s going on, are you going to kill people in front of your eighth highness?" Xuanli naturally won''t stand idly by because of her little Xuanli. However, Xuanli is a person who pays the most attention to reputation. Now she has to be an insightful person and says, "yes, Mr. Jiang, it''s better to make a decision after making things clear." "What else can the elder sister say?" Jiang Su Su''s eyes widened. Now she is more beautiful than before, and she is much smarter than before. She no longer only uses beauty. Her eyes are red, and she seems to be suppressing tears. However, her voice finally choked and said, "is it hard for big sister to say that mother has lost her own flesh and blood?" Poor beauty, Xuanli Wensheng advised: "Miss Jiang Er, don''t be too sad." Jiang Ruan asked: "what is impossible?" "Master..." But Xia Yan came out slowly with the help of the servant girl. She was all shaky and pale as paper. Fang changed into a clean white dress and became more and more haggard. She looked at Jiang Quan and knelt down slowly. "Yan''er, what are you doing?" Jiang Quan quickly steps forward and holds her up in his arms. Xia Yan looks at Jiang Ruan and weeps sadly: "master, since I entered the mansion, my sister died, I think that the mansion is full of branches and leaves, and I have never done anything immoral. After Ruan Niang came back, I also treated each other sincerely, always worried about what I could do. I know that my stepmother is hard to be. I''ve always been careful. Who knows... " She wiped away her tears and said in a hateful voice: "it''s OK to say that other concubines have endured. But since ancient times, children are the lifeblood of their mother. If Ruan Niang made a mistake, I can forgive her, but the children in my belly can''t. Originally, the ugliness of the family could not be publicized, but Ruan Niang even wanted to slander me. I couldn''t bear it any more. Since your highness is here today, I beg your highness and master to make decisions for me, and to seek justice for my innocent child who died in vain! " She wailed: "master, that''s our child!" Xia Cheng is also full of anger: "father in law, my good daughter married to your house. I didn''t expect to live such a life. In this case, if you can''t get justice today, I''ll take Yan''er over. It''s not that Xia Hou''s house can''t afford Yan''er! " "That is, what a good person my aunt is," Shen Rou also fanned the flames: "God, I''m sorry to see that I lost my child. When I went back, my mother knew about it. I didn''t know how sad she was. Our master also said that he would be an uncle in a few days. Who knows, ah. " Xia Jiaojiao was also afraid that the world would not be in chaos. She said, "I didn''t expect Miss Jiang to be such a person. The rules of Jiang''s house are all dead. We all know that women are filial to their mothers. In this way, the Dajin Dynasty can''t find a second one to murder her mother." Jiang Quan was very distressed to see Xia Yan like this. When he heard Xia''s family''s accusation, his head was as big as a fight. He only wished that Zhao Mei hadn''t strangled her when she gave birth to Jiang Ruan. That''s how he harmed Jiang''s family. At the thought of the unborn boy, Jiang Quan was heartbroken. Jiang Su Su sobs, but Jiang Li still wants to talk. She is pulled by her second aunt, but she doesn''t speak any more. Hongying thought that Xiayan was useless, but today she heard the news that Xiayan was not going to have a small production. She was not sure what was going on. Xuanli looked at Jiang Ruan, who said faintly, "since my mother keeps asking for justice, the princess will ask for justice for my mother." "Ruan Niang, why do you harm me so much?" Xia Yan said angrily. "I hurt my mother?" Jiang Ruan smiles: "isn''t it my mother who took the medicine for miscarriage and then put the blame on me?" "Am I crazy?" Xia Yan was surprised and said, "how can I harm my own child? What''s the advantage of harming you and me?" "Naturally, it''s good," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "If you lose a child who doesn''t know whether it''s a man or a woman, but you can blame me. If my mother tries to stir up a few words, my father will be furious. If it''s spread out, Ruan Niang''s life will be ruined. If you want to send an official, you''ll have to pay for her life. The elder brother is in the frontier, and he will be in a state of chaos when he gets the news from Ruan Niang. If there is an accident, it''s best that the second brother will not be responsible for the huge family business of Jiang Fu. If my mother finds out what is the relationship between Ruan Niang and Wu yiniang, she will find some witnesses. I''m afraid Wu yiniang will not escape Jiang Ruan''s smile was gentle: "mother, such a deal is worth everything, isn''t it?" People gape at her, Jiang Ruan''s words can be for you, even the slightest cover up also disdain to have. There are many people in the world who can speak the truth boldly, but even the fig leaf has not left a piece of people who can speak the truth. Xia Yan was stunned for a moment, then he pointed to Jiang Ruan and said, "you I''ve never thought of it that way! " She anxiously looked at Jiang Quan: "master, I have never thought so much about it!" Jiang Quan said in a low voice, "I naturally know that you are not such a person." He turned to Jiang Ruan, a trace of anger flashed on his face: "evil girl, so shameless!" "Miss Jiang Fu is really brave," Xia Cheng said, "I can''t see her today. Someone will take this poisonous girl who has poisoned her mother and even slandered her!""Who dares to do it!" Jiang Ruan said in a high voice. Her red dress is like fire, but her eyes are like a sword quenched with ice. At that moment, people around her tremble. She just feels as if her eyes are full of deep-rooted when she sees the evil spirits in hell. Instead of anger, she laughed and looked at Xia Cheng and said, "Marquis Xia, if you talk about family affairs, your surname is Xia, how can you manage to come to Jiang''s family? If you talk about state affairs, you should be called a princess when you see me! You and I are of the same rank. Do you want to fight the Empress Dowager in the face and win the dignity of the world? " The interrogation is more and more severe, which makes Xia Cheng speechless. Jiang Ruan looked at Xuanli lightly and said, "since your highness is here, it represents the dignity of the world. Is your highness willing to be a witness?" Xuanli said gently, "I''m willing to." Seeing this play now, he really couldn''t see the possibility of Jiang Ruan''s turning defeat into victory. However, on the face of justice, it''s interesting to see a little ant struggling to survive in the sea of fire? "What do you want?" Jiang Quan asked harshly. "My father didn''t trust me so much that I had nothing to say. I thought it was my mother who poisoned the flesh and blood in her abdomen and put the blame on me. I asked her eighth highness to take someone to search the yard. As long as we find out the medicinal materials that are causing miscarriage, that''s the fact in front of us. " Xia Yan almost laughs. Jiang Ruan thinks she''s smart, but she doesn''t have any medicine to cause miscarriage. She just searches Yan Huayuan and doesn''t have anything. She fixed her eyes on Jiang Ruan and said, "if not?" "Then I''ll admit all the blame and ask my father to send me to the official. Mother, how is that? " Jiang Ruan Dao. "Good." Xia Yan gritted his teeth and said, "it''s a deal." Xia Cheng frowned and instinctively felt that something was wrong. What''s more, there''s no other way. Jiang Su Su went to Xuanli and Ying Ying bowed down to him: "ask your highness eight to be the master." Xuanli helped Jiang Susu up. He had never looked at her carefully before. At the moment, the beauty was in front of her. Her every move was enchanting and her face was beautiful. Xuanli couldn''t help showing a trace of astonishment. Tone can not help but soft down: "this hall is duty bound." After that, he ordered his bodyguard leader: "you go down and search for me carefully." Looking at the two men, Jiang Ruan felt disgusted and said, "in order to show fairness, please take my mother''s and my own personal servant girls and check not only in my mother''s yard, but also in everyone''s yard. OK?" Xuanli was stunned and laughed: "naturally good." The guards soon went out to search, but the atmosphere in the hall became more and more tense. Xia Jiaojiao hides behind Shen Rou, and her eyes are full of schadenfreude. As long as she thinks that Jiang Ruan and others will be captured by the government, and her reputation will be ruined, she can''t help but show a happy smile. Standing beside Xuanli, Jiang Su Su looked up at Xuanli from time to time. Xuanli comforted her with a smile, which was a picture of her love. Jiang Li broke her teeth and secretly scolded Jiang Su Su for being a fox. Her mother had a miscarriage, but she still wanted to seduce a man. Jiang Quan comforts Xia Yan in his arms, but ignores the sad eyes of Hongying. The second aunt looked at Hongying''s belly and thought that it would be better if this one also fell. Xia Cheng has been staring at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan Yue is calm and calm. The more uneasy he is. He is a marquis. For so many years, he is afraid of a little girl. He is not afraid of other people''s jokes. But when he was in the ancestral hall of Xia family, Xia Cheng had seen Jiang Ruan''s methods. Now, three years later, Jiang Ruan''s ingenuity is more profound than that. How can he not be afraid? Time passed quietly. Soon, Xuanli''s bodyguard came back to inquire after the search, and Linlang and Tianzhu followed. Xuan Li asked, "did you search out the medicine?" "If you go back to your highness, I will not." The head of the guard replied. Xia Yan smell speech, is tears immediately fell down: "Ruan Niang, now you still have what to say?" "What else do you want to say? Naturally, I''m going to see off the officials," Xia Jiaojiao said immediately. "Your Highness must make decisions for her aunt and her dead cousin "Now, sinful girl, do you admit your sin?" Jiang Quan gave a loud shout. Jiang Ruan smiles. Xia Cheng notices that Lin Lang''s face is pale and his heart is "clattering". Before he is born, he hears Tian Zhu coldly say: "master, although you have not found the medicine causing miscarriage in the lady''s yard, you have found this in the lady''s yard. Please have a look." After that, Xia Cheng was stunned and took a look. It was a dress and a pair of blue soap boots. In the mansion, he found that his clothes and soap boots were nothing, but Jiang Quan shook them away, and his face was livid. Just because the clothes were big and the shoes were several inches bigger than Jiang Quan. The men of the Jiang family have been literati since childhood. They are thin and thin, but their clothes are clearly prepared for the strong people. Jiang Chao and Jiang Xinzhi are not suitable, and there are no other men in the house. Not only that, the neckline of the dress is embroidered with bingdilian in the dark. Because he was in the dark, he couldn''t see what he was wearing on weekdays. But when he appeared here, he was insulted. He said angrily, "bitch!" He threw that thing to Xia Yan''s face.Xia Yan was stunned. After seeing it clearly, he was also shocked. He said: "master, I have never made such a thing. Master, this is Ruan Niang''s slander!" "Mother is really good at talking and laughing," Jiang Ruan said faintly. "Since her mother was pregnant, she didn''t let others disturb her. Ruan Niang has never stepped into Yanhua garden. Even just now, I was standing with my father. My mother said it was slander. I also want to ask my mother, "what method do I use to stuff this thing into my mother''s boudoir under her eyes?" She suddenly thought of something and laughed again: "besides, the clothes made by mother, Father knows best. Can''t father see if they are made by mother?" Jiang Quan was trembling with anger. He knew his wife''s embroidery skills clearly. So just now when I saw the clothes and shoes, I was so sure that it was Xia Yan''s handwriting! No matter how much Jiang Quan favors Xia Yan and Jiang Ruan liangbo, any man will not be indifferent when he learns that his wife has given him a green hat. Jiang Quan is only angry with Xia Yan now. Where is the usual warmth? Seeing this, Xia Cheng glared at Jiang Ruan and said, "what did you do?" Jiang Su Su also cried and knelt down: "father, what kind of person is mother? Don''t you know? How can you doubt your mother? " Jiang Quan looked down at his favorite daughter, who had been living a miserable life in the family temple for three years. He felt a little guilty for Jiang Su Su. Since Jiang Su Su returned to the government, he has become more sensible and clever. Now he sees her crying, and his heart is soft. But Jiang Ruan never left room for others. She winked at Tianzhu, and she said coldly, "miss two, the maidservants have found something special in your yard." Lin Lang''s face turned pale and almost fainted. Jiang Su Su frowned, and Tianzhu took a cloth bag from the guard and threw it in front of the crowd. The things in the bag were bloodstained, and a great smell came. After being thrown by Tianzhu, as soon as the cloth bag is scattered, the contents fall out. It''s just a mess of flesh and blood, which makes people feel sick. "What is this?" Xia Yan was stunned and instinctively felt that the cloth looked familiar. "Stillbirth." Tianzhu was a killer. She was cold all over. With such a gloomy sentence, the people in the room had a cold war for no reason. Jiang Ruan smiles: "mother, do you still want to say that Ruan Niang pushed you? It is clear that you have already taken the medicine for miscarriage, put your younger brother in the second sister''s room, and come back to slander me. " "What nonsense!" Xia Yan is a little flustered. She doesn''t know how it came from? He asked eagerly, "Su Su, what is this? What''s going on? " A trace of anger flashed in Jiang Su Su Su''s eyes. He did not expect that Jiang Ruan would turn this thing over. In front of Xuan Li''s face, Jiang Su Su had to say timidly, "this is Ziheche. Niang, Su Su has heard that eating Ziheche can make you look beautiful. You know I fell off the cliff at the beginning...". But it''s not a brother. Su Su bought it from a drugstore. " "Purple River wagon?" Shen Rou covers her mouth and looks at Jiang Su Su. Ziheche is a bloody thing. I didn''t expect that this niece could eat this disgusting thing when she looked at the soft and weak. Jiang Quan was also disappointed. In his heart, Jiang Su Su was as pure as a fairy, and he was proud of not eating fireworks. Now he was so disgraced. Xuanli''s face was also a little different. Jiang Su Su was angry in his heart and only did more injustice on his face. "Master, you hear me. It''s a purple River wagon, not a concubine''s small property." Xia Yan explains busily, but Yu Guang catches a glimpse of Lin Lang''s pale face. Lin Lang why so afraid, almost collapse of appearance, Xia Yan suspiciously stop, in the heart suddenly flashed an idea. No. impossible. As like as two peas, the brown cloth was so familiar that she was the same as the dead baby when she was born. "Ah --" Xia Yan screamed, and everyone in the room was startled. She broke down and pulled her hair: "impossible, impossible, impossible..." "Mother, what''s the matter with you?" Jiang Su Su was a little flustered at this scene and went to lashia to study. But Xia Yan didn''t know where his strength came from. He pushed away Jiang Su Su and retreated, as if looking at a demon. "Mother, what''s the matter with you? I''m Su Su? " In the face of Xuanli, Xia Yan is like this, and Jiang Su Su is injured. Xia Yan is broken down to pull his hair, Jiang Su Su eat purple River car, sister eat purple River car is brother body! It''s ridiculous and creepy to say, but it''s not! It''s the truth! Jiang Ruan raises her lips slightly, which is her purpose. Xia Yan loves Jiang Su Su all her life. If she knows that her flesh and bone in her abdomen has become the Purple River carriage that her daughter bought from the drugstore, will it become a nightmare in the afternoon. Good and evil are rewarded, and the way of heaven is reincarnated. Xia Yan suddenly went crazy. When everyone was at a loss, a middle-aged man came from outside. The man came in angrily with a medicine box on his back. The servant girl outside could not stop him. When the man saw Xia Yan, he scolded, "you black hearted woman, you fooled me! Fool me with leaded silver! No, you''re going to see an official with me! "The dew blinked, grabbed the man and asked, "what are you doing with my wife, sir?" "Bah," the man said angrily, "this man had a miscarriage a few days ago. I gave birth to her. She won''t let me tell you about it. She also said that I would be rewarded with a lot of money. But when I got home and went to the shop, I found that all the silver was filled with lead! " "Nonsense Jiang Su Su was furious: "who bribed you to slander my mother? Be careful I''ll take you to the government for theory." "Hum," the man was not easy to deal with. He sneered, "if you don''t believe it, you can go to baozhitang in Beijing. I wrote a prescription for this woman at that time. There are some flavors that only baozhitang has. The business of baozhitang is recorded. You can find out who lied by checking it! " Baozhitang is the largest drugstore in Beijing. Its business is honest. Otherwise, it will smash its own signboard and will not lie. If Xia Yan catches the medicinal materials eaten after miscarriage, baozhitang will find out. The man was still angry, so he was about to pull the Xiayan on the ground: "you woman, come to see the official with me!" But now Xia Yan has become insane and delirious. How can he argue with her. "Enough!" Jiang Quan finally yelled out loud. His eyes were red, and his cheek muscles were shaking slightly. He was obviously angry. Xia Yan''s previous miscarriage has almost become a fact, and what makes him bet in his heart is the owner of his clothes. But it''s impossible for Xia Yan to answer his question at the moment. Jiang Quan said coldly, "let''s go back to my room and watch it for me!" This is to house arrest Xia Yan. Xia Cheng didn''t expect that this was the case today. He looked at Xuanli and went after Jiang Quan: "father in law, this matter..." After watching the play, Shen Rou and Xia Jiaojiao don''t need to stay. Xia Jiaojiao is very disappointed that Jiang Ruan didn''t have bad luck. Jiang Li and her second aunt are very happy. They have been with Jiang Quan for many years. I''m afraid it''s very difficult for Xia Yan to turn over this time. Hongying wanted to comfort Jiang Quan, so naturally she would not stay in the hall. There were only Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu left in the hall for a while. Jiang Susu went to Jiang Ruan step by step and said with a gloomy face: "today is your good thing again. The big sister is still clever. " "Isn''t the second sister curious why her mother suddenly went crazy?" Jiang Ruan looked at her quietly and said suddenly. Jiang Su Su was stunned: "what?" Jiang Ruan smile, that smile fell in the eyes of Jiang Su Su was some strange, only to see Jiang Ruan look to the ground that group of flesh and blood, whispered: "because, that purple River wagon, but the mother abandoned it." Have a good weekend www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 113 A storm has come down, but it is the originator who is unlucky in the end. Ruan Curie, forsythia "bah" a, way: "deserve, black heart unexpectedly want to calculate to the girl''s head, now see what she has to say!" Angelica dahurica is applying medicine to Jiang Ruan''s face. Now, NABA''s palmprint is more and more red and swollen. It looks very dazzling on Bai Shengsheng''s face. "Baizhi distressed way:" the master is too ruthless, the girl at least is also a private miss in the house, how can be beaten in front of outsiders, and this is still under ten percent of the strength Angelica dahurica and forsythia now see clearly, Jiang Quan''s heart is afraid that Jiang Ruan has not been as his daughter, natural tone with blame and anger. Tianzhu was watching. She was a martial arts practitioner. Naturally, she knew the strength of NABA''s palm on Jiang Ruan''s face. She couldn''t help thinking about it. It was the first time that she really saw how cool Jiang Quan was to Jiang Ruan. It''s rare for a real father to do so much. Jiang Ruan see Tianzhu ecstasy, to Baizhi way: "also go to give Tianzhu on some medicine." Tianzhu was slapped by Jiang Quan for her, which is not light. Tianzhu said: "no, I''m a maid. I''m suspicious when I see that I''m getting better too soon." After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan gave it up and said, "this slap won''t make you suffer in vain." Tianzhu is silent. The night went by. The next day, Dewdrop brought back the news. Jiang Quan sent someone to baozhitang to confront him. As the middle-aged doctor said, Xia Yan once sent his maid to baozhitang to catch the herbs. They were all medicines for recovering from miscarriage. Naturally, Jiang Quan was so angry that he sent someone to arrest Lin Lang and Fei Cui and asked who Xia Yan''s adulterer was. Naturally, the two servant girls couldn''t tell who they were. Jiang Quan was also very angry. Without saying a word, he killed the two servant girls and left them in a mass grave. Linlang and feicui are big servant girls in Jiang''s house. Now they are in a different situation. For a moment, people in Jiang''s house are in danger. In a rage, Jiang Quan arrested all the servant girls and women in Yanhua garden. They were tortured to extort confessions. Who was the adulterer? Someone who couldn''t afford the heavy punishment let go and said that he was a wandering young man who had left Beijing. This is the fact that Xia Yan is stealing. Jiang Quan is so angry that he wants to divorce his wife. However, Jiang Su Su has been kneeling outside Jiang Quan''s study all night. Jiang Chao also knows about this and asks Xuan Li to intercede for Xia Yan. Although the Xia family also felt that there was no light on the surface, Xia Yan was the bond to maintain the marriage between Jiang and Xia. After a discussion, Jiang Quan put down the divorce, but he didn''t let Xia Yan off easily. Only a small Buddhist hall was set up in the mansion. Xia Yan was thrown in to make her recite sutras and become a vegetarian day by day. To the outside world, Xia Yan worshipped Buddhism and put her under house arrest. Since then, the situation of Jiang''s mansion has changed greatly. Everyone knows that Xia Yan has completely lost the favor of Jiang Quan and lost his power. All those who have a little insight in the house begin to show affection to the fifth aunt Hongying secretly. There are also optimistic about the second aunt, all day in front of Jiang Li mother and daughter around. Hongying is young and beautiful. She is favored by Jiang Quan. Unfortunately, she has no son, and her status is too low. Fortunately, the second aunt had her mother''s family and a daughter for Jiang Quan. For a while, the influence in the government was in a state of confusion. Dewdrop curled her lips and combed her hair to Jiang Ruan, saying: "why is there no smart man in this house? What do you do to please those people? If you are a slave, you should be a girl. The girl is not only the serious master of the mansion, but also the princess granted by the Empress Dowager. Can she not compare with aunt Lao Shizi? " Jiang Ruan looked at her and said, "you are the smartest when you say that?" Lu Zhu said with a smile, "I don''t mean that, but those people are really stupid. I really can''t see it. " Jiang Ruan smiles. The reason why all the people in the house go to please the fifth aunt and the second aunt and turn a blind eye to her eldest daughter is very simple. It''s because Jiang Quan''s disgust for her is clearly in front of his eyes. Even his servants can see that a daughter who is rejected by his father has a good future in the future? When dewdrop combed her hair and put in the last hairpin, Jiang Ruan stood up and said, "come on, let''s go and see my mother." The news of Xiayan''s loss of power in the mansion came to Jiang Ruan, and naturally to Jiang Dan, who was "pure hearted and lustless". The servant girl said, "I didn''t expect that my wife would come to such an end." Jiang Dan supported her chin with one hand and looked out of the window with the other. Compared with her childish appearance three years ago and her hairpin, she showed some unique beauty of a girl. Such a look, different from Jiang Ruan''s charm and Chiang Su Su''s beauty, has a kind of gentle and clever. But at the moment, her expression was slightly gloomy, which was different from her usual delicate and timid appearance. "I want to calculate Jiang Ruan, but I''m a little stupid." She gave a sneer. The servant girl immediately silenced. In the past three years, her young lady has become more and more moody and unpredictable. It seems that she has grown up to ten years old overnight. Sometimes when she looks at Jiang Dan''s eyes, her maid will feel chilly. "It''s a pity that after such a big battle, only Mrs. Jiang was brought down." Jiang Dan''s tone was a little chilly: "why didn''t you hurt Jiang Ruan together? If only she were dead. " Hearing this, the maid looked down at her toes. She just wanted to disappear in the room.Jiang Dan''s Yu Guang glanced at her actions, raised a sarcastic smile on his lips, and turned to look out of the window at the banana. "Miss, miss, slow down." Dragonfly patted Jiang Su Su''s back carefully. Jiang Su Su was picking his throat and retching. Since the day of Xia Yan''s accident, Jiang Su Su has been eating and spitting. If she didn''t know the inside story, she would think that Jiang Su Su had done harm to Xi. Jiang Su Su pushed the dragonfly away, covered his mouth with a handkerchief and said, "get out of here!" The dragonfly had to take out the silver plate. Holding the chair, Jiang Su Su Su felt the pain in her stomach. On that day, what Jiang Ruan said to her came to her ears again: because the Purple River wagon was discarded by her mother. Only when we understand the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words can we know how terrible it is. Jiang Su Su just wanted to get his stomach out. He just wanted to think that what he ate was. She''ll throw up in the dark. Butterfly that bitch, unexpectedly bought back such a purple River carriage, Jiang Su Su Su has already tortured her severely and thrown her out of the house, to do such a thing, naturally can''t keep her. Jiang Su Su Su has nightmares every night these days. When she screams from her dreams, she is sweating. She just feels worried. She takes one side of the bronze mirror, and then she sees that her original beauty has become haggard, which makes her look much worse. "Bitch!" She threw the mirror to the ground, and her eyebrows were all agitated. The newly built small Buddhist hall in the name of Jiang''s mansion is just a dark room in disrepair. In the most remote corner of Chiang''s mansion, there are only dilapidated excavations and dry wells in the courtyard. A few dead trees look gloomy, and it seems that there is no sunshine all the year round. Two dark skinned women were guarding the door, chatting while eating melon seeds. Maybe they were talking about people in the small Buddhist hall. Looking back at the Buddhist hall from time to time, their eyes were full of disdain. When Jiang Ruan came with Tianzhu and Baizhi, they just saw this scene. As soon as they saw Jiang Ruan, they could not even clean up the melon seeds, so they stood up and nodded. A few days ago, the servants in the mansion were already dressed up. It was Xia Yan who had taken the lead, but he was put together by the young lady who didn''t show mountains and water, and now he is at this stage. The next people are not blind, and they can see clearly the things between the masters. It is clear that this young lady is much more skillful than her wife. Now that Jiang Ruan is the red man in front of the empress dowager, it''s not easy to deal with a woman in the house. Therefore, although he knew that Jiang Quan didn''t like his daughter, no one dared to despise Jiang Ruan. He was still respectful. With a smile, Jiang Ruan waved his hand and said, "I''ll come in and see my mother." Angelica dahurica will come forward, two bags full of broken silver into the hands of the two women. The two women just quietly weighed the purse, and then they laughed: "Why are you polite, miss? If you want to say it directly, it''s all right. I''ll open the door to the first lady Then he took out the iron key hanging around his neck and opened the door. A few people then saw clearly that the door of the house had been made a new layer with iron, and the bolt was still outside. This is the grand way to lock up Xia Yan. After the two women opened the door, they dodged to one side. Jiang Ruan took Tianzhu and went in. Dahurian angelica stood outside the door. The woman knew it very well. When she went to the other side, she couldn''t hear what the people were saying. The room was dark, with only one small window open, which was nailed to death with wood. There''s nothing in it. Xia Yan had heard Jiang Ruan''s voice from the window for a long time. Tianzhu lights the oil lamp, and you can see clearly in the room. There was only a wooden bed, covered with a thin blanket, damp and dirty. A wooden table, a straw futon, a table for offering, and a clay statue of Avalokitesvara. Xia Yan knelt on the mat and closed his eyes. It seemed that he was really praying. Jiang Ruan sat down on the only chair in front of the wooden table and looked around. I think Jiang Quan is really angry with Xia Yan. In the house, she is almost as good as her "home" in Chuang Tzu. Feng Shui turns around in turn. Xia Yan ordered Zhang Lan''s family to "entertain" Jiang Ruan, but he thought he would fall into the same situation today. Xia Yan''s legs are numb, and her knees are painful and itchy. It''s humid and stuffy here. When it rains, it''s chilly. But a few days later, she has rheumatism. But Jiang Quan gave a death order again, forbidding anyone to visit. Today is to visit the people, but her eyesore, Jiang Ruan. Xia Yan wanted to ignore Jiang Ruan, but Jiang Ruan was too calm and sat quietly in the room. And her legs kneel of really afflictive, open an eye finally, tone is insipid way: "what do you come to do?" Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile: "after three days of separation, I''ll look at her with new eyes. My mother has been cultivating herself for only a few days, but she seems to be infected with Buddha''s nature. It''s a lot easier to see." Xia Yan was impatient, and she tried to pretend that she was still as pure and gentle as before. But looking down, the clothes were stained with oil and dirty marks, and it was greasy. Because it was locked in this place, I couldn''t bathe every day as usual, and my whole body smelled like a stink. Originally proud of a head of long hair, now disorderly Peng into a ball, the middle also tied. As for appearance. With eyes closed, Xia Yan can imagine how ugly he is now.In front of Jiang Ruan''s smiling eyes, Xia Yan had a feeling that he had been stripped naked and was still in the market. How can she accept this feeling. She looked up at Jiang Ruan, who was covered in a golden silk embroidered dress with beautiful crabapple colored yarn. Her hair was dark and her lips were red and her teeth were white. Even in the dark room, her whole body seemed to be covered with a layer of shining brilliance. This brilliance made her just sit in front of the wooden table, as if she was sitting in the most important position in the world. The smiling eyes looked down like an ant in the dust, full of irony. Xia Yan shakes all over, Jiang Ruan Yue is bright, she is more embarrassed. At this moment, Xia Yan thought of the scene when he first saw Zhao Mei many years ago. Many years ago, she was famous as a talented woman in the capital. She was good at poetry and painting. All the female workers are good at playing chess, that is, all the men love each other and the women are jealous. But she still can''t marry into a good King''s family, because her father is a commoner in the mansion, and her status is not high. Those princes and Marquises can take her back to be a concubine, but they can''t be a wife. The most terrible thing in the world is not the beauty of old age, beauty and white hair, but the peony in the clay pot. Young Xia Yan''s heart is higher than the sky, and he is determined to climb a good marriage. At this time, she met Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan is a new nobleman in the imperial court. He is elegant, handsome and elegant. He is in love with her husband, but she is not the one to marry. Xia Yan once met Zhao Mei far away. At that time, Jiang Quangang told her that he wanted to marry Zhao''s daughter. When Xia Yan Ran to the gate of the general''s house, he saw the girl with a wanton smile. She was dressed in red, and her eyes were full of simple smiles. Obviously, she grew up in a honey pot from a small bubble. Her father and brother looked at her lovingly. Xia Yan heart then rose a kind of extremely complicated mood. She thought, why is it that someone in this world can get everything that others desire without any effort, but I can''t get it all my life? She''s jealous. She''s jealous. She thought that it would be nice for this young lady who didn''t know how to worry to have a taste of rolling in the dust like her. To drag her into the mire, never see the sun. Let that pair of smiling eyes never lose their smile, let her wither slowly, let her see the most miserable and vicious things in the world, let her crawl under her feet and cry. On that day, Xia Yan changed her mind. She thought that even if she wanted to be a concubine, she had to enter Jiang''s house. For nothing else, she wanted to make that clean and happy soul distorted and unfortunate. She did, Zhao Mei into the house, Zhao Mei lost her favor, Zhao Mei was bullied, Zhao Meisheng''s children will never be loved by Jiang Quan. Until Zhao Mei died, Xia Yan thought that this life was even stepping on Zhao Mei. Who knows, right now, she looks at Jiang Ruan in red sitting in the dark. What she sees is not the clean smile in her eyes, but the taunt that she sees through, as if she is laughing at a clown''s overconfidence. Xia Yan screams and pours on Jiang Ruan. She wants to grab Hua''s face. But Tianzhu''s action is faster. She kicks her knee with one foot. Xia Yan fell down and knelt down in front of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at her and said faintly, "Mrs. Jiang, what''s the taste of falling into hell?" Xia Yan was stunned and burst out laughing. She pointed to Jiang Ruan''s nose: "bitch! As like as two peas! " "Pa" of a, the day Zhu hands up the PA son, Jiang Ruan lightly wiped to wipe a hand, looking at being beaten to gape at Xia Yan, a tiny smile: "mother, disaster comes from the mouth." Xia Yan clenched her teeth and suddenly began to laugh. She simply broke the jar and said, "are you angry? Little whore, it seems that you are protecting your short-lived mother. It''s a pity that when she died, you didn''t see her crying and begging me to let go of your brother and sister. Tut Tut, it''s so ugly. " Jiang Ruan''s eyes moved slightly, but he still didn''t speak. Xia Yan continued: "hum, don''t you know how your mother died? When she was in poor health, I advised the master to care about her. The master told the kitchen to send her tonic. The slut saw that it was something sent by the master and drank it happily, but she didn''t know that she was drinking poison. " Xia Yan laughed strangely: "but I didn''t leave a handle, because I didn''t take the medicine. Guess who did?" Jiang Ruan''s heart moved, but his face was still expressionless. Xia Yan laughed first, as if he had met something funny, and said: "it''s Jiang Dan! Hahaha, I only let people threaten Jiang Dan a few words, and she was so scared that she poisoned Zhao Mei every day. Isn''t Zhao Mei very kind all her life, but she doesn''t know that she has a white eyed wolf by her side! But later, I found a more interesting thing. Jiang Dan even poisoned you, "she laughed." because I told her that Zhao Mei is only good to her on the surface. You are Zhao Mei''s own daughter. Zhao Mei can never treat her as well as you. If you die, Jiang Xinzhi has only her sister, and Zhao Mei will take her as her daughter. After listening to me, Jiang Dan usually finds a chance to poison your tea. Ha ha ha! Jiang Dan is the most ruthless in this house. You treat her like that, but she wants you to die. Are you disappointed and sad now? " Tianzhu looked at Jiang Ruan in surprise, but Jiang Ruan was not moved, as if he had never heard Xia Yan''s words. She just said faintly, "thank you, Mrs. Jiang. There is such a story."Xia Yan has some heartless laugh: "now I enter this place, I''m not as good as others, lose to you, also don''t expect to escape again. But you, Zhao Mei, that slut has gone to hell, and the master hates you. Sooner or later, you and your short-lived brother will not come to a good end! There are so many people in this house who want you to die. Be careful that one day when you see hell, you don''t know who the killer is! " Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I can''t go to hell. What''s the relationship with Mrs. Jiang? But I know very well whether Mrs. Jiang can go to hell. " Xia Yan a Zheng, vigilant looking at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan sighed: "Mrs. Jiang thought she had entered this small Buddhist hall, and there was no hope for her life. I''m afraid that all my hopes are pinned on my second sister and my second brother. But why doesn''t Mrs. Jiang think that if the affair of my mother''s cheating spreads, how can my second brother and my second sister look up in the capital in the future? How can we have a good future? " Xia Yan body trembles, yes, if she steals people to frame her daughter, what will Jiang Chao''s colleagues think of him? Who would like to marry Jiang Su Su? Xia Yan knows exactly how important his mother''s reputation is to his children. She raised her head abruptly: "how can outsiders know that the master won''t come out!" She cried. Jiang Quan loves his children so much that he will not make his family scandal known to the public. Once it is spread out, Jiang Quan''s old face will have no place to put off. Jiang Ruan''s smile became more and more gentle: "there are too many people and too many mouths. There is no impermeable wall in the world. How can Mrs. Jiang be so determined not to pass it on?" "It''s you It''s you. " Xia Yan looked at Jiang Ruan as if he were a ghost: "you want to kill them..." "It''s you who hurt them, not me." Jiang Ruan stares at her eyes, word by word. Xia Yan suddenly knelt down to Jiang Ruan and began to kowtow: "I beg you, don''t hurt them, please, save them. Anyway, they are your brothers and sisters. It''s all my fault. You blame me alone. They are innocent." Xia Yan kowtowed dozens of heads, but Jiang Ruan was not moved. Finally, she looked up, her eyes flashed a trace of determination, sneer: "if you really want to go out to say, then go out to say it." "Does Mrs. Jiang think that it''s good to just end it on her own?" Jiang Ruan said softly. Xia Yan looks at her in fear. Yes, she thinks so. If Jiang Ruan had to spread the news, she would hang herself on a rope and die. Outsiders would never be able to say anything about Jiang Susu and Jiang Chao. She has been destroyed. In this life, I only wish Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao could have a comfortable life. However, Jiang Ruan is just like a worm in her stomach. She can tell her what she wants. Jiang Ruan laughed: "it''s very touching that Mrs. Jiang loves her children so much. But I don''t know if the second younger sister and the second elder brother will think so, madam? " She crouched down and looked directly at Xia Yan''s eyes: "I think the second younger sister and the second elder brother will be ashamed and angry for having such a mother. If Mrs. Jiang can''t make a decision on her own, they will certainly try to erase her, because Mrs. Jiang is a stain to them. " She stares at Xia Yan''s frightened eyes and smiles happily: "when Mrs. Jiang sees her children come to erase her existence, she must be very sad. I just don''t know whether it will be the second sister or the second brother? " She straightened up and took a light look at Xia Yan, with a strange cold tone: "Mrs. Jiang, don''t worry, I won''t let you die so easily. Your life will not be strangled by me, but by your own flesh and blood. " Her tone was enchanting, with a strange temptation, as if the spirit of the underworld was waving. She light way: "fratricidal this good play, this princess heart like snake scorpion, how can miss?" The red skirt is beautiful, and the door of the Little Buddha Hall is closed again. It seems that someone is crying in the room. Jiang Ruan raised his head and coldly told the two women outside the door: "watch tight, don''t let her die." It''s a digression - the matter of Zha Mu has come to an end for the time being www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 114 Back in ruanju, Jiang Ruan asked all the maids to step back. Forsythia and dewdrop didn''t know what had happened. The only one who knew what had happened was Tianzhu. Although he was puzzled, the maids still stepped back obediently, leaving only Jiang Ruan in the room for a while. Jiang Ruan sat at his desk, thinking nothing, and it turned dark in the twinkling of an eye. She only felt a little annoyed in her heart, so she stood up and walked out of the room. Ruan Ju''s yard was not big either. She walked along the small yard to the wall of the yard and sat down beside it. The moon on a summer night is big and round, just like a huge pearl, which can be seen clearly in the courtyard. Jiang Ruan sighed softly, and Xia Yan''s words suddenly appeared in his mind. It was Jiang Dan who poisoned Zhao Mei''s daily tonic. She remembered that when her third aunt died, she entrusted Jiang Dan to Zhao Mei. In fact, Zhao Mei, as the master mother of Jiang''s family, felt sorry that Jiang Dan lost his mother when she was young. She really loved Jiang Dan as her own daughter. Although Jiang Quan ignored Zhao Mei for a long time at that time, Xia Yancai was more like a housewife than Zhao Mei, at the beginning, Zhao Mei''s mother and son had a happy life. As for Jiang Dan, when he was a child, Jiang Ruan only felt that the fourth sister was too timid. Occasionally, she would be too attached to Zhao Mei, even she would be slightly jealous. But think also relieved, just do not have a mother of the little girl, rely on his mother. Now I think about it, but I feel chilly. Zhao Mei''s original poisons were actually under Jiang Dan. Not only that, Jiang Dan also poisoned her. At this time, Jiang Ruan understood why he was not healthy all the time. It was because he had eaten poisonous things unconsciously in his early years. It''s just that at that time, Jiang Dan was timid and had few chances to poison her tea. Later, she went to Chuang Tzu, otherwise, she didn''t know where she was now. Jiang Dan, Jiang Ruan sneered in his heart. He knew that there was something deeply hidden in the house, but he didn''t know that she was such a wolf. Thinking of his mother''s life seemed like a joke, Chiang Ruan didn''t know whether he was angry or sad. I don''t know how long she sat under the wall of the courtyard. Until she felt a little sour all over, Jiang Ruan stood up and wanted to go back to the house. As soon as I looked back, I was stunned. Not far away, the young man in black stood quietly under the tree and looked at her silently. It was obvious that it had been a long time. "You. I''m back. " Jiang Ruan Dao. Xiao Shao disappeared for a few days, but now he suddenly came out of nowhere. Jiang Ruan had something in his mind, but he didn''t care to scold him for breaking into his mansion again. Xiao Shao picked an eyebrow, walked towards her and said, "what''s the matter with you?" As soon as Fang came back, he heard from Tianzhu what had happened in the past few days. Jiang Ruan, who saw him under the courtyard wall, looked disappointed. He didn''t know what he thought of, but he felt very lonely. That kind of bleak back makes people feel dazzling when they see it. Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao shaochao coming to him and held out his hand to her, as if to touch her face. However, when he was about to touch her, he stopped and asked, "how come it''s not good yet?" After several days, the palmprint on the face is still clearly visible, and the swelling is very obvious on the white face. Jiang Ruan a Zheng, don''t turn head: "tomorrow I want to go into the palace." Xiao Shao understood and thought about it. He took out a porcelain vase from his arms and handed it to her: "use it after entering the palace." Jiang Ruan took over and said in a low voice, "thank you very much." Today, her mood is really low, which can be seen by ordinary people. Not to mention such a sensitive person as Xiao Shao. He took a look at Jiang Ruan, and suddenly put out his hand to hold her arm and lift her up. Before Jiang Ruan could react, he found that he had arrived at the big pear tree in the courtyard. "What are you doing?" Sitting on the pear tree trembling, she had to stretch out her hand to grasp Xiao Shao''s hand, still feel uneasy, heart a horizontal, simply two hands around Xiao Shao''s waist. Xiao Shao just wanted to take Jiang Ruan to the tree. When Jin Yi and Jin Er in the royal guards were not in a high mood, they would often climb to the tree to drink. There was no wine at the moment. Xiao Shao thought that maybe Jiang Ruan''s mood would be better after seeing the moon. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ruan put his hand around his waist. Xiao Shao''s body was stiff, and a strange emotion floated in his heart. The girl''s special fragrance penetrated into the tip of her nose. Under the moonlight, her hand in black was as white as jade. Xiao Shao had an inexplicable impulse to cover the soft one. Jiang Ruan Fang passed Xiao Shao''s waist, and then he reacted. He was annoyed at his impulse and released his hand. Subconsciously, I look up to see Xiao Shao''s reaction, but I see that Xiao Shao is sitting in a tree with a beautiful face. In ordinary days, elegant and cold people are stupid, and they are somewhat stubborn and lovely. "Hello." She tried to calm her voice: "take me down." Xiao Shao recovered, pursed his lips, and asked, "is that better?" "Not good," Jiang Ruan said angrily, "not at all." Xiao Shao looked at her in surprise. Jiang ruanping was calm day by day. When he was so angry, he thought it interesting. He simply straightened his long legs, put his hands on his head and rested against the branches. Jinyi and Tianzhu in the distance stare big eyes at the same time. When did these two calm and insidious people become so naive? It''s not too much to say how old a child is. Jiang Ruan glared at the figure''s creator, who was lying leisurely. He only hated that he had never learned martial arts and could not kick him out of the tree. In the tree, the cool wind blowing in the summer night makes her feel more relaxed.It''s hard to calm down in a place full of intrigues and intrigues. It is a luxury to think of nothing. She turned her head, and Xiao Shao''s head turned to her. The young man was gorgeous. It was said in the capital that Jiang''s daughter was born well, but Jiang Ruan thought that it was because Xiao Shao was a man. For example, when she looked over, Xiao Shao''s thin lips were tight, her long eyebrows slanted into her temples, and her straight nose. His beautiful but heroic, the most moving pair of dark eyes, now tightly closed, long eyelashes down, Jiang Ruan look past, heart disdain, a man, eyelashes born so long, what do you do? But some hands itch, unconsciously reach out to want to touch. Jin Yi nervously touched Tianzhu: "what does she want to do? To our master? " "How do I know?" Tianzhu said angrily, "look at the master, isn''t that the meaning of welcoming indecent rites?" Jiang Ruan''s hand was about to touch Xiao Shao''s eyelashes. Suddenly, Xiao Shao opened his eyes. Jiang Ruan was stunned, facing a pair of dark and deep eyes. Xiao Shao''s eyes are the best. Usually, he looks cold and his emotions are all written in his eyes. Now, he looks as bright as a broken diamond, with three intoxicating points. Rao is a man whose heart is like a rock. He can''t help but be moved when he sees it. Jiang Ruan is a little bit confused, but Xiao Shao is also slightly stunned. Jiang Ruan stares at him without blinking. He always looks at him with slight irony. At the moment, his eyes are completely confused. His eyes are clear and unconsciously show the girl''s unique charm. Xiao Shao felt like an ant crawling in his heart, but Jiang Ruan was stunned. His eyes fell on Xiao Shao''s red ears. How could this man be so innocent? She chuckled. The laughter annoyed Xiao Shao. He wanted to turn over and sit up, but he forgot that they were still in the tree. Inadvertently, the branches of the tree were shaking and clattering, and they fell down together. Jiang Ruan screamed, and Xiao Shao quickly reached for her waist. When the two of them came back to their senses, they went up and down. Xiao Shao rode on Jiang Ruan, and one of his men consciously padded on the back of Jiang Ruan''s head, and the fallen leaves from the trees fell on them. Dew and Angelica heard the sound ran out, came to see this scene. Jinyi covers his eyes. Tianzhu changes his usual dull appearance and swallows his saliva excitedly: "master. The master is so enthusiastic. " Forsythia is afraid to disturb others. She is angry and resentful. She pushes away Xiao Shao, pulls up Jiang Ruan and protects him. She looks at Xiao Shao warily and says, "King Xiao broke into my house in the middle of the night just to take advantage of my girls?" Forsythia wanted to be shrewd and direct, but she didn''t realize it was wrong. Xiao Shaoji frowned invisibly. Dewdrop is very happy, she was born in the market, for the rules is not as important as Angelica dahurica and forsythia to see, but also at a glance to see Xiao Shao is not in the pool. These cold people only treat Jiang Ruan differently from others. It would be nice to have such an uncle. Lu Zhu feels in her heart that it''s good to be the mistress of Jinying palace. At least these people don''t dare to trouble Jiang Ruan about the affairs in the palace. Jiang Ruan had a headache. Dewdrop and forsythia misunderstood it. Thinking that it was all caused by Xiao Shao''s breaking into Jiang''s house at night, they couldn''t help staring at Xiao Shao again. But I don''t want to see that although she looks gentle, she is actually alienated. Only those who are close to her will show little true feelings. This action falls in the eyes of forsythia and dew, can''t help but be shocked in the heart, is to sit down their own girl and young king Jin Ying what guess. Xiao Shao saw this, and a smile flashed in his eyes. But he didn''t continue to give Jiang Ruan any more trouble. He just said, "if you have something, come to Dongfeng Building and find me. It''s too late tonight. You should rest early. " After that, he turned and jumped on the wall and disappeared into the night. The master of the 300000 royal guards in the grand Jin Dynasty had to learn how to pick flowers and turn over the wall. Xiao Shao was extremely elegant, but he didn''t know how imaginative his words were when he left. At that time, he set off a wave in the hearts of Jiang Ruan''s two servant girls. Because Xiao Shao was so confused, Jiang Ruan didn''t have the heart to think about what Xia Yan said in the daytime. He also forgot about Jiang Dan. His mind was better than before. I didn''t think much when I went back to the room. I had a rest after blowing the light early. The next day, before Jiang Ruan entered the palace, he saw the dew come in a hurry. He was surprised and said, "girl, there''s a lot of noise outside. It''s said that the wife has a head and tail with people outside. She doesn''t want to have another miscarriage, and she wants to slander the girl. It''s said by the common people that the master. It''s a lot of guts to be green headed and not to divorce. " Dew spoke with three points of space, I think those people''s words should be more harsh. Jiang Ruan pondered slightly. Before she could release the news, how could anyone outside know? Naturally, the Xia family and the Jiang family would not talk, and Xuan Li would not ask for trouble. "Who did you hear that?" she asked "It''s the middle-aged doctor," said Lu Zhu, covering her mouth with a smile. "The man was drinking in a pub. When he was drunk, he said it as a joke. Now it''s estimated that the whole capital is talking about it." Jiang Ruan picked an eyebrow, good end of, that man took advantage of how can oneself say, must be under somebody''s command. In the brain then emerges a person, Xiao Shao can also be too many matters some? However, he saved himself a lot of trouble."Is the carriage ready?" Asked Jiang Ruan, there is no delay in entering the palace. "Ready, just wait at the door." Angelica dahurica said. When Fang wants to go to the gate, he happens to meet Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan''s face was unusually gloomy. This kind of news came out early this morning, which only made his face pale. He hurried back to the house, as if everyone on the road was watching his jokes. After all this, he will be stabbed in the spine all his life. At the moment, Jiang Quan just wanted to strangle Xia Yan, the initiator, and his heart was blocked. But seeing that Jiang Ruan Zheng was about to leave the house, he asked, "where are you going?" Jiang Ruan looked back at him and said with a smile, "the Empress Dowager asked me to enter the palace. What''s the matter with my father?" Jiang Quan''s words stopped for a moment. Since Jiang Ruan was granted the title of princess, his relationship with empress Yide has entered a lot. His father is not as good as Jiang Ruan''s face in front of the Empress Dowager. The vision falls on Jiang Ruan''s face, is a Leng again: "what is this?" Five clear fingerprints were hanging on his face, as if accusing him of violence. After several days, the mark not only did not disappear, but also with yesterday''s new general, red and swollen did not retreat, hanging on the white face is very abrupt. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "what is this? Father didn''t know? " Jiang Quan became angry: "how can you enter the palace to face the saint like this? It''s disrespectful to the Empress Dowager. Go back and cover me up." "Princess," Tianzhu said at the right time, "it''s time to get on the carriage. If you miss the time, the Empress Dowager will blame you for it." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "exactly." She looked at Jiang Quan and said, "father, I''ll go first." Jiang Ruan did not put his words in his ears. Jiang Quan was about to explode. He said angrily, "Jiang Ruan!" "Father, the Empress Dowager treats me like flesh and blood, and she doesn''t care about this little rule," she said with a smile. "If my father insists on this, I''ll ask my father to apologize when I get back to the house." After that, he ordered Tianzhu to open the door. As soon as the door of Jiang''s house was opened, many people outside gathered around him. It was not easy for him to stay any longer. Even though he was already angry, he had to bite his teeth and say: "son of a bitch!" turn on one ''s heel. Tianzhu looked at Jiang Quan contemptuously and carefully lifted Jiang Ruan into the carriage. The common people outside naturally have sharp eyes. Seeing the slap mark on Jiang Ruan''s face, they associate it with the rumor that Xia Yan was aborted and Jiang Quan could not help telling Jiang Ruan that he slapped him. One after another, he said, "Princess Hong''an is such a charming person. Jiang Shangshu really has to go. It''s really distressing to see the red seal on her face." Another said, "what do you know? Since then, Jiang Shangshu has been fond of the girl''s children. At the beginning, when Mrs. Jiang passed away, she sent Princess Hong''an to Chuang Tzu. Which father can do this? " The woman spat: "bah, what talented women are you talking about? They are obviously * sluts. Who knows if Miss Jiang ER and young master Jiang Er belong to Jiang Shangshu, or perhaps to the adulterer. " All of a sudden, and began to talk with enthusiasm. This time, they doubted the identities of Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao. Dew lifted a corner of the curtain of the carriage, and the outside talk would come to their ears. Dew bead way: "these people can really guess, if be heard by two young ladies and two young masters, must get angry of can''t go out." Jiang Ruan gave a faint smile. In this world, only the mouth of the common people can''t be stopped. With a little guidance, rumors are rampant, which is enough to kill a person''s life. For example, her last life was forced to the end step by step by these rumors? Once again, it''s time for Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao to taste this. As for Jiang Quan, how much he loved Xia Yan at the beginning, how much he hated now. After entering the palace, she saw empress Yide. Sure enough, as soon as she saw Jiang Ruan''s face, empress Yide frowned and said, "how can it be like this?" Aunt Yang on one side also looked at Jiang Ruan''s face and thought of the rumors outside. The Empress Dowager Yide was deep in the palace, and she didn''t pay much attention to the things outside, because she didn''t know about Xia Yan. "Nothing," he said with a smile Empress Yide took a look at her and said to Tianzhu, "you say." People who are used to giving orders all the year round speak with a sense of oppression. Tianzhu knelt down and said, "if you go back to the empress dowager, the girl was hurt by the master. Because his wife''s miscarriage slandered the girl, the master beat her in anger, and her royal highness was also present at that time. " Jiang Ruan was laughing in his heart, and Tianzhu pulled Xuanli into the water. On hearing this, empress Yide knew what was going on. She said angrily, "is it against heaven? How dare you do it to those who are sad! Hong''an, what''s Lao Ba doing at your house? " Jiang Ruan thought for a moment, shook his head and said, "Ruan Niang doesn''t know. Maybe we should come to talk about politics with Xia Hou Ye." The Empress Dowager Yide is not the only one who knows how to be jealous of women in the harem. When she was young, she played tricks to support the new emperor to ascend the throne. Naturally, she also heard something wrong in this remark. Thinking of the more obvious ambition of the eighth prince, empress Yide frowned slightly. Looking at the palmprint on Jiang Ruan''s face, he was naturally furious and immediately said, "what is Jiang''s house? You live here in AI''s house these days. AI''s family doesn''t believe that your father dare to be so bold!" After a pause, she said, "what''s the matter with Xia Yan now?"Aunt Yang laughed: "empress dowager, I know something about it. Let the princess sit down and have a cup of tea. I''ll tell you well." I''m a little tired of fighting, so I''ll tease the spoon and then continue ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 115 After staying in the palace, Jiang Ruan had a very free time every day. The Empress Dowager Yide wanted to hang out Jiang''s power, and did not mention the return of Jiang Ruan. The person who has a heart is to guess that empress Yide wants to support Princess Hong''an. In this way, the news that Princess Hong''an is favored is undoubtedly more authentic. But people in Chiang''s house were in a panic. Jiang Quan wanted to wait for Jiang Ruan to return to the palace and kill her. He didn''t want the Empress Dowager''s advice. Jiang Ruan stayed in the palace, which made him feel up and down. In recent days, people were talking behind their backs everywhere. Jiang Quan simply said he was ill and stayed at home instead of going to court. Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao are also very angry, because recently there has been another news spreading outside that their two brothers and sisters are not Jiang Quan''s own flesh and blood at all, but the offspring of their adulterer. The blood in Jiang''s house was in chaos, and the backyard was in chaos, which became the laughing stock of the whole capital. In recent years, it''s easy for Jiang Chao to follow Xuan Li. He has made some progress in his official career and began to get rid of his former image of incompetence. However, when this happened, his face was different. Jiang Su Su is no better than Jiang Chao. As the daughter of Jiang Fu, she often has other ladies'' parties and parties. However, she hasn''t received a post these days. She is the one who has been isolated by the public. What about being beautiful and pure? It''s not a wild one. Jiang Dan in the yard listening to these things, is very happy, smile gently shallow: "big sister is really a good means, no wonder can get the Empress Dowager''s favor." The servant girl carefully said: "girl, in a few days, the third girl should get married." Jiang Li''s wedding is imminent, now Xia Yan completely lose power, red Ying is pregnant with the body, the matter in the hospital has been handed over to the second aunt. Jiang Li is the only daughter of the second aunt. She wants to do it with great vigour. I heard that the dowry of the dowry is equal to that of her daughter. Doctor Zuo was supposed to be engaged with Jiang Dan, but now he is engaged with Jiang Li. Jiang Dan waved: "follow her." The servant girl looked at Jiang Dan and saw that her face was ok, so she said, "the girl has to plan for herself. As soon as the three girls pass by, it''s the girl''s turn. But... " But up to now, no one has come to the mansion to propose marriage. Originally, when Xia Yan was still there, he always worried about Jiang Su Su''s affairs. Naturally, he didn''t care about her. Now that her second aunt is in charge, she doesn''t really think about Jiang Dan. Jiang Quan didn''t even remember her existence. In the huge mansion, she was a common girl who lost her mother and almost became a forgotten corner. Jiang Su Su has the elder brother Jiang Chao. Now Jiang Ruan is Princess Hong''an. She is the only one left in this house. It''s meaningless to wait. After a woman''s most beautiful age, it''s hard for her to find a good family. "What are you afraid of?" But Jiang Dan didn''t seem to hear the maid''s words at all: "after August, isn''t it time to enter the palace draft?" The servant girl was shocked: "the girl wants to..." But it''s the draft girl. The identity and appearance of Jiang Dan in Jiang''s mansion are too low indeed. But now that Jiang Ruan has become Princess Hong''an and Jiang Li is about to get married, Jiang Quan will not be willing to send Jiang Susu to the palace. Jiang Dan is the only suitable person to go around the house? But everyone knows that although entering the palace is a combination of honor and wealth, it is not really good. Not to mention anything else, the old emperor can be Jiang Dan''s father and take care of his daughter''s family. How can he think of running to the palace. What''s more, Jiang Dan was not favored in Jiang''s house, and he had no mother. If he really went to the palace without help, how could there be no bones left to be eaten! Although the servant girl thinks so in the heart, after all dare not say export, have to silently lower head. Jiang Dan smile, eyes are strange look. When General Li and Zhao Guang learned about this, they were naturally furious. His good granddaughter was scolded like this in Jiang''s mansion? When they are in the general''s house, can they bully them? Zhao Yuanping said faintly: "Dad, what are you doing in such a big fire? Didn''t you see that Ruan girls went to the palace to find the Empress Dowager? With the support of the empress dowager, no one dares to bully her. " Speaking of this, Zhao Guangyou feels aggrieved. Since Jiang Ruan returned to Beijing as a princess, he never set foot in the general''s mansion. Li also sent her a post, which was rejected by Jiang Ruan. After learning Zhao Yuanping''s temperament, Zhao Yulong was very dissatisfied. He only said that Jiang Ruan had just used the Zhao family at the beginning, but now he has been promoted to empress dowager Yide, so he refuses to ask about the general''s house any more. Zhao Guang didn''t believe Zhao Yulong''s words, but he didn''t know why he kept a distance from the general''s office. For a long time I couldn''t see my granddaughter. Naturally, I was a little annoyed. Jiang Ruan Ning was willing to seek the protection of empress Yide, but he didn''t ask for help from the general''s office. He also injured the general in the battle. Seeing Zhao Yuanping''s indifferent face, he became more and more angry and gave him a kick: "what are you doing in the room? I''m tired of it After that, I mentioned the sword hanging on the wall and went to the yard to practice it. Zhao Yuanping turned his lips. He was mad because he was upset at the bottom of his heart. After thinking about it, I didn''t understand why Jiang Ruan had a clear relationship with the Zhao family. It made Li and his brothers sad. The little girl is as smart as he can''t understand. Jiang Ruan and Lu Zhufang have lunch with the Empress Dowager. Empress Yide is resting at the moment. Jiang Ruan wanted to look for some books in his study. Dewdrop asked, "girl, why don''t you go to the general these days?"Dewdrop is also very curious. Although Jiang ruanping''s temperament is cold, he always has to take care of his etiquette. He won''t leave anything to say. For those people, not to mention their own grandparents. When the flood happened, Jiang Ruan took the grain he bought to block the disaster for the Zhao family. The dew could see that Jiang Ruan was not merciless to the Zhao family, but now it''s their servants who can''t understand why they are so cold. Jiang Ruan shook his head, but his heart was like a mirror. In the eyes of the emperor, if he was not careful, he would have something to do with Xuanli. The ninth five year old man in the palace seemed to like Xuanli very much, but he knew it well in private, otherwise Xuanli would not have poisoned the old emperor in a desperate way. Now, the cleaner the Zhao family and she are talking about, the safer they are. It''s so close to her that it''s hard for the emperor to guess. Your heart is unpredictable. Who knows what disaster it will bring to the Zhao family. More importantly, the more indifferent she is to the Zhao family, the more scrupulous those who want to use her to make decisions about the general''s office will be. These things she can not say with others, can only hide in the heart. When Fang turned around the corridor, he saw a man coming in front of him. This man was really eye-catching in the palace. A green single Rosa boa robe, deep purple and gold belt, the whole body is glittering, if you say this is just. The fragrance of powder on his body can be smelled from afar. When you look at it carefully, there are more than ten sachets on the man''s body, all painted red and embroidered green. You can see that they are the things on the woman''s body. The man raised his head and showed a face somewhat similar to Xuanli''s. He was not ugly, but his eyes were black and blue. It was overindulgence. When he saw Jiang Ruan, he was stunned and stopped. Today, Jiang Ruan is wearing a light red embroidered dress. Because she is in front of the Empress Dowager in the palace, aunt Yang has made the plum blossom make-up popular in the palace. She was more and more beautiful and moving. As soon as the man saw it, his eyes seemed to stick to Jiang Ruan''s body, and he looked at her wantonly up and down. Dewdrop almost burst her lungs. She stopped Jiang Ruan in front of her even if she didn''t want to. She yelled, "how presumptuous! How dare you be rude to the princess!" The man''s eyes fell on dewdrop. In fact, Dewdrop was also a pretty little girl, and she was very lovely in conversation, but Jiang Ruan was too beautiful. The man glanced at the dewdrop, then stared at Jiang Ruan, and said absurdly, "princess, I don''t know which Princess it is." This man, Jiang Ruan, was no stranger. She had met this man several times in her last life when she was in the palace. At the beginning, Xia Jiaojiao hurt her, deliberately let this person see her face, then in the garden to her, fortunately Xuanli rushed over. But as soon as the man had the chance to enter the palace, he would seize the opportunity to harass her. It was the third prince Xuanxin, the son of the grass bag. If the most competitive five princes Xuanhua and eight princes Xuanli are removed from the palace, there are only the incompetent Prince and the incompetent xuanlang. However, the three princes are a special existence. His biological mother left early and was raised under another concubine''s name, but he was very stubborn. He was only 18 years old and went out of the palace to open the palace. His reputation of immorality is all over the world. The best beauty, the house raised 88 concubines, but has not yet set up a concubine. Although Xuanxin was a beautiful woman, he had never done anything out of the ordinary. The emperor was not allowed to enter the palace. In this way, Xuanxin had little chance to appear in the palace. It was not long after that that that Xuanxin engaged Lin Zixiang and was personally married by Princess Chen Guifei. Lin Zixiang, with such a disposition, had no good days when she entered Xuanxin''s house. She was pushed out by her concubine every day. In the end, she lost her child and was slandered by one of Xuanxin''s favorite concubines. She really hated her. She killed her concubine with a dagger. The emperor was furious, and Lin Changshi beat the drum to complain. But it was all about the back house. At most, Xuanxin could only get a charge against the housekeeper. After being punished for his salary, he didn''t get any punishment. He still indulged in drinking and drinking every day. He didn''t care about his reputation. No matter what the people said, he still went his own way. It was not long before Lin Changshi died of illness. Mrs. Lin followed him with a white silk, and a good generation of Qingliu Lin family died. Now this man appeared in front of Jiang Ruan again. Without saying anything else, his eyes looked like disgusting mud. Xuanxin carefully looked at the girl in front of him. He read Fangcong for many years, but it was the first time that he saw such a gorgeous girl. His appearance is just vulgar. His alienated and noble temperament tickles his heart. It was Princess Chen who came to the palace today to discuss his marriage with him. Xuanxin''s mother died early, and the queen hated him very much. Princess Chen was a beauty, but she couldn''t eat it, and she was too cruel. Chen Guifei said that she would promise Lin Zixiang, the legitimate daughter of the historian, to be his concubine. But Xuanxin didn''t like Lin Zixiang in his heart. It was hard to chew the hard beauty like wood. He was not submissive, but Zheng''s wife was just a decoration for him, so Xuan Xin didn''t care much. I didn''t expect that there was such a beauty in the palace. I just heard what the maid in waiting said. What''s the name of the princess? Jiang Ruan light way: "three Highnesses." "Do you know me?" Xuanxin was flattered. Such a beauty even knew him, but he racked his brains and didn''t know where he had seen her. "Your Highness is so famous that no one in the Jin Dynasty knows about it." Jiang Ruan''s lips smile was satirical: "but it''s the first time that I''ve seen her three Highnesses since I entered the palace so many times."Xuanxin has always been very tolerant of beauties, so he would not blame the sarcasm in Jiang Ruan''s words. Only the color Mi Mi Mi of looking at her to smile a way: "dare to ask the girl Fang Ming?" Dewdrop was already angry. She said angrily, "your third Highness has self-respect. This is the princess Hong''an who was granted by the Empress Dowager." As a servant, although she was a dandy, she was a prince, and she could not send him away like an ordinary apprentice. Dewdrop was surprised and worried. Xuanxin suddenly realized, "it''s Miss Jiang." The name of Princess Hong''an is unknown to anyone in the Dajin Dynasty. At the beginning, he only heard that the princess who was asked to be granted the title was adored by the empress dowager, and her appearance was gorgeous. However, the common people have always followed suit, but the Xuanxin is not very sincere. Looking at it again, I feel regret. I would have asked Princess Chen to marry Jiang Ruan. If there was such a beautiful lady in my family, I would die I''m willing. However, Xuanxin didn''t expect that empress Yide loved Jiang Ruan so much, and how could she give her to the absurd children. Xuanxin stepped closer to Jiang Ruan with a shy face: "we are all family now, sister Hong''an. Why don''t we get together with this hall?" How can such a beauty be reconciled if she doesn''t get it in this life? "Where do you want to get together with the princess?" The low voice itself rings out later, but the prince and the fourth Prince Xuan Lang come to this side. Xuanxin frowned, obviously very dissatisfied with the prince''s sudden interruption. The prince took a look at Jiang Ruan and said with a big laugh: "Hong''an, it''s just that our palace is looking for you. If there''s nothing else, I''ll go back first. I''ll take Hong an first. " If Xuanxin is a dandy in the palace, none of his brothers are his opponents, but the prince is an exception. Xu Shi knew that he was not valued by the emperor, but the prince also had the temperament to break the pot. He was half the weight of Xuanxin, and no one was better than anyone else. Knowing that the prince is here today, it is impossible for him to have anything to do with Jiang Ruan. Xuanxin tossed his sleeve fiercely, his face changed, and then he said to Jiang Ruan with a smile: "that princess, I will come to see you in the future. Let''s have a good talk." The ambiguity in those words made dewdrop frown, but the prince and xuanlang were already familiar with each other. After Xuanxin finished speaking to Jiang Ruan, he straightened up and glared at the prince and said, "brother, I''ll leave first." After that, without waiting for the prince to reply, he turned and walked away. Xuanlang shrunk a little. The prince looked at him and said, "promising!" But there is no sense of blame, obviously the two have a good relationship on weekdays. Just now, Xuanxin''s attitude towards the crown prince is determined. The crown prince is now in an awkward position. Sooner or later, his position will be abolished. Now it''s just a nominal name, so he has no fear. The prince seems to have been used to such a position. He looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "Hong''an, now you are delicious fat. Anyone wants to have a bite." He low a smile: "the emperor grandmother dotes on you so much, this palace all some jealousy." The prince''s eyes were gloomy when he said this, which is true. As the prince, the emperor''s empress dowager Yide didn''t like him. Although the queen was distressed, she couldn''t change the current situation. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "Your Highness is the master of the future Jin Dynasty. Why should you be jealous of Ruan Niang, a little girl?" "What kind of girl are you? I think you are a treasure." He suddenly gave a strange smile: "why don''t you be the concubine of our palace? Anyway, you have no blood relationship with this palace. There is a precedent in the great Jin Dynasty. " Jiang Ruan said with a faint smile: "if the prince''s highness can persuade the Empress Dowager and the emperor, then Ruan Niang has nothing to do with it." The prince saw that Jiang Ruan''s face was light, but he really didn''t care about it. He couldn''t help getting angry. But Jiang Ruan took a look at xuanlang. Xuanlang followed the crown prince with a warm and harmless appearance. The crown prince in the palace had no talent, and the fourth prince was incompetent. They seemed to be in the same boat. In fact, the prince is not very good with other brothers, but he is good with Xuan Lang. But xuanlang''s appearance made it easy for Jiang Ruan to think of Jiang Dan in Jiang''s mansion. The same cowardice, the same love stabbing in the back. In the last life, the crown prince was stabbed in the back by his fourth younger brother, who had a good relationship with him, and ended up committing suicide in prison. Xuanlang has long been on the side of Chen Guifei, but the prince takes the enemy as his friend. Jiang Ruan looked at the prince and said, "Your Highness, there''s something else to tell Ruan Niang. Now it''s time to pass." Prince a Leng, that is just his casual words, where can take seriously. Just as he was about to speak, Jiang Ruan said to xuanlang, "what else is the matter, your highness? If there is nothing wrong, I will go ahead with the crown prince. " Xuanlang was stunned. He didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would be so reckless. For a moment, he looked at him with some injuries. His grievances flashed by. What he didn''t know was how Jiang Ruan bullied the fourth prince. The prince frowned. Xuan Lang already said with a smile, "brother, the fourth brother will go first. The elder brother and the princess chat slowly. Goodbye. " After that, he left in a hurry. Although there was no anger on his face, he was a little worried. The prince looked at xuanlang''s back and said, "what are you doing, Princess Hong''an?" "Your Highness the prince knows that the princess always hates her highness eight." The prince pauses. Jiang Ruan hates Xuanli. He has seen it a long time ago. Although he doesn''t know why Jiang Ruan hates his eight younger brothers, he is very satisfied with Jiang Ruan because he doesn''t like Xuanli either.Jiang Ruan said faintly: "I hate ants. Everything that ants climb over will be discarded. I hate the eighth Royal Highness. If I have a relationship with the eighth Royal Highness, I hate it very much." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 116 Although the crown prince is called the wucai crown prince, he is not a fool. He also heard the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words and frowned: "what do you say? How can old four and old eight have something to do with each other? " Jiang Ruan glanced around and said, "Your Highness, I just want to go to Biyun pavilion to find some books. If your Highness has nothing to do, you can go with me." There are many books in Biyun Pavilion. Usually, the Empress Dowager often sends her maid to look for some books. The prince thought about it and said, "OK. I just want to see it. " The little eunuch beside the prince is surprised. Everyone knows that the prince doesn''t like reading. If the prince and Jiang Ruan go to Biyun Pavilion today, they will have a lot of gossip in the Palace tomorrow. But the prince has always been a man of his own way. How can he care about that? With the support of empress Yide, Jiang Ruan is not afraid. They went to Biyun Pavilion. There is no one at this time. The prince accompanied Jiang Ruan to pick books on the shelf in the attic and asked, "what do you mean by what you just said?" Jiang Ruan searched the bookshelf carefully and said, "does your highness understand?" The prince didn''t speak. Jiang Ruan didn''t tell him, but there was a response in his heart. Once the seeds of doubt are buried, they will break the ground and germinate in the future. They are all out of control. It''s hard for Xuan Lang to win the prince''s trust as before. The prince has the heart to check, it is not difficult to find out the problem between xuanlang and the eighth prince. "Why do you hate Lao Ba so much?" Asked the prince. He really didn''t understand that everyone in the palace loved Xuanli. Xuanli was as gentle as jade and had a lot of talent, but Jiang Ruan was like a snake, a scorpion and a beast to him. Jiang Ruan said: "Your Highness is very good, but it always makes me feel very similar to my second sister, and I hate people like my second sister most." The prince looked at him with interest: "what kind of person is your second sister?" "Honey in the mouth, cruel in the stomach. It''s silly to be smart. " The prince was surprised by such a rude remark. He looked Jiang Ruan up and down, shook his head and said, "I thought Xiao Shao thought you were born beautiful. Now it seems that you have a lot of courage." He laughed obstinately: "now I''m really interested in marrying you back to the government." "If your Highness has this ability, I will not complain." Jiang Ruan picked a good book and went to the attic. In the main hall, there is a large desk made of rosewood, on which there are pen, ink, paper and inkstone. Jiang Ruan went to have a look, and saw that it was the best peach blossom ink. He could not help but stop. Seeing this, the prince joked: "I heard he Yi say that you have been sent to Chuang Tzu since you were a child, and your biological mother comes from the family of military generals. Because you are not literate, you can only sing and dance like a singer." He deliberately made his words ugly and wanted to see Jiang Ruan''s reaction. However, Jiang Ruan turned a deaf ear and did not change his expression. Princess Heyi hated her to the bone, and she was willing to slander her reputation outside. Jiang Ruan didn''t have to worry about her. Only the peach blossom ink in the palace reminds her of the scene when Xuanli taught her to practice calligraphy. Today and the past, the situation is not yesterday, the heart of love has become an enemy, peach blossom ink is still as fragrant as in the past. She slowly raised her pen, and the prince looked at her curiously. There are so many mysterious places in Jiang Ruan. No wonder Xiao Shao, who is usually lonely, treats her differently. He is also interested in her. Jiang Ruan stained ink with the tip of his nose, followed the handwriting of the previous life, and slowly picked up the pen to write down. There is no sound when writing, only the faint ink is dense. The writing is elegant, and it seems to have hidden edge. Every stroke is indescribable romantic charm. "The good is like the green pine, the evil is like the flower, and the green pine is not as cold as the flower. One day when the frost falls, the green pine will not see the flower." The prince watched and read out the handwriting on the paper. Then he was surprised and said, "your handwriting is similar to Lao Ba''s Although it is like, but it seems to be two kinds of meaning. He looked at the words on the paper and said with a smile, "I can''t see that Hong''an is still a good man." A good man? Jiang Ruan sneered. In the last life, she really thought so. She sincerely wanted to be good, but what happened in the end? In this life, she will never repeat the mistakes of the previous life. If she does not become a villain in the eyes of the world, it is to implement the four words of "evil country and evil girl"? At least I''ve polished my eyes and protected the people I want to protect. The prince instinctively felt that Jiang Ruan''s eyes were chilly and wanted to say something. However, Jiang Ruan already held the selected book and said to the prince, "if your highness still has the mind to choose books, you might as well choose them well. I have to go back to the CI Ning palace, so I won''t wait for your highness." After Jiang Ruan left, the prince''s eyes fell on the words on the desk. Words are good words. People like him who don''t like to write feel that they are really strong. But Chiang did not mean to take it away. After thinking about it, the prince ordered the little eunuch around him to put away the words, and turned to go out of the Biyun Pavilion. When Chen Guifei heard that the prince and Jiang Ruan had gone to Biyun Pavilion, she was a little strange: "when will the prince be as good as her?" The maid in waiting said, "if you go back to the empress, it seems that they just went to pick a book together and separated soon." Chen Guifei pondered and said nothing. Now she doesn''t underestimate Jiang Ruan. She thought she was just the daughter of some luck and cleverness, but now she seems to have a deep heart. At the beginning, she made a drastic decision to get married by Princess Chen, and then she turned to be princess Hong''an who was granted by the Empress Dowager. This is not something that ordinary officials can do. Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang Ruan refuted her face in front of civil and military officials at the Palace Banquet, but she did not forget."Jiang Ruan is not an ordinary man." Chen Guifei lazy Kun body, like a beautiful Persian cat in general: "continue to check." "Yes." The maid of honor was ordered to leave. Besides, the prince got the word Jiang Ruan. First he went to Kunning palace to talk with the queen for a while, and then he went back to the east palace. He spread out Jiang Ruan''s painting. The more he looked at it, the more he felt that the handwriting was excellent. He couldn''t figure out where to hang it. If it''s mounted on the wall, it''s a bit of a fuss. But if it''s cleaned up, it''s a pity. It happened that a man came outside, with green clothes and jade belts. His robes were floating, and his face was carefree. There was a faint look of loneliness and pride in his eyebrows. As soon as the prince saw this man, his eyes lit up and he said, "Taifu." This man is Liu min. although he is called Taifu, he also shares some political affairs for the emperor on weekdays. But in name, the prince''s lessons still need to be taught, but this student is too stubborn, and he almost abandons the books. Liu Min is also very helpless. Today, it''s rare for the prince to call him so warmly. Liu Min frowned and went over and asked, "Your Highness." The prince felt that he had found a good pair of ink. Naturally, he wanted to show it to the grand champion lang. he said, "I have got a pair of ink today. Please have a look at it." Liu Min sighed in the heart, only the way the prince is making fun of him. Last time I said that there was a good painting and calligraphy, but I didn''t want to open it, but it was a picture of the spring palace. I taught this honest champion to run away. The calligraphy and painting opened slowly. Before I could see it clearly, I heard a refreshing fragrance. This is the best peach blossom ink. It is said that a gentleman likes peach blossom, which is the favorite of many people who claim to be of high quality. When Liu Min saw the writing clearly, he was struck by lightning, and the whole person was in the same place. The handwriting is winding and elegant. It is full of light and brilliance. It''s the handwriting Liu Min is very familiar with, almost every day to aftertaste. Liu Min will never forget the handwriting. It was the mysterious man who helped her win the first prize three years ago and became the master of the letter of the number one scholar. As a matter of fact, as early as he became the number one scholar, the man completely disappeared in Liu Min''s life, as if he had never existed before. Liu Min has won the emperor''s trust since he entered the court. Countless people want to win him over and frame him up. This world is so chaotic, sometimes he is also very confused, at this time, Liu Min had countless think of the mysterious man. That person sees thoroughly, and seems to be able to understand what he thinks in his heart, worthy of the word "confidant". Liu Min sometimes feels that the so-called mysterious person and confidant are just his dream. Now, the handwriting reappeared in front of him. Liu Min was stunned and couldn''t believe his eyes. Seeing Liu Min in a daze, the prince waved his hand in front of him and said, "Taifu, Taifu?" Liu Min returned to his senses and could not help it any more. He grabbed the prince and asked eagerly, "Your Highness, where did this word come from and who did it come from?" Liu Min is the crown prince''s Taifu. Since the crown prince has known Liu Min for so long, he has never seen him so out of control. For a moment, it''s strange. Then he replied, "why is Taifu so excited? What is the origin of this word? " Liu Min''s heart moved. Knowing that he couldn''t be seen by the prince, he felt ashamed and said, "I''m really surprised to see that the handwriting is very strong. This book can be worthy of the word" romantic ". I''ve just been a fan of literature. I hope your highness will punish me." The prince was relieved when he thought about it. Liu Min, as the number one scholar, is always very excited to see good calligraphy and painting. Today, it''s justifiable to see this ink treasure''s gaffe. At the moment, he believed Liu Min''s words and said with a smile: "Taifu, this is the true temperament." Don''t blame the prince''s credulity of Liu Min''s words. Liu Min usually has a good reputation in court. In his heart, he is an upright man and has never had any private affairs. The prince has no words to say when he meets such a lonely and lofty person, and naturally he has no doubts. Seeing that the prince had believed him, Liu Min felt a little relieved. It was the first time that he had lied, and there was a cold sweat behind him. However, his curiosity about calligraphy and painting overcame his fear and asked tentatively, "Your Highness, who is this handwriting from?" The prince laughed: "who does Taifu think can write this word?" Liu Min thought slightly: "the handwriting is elegant, magnanimous and sharp. It should be...". It''s written by a real gentleman. " In fact, this is a bit biased. The handwriting is mellow, sharp and penetrating. It doesn''t seem to be magnanimous. On the contrary, it feels a bit complicated and mysterious. But the prince naturally can''t see anything, and Liu Min won''t really say what he thinks. The prince shook his head and said, "Taifu is wrong this time. It''s not written by a gentleman, but by a woman." Liu Min slightly a stay: "woman?" Is that man not a man? A woman? "Yes," the prince patted him on the shoulder. "The Taifu must have never thought who that person was. It was the red man in front of the emperor''s grandmother, Princess Hong''an, who had just returned to Beijing this year." This is like a shock. The prince doesn''t know what kind of vibration his words have brought to Liu min. Hongan Princess Jiang Ruan, Liu Min naturally know. On the day when the Empress Dowager returned to Beijing, the girl was dressed in red. She was gorgeous and beautiful. Liu Min also remembers that scene. In fact, it was not the first time he had seen Jiang Ruan. At the Palace Banquet three years ago, he also saw Jiang Ruan standing in the hall, standing upright and refusing to marry Chen Guifei. When he became the number one scholar and was proud of his horse''s hoof disease, he also heard about the miserable life experience of Jiang''s daughter. However, he never thought that the woman was the mysterious person who was attracted by him as a confidant!It''s her! It''s her! Liu Min can''t tell what it''s like in her heart, but she feels a little astringent and shocked. The man with a lot of experience and a lot of understanding was a woman, so close to him. The prince joked: "what''s the look of Taifu? Could it be that I was impressed by Princess Hong''an''s calligraphy? My palace has been thinking about what kind of women in the world can move Taifu. Now it seems that as long as the words are well written, they can enter Taifu''s eyes. But Taifu has a heart of admiration for Princess Hong''an. Would it be nice if our palace asked her mother to marry you? " If on weekdays, Liu Min is bound to be angry at the prince''s rambling words, but today he is more shocked than others. He has no heart to distinguish the meaning of the prince''s words, and is only immersed in his own thinking. Seeing that Liu Min was like this, the prince just said that Wen Chi, seeing the beautiful ink treasure, unconsciously wanted to see more. He said, "forget it, I won''t tell you. Taifu, since you are the gentleman of our palace, our Palace also kindly reminds you that if you like Princess Hong''an, you''d better start earlier. Those brothers in our palace are eyeing Princess Hong''an. Since Taifu likes this pair of handwriting so much, our palace will give it to you After that, Liu Min, who is still in a daze, goes out laughing. Jiang Ruan went back to the palace of CI Ning. After reading for a while, he felt a little tired. Tianzhu and aunt Yang were together. Jiang Ruan took the dew to go to the imperial garden for a stroll. When he came to the garden, he heard a voice that was a little excited: "Princess Hong''an, stay!" In a daze, Jiang Ruan looked back. Not far away, the young man was dressed in blue, clean and proud. He looked more like an ordinary scholar than a new nobleman in the imperial court. Liu Min saw that she turned back and flashed a strange color in her eyes. She took a few steps forward and kept a safe distance from Jiang Ruan. He looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "in the past, I heard that the sage ruled the country with propriety, and the country was prosperous. Later, the sage went away, and the country was declining. It is the right way to rule the country by courtesy. However, another person said: Although the ceremony is good, it is difficult to bind to the people, only by law, the world will follow, when peace and prosperity. When I was a fool, I couldn''t understand it. It was Jun Xiang''s ear. " This is the first time the mysterious man wrote, the top question, it is also a seemingly casual question, changed the fate of Liu Min''s life. With a faint smile, Jiang Ruan gazed at the young man in front of him. As expected, he worshipped Yipin and became the red man in front of the emperor. But this life, without right and wrong and frustrations, made a smooth progress. Liu Min is upright and has real talent. He is the most popular talent under the emperor. She returned a courtesy, polite and alienated way: "Liu Taifu, this question, you seem to ask the wrong person." Liu Min stares at the smiling woman in front of him. Since he knows that the man is a woman, his heart is very complicated. At this moment, Jiang Ruan''s expression is not puzzled, only magnanimous and calm. Although he quietly refuses his question, Liu Min knows that it''s her, and that person is Jiang Ruan. He had many questions to ask Jiang Ruan. For example, how did she know the title of the palace examination and why did she want to help him? What''s more, why has he disappeared in front of his eyes since then? If the prince hadn''t accidentally taken out the calligraphy today, he might never have been in the dark and never had a chance to know that he was so close to his confidant. Seeing that he didn''t seem to know what to say, Jiang Ruan said, "if Liu Taifu doesn''t have anything else, I will leave first." After that, she will turn around and leave. As soon as Fang turns around, she feels that her arm is tight. Unexpectedly, Liu Min no longer cares about the etiquette and grabs her arm. The dewdrop was so surprised that she looked around. Fortunately, there was no one else in the royal garden. Dewdrop said anxiously: "how can you be so rude? Let go of our girl quickly." Liu Min is determined not to let go, looking at Jiang Ruan''s confused eyes, finally asked in a hoarse voice: "yes...". Do you know? " The answer was obvious. Jiang Ruan said, "it''s me." Liu Min''s eyes are something slightly flashed, he took a short breath, firmly asked: "why help me?" Why help him? Is it because of the last life? Jiang Ruan frowned and said, "it''s not you that I''m helping. It''s the number one scholar of the great Jin Dynasty. It''s not you. It''s someone else." Not him, but someone else? Liu Min was a little absent-minded, and his heart suddenly surged with a feeling of uncertainty, disappointment, anger, regret, grievance, all kinds of intertwined together, which made him grasp Jiang Ruan''s hand more tightly, until Jiang Ruan unconsciously frowned. At this time, but hear behind him came a faint voice, slightly cold, seems to contain some inexplicable anger. "Let her go." It''s a digression. I finished the code before the power cut, and I burst into tears_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 117 When Xiao Shaofang comes over, he sees Liu Min holding Jiang Ruan''s hand tightly and Jiang Ruan frowning. A trace of unhappiness flashed in my heart. Confrontation in the two people back, Liu Min saw Xiao Shao, although surprised, but also did not release the hand. Seeing this, Xiao Shao, with cold eyes, strode forward to hold Liu Min''s hand and pulled his hand off Jiang Ruan''s arm. Xiao Shao is a martial arts practitioner. Liu Min is just a weak scholar who has no power to bind a chicken. At that time, he felt a deep pain in the place where he had been held by Xiao Shao, and his face turned pale. "How are you?" Xiao Shao turned his head and said this to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan shook his head: "it''s OK." "Lord Xiao, I''m talking to the princess!" Liu Min is a little angry and gives a voice to remind him. Maybe Xiao Shao''s name of "disorderly officials and thieves" in the imperial court was too obvious, and Liu Min, as a direct minister, intuitively disliked Xiao Shao. Now Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao look familiar, but also brow twist into a knot in one''s heart. How did she get mixed up with the bandits? Xiao Shao is also looking at Liu Min, the newly rich man in front of the emperor. He became the number one scholar three years ago. He rose step by step in the court and finally became an official. He is an old minister in the court. Now he is a little afraid of Liu min. Xiao Shao naturally knew that Jiang Ruan and Liu Min had written to each other three years ago, and the title of the imperial examination was vividly remembered. Not to mention why Jiang Ruan knew the title of the palace examination, just the reason to help Liu Min could not be found out. However, since Liu Min won the first place, Jiang Ruan never had anything to do with him. Now they are chatting in the imperial garden, and Liu Min''s eyes are full of enthusiasm and excitement when he looks at Jiang Ruan. What''s more, there''s no bookworm who has nothing in mind. Xiao Shao frowned slightly and said in a light voice, "now I''m finished." The cold in that eye makes Liu Min feel cold. Lu Zhu looks at Liu Min and Xiao Shao, and blinks her eyes. She thinks that their girls are so popular. Lord Xiao and Liu Taifu are both good candidates for uncle. If they want to choose one, Lu Zhu thinks that Lord Xiao is better, because Lord Xiao is more beautiful and powerful. Liu Taifu is good, that is, he is a scholar. Isn''t there a saying that every dog slaughtering generation who upholds justice is a scholar who is ungrateful. Of course, Lord Xiao is not a dog butcher. He is the most respected little prince in the great Jin Dynasty. Jiang Ruan doesn''t want to have anything to do with Liu Min at the moment. If he is seen by someone who wants to do something, there will inevitably be something to do with him. Now Liu Min already knows that it was her at the beginning, what''s the matter in the future, with this Taifu''s character, I don''t want to stand by. Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan said with a smile to Liu Min, "if Taifu has nothing to do today, I still have something to discuss with Lord Xiao." This familiar tone, Xiao Shao eyes flashed a smile, Liu Min face is a little green. After all, he was a lonely and lofty minister. He never disdained to be entangled with others. Although he was not worried, he gave Jiang Ruan some respect. He just took a deep look at Jiang Ruan, arched his hand and said, "I''ll see you later, princess." He nodded to Xiao Shao and left. He did not give Xiao Shao the courtesy, but the courtesy of his colleagues. Liu Min believed that Xiao Shao was a traitor, and he did not look down on him. Xiao Shao watched Liu Min go away coldly. Jiang Ruan looked up at him: "Why are you here?" Xiao Shao then drew back his eyes and said, "I heard you met Xuan Xin?" It was also a "little report" from Tianzhu to Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan didn''t want to hide it from him, so he nodded and said, "yes." Xiao Shao picks his eyebrows. Who is Xuanxin? He is salivating for all the beauties in the palace. Jiang ruansheng''s is also good. How can Xuanxin let go. Jiang Ruan didn''t know that he was so beautiful that in Xiao Shao''s eyes, he only got the name of "pretty good". If you know, you will sneer. Xiao Shao himself is very beautiful, and the appearance of mortals is not worth mentioning in his eyes. Xiao Shao asked, "what are your plans now?" "What''s the plan?" Jiang Ruan looked at him in amazement. "You have reached the hairpin, and you are also the Empress Dowager. Jiang Xinzhi has made outstanding contributions. The people in the palace are eyeing you. Your marriage must be made an issue." Xiao Shao reminds a way. However, when Jiang Ruan returned to Beijing this time, she met a lot of people, and now she has become a hot potato. "Don''t you think I''m really interested?" Jiang Ruan said, "as you said, I haven''t had time to hide those people. I didn''t want to get married." Get married, spend your life with a stranger? In this life, she didn''t know that she didn''t have the confidence. She was afraid that she would end up with a miserable ending. Xiao Shao noticed the chill in Jiang Ruan''s eyes. He felt a little excited and asked, "what do you think of me?" As soon as the idea came out, Xiao Shao himself was puzzled. He is calm and calm in his work. He is cold and indifferent on weekdays, only a blank in his feelings. Naturally, he didn''t know his strange thoughts about Jiang Ruan, so he stood in the same place like a teenager next door. Seeing Xiao Shao''s ecstasy, Jiang Ruan asked, "what''s the matter with you?" Xiao Shao came back and shook his head: "nothing." Looking at her face: "is the medicine available?" Since seeing the empress dowager, Jiang Ruan began to use the ointment given by Xiao Shao, which is indeed a rare panacea. After using it, he felt cool and clear, and could not see a scar. It''s just that empress Yide is in front of her, and she doesn''t use much every day, but even now, she can''t see it at all."Yes. It''s a good medicine. " Jiang Ruan smiles. Xiao Shao pursed her lips: "I''ll send you some later." The medicine was made by his master, Mr. Baqi himself. It was hard to get a thousand gold, but it was used to slap Jiang Ruanzhi''s face. If Mr. Baqi knew it, he would scold him for being unfilial and cruel. Jiang Ruan felt that the atmosphere was strange, so he couldn''t help looking up at Xiao Shao, who happened to look down at her. In fact, she was tall, but still only to Xiao Shao''s chest, which made her look small and lovely. Xiao Shao''s dark eyes were full of starlight, which seemed to contain some strange emotion. Jiang Ruan didn''t open his eyes when he just looked at them, but his heart jumped out of control. She in the heart secretly scolded a: Dead demon. But don''t want to just some uncomfortable action fell in Xiao Shao eyes, Xiao Shao lips slightly hook hook. Dewdrop followed them from a distance. He was very anxious. Lord Xiao was a Muggle. His girl was gentle on the surface, but she was lonely. If she wanted to walk together, she didn''t know how long it would take. As a cute girl like her, she naturally wants to make the girl happy. Dewdrop clenches her fist secretly and makes a decision in her heart that she must find an opportunity in a few days. Who says Iceman can be a matchmaker? She''s such a smart girl, too. A few days after Jiang Quan claimed that he was ill and did not go to court, he finally came out of the gate of Jiang''s house again. Not to mention the sneering eyes of his colleagues when they went to court, it was that after going to court, there were still people poking him in the back. Jiang Quan boasted that he was a clean and honest family, but now he has beaten himself up. How ever has he been so embarrassed. All the way, I just kept urging the coachman to go back to the house as soon as possible. I don''t know how long the carriage was going, but it stopped suddenly. Jiang Quan thought it was at his house. He wondered why the journey back to his house was so short today. He was stunned when he lifted the curtain. It''s not a familiar mansion, but a deserted suburb. "Coachman, coachman!" Jiang Quan cried out angrily, "what''s this place?" But after shouting for a long time, no one came to answer him. Chiang''s heart was cold and he had a bad feeling. He jumped out of the carriage and was surprised to find that it was not the driver on the horse, but a strange face. Jiang Quanqiang repressed his fear in his heart and asked: "who are you?" But the man gave a smile and clapped his hands. He only heard the wind in the air. A man, but a woman, suddenly appeared in front of him. They both had strange faces. Jiang Quan looked around. It was deserted here, and no one heard the cry for help. He calmed down and said, "what do you want to do? If we want money, we can discuss it. " "Jiang Shangshu is really a big voice," the woman said with a chuckle, "but we don''t ask for money." If he didn''t ask for money, he would ask for life. There were big drops of cold sweat on Jiang Quan''s forehead. He didn''t know who he had offended. He had to look calm and said, "if you have something to say. It''s a big crime for you to murder the official of the imperial court... " A trace of irony flashed in their eyes at the same time. Just such a thing, the scum who was not good at seeing and using hit the young lady? No wonder Shao is so angry. There was a smile on the man''s face. Before Jiang Quan could speak, he felt his legs softened, a small stone hit his knee, and the whole man fell down. "Tut, bones are so soft." Brocade two is very dislike, see to nearby woman: "it''s your turn to go up." Jin San rubbed his hands and slowly approached Jiang Quan. Every woman is always softer than a man. Seeing this, Jiang Quan begged for mercy and said, "girl, please forgive me. I can give you money. Who asked you to kill me? " "What is Jiang Shangshu in a hurry? I''m not here to kill you. " Jin Sanxiao''s manners are various: "it''s just that you''re a little disagreeable. A few days ago, I heard that Jiang Shangshu beat his daughter again in order to give you a green hat. We people in the river and lake are very jealous of evil, and we are very angry for that little girl." Seeing that Jiang Quan hadn''t responded, Jin San''s face changed: "let''s ask for justice for her!" "Pa Pa Pa Pa" a series of more than a dozen clear slap sounds sounded in the wilderness, which really made people feel awe inspiring. After playing, Jin three blow blow hand: "strange pain." How can the people trained by the royal guards be underestimated? Although Jin San was a weak woman, he was much heavier than Jiang Quan on that day. Every time he hit Jiang Quan with ten to ten strength, he would be a pig in the twinkling of an eye. Xu Shijin''s three strokes were too heavy, and his fingernails crossed Jiang Quan''s face, showing his nail prints. Brocade three giggle of smile: "hand mistake." Jiang Quan vomited blood in his heart. Well, he could have suffered such a disaster! After all, it''s Jiang Ruan again. He was born to conquer him! Now that he has come to this stage, it''s all thanks to Jiang Ruan! Where is this daughter? She is clearly an enemy, a debt collector! Jiang Quan himself regarded Jiang Ruan as a thorn in his eye, but he didn''t think that what he had done to Jiang Ruan was like what a father could do. There is such a kind of person in the world, who will not realize his mistakes at all, but feel that others owe him everywhere.After jin''er and jin''san became angry for Jiang Ruan, they never wanted to see Jiang Quan again. He left Jiang Ruan in the wilderness and Shi ran left. If Jiang Quan wanted to find Jiang''s house, he would have to work harder. Two people walk while chatting, brocade three way: "little Lord let us with a tooth for a tooth, so also how?" "Yes, and a lot of them." The brocade two ways: "we work so hard, in the future can definitely in front of young madam Bo a face." At the end of the day, Jiang Quan drove back to Jiang''s house with more than a dozen slaps in his hand in public. In full view of the capital, everyone can see the embarrassed appearance of Jiang Shangshu, who is famous for his Qingliu. Some people guess that he was beaten by Hualou girl. Look at the palm print on his face, it doesn''t look like a man''s palm, and there are traces of a woman''s fingernails on it. For a moment, all the storytelling buildings in the capital began to be lively again. Jiang Quan''s story was compiled by the storyteller and told in the restaurant all day long. There were still a lot of audience. It was wonderful and interesting. For a moment, everyone in the capital knew about it. Poor Jiang Quanfang pretended to be ill. On the first day he went to court, he was so sick. This time, he was really ill in bed and gave a discount to the emperor. He felt that he had no light on his face. He scolded Jiang Ruan in his heart. At the same time, he began to doubt that the people in the river and lake were reluctant. Who would support Jiang Ruan? Is it the Empress Dowager? Or the general''s office. However, both the Empress Dowager and Zhao Guang in the general''s mansion were not provoked by Jiang Quan''s recruitment. So he had to swallow it for a while and keep it in mind. But she said that Jiang Ruan was staying with the Empress Dowager. One day, Dewdrop heard that the little eunuchs in the palace were talking about it. After inquiring about it, she didn''t even care to have a sip of tea, so she told Jiang Ruan the news. Dewdrop naturally relieves her anger. At the beginning, these maidservants were all for Jiang Ruan Ming''s injustice. Jiang Ruan thought for a moment. Although empress Yide came out for her, she would not use such a means of self surrender. It looks like the handwriting of the general''s house, but is it a woman''s nail print? Jiang Ruan shook his head and thought of a man. If it were Xiao Shao, it would make some sense. The royal guards always do what they want. Sometimes they don''t care about the means. And this kind of tooth for tooth, eye for eye feeling, it seems to want to vent for her. I have to say that Xiao Shao''s skill was very effective. She began to smile. Jinying palace, Jin came to report Jiang Quan''s affairs with Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao was reading the letter at his desk. Xiao Shao didn''t lift his head when he sent the letter from southern Xinjiang. He said lightly, "well done, go and enjoy it." "Lord, do you want to talk to the princess, or she doesn''t know you did it." Jinyi is the master of the family. How can this way of chasing his wife give credit to others? Although the royal guards don''t care about meritorious service on weekdays. But if you want to win the beauty''s heart, naturally you should spare no effort to be courteous. "No need." Xiao Shao''s eyes were still fixed on the letter. What he did was to punish Jiang Quan. As for how to deal with Jiang Quan, Jiang Ruan had to decide for himself. He didn''t intend to let Jiang Ruan know. Of course, Jiang Ruan may not be able to guess. Jin A Heart Belly Fei, master son you so stuffy, careful a day young madam was abducted to have no place to cry. In the temple of dreams in the palace, Princess Chen is drinking. The wine from Persia, which is transported by sea, is put in the crystal clear tallow jade cup, emitting a beautiful purple luster, as if it were a good purple gem. Chen Guifei''s eyes narrowed slightly. She seemed to be a little tired. Her body became more and more soft and boneless. She was trapped in a soft couch, gentle as a dream of Jiangnan. Her lips were slightly raised, her voice was beautiful, but her tone was sober and cold. "You see Jiang Ruan and Liu Min pulling in the imperial garden. Is Xiao Shao still with her Asked Princess Chen. The maid of honor lowered her head and said, "if you go back to the empress, it''s just that." "Pa" is a sound, but it is holding a good wine of the suede jade cup suddenly fell to the ground, the best jade quality is fragmented, emitting luster, still beautiful, so engraved on the face of Princess Chen broken look. If Jiang Ruan has anything to do with Liu Min, it''s just a surprise to imperial concubine Chen. When she hears about Xiao Shao''s defending Jiang Ruan, imperial concubine Chen''s heart seems to be seized by something, and she can''t be angry. If anything in this palace can''t enter the eyes of imperial concubine Chen, Xiao Shao is the only one except Xuanli, the eighth prince. Chen Guifei entered the palace in her early years. At that time, the emperor already had three thousand beauties. She was beautiful and gentle, and she had a lovely flower to explain her words. Only then did she achieve her present position. But in fact, every time she approached the emperor, she felt faint nausea. Xiao Shao is different. He is like a perfect dream in every woman''s heart, clean, cool, elegant and noble. Even if Xiao Shao''s age was similar to Xuanli''s, it didn''t hinder Chen Guifei''s secret and dirty thoughts. I don''t know when it started. I only remember when she was a young woman, Xiao Shao was a cold youth. Now she is as handsome as before, and Xiao Shao has become a charming man. She thought that if she could, it would be good to see this young man all her life. Xiao Shao was cold-blooded and never had anything to do with a woman. I don''t want to know that Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan have a lot to do with each other now. How can they be better than a bolt from the blue and make imperial concubine Chen resentful.It''s like a dream of my youth is about to leave her. If it is said that in the past, it was only a provocation to Jiang Ruan, but from this moment on, Chen Guifei made up her mind. If Jiang Ruan didn''t get rid of him, she vowed not to be a human being! That has always been a gentle face, now tightly twisted, the expression of fear. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 118 The palace had a leisurely life every day, supported by Empress Yide, and the eunuchs in the palace were respectful when they saw Jiang Ruan. Sometimes, some concubines would make friends with Jiang Ruan. If they flatter Jiang Ruan, they flatter empress Yide. Only Jiang Ruan''s attitude towards them was light. Although he was gentle, he was not so warm. As soon as they came and went, the concubines were cold hearted and simply stopped communicating with Jiang Ruan. Dewdrop strange way: "girl, that beauty Wang looks is also a kind and amiable, girl yesterday how so cold?" "I''m just asking for something. I''m afraid I''ll be in trouble in the future." Jiang Ruan Dao. And the dew spat out her tongue, and said no more. As a matter of fact, Jiang Ruan clearly remembers that this beauty Wang had always been a low and high-ranking girl in her last life. On the surface, she was also a close sister to her, but she carried her behind her back and mixed with Xia Jiaojiao. It''s not only beauty Wang, but also the emperor''s three palaces and six courtyards? If it is really simple, but it has become a loess for a long time. While sitting for tea, Empress Dowager Yide came in and saw Jiang Ruan. She said, "your father sent me a post. I asked. It was your third sister who was going to get married." Is Jiang Li going to get married? Jiang Ruan bowed his head and pondered for a while, but he realized that life in the palace was so pleasant that he forgot Jiang Li''s marriage. Seeing Jiang Ruan thinking, empress Yide said, "Jiang San is married. You want to go back. I''ve been staying with you for a long time, and I''m afraid Jiang Quan can understand it. I''ll send you home today. I think Jiang Quan can live in peace. " The Empress Dowager Yide was so powerful that she had already inquired about the relationship between Jiang Quan and Jiang Ruan. If Jiang Ruan didn''t say anything, she also wanted to support Jiang Ruan. Now that Jiang Li is going to get married, Jiang Ruan has to go back as her sister. Jiang Quan is afraid to say anything now. Jiang Ruan thought about it, then said with a smile: "thank you, grandmother." The Empress Dowager Yide looked at Jiang Ruan and said nothing. During her three years with Jiang Ruan, she could see clearly that Jiang Ruan was transparent, gentle, proper, and much more mature than her peers. But somehow, she always felt that there was a place in her heart that she could not touch. Empress Dowager Yide knew that Jiang Ruan''s mother died early, which complemented her feelings of losing her daughter in her early years. She thought that if Princess Yuanrong did not die and gave birth to a child, she would be as old as Jiang Ruan now. Therefore, in the face of Jiang Ruan, Empress Dowager Yide often had a rare warmth. When she went out of the palace, she was accompanied by Aunt Yang. Aunt Yang is a female official in the palace. Even if Jiang Quan wants to show his face, no one dares to say anything when Jiang Ruan returns to the palace in such a high profile. The servants of Jiang''s house just talked in private. Today''s eldest daughter is more and more promising. Hongying came to Jiang Ruan twice, but it''s not as good as the rumor. Although Jiang Quan dotes on Hongying, Hongying''s background is too low. Now she is pregnant, and the power of her family is in the hands of her second aunt. Second aunt has never been a fuel-efficient lamp. She always wears red tassel shoes. In the long run, the back house of Jiang''s house became a battlefield for two women, and Hongying didn''t get any benefits. Hongying and Jiang Ruan talked for a long time, but Jiang Ruan didn''t say anything. Hongying was unhappy with blood in her heart. She didn''t say anything but left with a smile. After the red tassel left, forsythia said: "does the fifth aunt want to be our girl''s backer?" "What kind of backer?" Angelica dahurica frowned: "girl or don''t get involved in these things." In the twinkling of an eye, Jiang Li married that day. The second aunt, as a common daughter of the Minister of the Ministry of officials, married Jiang Quan as a concubine, which was also considered to win over the relationship between the two families. The Minister of the Ministry of official affairs was the official family in Beijing. Jiang Li''s marriage was personally managed by the second aunt, but it was also very prosperous. The dowry had 55 sets. As a common girl, it was already very rich, comparable to the daughter of a small family. Second aunt also really love Jiang Li, left doctor sent the bride price, most of the one to Jiang Li with in the body. Jiang Li is proud now. If she has a tail, she has to go up to the sky. Because Jiang Li is a bride on this day, she has to wear a dowry, but it''s not easy for Jiang Ruan to wear Dahong. In the end, she just picked a light pink one, and dahurian angelica combed her hair. Then she went to see Jiang Li. Jiang Li''s face was twisted by Xi Niang Fang. She frowned in pain. When she saw Jiang Ruan come in, she straightened her back and flashed a little pride on her face. Jiang Ruan asks Tianzhu to give her make-up to Jiang Li''s servant girl, who presents it to Jiang Li. Jiang Li opens it to see that it is a gold inlaid Pearl Bracelet inside. The pearls are big and round, emitting a faint luster, only feel that they are rare. Jiang Li''s face immediately across a trace of joy, but very quickly convergence down. If shape unintentionally way: "big elder sister this bracelet can be really good, pour is to compare two elder sisters of look more beautiful." Jiang Su Su stood aside, a trace of resentment flashed in his eyes. The make-up she gave Jiang Li today is a jade bracelet, which is also a rare product, but it''s worse than Jiang Ruan''s. However, this is something she can get good quality. Since Xia Yan lost her power, whenever she went out, she must have been pointed out. In a rage, Jiang Su Su stopped going out of the yard. However, Jiang Quan did not always send some precious imported jewelry as he used to. The jewelry in the dressing box had not been changed for a long time. Now when we look at what Jiang Ruan was wearing, though it was simple, we can see that it was not ordinary. We immediately scolded him. A scold Jiang Li do not know how to exalt, a common woman with a shady means to rob other people''s marriage. Two scold Jiang Ruan Yi Jie mountain orphan girl, now climbed the Empress Dowager this high branch, thought that flies on the branch to do Phoenix.Although the three sisters were nominally sisters, they were not familiar with each other. Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "congratulations to the three sisters." Jiang Li is very proud of herself. Since she was a child, what she envies in the mansion are Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu. Jiang Susu is just because she is protected by Jiang Quan and Jiang Chao. Now that Xia Yan is losing power, it''s too late for Jiang Li to see jokes. Now, the most unpleasant thing in her heart is Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s mother, who had no ability, was still in the position of her daughter. Now she didn''t know what fortune she had taken and became a princess. Whenever she thinks about it, Jiang Li is very jealous. It''s a wonderful thing to be a doctor''s wife and an official''s wife, but because of Jiang Ruan, Jiang Li still feels short of her. "You''re welcome, big sister." Jiang Li said with a smile. Tianzhu is a little contemptuous. This second Miss Jiang is nothing but a brainless person. Everything is written on her face. It''s really unpopular. Just at this time, Jiang Dan came in. The second aunt who went outside to get things came back. When she saw Jiang Dan, she immediately became alert and stood in front of Jiang Li. "Danniang hasn''t wished her three sisters a happy wedding yet." Jiang Dan asked the maid to add makeup and said with a smile, "congratulations to the third sister." Jiang Li frowned when she saw Jiang Dan. She knew how the marriage came from. Now when she saw Jiang Dan, she seemed to remind her of something. With a sneer, he ordered the servant girl to open the box. After two tut Tut, he reached out and picked out a nine bend plain silver bracelet from the box. He shook his head and said, "fourth sister. I''m not talking about you. It''s a bit shabby for you to make up. Although we are common girls, we are also common girls of the government. The poor don''t want to use such trinkets. " To be fair, the bracelet is not brilliant, but it is not as bad as Jiang Li said. For Jiang Dan, it should be something better in her dressing box. Jiang Dan''s words were mean and vicious, because she didn''t know it, and her second aunt didn''t care. Jiang Dan slightly lowered his head and shrunk his shoulders with some shivering, looking at him pitifully. In the past, in order to maintain the image of fairies, Jiang Su Su would always say a few words. If Jiang Ruan had been replaced, he would have been on Jiang Dan''s side. But now the situation is not yesterday, there is no one to speak, Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "three younger sister good make-up, I went out first, today can be the most beautiful bride." Jiang Li complacent smile: "Chengda sister Jiyan, I will naturally be." Jiang Ruan went out with Tianzhu. When I arrived at the outer hall, it was really a lively and friendly scene. Red Ying has a big stomach to greet guests. Even the aunt who hasn''t appeared for a long time comes out to help because of lack of manpower. The guests said polite words, but their eyes were hard to hide. Jiang Quan is now the biggest joke in the capital. Guests come to join in, but they don''t know how to talk about it. The real lady gives the master a green hat, but she can''t divorce her wife. Her aunt comes out to meet the guests. It''s the first time for the officials of the great Jin Dynasty. Jiang Ruan''s eyes swept the crowd lightly, but stopped on one person. The man could not hide his dandy spirit with all his silk and satin. His eyes were shining. He wandered among the ladies in the banquet, and seemed to be searching for some prey. Jiang Ruan suddenly turned around, his voice a little chilly: "Tianzhu." "Yes." Sensitive to Jiang Ruan''s wrong mood, Tianzhu asked, "master?" "How good are you at killing people?" She asked. "Although I dare not boast, ten people are enough." Tianzhu replied. "Be alert today." Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes, and Xuanxin also arrived? Good. She wants to know who invited Xuanxin. Jiang Su Su? Second aunt? Or Jiang Li? The wedding was held in the house of doctor Zuo. Jiang Li had no brothers. It was Jiang Chao who carried her in a sedan chair. All the way, everyone in Beijing stopped, and the marriage was grand. After paying homage, doctor Zuo toasts outside, and Jiang Li is sent to her bridal chamber. After the bridal chamber, it was time to propose a toast. Jiang Li''s voice became soft and tender for the first time. After the second aunt and Jiang Quan''s father and mother, they were brothers and sisters. Jianglijiao didi picked up the wine glass on the tray: "this glass of wine is for my elder sister. Now I''m married from my husband. My elder sister and I are both daughters of Jiangfu. We used to get together less and leave more. It''s really a pity. Today''s glass of wine is full of our sisterhood." Then he sent the wine cup to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile and did not take her wine. Jiang Quan''s face changed and he tried to bear his anger. Jiang Ruan didn''t even accept his concubine''s wine. What did it look like! Jiang Li covered her head and couldn''t see outside. She only felt that the wine she had handed out had not been accepted. She couldn''t help feeling anxious. Just as he was about to speak, he heard another greasy male voice say: "why doesn''t Princess Hong''an take her sister''s wine? But I don''t want to? " That voice is so dandy, with ambiguous meaning in eyes. They all looked at Jiang Ruan. He was wearing a light pink cloud and wild goose fine brocade. Today, in order to distinguish him from his newlyweds, he didn''t dress as brightly as usual. He looked so gentle. At the moment smile, skin than snow, only people feel beautiful and graceful.Seeing that everyone''s eyes were focused on Jiang Ruan, Jiang Su Su clenched her fist. Jiang Ruan smiles and reaches for Jiang Li''s glass. There is such a rule in the wedding banquet of the great Jin Dynasty that the bride''s toast is to be received, otherwise it is disrespect to the master''s family. Only when there is not a drop left in the toast can we bless the Lord''s family. So many non drinkers can''t refuse the bride''s toast at the wedding banquet. Especially the toast of the concubine sister. If she doesn''t take it, it''s hard to avoid that some people say that she bullies the concubine sister in the mansion as a princess. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "the second sister''s words really moved the princess." Jiang Li''s hand trembled slightly. Jiang Dan looked at it from the bottom of his eyes and lowered his head. He didn''t know. There was a pair of eyes in the crowd, but they were glowing with joy. Jiang Ruan took the cup, covered his face with his sleeve, and showed all the wine in the cup to the public. Just, just close to Jiang Li, low voice way: "two younger sister, everybody testifies, but I drink of a drop not to leave." Jiang Li is also busy to drink all the wine, the voice is delicate and sweet: "big sister really loves my sister." "Good! Princess Hong''an is really huge Just now the greasy voice appeared again. Xuanxin came out from behind the people who were making fun of him. His eyes were fixed on Jiang Ruan: "Princess Hong''an, heroine." A pair of color squint eyes up and down looking at Jiang Ruan, eyes disgusting. Xuanxin is very happy today. He has been coveting this beauty for a long time, but God has come to help him and given him a chance to take advantage of it today. His eyes fell on the two bare wine glasses on the tray and on Jiang Ruan. The skin wrapped under his clothes must be as delicious as it looks. Thinking of his wonderful body lying under him, Xuanxin not only swallowed a lot of saliva, but also looked at Jiang Ruan with more unbridled eyes. Jiang Ruan only looked at the man and knew the dirty activities in his heart. He gave a cold smile and said, "I''m a little dizzy. Go out for a breath." He turned and went out of the new house. Jiang Dan looked at the wine glass in the tray thoughtfully, and suddenly raised his lips with a smile. Jiang Su Su was left in the same place, but she always made a show of herself. In a few words, she attracted people''s eyes to look at her. Jiang Ruan went out of her new house and walked out. Doctor Zuo said that she was really big. Besides, she had never been here before, but her throat was a little tight. Just now that cup of wine, inadvertently, she has ordered Tianzhu to drop each one with Jiang Li. She doesn''t want to win the move, only a little bit on her lips, but now she feels a little weak. After thinking about it, there was only one explanation. The two glasses of wine on the tray were all drugged, so she dropped them, and the result was the same. After making such two-way preparations, who else will be there besides Xuanxin? And with Xuanxin conspiracy, presumably is Jiang Li not false. Jiang Li is stupid, ignorant and smart in her life. She thinks that people all over the world are just like her. What she did today is really not authentic, but she was also used by Xuanxin. However, Xuanxin is really a coward. How dare she be so bold in broad daylight! However, there was something strange about today''s affair. She did not dare to stay in the new house for a long time, because her head was beginning to feel dizzy, but there was no servant in this huge doctor''s house. Just now the banquet guests were like a flash scattered in general, nothing can be found. Is the doctor''s office involved in this? Why? Jiang Ruan walked faster and faster. She was sensitive to what was different behind her. Tianzhu followed her vigilantly. The killers were always more sensitive than others. Tianzhu said: "master, there are people in front." She pauses, with a rarely serious look: "we are ambushed." Jiang Ruan sneered. He was ambushing in a doctor''s house, but he was still aiming at her. Is it necessary for Zuo Lang to set up his official career for a lecheron prince? You should know that if something really happened, her reputation would be ruined. But the Empress Dowager would be very angry, and the people concerned would be involved. But it seems that the doctor''s office may not have been involved in today''s incident. Tianzhu Yanks open his belt. Under the belt is a silver soft sword. At the same time, there are bodyguards at the same time. These bodyguards look very strange. They don''t look like the bodyguards of doctor Zuo''s family. The leader said: "kill this servant girl, don''t hurt the princess." Before her voice fell, Tianzhu had already jumped up. Her body was very light. For a moment, she only saw a silver streamer in the air. On one side of the body closest to Tianzhu''s face, a bloodstain appeared on her neck, and she fell down with a bang. Those bodyguards were all stunned. They thought they were just maids with some kung fu skills. They didn''t want to fight so ferociously. As a result, one of their brothers was damaged. Of course, these people didn''t know that Tianzhu was a killer. A trace of ferocity appeared in their eyes. No more words, they rushed to Tianzhu. At the moment, Jiang Ruan was blocked by Tianzhu, but he couldn''t escape because the medicine was too powerful. She frowned slightly, no, something must have been ignored by her. Today''s wedding banquet is clearly set up for her. Why is Xuanxin so bold? What did he use to bribe such powerful officials as doctor Zuo. Is this full of guests really just what Xuanxin can command? When a bodyguard saw that the others were fighting against Tianzhu, he quietly approached Jiang Ruan. When he jumped in front of Jiang Ruan, he said in a low voice, "princess, I''ve offended you." Then he came to grab Jiang Ruan''s arm.She looked at the bodyguard and asked, "are you from Princess Chen?" The bodyguard''s body was stiff, and there was an unbelievable flash in his eyes. Before he could speak, he slowly fell down the next second. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 119 All the people didn''t see Jiang Ruan''s action clearly, but the bodyguard fell down with a stiff body. There was no wound on his whole body, and a trace of blood slowly spilled from the corner of his mouth. The rest of the bodyguards looked warily at Jiang Ruan and were shocked. This looks like an ordinary servant girl is just vicious. Even looking at the unarmed princess, what unique skill does she have? Jiang Ruan stabilized himself and turned the blood moon Bracelet in his hand. There were only nine needles in it, each of which was quenched with poison. It''s really light and easy to make. Once it''s made, it''s bound to have no turning point. However, it also has a fatal disadvantage, that is, it must fire a poison needle in front of your eyes. Just now in a hurry, it reminds her of the past. In the last life, Zuo Jiang, the doctor of Zuo, had a prosperous official career in the middle of the dynasty, and did some beautiful things for the emperor. In the last life, it was not Jiang Dan and Jiang Li who married Zuo Jiang, but a cousin of Chen Guifei''s family. It''s like having a silk thread to string the whole thing together. When you think about it, it''s a little clear. Xuanxin is naturally not so powerful to direct the whole doctor''s house, but what if it was replaced by the hot Princess Chen? The last Xuanli also said that Zuojiang had a lot of talents. If Zuojiang joined the Xuanli school, he would let it be. In this way, Xuanxin and Jiang Li were only used by imperial concubine Chen. But why did Princess Chen have such a deep hatred with her? Even if she wanted to fight, she should not have used such a vicious method at this time. It seemed that she would be ruined and killed. It seems more like the handwriting of Jiang Su Su and Xia Yan. Chen Guifei is different from Xia Yan. Once she makes a move, there must be a series of moves. How can she escape easily today. Chen Guifei did not hesitate to use the whole doctor''s office to set a trap for her, which really impressed her. The more critical the situation was, the more relaxed Jiang Ruan looked. She stood upright in the open space of the doctor''s house garden, smiling sweetly and charming. Unconsciously, there are more and more bodyguards. They are divided into two groups. One group is surrounded by Tianzhu. No matter how good she is, Tianzhu is outnumbered. Besides, these bodyguards are sent by Princess Chen. Where can they be grass bags. Another group of people surrounded Jiang Ruan in the middle and slowly approached. Now they saw that Jiang Ruan was about to laugh. They could not help but doubt that some of them did not dare to go forward. The tragic death of their companions just now made them dare not underestimate the princess. They were afraid that they might be hit by some hidden weapon. She light way: "you master son today so do, ever thought about consequence?" The bodyguards were surprised. No one should have known about Princess Chen. If after the incident, Jiang Ruan would only blame Xuanxin. But this Hong an Princess unexpectedly a mouth is to point at a noble imperial concubine, even the doctor''s mansion also didn''t doubt, how can let them in the heart don''t panic. If it had not been for imperial concubine Chen''s order to send Jiang Ruan to Xuanxin''s bed, these bodyguards would have killed Jiang Ruan. Chen Guifei has never been seen in the palace from the beginning to the end, and she can''t fight with it. But Jiang Ruan can guess! No, look at her eyes, should be determined. Before it was too late, several bodyguards swarmed around Jiang Ruan. What moved faster than them was the dark blue light on the bracelet. They only heard a few strokes. Some people were shot and fell in front of Jiang Ruan. However, no matter how fast she moves, some of the people who are controlled by the medicine are not strong enough. One of them goes around behind her and cuts her hands back. Although they couldn''t see what secret weapon Jiang Ruan had used, they were slowly relieved to see that Jiang Ruan was weak. When Tianzhu saw that Jiang and Ruan had fallen into the hands of those people, he was anxious and ruthless, but he also revealed his flaws and gave the enemy a chance to take advantage of them. Tianzhu learned to kill, but most of the assassinations were one-on-one, so he was reluctant to deal with a large number of bodyguards. At the moment, Tianzhu is also very frightened. Are so many people making a fuss just to deal with Jiang Ruan? Or the other party''s master hates Jiang Ruan to the bone, which is the only way to ensure that everything is safe. When Tianzhu was distracted, he stabbed Tianzhu in the waist. Tianzhu faltered and looked back where there was Jiang Ruan''s shadow. Besides, Jiang Ruan was abducted by the bodyguard all the way. The bodyguard covered her eyes with his hands. Jiang Ruan bit the tip of his tongue, and his body was extremely hot and dry. Like a spark from the bottom of my heart a little bit up, straight make the whole person began to shudder. The hotter the body, the colder the heart. I don''t know how long it took, but I felt that I stopped with my own people. He put down his blindfolded hand and saw a gorgeous and rich room in front of him. The incense burning in the room sent out this strange ambiguity. The fragrance was not strange to Jiang Ruan. During the last life in the palace, many beauties, in order to extend the emperor''s favor for a moment, would burn such incense and evocative fragrance. Jiang Ruan''s body had been poisoned by the powerful flattering drug. When he smelled this aphrodisiac, he felt that his toes and hair were about to burn. Only she has always been able to bear it, but her face flushed slightly. If she didn''t know the power of the medicine, I''m afraid others would not believe that she was a victim of the drug. "Princess Hong''an." A sticky voice sounded, like the disgusting maggot crawling on the bone marrow. The bodyguard bowed back. Jiang Ruan couldn''t stand up any more, fell to the ground and looked coldly at the man who was staring at her.Xuanyou''s eyes revolve around Jiang Ruan. Since the last time he saw her in the palace, he has always dreamed of putting Princess Hong''an under him. He has seen such a gorgeous woman. When he looks at his concubine Ji in the courtyard, he just feels that she is all mediocre. These days, Xuanyou tea does not want to eat, who knows that the appearance of a serious Zuojiang is an interesting person, and he married his wife Jiang Li, which created such a good opportunity for him. Xuanyou naturally didn''t know that he thought Zuojiang''s bodyguard was not Zuojiang''s, and he totally overestimated his ability. At the moment, however, Chiang and Ruan could not escape, and Xuanyou couldn''t help but feel excited when he thought that this must be the night of *. He approached Jiang Ruan step by step. Jiang Ruan quickly pulled out the dagger tied to her calf. Xiao Shao gave her the dagger without leaving her body for a moment. However, the more dizzy she was at the moment, the more aware Jiang Ruan was that if she continued, she would have an accident first, especially when she began to feel dizzy. It was vague to see Xuanyou. Xuanyou saw Jiang Ruan pull out his dagger. He was stunned and then said with a smile: "Princess Hong''an, why do you do this? At the moment, you have no strength. You want to deal with this hall. Let''s go to bed. This hall is up to you." He grinned and looked more and more lewd: "be careful not to hurt yourself. For the moment, you''d better save your energy. We''ll do something later, but it''s hard work. " "Go away." Jiang Ruan said coldly. "Why don''t you be unkind to the princess?" Xuanyou said with a smile: "we really love the princess. After tonight, we will ask our father to marry the princess. You and I are not brothers and sisters. Jin Dynasty has a precedent. You are the imperial concubine of our palace. Isn''t that good?" He walked closer and closer, and murmured, "this hall will serve the princess well." Jiang Ruan looked at him with a sneer. Her eyes suddenly darkened. The dagger in her hand went into her left arm without hesitation. She was very cruel. Xuanyou was also surprised by her uncanny posture. The light pink clothes were soaked with blood, and the red one was startling. Seeing a large amount of blood, Xuanyou was stunned at first. He was angry at random and said: "bitch! Toast, no penalty He came to Jiang Ruan with great strides. In his opinion, this woman is so ignorant. It''s her good fortune to take a fancy to Jiang Ruan, but Jiang Ruan has defeated his interest. Today, if he doesn''t torture Jiang Ruan and beg for mercy, he is not Xuanyou! Xiao Shao''s dagger cuts the iron like mud. It''s a treasure. Jiang Ruan doesn''t pierce it deeply, but it''s painful enough. The pain makes her clear. When she looks at Xuanyou again, it''s not as vague as before. Xuanyou comes to Jiang Ruan''s face and is about to lift her from the ground. Jiang Ruan suddenly reaches out his hand and presses one hand on his own blood moon bracelet. "Three Highnesses, if you step forward again, don''t blame this princess not to give you this face, hurt your life, you also have to go to say with the yama." She said. Xuanyou stopped the action because of his success. He looked at Jiang Ruan suspiciously and laughed. His eyes were already angry: "princess, I advise you not to play any tricks. My people are outside. Is there any way you can do it?" Jiang Ruan stares at him coldly, raises the bracelet on his hand, and turns a cruel smile at the corner of his mouth, but his voice is like a mountain spring with ice: "can you tell me what this is, your highness?" Xuanyou''s eyes fell on the bracelet of Jiang Ruan''s wrist. The blood jade bracelet exudes a light blue luster. It doesn''t look like any ordinary product at a glance. He thought it was Jiang Ruan''s precious jewelry, but now he didn''t know what it was. "It''s called XueYue bracelet. It comes from Yibao Pavilion in Beijing. There are nine needles in it, and each needle has been quenched with highly toxic drugs, so it''s impossible to see blood Jiang Ruan said faintly: "the third highness is too close to me. I''m afraid that I''ll miss it later. I accidentally press the switch to make the third highness die." Xuanyou was stunned and then angry. He laughed and said, "dare you threaten me?" "Whether it''s a threat or not, your highness will know when he tries." Jiang Ruan Dao. Xuanyou looked at Jiang Ruan in disbelief. The legendary princess Hong''an, who was gorgeous and loved by the empress dowager, had no fear at this moment. This is different from the women he used to play with, especially to make Xuanyou immediately aroused an interest. He said with a smile: "Your Highness knows that the princess is afraid, but you don''t have to fool me with this bracelet. If something happens to me, how can the princess escape the relationship and murder the royal children? I''m afraid the princess can only pay for her life. " His eyes lingered on Jiang Ruan Xuebai''s neck: "don''t be afraid, princess. Our hall will be quiet." Xuanyou didn''t take Jiang Ruan''s words to heart, just because he didn''t dare to attack him. He was also a prince, and the charge of killing a prince was that she was a righteous grandson of the Empress Dowager and could not escape the word "death". Jiang Ruan chuckled and looked at Xuanyou like a joke. Her arms had been wet with a large number of clothes, and her light pink clothes were dyed red with blood. She was radiant and charming, and she had a cruel beauty all over her body. "What do I dare not? The three princesses are lecherous and immoral. Countless women have played with them. They fall into the hands of the three princesses. After tonight, the way out for the princess is just Bai Ling. Since all are dead, how about one more person to be buried with? " She raised her head and almost laughed: "if your highness doesn''t believe it, you can come forward, but I also want to know whether it is the quickness of your highness or the quickness of the poison needle in my blood moon bracelet."Xuanyou wanted to laugh at this woman''s excessive self-reliance. For so many years, he played with many women, no matter how fierce she was, in the end, he was still allowed to play with her. However, when he saw Jiang Ruan''s eyes, he froze. It''s just that those clear eyes are like a deep pool of ice tan. They are so familiar that they are like the cannibal ghosts in the murals of the temple. How can a woman have such fierce eyes? Xuanyou is in a dilemma. Jiang Ruan''s forehead was dripping with cold sweat. She stayed in the room for one more second. The more aphrodisiac she inhaled, the more powerful her medicine was. It is just into the arm that a wound, the pain at the moment can hardly cover up the hot heart. In fact, there is no poison needle in the blood jade bracelet. As early as when the bodyguard came, the silver needles in the bracelet were used up. Now these words are just used to scare Xuanyou. It''s just Tianzhu''s delay in the future. What''s wrong? Jiang Ruan felt as if she had crawled over an ant. She almost burst out with a groan. However, she bit her lower lip and swallowed the groan back. Xuanyou just didn''t know what to do. As soon as he saw that the more flushed Jiang Ruan''s face was, the faster he breathed, he immediately understood. He has been struggling with men and women for so many years. If he can''t see that Jiang Ruan is moved, he will live in vain. In his heart, he knew better than anyone the strength of the medicine. At the thought of this, Xuanyou was not in a hurry. He stepped back and sat down by the bed. He looked at Jiang Ruan with peace of mind and said, "the princess has such a tough attitude, and our palace is not hard to deal with. It''s just that you don''t want to do it now, princess. When you come to our palace later, our palace may not give you any help." Although his heart is itching, he still takes his life seriously. The medicine was so powerful that she would turn into a slut. Jiang Ruan had strong self-control, but even so, after a while, she would lose her mind and ask Xuanyou to be happy with her. Think of there, Xuan you sneer a, Wu from wait for good play. Anyway, someone is guarding outside, and Jiang Ruan can''t get out. He just has to wait for the medicine to come up. He can think of things, Jiang Ruan naturally also thought of, but now she has no self-protection, and there is no other poison needle in the blood jade bracelet. As soon as the medicine was applied, her whole body was very uncomfortable. Her eyes fell on Xiao Shao''s dagger, and she was ready to stab again. But with a loud bang, the whole door was almost kicked out from the outside. A tall and slender figure was standing in the smoke. Seeing the familiar outline, Jiang Ruan was stunned. Xuanyou was also startled, and suddenly jumped in from the bed. The outsider walked into the room, dressed in black as brocade, and his eyes as cold as a blade. He walked beside Jiang Ruan, his eyes fell on Jiang Ruan''s bloody arms, and his two-way intoxicating dark eyes were full of black storm at the moment. "Xiao Shao." Jiang Ruan looked at him. "It''s me." Xiao Shao stoops to pick her up, and the smoke disappears. Then Jiang Ruan and Xuan you can see that the bodyguards outside are all lying on the ground, with a blood line between their throats. The sword on Xiao Shao''s waist was still dripping blood. "Xiao Shao, what do you want to do? Are you going to rebel? " Xuanyou is scared to stand on both legs. If he is the first dandy in the grand Jin Dynasty, no one can help him. But the king of Jinying is not a good one. He is the leader of 300000 royal guards who even the emperor dares to refute. Who dares to despise him? "Come on, come on," he cried On the face of the extremely hasty, where there is just arrogance. Xiao Shao coldly looked at him, that vision is too cold, unexpectedly let Xuan you unconsciously shut up. "Brocade one brocade two." Xiao Shaofen asked. "Yes, master." Without waiting for Xiao Shao to finish speaking, the two dark guards understood Xiao Shao''s meaning. They looked at each other. The master was really angry. The three princes were also lustful. The idea hit the master''s head. Xuanyou saw the two dark guards approaching him. He was so scared: "what are you doing? Don''t come here...". Help But he said that Xiao Shao flew back to Jinying palace with Jiang Ruan in his arms. In a hurry, he didn''t feel that there was anything wrong with putting a woman who had not come out of the cabinet in his house. Jiang ruanping was cold and calm all day, but she was also alive. Even her silent anger could make people feel her fresh hatred. But now she is dying, and her pale pink clothes are red with blood. She looks like a ten-year-old child. Xiao Shao''s heart ached slightly. He felt the lightness of the person in his arms. Thinking of the scene he just saw, he felt that his heart was almost stopped. Today, if he hadn''t passed by the doctor''s house, he would have thought that Jiang Ruan was also there. He didn''t want to have a look, but found that there was something strange in the doctor''s house. He only saw Tianzhu fighting with others and learned that Jiang Ruan''s herbal medicine had been taken away. At that moment, he was worried, even he felt strange. He was used to being alone, never worried about a person, never paid so much attention to a person. But now, he looked down at the thin and weak girl in his arms. He had only one idea in his heart. He wanted to protect her and put her under his own wings. With him, he would never let her fall into any danger.It is said that there will be a large number of tickets for Nanzhu heroes to save the United States. Is the legend true? However, this month''s monthly ticket list also has hope, running away crying ~ (>)_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 120 Xiao Shao takes Jiang Ruan all the way back to King Jinying''s house. Housekeeper Lin is reading the account book carefully. Yesterday, the royal guards sent him a pair of imported goods. He said that it was a new thing from the sea. Two pieces of thick glass were put on his eyes, but he could read clearly. Seeing Xiao Shao coming back, housekeeper Lin subconsciously gets up and sees that Xiao Shao is still holding a woman in her arms. It''s just like being struck by thunder. All of a sudden, she is in a mess in the wind and can''t say a word. When Xiao Shao walked back to the house, he kicked the door open and closed it. Steward Lin came back and saw a familiar figure fall in the air. Steward Lin grabbed Jin San: "Jin San, what''s the matter with Wang Ye? Who is that? " Among the royal guards, Jin Yi and Jin Er are twin brothers and Jin San and Jin Si are twin sisters. These four are also Xiao Shao''s personal secret guards and the little leaders of the royal guards. But housekeeper Fanlin likes to start with these four people when he wants to know something. Jin San shrugged: "young lady, Lao Lin, don''t blame me for not reminding you. I have to wait on young lady these days. The master told me that I have something else to do. You should bear it first." After a few steps, Jin San came back to remind him: "by the way, the young lady has been seduced. Lao Lintou, don''t go in and have a look. The master will be very angry." Jin three left for a long time, Lin housekeeper is still standing in situ in a daze, the moustache on the lips a Qiao a Qiao. Young lady Flattery The fire is on the rise. Housekeeper Lin burst into tears excitedly: "young master, there is a queen!" Compared with the smile of housekeeper Lin outside, Xiao Shao in the room is at a loss. He helped Jiang Ruan to take medicine and bandaged the wound on his arm. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ruan''s medicine came up, and the whole person was writhing on the bed. Xiao Shao wanted to point her sleeping point, but the medicine was too powerful. He also knew some medical skills. He was afraid that it would collide with Jiang Ruan''s body. Think of Xuan you dare to Jiang Ruan under such a dose of medicine, eyes will be instantly cold down, the fundus is dark. Lying on Xiao Shao''s bed, Jiang Ruan kicked off the quilt Xiao Shao had covered her. Maybe she was too hot to pull the collar of her clothes. Xiao Shaogang turned around and tried to wipe Jiang Ruan''s forehead with a cold water soaked handkerchief. As soon as he looked back, he saw a lot of white skin. Xiao Shao stayed for a while, and hurriedly went to find the previous thin quilt and gave it to Jiang Ruan Wu. Jiang Ruan grabs a hand just after she covers the quilt. After Jiang Ruan is seduced, he is surprisingly strong. Xiao Shao stumbles and almost falls on her. Subconsciously, he reaches out a hand to support Jiang Ruan''s head. Jiang Ruan suddenly opened his eyes and stared at Xiao Shao without blinking. The beauty of her eyes is controlled by the medicine, which makes her eyes look like silk. Xiao Shao had seen countless beauties in his life. He didn''t want to be seen by Jiang Ruan today. His heart beat a little faster, and his pretty face suddenly showed a trace of blush. Thinking that Jiang Ruan was sober, he whispered, "Jiang Ruan." Jiang Ruan only looked at him. After a while, his eyes began to blur again. Xiao Shao was about to speak when Jiang Ruan suddenly put his arms around Xiao Shao''s neck and pressed himself. Xiao Shao is really at a loss. Lips touch a soft touch, different from the appearance of indifference, it is as fragrant as flowers. Xiao Shao''s long eyelashes hang down, and his dark eyes stare at the girl who is already unconscious. "Evil..." Jiang Ruan loosened his hand a little and said vaguely. Xiao Shao picked eyebrows. Is that talking about him? Jiang Ruan obviously didn''t know who he was now. He murmured, "you''re so cool." Xiao Shao has a headache when he goes all the way to Xiao Shao''s arms. Why should Jiang Ruan pull his belt? The young people who want to be happy and angry are a bit embarrassed. Xiao Shao covered his belt and looked at Jiang Ruan. He wanted to stick it on himself. He was helpless. People were so different before and after being poisoned. Why didn''t Jin San come back? Steward Lin, who is risking his life outside and peeping through the flower window, is red in the face. On the one hand, he is convinced by the brave spirit of the future young lady, and on the other hand, he is hurt by his young master''s behavior. Little madam all so active, little Lord as a man naturally want bold up! Housekeeper Lin shakes his head and sighs. His young master is good at everything, but his character is better. If he had changed other men, he would have become the antidote. Among the twelve gentleness villages, baihualou is the best. All kinds of girls are beautiful and intelligent. They have seen the world before, and all the dignitaries are willing to come and hold a show. Today, a special guest came. The guest was dressed in long clothes, green cloth boots and high hair. He was clearly dressed as a man, but he could see the identity of a woman at a glance. The procuress''s eyes are very poisonous. At a glance, she can see that the woman has her own style and features. Although her clothes are simple, the cloth is expensive. Although it''s strange for the woman to enter the brothel, she still welcomes her and says, "this girl, what do you want to order in our baihualou?" Jin San took a look at the procuress: "it''s said that baihualou has seen a lot of knowledge. Can you know [chunfengdu] As soon as the procuress''s face changed, she couldn''t help looking at Jin San seriously. After thinking about it, she asked carefully, "why do you want to inquire about Chun Feng Du?""I have a friend who accidentally hit chunfengdu? I think baihualou is the biggest beauty cave in Beijing. Don''t you know about it? " When Xiao Shao was a teenager, he went south and North. He ordered people to look at the cup Jiang Ruan had drunk before. He smelled that it was very similar to the spring breeze ferry he had seen before. Although he studied pharmacology, he didn''t study aphrodisiac, so he didn''t know the antidote. The procuress of baihualou must have a way, so he asked Jin San to look for it. The procuress said with a smile: "to tell you the truth, chunfengdu is one of the best drugs. It''s very powerful. If you are fed chunfengdu, you will die if you don''t get along with others within three hours. It''s flattery, not poison. " The procuress said with a smile, "girl, if your friend has enough time, he will find someone to be happy with him." "If it''s so simple, what can I do for you?" Jin three some impatient: "aunt at the moment there are important things, the landlady or quickly will antidote out of the good." The procuress was very embarrassed: "girl, it''s not that I don''t give you the antidote, but the antidote of chunfengdu is very rare. No one has ever asked for the antidote, girl..." "Ten thousand Liang." Jinsan road. "Girl, this is really..." "Gold." The procuress closed her mouth. Her face was as happy as a flower. She said with a smile, "I''ll order someone to get the antidote." Although the person in front of her is a big injustice in front of her, who will spend 10000 taels of gold to buy the antidote of a charm. Whose virginity is so valuable is the number one in baihualou, and it''s hard to meet a patron who has ten thousand taels of gold in one night. When Jin San saw the expression on the procuress''s face, he knew what she was thinking in her heart. He secretly said to himself that the young lady was more valuable than the Huakui of baihualou that night. Ah, bah, bah, bah, what is she talking about? Young lady Bing qingyujie, how can she compare with Hua Kui. Waiting for Jin San to take the antidote back to the house, he was also surprised to see Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao''s face was scarlet, and his always cold face almost cracked. He sat straight beside the bed, with suspicious things moving under his black robe. Jin three covers his nose, this scene who saw not hot blood up. Xiao Shao''s expressionless face took Jin San''s antidote and said, "go out." Jin San is in a dilemma when she goes out. Has she done something good or bad? I didn''t expect that the young master looked at the cold and pure man, and he was very enthusiastic. What was the young lady doing under the young master''s clothes just now? She gave the antidote to the young master. Will the young master bear a grudge for this in the future? Jin three more think more uneasy, decided to go to Jin four talk about today''s things. Steward Tu Liulin beat his chest and feet outside. He was still full of tears. This time, he was in a hurry. Young master, you spend so much money to buy an antidote. Do your family know? Loser! Don''t you know that people are the best antidote? The master and his wife saw how angry they were in the sky. Xiao Shao is holding Jiang Ruan''s head to feed her the antidote. He looks down at the person in his arms. His embarrassment just recedes. He is serious at the moment. There''s so much noise outside that he''s not deaf. As for who is the antidote, Jiang Ruan doesn''t mind this kind of thing, and he won''t take advantage of others'' danger. He didn''t even think about it. Now he had some subtle feelings for Jiang Ruan, which was only from emotion to courtesy. In some ways, although Xiao Shao had been out in his early years and had seen a lot about it, he had nothing to do with himself. In Lao Lin''s words, it''s too much of a gentleman. After one night, almost all the people in King Jinying''s mansion didn''t get a good sleep, and the royal guards, but the former was too excited to sleep, while the latter was too busy to sleep. People in Jinying Palace are quietly talking about whether there will be a female master in the palace. However, the people in charge of the royal family under Lin''s management are all specially trained. They are very strict, and things have never been spread. Otherwise, Jiang Ruan''s reputation will also have a great impact. When Jiang Ruan woke up, he felt very sore. He kneaded his head and sat up. He happened to see a beautiful maid cleaning things on the table. Seeing her awake, she came forward and said with concern, "Miss Jiang is better?" Jiang Ruan looked at the maid in front of her and saw that her eyes were a little strange, as if she had a small smile, which was too warm. In the heart doubt, on the face or smile way: "I am all right, this is where?" "Jinying palace." The maid''s smile was sweeter: "yesterday, the LORD brought the girl back. The Lord took care of the girl all night and just went out." The maidservant looked at the medicine bowl on the table and took it to Jiang Ruan''s mouth: "when you wake up, drink the medicine." As if in order to reflect what she said, Xiao Shao came in from outside the house, saw that his maid wanted to feed Jiang ruanyao, and said, "go out, I''ll feed her." The maidservant then hastens a narrow smile, Wu wears mouth to exit the room door, return to return to take the door intimately. Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao, and some fragmentary pictures flashed through her mind. Yesterday she knew that she had been badly seduced. Now she can''t remember many things. She only remembers that Xiao Shao saved her in front of Xuanyou. Xiao Shao won''t take advantage of others'' danger. Jiang Ruan knows that what she worries about is whether she has done anything bad to Xiao Shao. Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan had a headache. Why did things come to her.Xiao Shao sat down beside the bed and naturally took the medicine bowl on the table. Jiang Ruan wanted to reach for it, but his arm hurt strangely. He looked down and saw the white cloth wrapped around his arm. Then he remembered the injury on his arm yesterday. Subconsciously, she touched the dagger that never left her body. It took her a moment to know where she had fallen. Xiao Shao took something from his waist and put it in front of her: "are you looking for this?" It was the delicate dagger that Jiang Ruan held in his hand. The head is facing Xiao shaocan''s eyes like stars. She Leng a Leng, Xiao Shao has dropped his head, silent with a silver spoon scoop up the soup to her mouth. Now her hand is not convenient, but also not coy, obediently drink Xiao Shao feed medicine. Two people body close, can smell Xiao Shao body good smell clean feed. Jiang Ruan was in a trance for a while. After drinking a bowl of medicine, Xiao Shao grabs a few sugar pills from one bowl and hands them to Jiang Ruan. The color of the sugar pill is bright and lovely. Jiang Ruan was a little bit proud for a while. Xiao Shao explained: "it''s not bitter after eating." Jiang Ruan She is not a three-year-old child. Why does Xiao Shao use this kind of tone to coax children? What''s the matter with that serious look? But it''s hard to be gracious. Jiang Ruan can''t even say no to such a pair of dark star eyes. When she put the sugar pill into her mouth, she came back to herself. How long has she not eaten this kind of food in the past and this life? Medicine is a luxury, not to mention the sugar pills that only the well cared people are qualified to eat. Feeling that eating this kind of food would damage her calm image, Jiang Ruan took a look at Xiao Shao and thought: evil! Xiao Shao picks an eyebrow and looks at Jiang Ruan''s reaction. He just finds it interesting. After thinking about it, he said, "last night, you were hit by chunfengdu." As soon as he heard chunfengdu, he knew what it was. Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao suspiciously. He felt a little uneasy and asked tentatively, "have I done anything wrong to you?" "No Xiao shaodao. Jiang Ruan Fang was relieved, and heard Xiao Shao''s steady voice continue to ring out: "just beat me, pull my belt, hold me, don''t let go." Jiang Ruan Mu was stunned, but Xiao Shao still had a serious and cold expression. No one would think that he was joking. "You are a man, and I am the one who suffers." Jiang Ruan stressed. Xiao Shao thought about it, nodded and said, "well." Fearing that Xiao Shao would continue this embarrassing topic, Jiang Ruan quickly turned aside and asked, "do you know who calculated me last night?" Hear this matter, Xiao Shao also Mou Guang turns cold: "know." He looked at Jiang Ruan, who was indifferent and thought, "do you know?" Jiang Ruan''s expression seemed to have known who was behind him. He said, "don''t you also know?" Xiao Shao is silent. What''s the identity of the royal guards? It''s the quickest way to collect intelligence in Beijing. Xiao Shao is still surprised to learn that imperial concubine Chen started. Even if Jiang Ruan''s identity is special now, imperial concubine Chen will not humiliate Jiang Ruan in this way. If Chen Guifei is a smart person, she should learn to develop Jiang Ruan''s power for her own use. She will never use the worst method, which will ruin Jiang Ruan''s life. If he had been late last night, Jiang Ruan would have been doomed. "Imperial concubine Chen is so scheming against me. How can it be if she doesn''t return a big gift?" Jiang Ruan''s eyebrows are cold. The road of revenge should be stepped up step by step, but Chen Guifei takes the initiative. Is she waiting to die? "I''ll help you." Xiao shaodao. His position was made clear in one sentence. Jiang Ruan looked at him: "you have nothing to do with this matter, why get involved." In fact, in my heart, Xiao Shao is like a life preserver around me. It''s much more convenient to do things on weekdays. In fact, Xiao Shao can give more protection than Liu min. It''s just that the more you owe, the more you feel uneasy. The most difficult thing in the world is the debt of friendship. In the final analysis, this man is a rare true gentleman in the world, but his temperament is too dull. "I''ve taken advantage of you. I''ll make it up to you." Xiao Shao took a serious look at her and said. Jiang Ruan It is because of her clumsy eyes that she thinks this person is dull! With a bang, the door was pushed open, but all the eavesdroppers outside split and fell. Xiao Shao frowned. Housekeeper Lin stood up first, cleared his throat and said solemnly, "Lord, the ten thousand taels of gold sold to Miss Jiang last night has been recorded in the account. Do you want to have a look?" "No need." Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao in shock: "ten thousand liang?" Jinsi hid behind housekeeper Lin and reminded Jiang Ruan: "didn''t you win the spring breeze ferry last night? Wang Ye used ten thousand taels of gold to buy the antidote from baihualou. " Xiao Shao''s eyebrows were wrinkled again, and he was talkative. When did he ask about these accounts? Today, he came here. Where is baihualou? It''s the golden cave for sale. Jiang Ruan had a deep experience of Jiang Chao at the beginning, but he didn''t know that Huakui was expensive, even the antidote was so expensive. Ten thousand taels of gold. That''s good. Now I''m in debt. Housekeeper Lin is very proud in his heart. It''s good for the young lady to know how much debt she owes. If she has no money, she can use people to repay it.Jin four looking at his little master slightly unhappy expression, can''t help but help the forehead, master son how so stay, so for their own money things say, the girl''s family can be moved! Two people in the room don''t know the complicated thoughts of others. One had a strange expression, the other a slight frown. The former blames the brothel for being more and more black hearted and the debt that he owes is never over. The latter thinks that there are so many people in the house. It''s really noisy. It''s totally different from the romance. There are a lot of things going on in April, and there is no Internet. In order to keep improving, I want to show my understanding to you in the manuscript of Tun Qingming Festival. I send you a picture of my brother who was molested > by the way, I''ll adjust the time in the future, 8 a.m, One hour earlier than before ~ 1 www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 121 Yesterday, when Jiang Fu married her daughter, the third young lady became the wife of Zuo Lang Zhong, and people in Beijing were also fond of talking about it. It was a common woman who could achieve such a future. She should be a model of the whole Jin Dynasty. I only know that the guests were very happy yesterday, and the host''s house was very attentive, but some of the secret things were unknown. For example, Zuojiang clenched his teeth to see Xuanyou dressed and swaggered away. Xuanyou was never afraid of outsiders'' comments, so he was very free and easy. Left Zuojiang is to face all kinds of colors alone. In a hurry, he looked at Jiang Li''s dejected appearance and couldn''t help kicking him: "bitch!" Jiang Li shrinks back in horror. No matter how stupid she is, she knows it now. In front of Zuo Jiang, now even if she stands in the name of a doctor''s wife, she will never get her husband''s respect and favor again in her life. There are more and more people watching outside the new house of the doctor''s mansion. There are two people crowding out of the crowd, one dressed as a Xipo and the other as a servant girl. It''s Jin three and Jin four. Brocade three looked at brocade four: "just now I call of can loud?" Jinsi nodded: "not bad." They look at each other and smile. It''s just the beginning. When the master is angry, there is bound to be another bloody storm in the capital. The doctor''s house is just losing face at the moment, and the next thing is to involve all of them. As for the one in the palace, he didn''t have to run. The so-called Xiao Shao smile, Yama detour. The noble people in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty have lived so comfortably these years that they have long forgotten this. We might as well take this opportunity to let them have a clear look and see if the legend is true. Xuanyou sang all the way back to the house. He was so upset last night that he went back to the house. When I got back to bed, I felt thirsty. I took the tea on one side of the table and drank it clean. [chunfengdu] is indeed the best medicine. Even after a crazy night, he still feels a little restless. Xuanyou gets up and wants to go out and catch a concubine to vent his anger. Just as he is about to leave the room, he suddenly gets a kick. Just now back to the house, there has never been a person to meet him. There was no one in the room, no one, no one. The whole house fell into a dead silence, with no vitality at all. Xuanyou was shocked. He stopped walking to the door. The heat of the day just faded away, and an unknown premonition came to his mind. He called a few times: "Xiao Li, Xiao Li!" The boy didn''t answer, and no one in the whole house answered him, as if there was no one in the house. Xuanyou didn''t dare to go out rashly, so he went to the window and looked out. He saw a large red spread under the window, shocking. Xuanyou is scared to step back two steps. He accidentally knocks down the screen behind him. As soon as the screen is removed, a person inside falls down. Xuanyou screams. The man falls to the ground. His whole body is full of blood. It''s his close friend Xiao Li. Xuanyou''s scalp is numb. He''s about to go out and grab the door. But before he can move, the door is kicked open. Two men in black are standing at the door, looking at him without expression. "Who are you? Come on! This hall is the prince. What do you want to do? " Xuanyou is in a hurry. They came towards him, and after a few moments, there was a scream in the room. On the second day of Zuojiang''s marriage, a doctor in the capital, there were lively rumors all over the city. One is that doctor Zuo looks like a good man who values love and righteousness. He doesn''t want to be ugly. He has some bad habits in private. He likes to play with his wife with outsiders. In the world, it''s not wrong for men to have any hobbies, but it''s immoral for their wives to play with them like this. It is said that doctor Zuo is willing to wear a green hat, neither divorces his wife, nor troubles the prince. Jiang Li couldn''t lift her head in Beijing because of this. She stayed in the house all day and didn''t dare to go out. Even the servants of the doctor''s house would look at her with strange eyes, not to mention Zuo Jiang. He often beat and scolded her. Life was very difficult. And Jiang Quan was furious because of Jiang Li''s relationship. The courtiers looked at him with disdain. The censors took part in the Zhezi, suing the doctor''s house for silver chaos, and they also took part in a Book of teaching his son. If these have been very shocking, then the next thing will set off an uproar in Beijing. Because Xuanyou died. Xuanyou died. He died in his own house. There was no one alive in the whole house. All of them were killed with one knife. Xuanyou died most miserably. His whole body was chopped into pieces, but his head disappeared. If it wasn''t for the clothes and seal letter, people couldn''t guess that it was Xuanyou. The other side''s attack is so cruel that people guess it''s Xuanyou''s enemy who comes to seek revenge. The inspector general has sent someone to investigate this matter, but there is no progress. Xuanyou, the third prince, bullied men and women. He used his status as the prince to bully many girls and daughters in law in Beijing. He was already a street mouse and everyone yelled at him. Therefore, after knowing the news of Xuanyou''s death, the people praised him. They were all angry and the whole family celebrated. It''s just that Xuanyou has so many enemies that he doesn''t know who did it. As a result, Zuojiang, who was beaten in the face by Xuanyou a few days ago, has become the biggest suspect. Zuojiang is helpless. When Xuanyou dies, if Chen Guifei suspects that he''s moving her hand, she''s openly expressing her dissatisfaction with her. Chen Guifei is cruel, so it''s hard to avoid being worried about him. It is because he has become the biggest doubt. Now his every move is being watched, and many eyes are staring at him in the dark. How dare they act rashly. Life is very difficult.When these things in Beijing came to Jiang Ruan''s ears, Jiang Ruan was also a little stunned. She has been staying in Jinying palace these days. Xiao Shao sent a message to the general''s house, saying that Jiang Ruan had been schemed by others, and now he is resting in his house. To the outside world, he said that Jiang Ruan had returned to the general''s house to see Zhao Guang and his wife. Jinying palace has always done a good job in keeping secrets, so no one has found it. At this moment, listening to what Tianzhu said, Jiang Ruan thought in his heart, who can kill the prince of a country so openly in the capital, except the royal guards. This autumn wind sweeping leaves general thunder means, but also echoed Xiao Shao''s character. She didn''t intend to let go of the doctor''s family and Xuanyou, but Xiao Shao did it ahead of time. I have to say that he did it quickly, saved a lot of trouble and was very relieved. Is it just going to get him in trouble? Jin one, Jin two, Jin three, Jin four are sitting on a tree not far away looking at Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao was on the alert about the doctor''s house. It was not enough to have only one Tianzhu. Xiao Shao gave orders to protect Jiang Ruan these days. Jinyi and Jiner slaughtered the third prince''s house yesterday. As a killer, they seem to be bloodthirsty. Xiao Shao solved the Xuanyou problem by himself yesterday. It was 108 Dao. The Dao went to the bone. It was the last Dao that killed Xuanyou. The royal guards have a lot of means to torture people, but the coldness in Xiao Shao''s eyes last night made these intimate dark guards feel frightened. Over the years, Xiao Shao has become more and more calm, and it''s hard to see his intention to kill. Xuanyou felt the most painful means in the world before he died. It was really worthwhile to die in Xiao Shao''s hands. Brocade three fiddle with a hair: "Lord son will night Maple call back, want to use him again?" Since Yefeng was transferred to Yibao Pavilion three years ago, Xiao Shao has never used him again. Several people know Yefeng has made a big mistake. Almost let the future of the little lady and little Lord form a stranger, potential with fire and water, little Lord not angry cut night Maple has been very kind. Now, it''s strange to use Yefeng again. Brocade four wrinkly frown: "still don''t want, night maple is too stupid." As like as two peas, Jin three and Jin four are very similar in appearance, but their temperament is very different. They can easily distinguish the same clothes. Jinsan style, Jinsi Yingqi. Jin four and night Maple always don''t deal with, since don''t want night maple and follow Xiao Shao work again. Brocade two hands protect head, lazy way: "night Maple this time but led a good job." "What kind of job?" Jin Eryi said with a smile, "go and give a big gift to your concubine." The atmosphere of Simeng hall today is very strange. It is not as light as usual. It is as tender as smoke. There seems to be a trace of anxiety floating in the air. It is the woman who has always been charming and gentle in the main seat. Now she is also impatient to throw the book in her hand. "Niang Niang, the clothes made yesterday should be here." The maid of honor held a small box. It''s the most diligent to send clothes from Siyi hall to Simeng hall. Everyone knows that imperial concubine Chen in the palace is deeply favored by the emperor. Naturally, she is more attentive. It''s the same today. When the maid of honor went back to the palace, she saw the box and thought it was sent by the next people. Seeing the box, Chen Guifei''s face improved a little. The woman in the palace of life presented the box and opened it gently. This is a normal thing. But she only heard a scream of "ah". The box on the hand suddenly fell and made a clear sound on the ground. A round rolling thing fell out, rolling all the way, bringing out a red star. The eunuchs in the palace looked down for no reason. At first glance, they were so surprised that they almost screamed. What''s in that box is nothing else. It''s the head of Xuanyou who was killed a few days ago! Xuanyou''s face was still full of fear and anger, and his mouth was wide open, as if he had suffered great pain before he died. The part below the neck was cut off by Qi Shushu. It was bloody. Piansheng''s face was very clean. It seemed that he had deliberately cleaned it up. Xuanyou''s eyes are wide open at the moment. She''s staring at Chen Guifei. Chen Guifei''s face is white and almost soft to the ground. "Spare your life, madam." Knowing that she had made a big mistake, the maid in waiting knelt down and kowtowed. The maid in waiting knelt down in a large area. Chen Guifei said in a sharp voice: "old Chen, old Chen!" Mr. Chen quickly came in and was shocked to see what was on the ground. In three or two steps, he bent down to pick up Xuanyou''s head and put it into the box. Looked at the palace maid: "back down!" The ladies in waiting pushed down. Princess Chen took a breath and looked at Mr. Chen: "old Chen, it''s him, it must be him." There was a rare panic in the voice. Father in law Chen is a servant brought by her mother''s family. Since she entered the palace, he has been promoted from a young eunuch to her father-in-law and is her confidant. Mr. Chen also knows about Jiang Ruan. Although he doesn''t agree with his young lady''s Thoughts on Xiao Shao, Mr. Chen will spare no effort to help her clean up the obstacles in front of her. Jiang Ruan''s retention is a disaster, but Xiao Shao is not a good stubble. It can be seen from today''s events. He knew that Xuanyou''s death was his hand, but he didn''t know that Xiao Shao had no scruples. When he got to this point, he dared to send Xuanyou''s head to Princess Chen. Is this a warning or a forewarning? Chen Guifei stares at the box in the hand of father-in-law Chen, and suddenly laughs and says: "he is against me! Dare to fight against me As she bit her teeth, the crazy color in her eyes faded away and became cold and beautiful again. However, when she looked at it carefully, she could see the jealousy and heat in her eyes. She said in a low voice, "well, since he has done so, don''t blame the ruthlessness of our palace. We have to see what he is willing to do for that woman!"Mr. Chen moved his lips, but he didn''t say anything. Chen Guifei took a look at him and said coldly, "you know what to do, ladies in waiting here today." This is to kill the mouth, Chen Gonggong bent down, respectfully replied: "cover." It''s the last day of this month. Thank you for your support. The best time for the monthly ticket is 13. It''s a surprise for cha cha. Continue to work hard next month to get on the list www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 122 Early in the morning, a special guest came to Jinying palace. Jiaoke looks anxious and in a hurry. It''s not others, it''s dew. On that day, when Jiang Ruan entered the new house, Dewdrop had gone to get her some wake-up wine. She never wanted to go back and disappeared. She didn''t know what had happened. It was so easy for her to find Tianzhu, but she was frightened by Tianzhu again. Tianzhu was injured, and she only said that Xiao Shao had sent someone to save Jiang Ruan. She wants to take care of Tianzhu. She is very anxious. Now, the person who receives her says that Jiang Ruan is not hurt in her house. Dewdrop is still very worried. I wish I didn''t have wings behind me, so I could fly back to Jiang Ruan immediately. The huge Jinying palace was bigger than the one built by Jiang''s. the maid who led the way pointed out the way and left. The first time dew entered such a big mansion, she lost her way unconsciously. It''s so easy to see a man in front of him. The dew doesn''t care about anything else. He runs up in a hurry and says, "this young man." Jin Er is thinking about something, but suddenly he sees a little servant girl running towards him. The servant girl looks at her face, but she smiles sweetly. She looks clever and familiar. Jin Er thought it was a new servant girl in the mansion, but it was strange to call him childe. Dew see this person directly staring at himself, to be fair, Jin two life is also good, count on the handsome young man. Just laugh like a ruffian. Dewdrop frowned and asked, "young master, do you know where Miss Jiang Fu lives?" Dew a ask this words, brocade two suddenly realized. He said that the little servant girl looked so familiar. She was the servant girl beside the young lady. Think of his master is a cuckoo temperament, as the curve to save the country, from the side of the young lady. Then he deliberately held his chest with both hands, looked at the dew and said with a bad smile: "you said that the young lady lived with us." Dewdrop''s attention was all focused on the three words of "little lady" of Jin Er. She could not care that Jin Er called Xiao Shao "master" and said with wide eyes, "what little lady?" Jin Er thinks that Jiang Ruan is cunning and cruel. But the little servant girl around him is not very clever. For a moment, he has a bad heart and says with a smile: "we all sleep together. What is not the young lady? The young lady was drugged yesterday, but our young master solved it for her in person. Ouch Jin''er deliberately blurs his words, but he says it hard. Unexpectedly, he gets a kick from dewdrop. Dewdrop grew up in the city well, which is different from those charming maids in the back house. This kick is the key part of jin''er. The brocade two pain call a, cover oneself of the lower body glaring dew drop. Dewdrop stares back impolitely and scolds: "bah! Dirty bastard! What a mess! Let me hear these dirty words again. Look carefully, and the things in your crotch will never be lifted The lion like Chong brocade two roar over, the dew turn round, the gas rushed away. Tu Liujin and Er Yi were in the same place. He is wrong, he shouldn''t think the servant girl around the little lady is easy to bully, how can the servant girl like the little lady be easy to bully. Si -- Jin Er''s painful direct air-conditioning. He is the little leader of the royal guards, Xiao Shao''s personal secret guard, and he is very beautiful. Usually, only girls rush at him. I didn''t expect that he would be planted on a little servant girl today! Die wench, brocade two molars, let Ye catch you again, ye must teach you well. On the tree, Jin San and Jin Yi are kowtowing melon seeds to watch a play. Jin San says, "kill me. Annoyed young madam''s servant girl, brocade two leave dead also not far brocade one looks like the 21 patterns of Jin, and looks like a stone. Jin three disliked to see him one eye, thought with is the same appearance, twin''s temperament how can difference so big. One of them has no expression all day, but one of them is as romantic as a ruffian on the street. Not to mention the dewdrop, the "little lady" and "little master" in Jin Er''s mouth are not as affectionate as they are rumored to be. Jiang Ruan drinks a mouthful of lotus leaf honey water. It seems that King Jinying''s house is used to being cold and quiet, and no woman has ever been around. Housekeeper Lin has been looking for a long time to find a cook who can make sugar water and make some snacks. She wanted to please the young lady in the future. In fact, Jiang Ruan was not used to this kind of sweet food. The servants of King Jinying''s house were too warm for her. Rao Shi refused to accept others for thousands of miles, so she had to be gentle on her face. Xiao Shao was sitting opposite him. The morning air was fresh. The slanting sun made his beautiful side face seem to be covered with gold. The black robe was embroidered with Kirin, which made him cold as jade. The appearance of drinking tea was also elegant and precious. Some people do nothing, and sitting there is eye-catching. Jiang Ruan has seen a lot in Japan in recent years, but he can''t help but feel a little lost when he sees such beautiful scenery. She lowered her head and drank a mouthful of honey water. It was a little sweet. She looked at Xiao Shao and said, "you did Xuanyou?" Xiao Shao nodded. Jiang Ruan then asked, "will you send his head to Princess Chen?" Xiao Shao''s eyes flashed a cold light: "it''s your fault." Jiang Ruan put his chin on the edge of the cup, and Xiao Shao did it for her. Looking at the young man in front of her carefully, she thought that he had helped a lot. However, the subtle feeling in her heart became more and more intense these days. She was not a fool and lived a new life. If she didn''t understand what the strange thing in her heart was, she would be living in vain.Such a son of heaven, help again and again, if it is the last life of her, I am afraid she has already been occupied. Unfortunately, their intersection is in this life. Jiang Ruan''s heart was slightly bitter. She came with hatred. Her hands were destined to be bloody in her life. Even the Zhao family did not dare to be close to her. How could she be moved? In the last life, she died too early and didn''t know what would happen in the future. But Xiao Shao was always an emperor. When the emperor died, Xiao Shao was still in southern Xinjiang. If Xiao Shao came back, how could Xuan Li let him go? In the last life, I don''t know what was the end of him? Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan frowned unconsciously. Seeing her like this, Xiao Shao thought that she was worried about Princess Chen, so he said in a soft voice, "I''ve done a good job in the palace. You don''t have to worry too much." Jiang Ruan returned to his senses and said in a gentle voice, "Xiao Shao, you have helped me a lot, but Princess Chen and I are in the same boat. I have my own way. You don''t have to interfere." Xiao Shao was silent for a moment: "I know." Jiang Ruan has many secrets, which he knows. Even the best spies in the royal guards can''t find out these secrets. Although he is confused, he doesn''t want to pry. Everyone has his own secret in his heart. Jiang Ruan''s secret is that there is always a touch of darkness in her eyes. The darkness was too deep. Although she covered it up well, occasionally she would unconsciously show a little bit, which made her whole body full of anger. Last night when she was in a coma, she also called a name in her mouth, which was Xuanli. Xiao Shao lowered his eyes and covered his emotions with his long eyelashes. What''s her holiday with Xuanli? Last night, when Jiang Ruan was delirious, he called this name in a clear tone of grief and sorrow. He asked the spies to investigate, but he did not find out that Xuanli had any problems with Jiang Ruan. After a long silence, Xiao Shao said, "what are you going to do?" "Xuanyou is dead, and the doctor''s office and Jiang Li will also eat the bad consequences. How can Princess Chen put an end to the play with so much effort?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes crossed a trace of darkness. Xiao Shao looked at the bottom of his eyes and said, "if there is anything, I will always help you." "Thank you very much." Jiang Ruan thanks Xiao Shao, but thinks that Xiao Shao''s move is high. Xuanyou''s death can be regarded as erasing all traces. Jiang Li and the doctor''s house are now looking to save their lives. But the more this matter develops in the future, the more involved it is, the more troubled the doctor''s house will be. She won''t sympathize with Jiang Li and Zuo Jiang. If they want to hurt her, they will die. The only one who hasn''t been punished is Princess Chen. How can she let her down when she is so free to worry about her affairs? Jiang Ruan sneered. It seemed that she had not seen huijue for a long time, but now she should be the national master. In the general''s mansion, Zhao Guang walked up and down in his study. The sword on the wall was taken down and hung up again. Zhao Yuanfeng said coolly, "Dad, if you go on like this, I will faint." "You know shit!" Zhao Guangzheng is not angry, Zhao Yuanfeng this is hit on the muzzle of the gun, suddenly furious: "your nephew was under the drug, I can''t walk a few steps?" Zhao Yuanping couldn''t look at it and said, "Dad, what are you worried about? This person has not been cleaned up by Lord Xiao. Girl Ruan hasn''t hurt her finger. Stay in your Jinying palace. What''s the matter with your third brother?" A few days ago, Xiao Shao asked someone to deliver a letter to the general''s house. The messenger would tell the story to long Qumai. Angry Zhao Guang almost went out with his sword to chop down the doctor''s house and the lecheron prince. It''s just that the visitor said that Zhao Guang should be calm and everything is arranged by Xiao Shao. As a result, there was a scandal in the doctor''s house the next day, and the third prince''s house was destroyed. With his toes, he could think that this was a good thing for Xiao Shao, but Zhao Guang was still very unhappy: "why should I ask an outsider to intervene in Lao Tzu''s family affairs? Besides, what''s the matter of sending Ruan, a daughter who hasn''t been out of the cabinet, to Jinying Palace? Yuanjia, go and get your nephew back to me! " Zhao Yuanjia, the eldest of the Zhao family, was named by Zhao Guang for no reason, but said, "Dad, isn''t it a chance for people to pick up ruan''er now? Since Lord Xiao has helped Ruan Er, he will not harm her. " these days, there are always several strange eyes staring out at the general office. The family members did not find a circle. They thought they must be eyeliners. They might be directed at Jiang Ruanlai. Nowadays, it is claimed that Jiang Ruan is in the general''s residence. If anything is missing at this time, it will only do harm to Jiang Ruan and the general''s residence. Zhao Guang naturally knew this truth in his heart, but knowing it was one thing, and discontent was another. Originally, Jiang Ruan was the granddaughter of his Zhao family, but Xiao Shao was an outsider to take revenge. Moreover, the attitude of the people who came to deliver the letter that day made Zhao Guang feel suffocated. It was as if King Jinying''s house was Jiang Ruan''s house, and their general''s house was a villain. As soon as Zhao Guang''s stubborn temper comes up, Xiao Shao is wrong. Although he is grateful to Xiao Shao for saving Jiang Ruan at the critical time, he still has a hard time. Zhao Yuanjia said angrily, "what do you know? Who knows if that Xiao family boy has a crush on Ruan girl and has any bad thoughts on her? Ruan girl is young. What if she is cheated? " At the beginning, Zhao Mei didn''t know people clearly, so he missed his whole life and got a pair of children. This is the eternal pain in Zhao Guang''s heart. Zhao Yuanping chuckled and said: "Dad, Xiao Shao has a different mind for Ruan girl? Don''t say that. Besides, can Ruan be cheated? If only she didn''t cheat. "All the people in the Jin Dynasty knew that Xiao Shaosheng was not a woman. Even though Jiang Ruan was beautiful, he was just a passer-by in Xiao Shao''s eyes. In addition, Jiang Ruan''s temperament is mild on the surface, but cold and fierce in fact. Zhao Yuanping follows the Zhao family, and his eyes are the same when he looks at women. He thinks that women should be like Zhao Mei, warm and simple. Although Jiang Ruan is his niece, men don''t like such temperament. Of course, many years later, it turned out that Zhao Yuanping, the smartest military adviser of the Zhao family, was sometimes wrong. However, he still felt that his idea was right. However, Zhao Guang is a very short guard. As soon as he heard Zhao Yuanping''s words, he was angry. He patted the table heavily and said, "are you a son of a bitch or not the Zhao family? What happened to girl Ruan? Ruan girl is good-looking. Xiao family boy has never met such a good person as Ruan girl. Go away for me. " Zhao Yuanfeng finally got up and said, "Dad, it''s not the time to quarrel with the eldest brother and the second brother. The matter of King Xiao will be discussed another day. Ruan has been so wronged. Shouldn''t we do something?" "What can I do?" As soon as Zhao Guang mentioned it, he was angry: "let the Xiao family finish it!" "Isn''t there a princess Chen missing?" Zhao Yuanfeng reminds a way. Zhao Guang frowned: "women in the harem, how to intervene?" Although he was angry and resentful, concubine Chen was in the back palace. As a minister, he had no chance to do anything, and this matter could not be made public. I can''t think of a way. Zhao Yuanping made a loud finger: "imperial concubine Chen can''t move, isn''t lord Chen still there?" He laughed: "I see Chen Guifei so unbridled, is also the reason why Mr. Chen now live too arrogant." Zhao Guang pondered for a moment, nodded his head and said: "yes, that old man, I have long wanted to deal with him. It''s just right. I''ll give him some color this time. Otherwise, I''ll say that the general''s house is a bully. You three sit down for me. It''s a matter of great importance. " If the prince of a country says no, it''s gone. Even if he''s a waste prince, he has caused a lot of trouble in the court. The emperor never liked his son, but he didn''t show much sadness. Empress Dowager Yide is a little sad, but it doesn''t seem to worry about it. Jiang Ruan stayed in King Jinying''s house for several days. After the limelight, he didn''t return to Jiang''s house. Xiao Shao sent two people to send her to the palace. Xiao Shao''s men are not ordinary people, so they are more confident. When she returned to the palace, she still went to greet empress Yide. Jiang Ruan pretended that nothing had happened, but she saw that empress Yide was haggard. When she saw Jiang Ruan, empress Yide seemed to think of something. She asked, "I heard that something happened on your third sister''s wedding night. What''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan shook his head: "three younger sister do not say, I do not know the specific." The Empress Dowager shook her head and sighed. She knew that the relationship between Jiang Ruan and his family was not very good. When he was at the Royal ancestral temple, Jiang Quan didn''t even bring a decent letter from his family. She also saw Jiang Ruan''s attitude towards the Jiang family. She was not enthusiastic. Now it''s natural for her to look on coldly. "That Zuojiang is not a good man in the eyes of his family. He is in a mess with the code of ethics. In the future, the people will follow suit. The world is not in a mess." It is obvious that this matter is very serious in the eyes of empress Yide. Although empress Yide has given up her hands over the past few years, she still has the unique vision she developed in the early years. Zuojiang has violated the bottom line of empress Yide. Jiang Ruan would not say anything about the world affairs in front of empress Yide. Empress Dowager Yide said for a while, but she seemed to be tired, so she took a rest first. Jiang Ruan went out with aunt Yang and asked, "aunt, why is the emperor''s grandmother in a bad mood?" The Empress Dowager Yide looks very depressed, rarely showing a kind of old and haggard state. Jiang Ruan doesn''t think that the Empress Dowager Yide is sorry for Xuanyou''s death. In fact, the Empress Dowager Yide was a vigorous and resolute person. In her early years, she hated Xuanyou very much. Early release Xuanyou out of the palace Kaifu is her Yizhi. Aunt Yang said with a smile: "princess, maybe the Empress Dowager is a little tired recently, and she just looks at it. Just a few days. " Jiang Ruan said this perfunctorily, then returned with a smile: "is that right? I''ll trouble aunt yang to take care of the emperor''s grandmother. " "Maidservant can''t afford to be a princess." Aunt Yang is an old woman beside the Empress Dowager Yide. She also appreciates Jiang Ruan very much. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan gave up his life to save the empress dowager, but he never said anything about it. When he got along with her, he also knew what to ask and what not to ask. The most suitable person to survive in the palace was a smart person like her. Aunt Yang looked at Jiang Ruan with some admiration. Jiang Ruan looks down slightly. Sure enough, empress Yide also has some secrets. Now she is not close enough to share secrets with empress Yide. However, she was not interested in other people''s secrets in the world. If the Empress Dowager Yide did not say it, she would not ask more. Today, she is here for something more important. "Aunt Yang, there are many things going on in the palace these days. I''m very upset. I heard that the Buddhist hall in the palace can calm down. I want to listen to the Sutra." Since the imperial master entered the palace a few years ago, the emperor built a Buddhist hall in the palace for convenience. On weekdays, some of the women in the palace were sincere to the Buddha, and they often went to listen to the Buddhist scriptures, and the emperor was happy to see their success. Aunt Yang also knew what happened on the day of Jiang Li''s wedding. She was very sorry. Hongan Princess advance and retreat appropriate and intelligent calm, but it was born in the Jiang family. The same family of sisters, how can such a big difference. Thinking about this, she said with a smile: "does the princess mean the Little Buddha Hall? At the end of Nanyuan, the maidservant will take the princess there. "Jiang Ruan smile: "thank you, aunt." Keep working hard in the new month! Yesterday''s monthly ticket ranked 11 ~ this month, I try my best to get on the list www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 123 The Jingyi hall in the palace is renovated at the end of Nanyuan, where the environment is quiet and the air is fresh. In the palace is a rare piece of good fortune, when the former Emperor was alive, he wanted to build a courtyard here. He was afraid that the Fengshui in the palace would be damaged, and then he gave up. Now this blessed place has been used again, but a Buddhist hall has been repaired. We can see the status of the master of the Buddhist hall in the palace. Aunt Yang took Jiang Ruan to Jingyi hall and said a few words to the little monk in the Buddhist hall. Jiang Ruan went in first. The Buddha Hall is a golden Buddha statue. It is the first time to build the Buddha Hall in the palace. An old monk in a red cassock sat down quietly, holding a bunch of relic in his hand, closed his eyes and meditated silently. The smoke from the Buddhist hall was a bit of dust. The young monk walked up to the old monk and said a few words. The old monk opened his eyes. When he saw the person in front of him, he was stunned. There was an invisible panic in his kind-hearted expression. After listening to his master''s words, the little monk came over and said to Jiang Ruan, "benefactor, master, please go to the inner room to lecture." Jiang Ruan put his hands together and blessed the little Shami. Seeing this, aunt Yang gave her a smile. Jiang Ruan followed little monk into one side of the inner room. In the inner room, there is a small green wooden table with a signboard and several scriptures. The old monk went into the inner room and sat down on one side of the wooden table, followed by Jiang Ruan. The sound of chanting sutras from the Buddhists comes from the outside. The restoration of the Buddhist hall is antique and full of Buddhist interest. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I''ve been away for many years. Congratulations on your wish." Huijue stopped breathing and looked up at the man in front of him. The young girl dressed in red and hunting like fire has a more indescribable charm than she did three years ago. However, the bottom of the eyes is cold, and there always seems to be some sneer under the gentle smile. He put his hands together, bowed his head and said humbly, "Amitabha." "Master, do you worship Buddha or me?" Jiang ruanshun took the signboard on the table and gently shook it. The wooden signboard collided in the signboard, making a disturbing sound. For a moment, it was like a heavy knock on huijue''s heart. For a long time, the national teacher, who had been like a monk, once again exuded sweat after three years. He looked at Jiang Ruan and said in a slow voice, "benefactor is chosen by the Buddha. I will obey the will of the Buddha." Jiang Ruan smile: "master really is a monk." Huijue didn''t say anything. Three years ago, someone sent him a letter. The messenger said it was from Jiang Ruan. In the letter, he wrote in detail the big and small things that would happen in three years. Huijue was careful. At first, he didn''t believe it. Later, as time went by, he was surprised to find that things happened one by one. Huijue believed everything on the letter paper. He was lurking among the people. The fame of the eminent monk finally spread to the palace and was invited to the palace by the emperor. Relying on that thin piece of writing paper and Hui Jue''s eloquence, for three years, people in the great Jin Dynasty knew that there was a holy monk named Hui Jue. Everything he predicted was right. Step by step, he finally took the position of national teacher. Huijue looked up at Jiang Ruan, who had told him three years ago that he wanted to give him unlimited honor and status, and let him be a man of virtue. Now I think it''s a strange fulfillment. Jiang Ruan had some fears for him. How could anyone predict? But Jiang Ruan is such a mysterious person. Huijue knows that there is no free lunch in the world. Jiang Ruan will not help him for nothing. He will be rewarded one day. Now that Jiang Ruan is back, it''s time to ask him for his reward. Jiang Ruan said with a faint smile: "master, now you are the national teacher. I think the young master''s condition has also improved." Huijue was surprised. His son was his lifeblood. Now he and his son are in the name of master and apprentice. The emperor trusted him so much that it was convenient for him to use the imperial doctor. There are many precious medicinal materials in the palace. Now my son''s condition is getting better, and his body is not as weak as before. His hand holding the rosary beads trembled slightly and said, "what is the almsgiver asking for?" "Master, I don''t believe in Buddhism. I don''t have to say Buddhist scriptures to you." Jiang Ruan''s voice was very light, but Hui Jue felt that his words were very heavy. She forced him to show his attitude directly. As soon as she clenched her teeth, Hui Jue said, "I''m willing to work for the princess." As soon as Jiang Ruan''s hand was loosened, the stick fell on the table. Jiang Ruan reached out and pulled out all the wooden sticks in the stick, carefully picked out one and put it in front of Hui Jue, saying, "what kind of stick is this?" Hui Jue was stunned, and looked at it and said, "sign, what does the princess ask for "This sign is not for me," Jiang Ruan said faintly. "It''s also a matter of state to ask for a home." Family affairs are also state affairs. Naturally, they are the affairs of the emperor''s family. Isn''t that the affairs of the harem? Huijue raised his head in doubt, and heard a soft voice: "my princess, it''s black in the east of the palace. I''m afraid something might have collided with the emperor. Please do a magic work to find Jiaolong. " Jiaolong is not a real dragon. It only jumps into the dragon''s gate, which means usurping power. Huijue''s eyebrows jump. Is this to slander people for being treacherous? What''s the matter with the Hougong? "To the east of the palace is the hall of dreams." Jiang Ruan said, "as for Jiaolong, it''s naturally a beautiful one." When Jiang Ruan''s voice fell, Hui Jue was stunned on the spot. The so-called harem interference in politics is a taboo in the world. The meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words is to give the empress the reputation of the imperial court. That person was even more extraordinary. The favorite imperial concubine Chen Guifei, who lives in Simeng hall, is the empress. She also has some scruples. Although huijue was in the palace, he was not ignorant of current affairs. In the end, I heard some rumors that the emperor did not like the current prince, and intended to change the crown prince. Xuanli, the eighth prince from imperial concubine Chen, and Xuanhua, the fifth prince from imperial concubine De, are the most popular. Xuanli, the eighth prince, seems to win more now.If you offend imperial concubine Chen, it''s not possible to offend the biological mother of the future crown prince, and it''s bound to cause him a lot of trouble. Master huijue frowned tightly and did not speak. "Has the master been unable to cope in recent years?" Jiang Ruan said lightly: "there are too many secrets to know what will happen in the future. If you are reluctant, the master can give up his position to other talented young people. In the world, there are thousands of Buddha''s children, not only the master can listen to the will of the Buddha." Jiang Ruan looked at him in his spare time: "it''s just a pity, young master. I don''t know if I will be so healthy after I leave the palace. " Every word of Jiang Ruan''s words touched huijue''s mind. Indeed, in the past three years, the emperor trusted him very much. He would try to ask him for his opinions on many things. On the letter given by Jiang Ruan, the consequences and the best solutions were all written, as if she had experienced them with her own eyes. Things were handled very well, and the emperor was more satisfied with him. His position as a national teacher was always very stable. However, three years have passed. The major events on the letter are only written about now, and then there is nothing left. Huijue himself is just a bluff. He doesn''t know how to see the eye of heaven. During this period of time, when the emperor asks him again, he can''t say anything. Zhi huijue has been wandering in the world for many years. He is very skillful in deception. In addition, what he said in the first three years is true. He fooled the emperor with an excuse. But in the long run, it is bound to cause doubt. Even if it does not cause doubt, he has no effect, and the emperor will not value him as before. If he left the palace, his youngest son cut off the precious medicinal materials in the palace, but he didn''t know what kind of situation he would be in the future. What''s more, he valued himself as a national teacher. He offended some people in the palace more or less, and unconsciously hindered some people''s eyes. Now the emperor''s trust is his life preserver. If he loses the emperor''s trust, maybe something unexpected will happen. The threats in Jiang Ruan''s words are all directed at Hui Jue''s weakness. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan was able to promote him to the position of national teacher, and naturally let others sit in this position. With her means and prophecy, this is a very simple thing. Hui Jue lowered his head slowly and said in a difficult voice: "please, Princess I''d like to raise your hand. " "I know what the master is worried about," Jiang Ruan suddenly approached him, and his voice was very low. "This position in the world must not be occupied by his eighth highness." Huijue suddenly raised his head and stared at Jiang Ruan. He couldn''t believe that he stayed where he was. He asked, "this...". And prophecy? " "Yes." Jiang Ruan light way. In fact, in the end of the last life, Xuanli captured the whole Dajin Dynasty, but in another life, she would never let it happen. Isn''t Chen Guifei going to keep a harmless posture in the palace? In front of the emperor, she showed no interest in seizing the throne, but now, she is not afraid to tear up the beauty skin ahead of time. What will happen when the mother and son, who are used to acting, are used to the name of harming the country? No matter how much the emperor dotes on a woman, he will never shake his country for her. Otherwise, at the end of the last life, the emperor would not begin to doubt Xuanli, and let Xuanli do it ahead of time. When master huijue looked at Jiang Ruan again, his eyes were not as free as before. It seemed that he had made an important decision. He asked softly, "what does the princess want to do?" "The master is very skillful. He obeys the will of the Buddha. Three days later, there will be a Dharma event in qintianjian. At that time, the Buddha gives down his will. There is a beautiful dragon lurking in the palace. Master, you should ensure that there is only one real dragon in the world." Her voice was low, with a strange charm. Huijue trembled and replied respectfully, "yes." After coming out with the Little Buddha Hall, Jiang Ruan planned to go back to the CI Ning Palace first, but he didn''t want to meet an unexpected guest on the way. This person green robe jade belt, far away to see her is a step stop, followed by a big step toward her. Tianzhu was wary of standing in front of Jiang Ruan, but the man who knew the rules stopped a few steps away from him and didn''t come forward. Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile and said, "Liu Taifu." Liu Min stares at Jiang Ruan tightly, and he doesn''t know what he wants to do. He met Jiang Ruan a few days ago, but he didn''t speak well because of Xiao Shao. Later, he always thinks about it. The man who thought he was a confidant turned out to be a woman. He looked at the picture hanging in his study for several days. There are many things to ask her, just saw Jiang Ruan unconsciously came over, he did not know what he wanted to do, a word also can not say. Dewdrop blinked. Liu Taifu was really a scholar. He was a dull scholar. After a pause, Liu Min said, "princess." It seemed that this sentence was too thin, so he thought of something: "you How are you doing? " Jiang Li has become a joke of the whole Jin Dynasty. Even what Jiang Li does will affect the sisters of the Jiang family. Although Liu Min knows that the relationship between Jiang''s family is complicated, he doesn''t think much about it. He only worries about whether Jiang Ruan''s reputation will be affected. She''s the daughter of the Chiang family again. She''ll be more or less shameless. Jiang Ruan replied: "thank you for your concern. I''m very happy." Liu Min was stunned and looked at Jiang Ruan carefully. She was beautiful as expected. Her eyebrows and eyes were gentle and smiling. She was as bright as ever. She didn''t look haggard. There was something complicated in her heart. How could such a thing happen? She was as comfortable as before. It can be seen that she has nothing to do, and he is relieved.Liu Min did not know why he had such a strange idea. He only felt that this woman had written a letter, and he regarded Jiang Ruan as his best friend in his heart. Friends should support each other. It''s normal for him to care so much. However, he had one more thing to ask. After a moment''s hesitation, he said, "Princess and Lord Xiao What''s the relationship? " Tianzhu frowned slightly, thinking that the Taifu was so annoying that he would tell his master when he turned back. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "Liu Taifu''s management is too broad." "You..." Liu Min''s face turned red. Jiang Ruan said it without any hesitation, which made him feel a little annoyed and temporarily blocked. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s smiling face, he couldn''t say any more words of criticism. He had to shake his sleeve and said angrily, "he''s not a good man." This time, even the dew frowned. Xiao Shao is the perfect uncle in her heart. What does this man say? Jiang Ruan knew what Liu Min meant. No matter which faction he was in, Xiao Shao never took part in it. No matter which faction he was in, he firmly believed that Xiao Shao was a "traitor". When the old king Jinying rebelled, it was the emperor''s great kindness that allowed Xiao Shao, a disorderly minister, to live to this day. However, his power became more and more powerful, and even the emperor did not pay attention to it. Even in the capital, he could be extremely arrogant. Liu Min is a direct minister, and his thought is very old-fashioned. He thinks that Xiao Shao is a disorderly minister without doubt. Knowing that he didn''t mean anything else, Jiang Ruan''s voice was a little chilly with a smile: "so what?" Liu Min''s white face was angry: "he will implicate you!" In Liu Min''s eyes, although Jiang Ruan is mysterious, he is a transparent person. When I communicated with him, I could see that Jiang Ruan was different from those shortsighted people. How can such a clean and honest man be mixed up with disorderly officials and thieves! "What is it to do with you?" With these words, Jiang Ruan''s smile also dissipated, and he looked at Liu Min lightly. Although he didn''t say anything, it made her feel angry for no reason. Liu Min stops. "So what" and "what''s the matter with you" are two sentences that directly show Jiang Ruan''s attitude. She wants to stand with Xiao Shao resolutely. Liu Min''s heart suddenly became agitated. He looked at Jiang Ruan with disappointment. Jiang Ruan looked at him and said, "when will Taifu be in charge of the prince''s homework. I have my own opinion about the princess, so don''t worry too much. If Taifu has a heart, he can take care of other things. There are so many things in the palace. Taifu can''t tolerate sand in his eyes. He has to work hard. " The irony in the words finally made Liu Min unable to stay any longer. He just felt that his good intentions were in vain, and he didn''t have time to figure out where his disappointment and irritability came from. He just said, "I''m stubborn." I just walked away. Jiang Ruan stood quietly in the same place, looking at Liu Min''s back. Dew looked at Jiang Ruan uneasily and said, "girl Is it not good to treat Liu Taifu like this? " Lu Zhu knew what happened when Jiang Ruan helped Liu Min win the first place. Although she didn''t know how Jiang Ruan did it, several of her maids knew that Jiang Ruan wanted to hold Liu Min high and become a help in the future. But just now what Jiang Ruan said, I don''t know what the arrogant Taifu will think. If the relationship is deadlocked, will it lose this help and become a big obstacle instead? "No harm. Liu Taifu is a good man. " Jiang Ruan light way. Good people are always soft hearted. Really something, read in the original friendship, Liu Min will not stand by. It''s just She dropped her eyes. What happened just now? She should not have paid attention to these meaningless arguments. Just talking about Xiao Shao, she couldn''t help getting angry. She frowned slightly, uneasy. Recently, this man appears more and more in ordinary days. It seems that his shadow is everywhere. Such an overbearing squeeze into the darkness of life, as if to purgatory to bring a ray of illusory sunlight, let people''s hearts born should not have reverie. If you don''t get revenge, if you have more concern, you will have more weakness. Besides, now she really has no mind to think about other things. Xiao Shao is not a thing in the pool. Now he is in the inner world, but one day, once he gets the chance, he will blow to the sky and make the world lose its luster. How dare she think of her decadent heart? A few people didn''t notice that not far behind the red pillar, there was a figure in splendid clothes standing far away. Xuanli has just heard all about the conversation, but now he has a little interest in it. Xiao Shao, Liu Min, this Hong''an princess is more than he imagined. I don''t want to talk about the relationship with Xiao Shao. I thought there was something wrong with these two people before. But what''s the matter with Liu Min? Is it hard for the arrogant court upstart to get involved with this princess Hong''an? Xuanli smiles a little, but things become interesting. Jiang Ruan is his favorite prey. How can he be hunted away. But now is not the time, you can check the details first. As for means Xuanli''s eyes were cold. Today, he has a thousand ways to make Jiang Ruan his bag. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 124 The palace is full of undercurrents, but the outside is peaceful. It''s just a big thing, and it''s just a way to add to the people''s conversation. While Jiang Li is talked about by people, another thing seems insignificant. In jingzhaoyin''s house, the former happy scene of hehele was changed, and it seemed a little heavy. The servant girls were very careful. It seemed that they were very afraid of any bad luck. Even at a glance, they could see that they were different from the past. Mr. Dong is smooth outside, but at heart she is an old-fashioned person. Fortunately, Mrs. Dong is a mild-natured person, so there is nothing bad in the house on weekdays, but in recent days she is a bit eccentric. The servant girl handed the small porcelain cup to Mrs. Dong, who was sitting in the courtyard in a trance: "madam, I want to taste the fresh golden bird''s nest in the small kitchen." "I''m not in the mood for this." Mrs. Dong pushed the porcelain cup aside, and her face was a bit worried: "what face does the Dong family have in Chang''s family after such things happen. The master is angry again. The girl Ying''er doesn''t know why. This time she is not so stubborn. She has done such a thing. Ah. " Dong Ying''er''s marriage to Chang''an, the third young master of the Chang family, was decided from an early age. He only waited until he was old enough to do it. The two children had a wonderful relationship when they were young. Dong and Chang were family friends. Mrs. Dong and Mrs. Chang were handkerchief friends when they were still in the boudoir. With this marriage, they are close to each other. Originally, he was going to have a wedding at the end of this year, but somehow, a few days ago, Dong Yinger suddenly said not to marry Chang''s family. At first, people thought that it was Dong Yinger who was shy when she was old enough to be a sensible man. She was just a willful nonsense, and didn''t pay attention to her words. But I don''t know that when Dong Ying''er himself came to Chang''an''s house, he told him that he already had a sweetheart and asked the Chang family to cancel the marriage. Chang''an, the third young master of the Chang family, is a kind-hearted man. Naturally, Dong Ying''er will not impose difficulties on others by saying so. When he comes back, he tells his family not to marry Dong Ying''er. Chang''s family is not stupid. It''s strange that Chang''an, who is so good, suddenly wants to give up his marriage. Somehow, he knows the whole story from Chang''an''s mouth, and immediately sends someone to find Jing Zhaoyin''s house. Mr. Dong is very angry when he knows about it. Mrs. Dong loves her daughter and apologizes for her. She only says that it''s a child who doesn''t know what to do. She takes Dong Yinger out and apologizes to the Chang family. Who knows, Dong Ying''er said in front of Chang''s family that she already had a sweetheart, but she was determined and had no chance to turn around. This action is almost without hesitation in the face of Chang''s family. In a fit of anger, Mrs. Chang cancelled the marriage certificate, withdrew the Geng tie, and broke off with Mrs. Dong. The two families will be strangers in the future. Mr. Dong has been in the officialdom all his life. He is smart and considerate. He has a reputation for being incorruptible and has always had a good relationship with the upper and lower levels. However, he has been discredited by his daughter. Even if you love Dong Ying''er again, this time you are really angry. When Dong Ying''er is locked up, Dong Ying''er is determined not to admit his mistake. The relationship between father and daughter is getting worse. It seems that Mrs. Dong is in a dilemma. Thinking of these things, Mrs. Dong could not help but have a headache. Looking at the small porcelain cup, she thought that Dong Yinger had eaten very little these days, and then said, "take it to Yinger''s room, and I''ll see her." When she arrived at Dong Yinger''s room, she happened to see Dong Yinger sitting in front of the desk, looking at the rice paper on the desk. She was not even aware that Mrs. Dong came in. Mrs. Dong walked over and saw two lines of poems written on the rice paper: Linglong sieve and an Hongdou, missing each other to the bone. Mrs. Dong is both distressed and angry. Originally, which girl is not pregnant. Dong Ying''er is now at an age when she is easily attracted. If she is someone else, it''s OK, but she has an engagement. Besides, it''s really crazy. But after all, Mrs. Dong loved her daughter and ordered her servant girl to bring up the porcelain cup and said, "Yinger." Dong Ying''er recovered. Seeing Mrs. Dong coming, she said with a smile: "Niang." When Mrs. Dong looked at her, her eyes turned red, and tears came again. But in a few days, Dong Ying''er had already lost a big circle, where was he still pretty and charming. I look very haggard. "Have something to eat." Mrs. Dong picked up the bird''s Nest: "look at you, you are so thin. I''ll apologize to your father later. Your father won''t blame you." Dong Ying''er turned his head and said: "I don''t apologize, mother. I didn''t do anything wrong. Is it difficult to marry someone you don''t love? What''s the point of living that life? Chang''an is a good man. I already have a sweetheart. How can I miss him? " Mrs. Dong stares at her, and when she looks at Dong Yinger stubbornly, she is defeated and says: "you child Who on earth is that person that can make you think so? Good, how can you get involved with a girl who has an engagement? If he had been a good man, he would not have done such a rude thing "He''s a great hero!" Hearing that Mrs. Dong said so about her sweetheart, Dong Ying''er quickly refuted: "he is the youngest hero of the Dajin Dynasty, not a bad man. Niang, don''t prejudice him." Mrs. Dong frowned: "what''s the youngest hero of Dajin dynasty? Do you like the general? " Dong Ying''er turned his head, bit his lower lip and stopped talking. Seeing her like this, Mrs. Dong felt powerless. Then he put the porcelain cup on the table and said in a blunt tone: "in that case, you have an idea in your heart, and you can''t listen to me. It''s just over there. " Then he stood up.Dong Ying''er''s maid stood up to see her off. When she arrived at the entrance of the courtyard, Mrs. Dong did not see Dong Ying''er''s figure. She looked at her maid and said sternly, "you are Ying''er''s maid. Wherever she goes, you must know. Now Ying''er has this matter, you can''t blame her." The maid was startled, knelt down and said, "it''s the maid who didn''t take good care of the young lady. Please punish her." "Ask me to punish you?" Mrs. Dong is always gentle and kind, but it''s about Dong Yinger. For a moment, she seems a little angry: "I''ll find someone to sell you. The cheaper you sell, the better. What do you think?" "No." The cheaper you sell, the better you will be. If you sell to the most inferior kilns, you will receive customers all day long. Isn''t life like death. The maid was so frightened that she trembled all over her body: "madam, I''ll go around the maid once, and the maid will never dare again." Mrs. Dong looked at her coldly: "since you don''t want to be sold, you will tell me everything you know. Who is the man Yinger said? And by what means did he confuse her? " The maid was seized by Mrs. Dong, and she didn''t dare to hide anything. Now she finished the whole story. After hearing this, Mrs. Dong trembled with anger: "how could I have such a daughter! Confused! Confused Mrs. Dong did not expect that Dong Ying''er''s sweetheart was Jiang Xinzhi, the youngest God of war in the great Jin Dynasty. The maid didn''t dare to lie. It seems that Jiang Xinzhi didn''t do anything. It was Dong Yinger''s wishful thinking. Every woman always has to have a face. Dong Ying''er pastes it recklessly. Mrs. Dong, who comes from a famous family and abides by the etiquette, only feels ashamed. Dong Ying''er is in such a deep trap now, but he doesn''t know that this is an impossible marriage. Not to mention that Jiang Xinzhi has no intention of Dong Yinger now, it is difficult for Dong Yinger to marry Jiang Xinzhi in identity. Who is Jiang Xinzhi? In recent years, he has repeatedly defeated the enemy. The defeat of Tianjin is a matter of time. On the day when the class teacher returns to the imperial court, Jiang Xinzhi is the greatest hero. The emperor never grudged promotion of capable people. At that time, Jiang Xinzhi''s status was rising. There were countless families who wanted to get close to him. What was a little Jing Zhaoyin? Dong Ying''er is so stubborn that he can only make a side room for Jiang Xinzhi. But when a pretty girl goes to be a concubine, doesn''t she want to laugh off everyone? Besides, although Dong Yinger was self willed since childhood, she was still a bit arrogant in her heart. I''m afraid that if she knew the ending, she would not be able to bear it. Mrs. Dong only felt that her head was in a mess. After a few words of abuse in her heart, she could only think of going to Mr. Dong to discuss future affairs. This matter is of great importance and can not go with Dong Yinger. Among the close friends in the boudoir, Dong Ying''er''s condition is totally different, but Lin Tai Shi''s family is very happy recently. Lin Tai Shi''s treatment of Lin Zixiang these days is too good, which makes Lin Zixiang a little strange. Her father has always been an old-fashioned person. Although he loves her, he is strict and never dotes on her. These days, however, she frequently bought some clothes and jewelry for her, which is not too frugal. Lin Zixiang was a sensitive man, so he went to ask what happened to Mrs. Lin, and Mrs. Lin could not tell why. Lin Zixiang''s mind was clear. Although he was strange, he soon left the matter behind. She only talks about when to go to play with Jiang Ruan. Since Jiang Li''s accident, Jiang Ruan and she haven''t seen each other for a long time. Lin Zixiang feels bored and thinks that several little sisters should get together from time to time. In the study, master Lin is talking to Mrs. Lin. Mrs. Lin scolded and said: "it''s all your fault. It''s too obvious these days. Xiang''er asked me what happened today? Master Lin stroked his beard and said, "madam, I am very happy. At the thought that Xiang''er didn''t have to jump into the fire pit, I was very happy. It''s also my father''s incompetence. I couldn''t think of any way at the beginning. If it hadn''t been for such an accident, I would have watched my daughter in dire straits. I''m really ashamed. " At this point, master Lin showed a sense of loss. As early as more than a month ago, imperial concubine Chen sent someone to tell him about Lin Zixiang''s marriage. She wanted to give Lin Zixiang to the third prince Xuanyou. All the people in the Jin Dynasty know who Xuanyou is. If Lin Zixiang married Xuanyou, his life would be ruined. But Chen Guifei threatened the whole Lin family. Chen Guifei always had a good face in front of the emperor. At that time, when she said that a daughter of Jing Zhaoyin didn''t look up to the position of imperial concubine, she would inevitably make the emperor angry. In a dilemma, whenever he saw Lin Zixiang''s defenseless face, master Lin felt that his heart was like a knife, but he couldn''t find a way to avoid it. Those days were really depressing. Lin Zixiang was also a smart man. He noticed that he was in a low mood and often asked what was wrong with him. Seeing that the day is getting closer and closer, master Lin has been forced to the end of his life. Unexpectedly, something like this happened to Jiang Li''s marriage. The next day, Xuanyou was in a different place. If you know who killed Xuanyou, master Lin will come to thank you personally. Now Lin Zixiang doesn''t have to marry into the third prince''s house, and he doesn''t have to be buried in the fire for the rest of his life. Every time he thinks about it, master Lin feels that he has a lingering fear. In addition, I feel that I am a father but I can''t help my daughter''s marriage. I feel shame and regret in my heart. These days, I''m not trying my best to compensate Lin Zixiang. But I don''t want Lin Zixiang''s behavior to fall into his eyes. It''s very strange.When Mrs. Lin saw that master Lin thought of these things again, she sighed and said, "how can I blame master Lin? It''s all God''s will. God is helping Xiang''er in our family. If Xiang''er is not allowed to marry in those pickled places, it means that Xiang''er is blessed. " Master Lin nodded: "yes, Xiang''er is blessed." In Jinying palace, Xiao Shao will finish reading the letter in his hand, and then put the letter paper aside on the oil lamp fire. He called Jin Yi and Jin Er and said, "there has been no change in Beijing recently. You should pay attention to the news in southern Xinjiang. These people can''t restrain themselves. They are afraid of cheating." Jinyi and Jiner bowed their heads and said yes. After a pause, Xiao Shao asked, "has Chen Liang''s affairs been done?" "It''s done." Speaking of this, Jin Er said: "enough to add a good time to the old fox." "The general''s mansion and the master want to go together," Jin Yi''s expression remains unchanged, and he says calmly: "they did it first." Jin Er blinked: "master, do you want to tell Shao Princess If Jiang Ruan thought that Zhao Guang and them had done it, wouldn''t he have been robbed of the credit again? "No need." Xiao Shao light way. Expected answer, brocade two immediately like a vent gas of the ball, the lack of interest to see a look at Xiao Shao, and brocade a retreat. After Jin Yi and Jin Er left, Jin San came in again and told Xiao Shao what he had told him. Seeing Xiao Shao''s focus on business, he raised an interesting smile and said deliberately: "I met Tianzhu today. The princess is not very peaceful in the palace these days." Xiao Shaotou did not lift: "what''s the matter?" "Liu Taifu has found her again." Jin three in the heart suppress smile, on the face is still a school of serious. Xiao Shao''s hands moved, and finally raised his head. His dark eyes glittered with some strange brilliance, as if he were not worried: "what do you do?" "Liu Taifu is very concerned about the princess. After asking about the situation of the princess today, he also asked about the relationship between the princess and the master." Jin Sany said seriously: "Liu Taifu wants the princess to stay away from the master." Xiao Shao put down the scroll in his hand, and his beautiful face seemed to be coated with a layer of ice. He said faintly, "he''s very broad." Light floating words, but it is really clear that at present this ye mood is really not refreshing. Jin three eyebrows a jump, busy way: "isn''t it, the princess also says so.". But that Liu Taifu is unreasonable, Leng is dead bite the master not to put, the princess and she had a big fight, gas Liu Taifu gas rushed away Brocade three side said while observing Xiao Shao''s face, sure enough, Xiao Shao listen to brocade three finish, the facial expression eased some, not as cold as just Qinren. As a close subordinate, it''s natural to understand the master''s mind. Jin San said: "it can be seen that the princess still thinks the master is very important in her heart, and the relationship with the master can''t be provoked by anyone." I''m sorry, Mr. Taifu. Although you are a good judge in the court, the young lady is the master''s son. There is a blank in our master''s affairs. I''m afraid that you won''t be able to enlighten me all your life. Jin Sanyi''s words are quite in Xiao Shao''s mind. Xiao Shao''s cold and hard expression is more and more soft. It seems that he thinks of something. There is a smile in his eyes, which makes his beautiful face even more beautiful. Kam San silently looked away. He had known that his master had been born well. Now with the moistening of the young lady, he became more and more picturesque. He was absolutely gorgeous in the world. Xiao Shao light way: "I know." "Master, would you like to go to the palace in person?" Xiao Shao was in a good mood, and Jin San was more courageous. He boldly suggested: "the princess and you haven''t seen each other for several days. It''s said that one day''s absence is like three autumn. The relationship needs to be maintained all the time. Besides, a woman''s heart should be softer. In case Liu Taifu goes to the princess to apologize in a few days, the princess will be softhearted for a while, and the relationship between them will get better. How can the master deal with himself? " In private, the royal guards put more emphasis on their master''s life than anything else. This year, Xiao Shao was used to having a good girl. Naturally, the royal guards wanted to help his master win the first chance and recognize the situation. Xiao Shao frowned, thinking of Liu Min''s appearance of holding on to Jiang Ruan last time, he was slightly displeased. Although I know that Jiang Ruan is not a "soft hearted" person in Jin San''s mouth, she helped Liu Min at the beginning, so it''s hard to avoid some friendship. Thinking of a person who was not familiar with him to take his place, Xiao Shao felt more depressed. When Jin San saw that his goal had been achieved, he whispered: "master, I''ll go down first. I have one last sentence. If we make the relationship between Liu Taifu and the princess better, what the master and the princess can do, Liu Taifu can do for the princess. " No matter what reaction Xiao Shao made, he slipped out first. Xiao shaozheng is in the same place. What can Liu Min do with Jiang Ruan? In front of my eyes, I can''t help but see someone who was crossing the spring breeze that day. He pulled him on his body fiercely. There was a soft and fragrant touch on his lips, a moment''s heart and the fragrance of summer. He was at a loss when he rubbed and rubbed on his body, but he couldn''t do it. The young man''s white face flushed slightly. After a moment, he seemed to think of something, and then he became iron green. He suddenly stood up. How dare Liu Min do such a thing?This is the first day of the manuscript box www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 125 In the temple of dreams in the palace, imperial concubine Chen leans on the couch, but no longer looks like a leisurely dust. When the multicolored complexion is half beaten, it is thrown aside at will. The complicated silk thread entangles her and makes her tired. "Lao Chen, how about father''s side?" Chen Guifei pressed her forehead and said. Mr. Chen bowed his head: "my husband''s side. just so so. In recent days, the Ministry of accounts and the Ministry of war are trying to fight each other, and my husband is also very angry. " Chen Guifei smashed a snow jade vase in front of her: "Zhao Guang, that old man!" In recent days, Chen Guogong has been dealing with many problems. Even with his toes, he can think that it must be Zhao Guang''s handwriting. The Ministry of accounts and the Ministry of arms have some friendship with the general''s office. In particular, some of them are stubborn. They used to like to be antagonistic to the Chen family. These days, they are not normal. They must have been instigated by Zhao Guang. Mr. Chen frowned, but he didn''t agree with her. He hesitated and said, "according to the slave, it may not be the hand of the general''s house." "Oh?" Chen Guifei looked at him askance: "besides, who dares to trip Chen family so blatantly?" Only a group of stubborn soldiers in the general''s mansion would fight against the government everywhere. I don''t think that her son will be the one in the future. It''s as simple as crushing an ant to kill the general''s mansion. "The general''s office has always been direct and reckless, but it has not been considered. According to my husband''s words, the gestures of these accidents are neat and aggressive. Now the lady is just suspicious, but she has nothing to do. The people in the general''s mansion don''t have such scheming. The slave dares to guess that it''s the hand of his royal highness King Jinying. " Mr. Chen said. "King Jin Ying?" Chen Guifei''s voice suddenly sharpened. She was not as gentle as usual. She was a little excited unconsciously: "impossible!" After a while, she said, "King Jinying has always been neutral in the court. For no reason, why should he fight against the Chen family?" Mr. Chen sighed. Is king Jinying really neutral? After all his years in the palace, Chen Guifei is a woman. If a woman wants to understand the situation in the court, she is weak. Although Xiao Shao got the title of "disorderly minister and thief", the emperor attached great importance to Xiao Shao, but he didn''t want to treat a disorderly minister as an evil. Although I don''t know why, these years Xiao Shao seems to be outside the imperial court and not partial to the gang. In fact, his influence is unfathomable. Who can know his mind? A few days ago, Xiao Shao was very devoted to the eldest daughter of the Jiang family. Chen Guifei took the hand. Since Xiao Shao ordered people to send Xuanyou''s head over, that was to show his attitude. He wanted to protect Jiang Ruan. In this way, to suppress the Chen family is to vent her anger on Princess Hong''an? Chen Gonggong can think of, Chen Guifei naturally can think of, stay for a while, she gradually calmed down. As soon as she thought of Xiao Shao''s attack on the Chen family for Jiang Ruan''s sake, she felt a sense of depression. Cruel voice way: "good a Jiang Ruan, unexpectedly make Jin Ying King treat each other!" Duke Chen bowed his head and didn''t speak. Princess Chen had a deep heart in the palace. As a close eunuch, Duke Chen knew his secret mind. Since knowing that Xiao Shao had a good relationship with Jiang Ruan, imperial concubine Chen often lost her manners, which was not a good thing for her. He has the heart to raise a point, but Chen Guifei always has an idea, and will not listen to his words. The people who make people lose their manners are staying in a corner of the palace. The palace is full of people with ulterior motives, which Jiang Ruan had learned in his last life. In this life, she became a princess, and the concubines who stepped on her would hold her when they saw her. Jiang Ruan himself didn''t care much about these things. He only thought that everyone in Jiang''s house was ugly and there were many murders in the palace, but it was hard to find a clean place. The Empress Dowager knew that Jiang Ruan liked to be quiet, so she cleaned up the side hall before Princess Yuanrong left the house and let Jiang Ruan live in it. It''s convenient for her to do so. What''s more, the Empress Dowager Yide''s way of doing it makes those people in the palace think more deeply, thinking that now Princess Hong''an is really the face of the Empress Dowager. After Jiang Ruan lived there, he didn''t change anything. What he had looked like before, but what he still looks like now. Although the Empress Dowager Yide looked at the desolation, in fact, she never put down her premature daughter. Even after many years, things were as clean as new. Dewdrop and Tianzhu take care of them with them. After Tianzhu''s wound is healed, she practices martial arts more frequently every day, and carries a large concealed weapon with her to prevent emergencies. Dew went out to pick flowers early in the morning, but it didn''t go out long before it came back. Tianzhu asked, "where are the flowers?" Dew empty hands, scratching his head, stuttered: "flowers...". Hua, girl, here comes Mr. Xiao. " Jiang Ruan almost spewed out a mouthful of tea. If he did, he saw a figure flashing behind the dew, black brocade and silver belt. Who is Xiao Shao? Tianzhu was also stunned. Dew touched her nose. She was very ashamed and said, "girl, I can''t stop you." With dewdrop''s ability, it''s impossible to stop Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan put down his book and said, "I know." Dew toward Tianzhu squeeze squeeze eyes, Tianzhu busy way: "maidservant who first retreat." Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak, he left with dewdrop. When the door is closed, Jiang Ruan stares at the figure of the two servant girls who leave without hesitation. He is annoyed in his heart. These two people don''t pay more attention to her now. His eyes fell on the handsome young man in front of him. Is he crazy? How can he be seen when he enters the palace like this? Besides, he is more and more comfortable in the same room now.Xiao Shao didn''t see Jiang Ruan''s expression, so he went to sit down in front of Xiaoji. After a pause, he took out a bag of things from his arms and put it on the table. "What?" "Wound medicine." Xiao Shao said: "there is no Yuji ointment. If you apply it with this herbal medicine, it won''t leave scars." Jiang Ruan was stunned, but he didn''t think that he was here to deliver the medicine. He didn''t know what to say. Xiao Shao quietly frowned, in fact, he is not to send medicine, but listen to the words of Jin three, don''t know how to come here. Fortunately, he didn''t see Liu Min, which made him feel better. Silent, he said: "the new girl selection is about to start, Jiang Quan prepared a portrait of Jiang Dan." Xiao Shao felt cold again when he thought of the spies coming back to report back what Jiang Quan had said in the mansion. Jiang Quan said that if Jiang Ruan had not been a princess now, it would have been her best to enter the palace. In the emperor''s draft, he pointed out that he wanted one from the Jiang family. Jiang Su Su was his most beloved daughter, so she could not suffer. Jiang Li and Jiang Dan are also common women. Since Jiang Ruan has the name of her own daughter, Jiang Fu should repay her for so many years. However, the fate is unpredictable. Now that Jiang Ruan GUI is a princess, he can''t go back to the palace. Jiang Su Su''s reputation is so bad that he won''t allow the royal family to slap him in the face like this. Jiang Li has already married. After all, there is only one Jiang Dan who can use it. As a last resort, I had to hand in the portrait of Jiang Dan. Xiao Shao frowned. He knew that Jiang Ruan''s life in Jiang''s house was not easy. Otherwise, he would not have been sent to Chuang Tzu just after his mother died. However, it never occurred to him that Jiang Quan was so cruel that he treated his own daughter like that. Jiang Ruan said: "the fourth sister is going to enter the palace. It''s good to think that with her ability, she can have a good future in the palace." Jiang Dan, who is used to being humble and ruthless, is the most hateful. Such people are most suitable for living in the palace. With a smile on Jiang Ruan''s face, Jiang Quan personally released a wolf cub, but he didn''t know that some of them would be killed by a wolf in the future. Xiao Shao took a look at her and said, "now, imperial concubine Chen sees you as an eyesore. I''ll leave the two brocades and three brocades with you." Jiang Ruan was stunned. To tell the truth, this is undoubtedly very touching. After the last incident, she had already thought about it. Although she seems to have the upper hand now, she can''t compete with imperial concubine Chen. Besides, she doesn''t have the ability to rely on her, and she doesn''t have the ability to deploy troops. If she comes here hard, she may not be able to get benefits. It''s hard to avoid that one person in Tianzhu is not enough. If there are two or three jins in Tianzhu, at least if something happens, they can find a way to deliver the news, which is also a guarantee. Owing too much to Xiao Shao, Jiang Ruan hesitated and said, "I have a question for you." Xiao Shao looked at her with some doubts. "What did you mean when you said you owed me my life?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao was stunned. He pursed his lips unnaturally. There was a trace of blush on his face. His cold expression also showed a rare embarrassment. Originally, it was nothing, but now when Jiang Ruan said that, he didn''t know how to speak. "Forget it." Just as he was about to speak, Jiang Ruan''s voice said: "now is not the time to pursue this. Thank you, Xiao Shao She has always been the "Lord Xiao" on the left and the "Lord Xiao" on the right, but now she no longer calls the title of strange and alienated, but calls "Xiao Shao" directly. This should have been unreasonable and even presumptuous. But Xiao Shao had a strange feeling in his Inexplicable heart, as if a small stone had been put into the calm pool of his ability, and there were some tiny ripples. It never occurred to me that speaking these two words from her mouth was different from hearing them from others. Jiang Ruan saw that he didn''t speak and looked up. He just saw a smile in his cold star like eyes. He was stunned and said, "what''s the matter with you?" "Nothing." Xiao Shao is in a good mood. After thinking about it, she takes out a bracelet from her arms and gives it to her. The bracelet emits a faint blue light, which is exactly the previous blood moon bracelet. Xiao Shao explained: "it''s filled with needles again and quenched with poison." He thought so thoughtfully, Jiang Ruan took it over, looked at it carefully, said thank you again, it was superfluous, and put it on his wrist directly. Xiao Shao lowered his eyes. In fact, he could do little for Jiang Ruan. If the royal guards go out, they will die. He didn''t want to entangle with the court hall. If he really wanted to fight, he would surely hit the whole court. Chen''s family had no life. He can kill people, but Jiang Ruan may not like it. There was too much darkness in her eyes. Only by cutting the enemy with her hand could the darkness be completely washed away with blood. Outside the door, Dewdrop''s eyes widened in surprise: "Lord Xiao asked you to protect the girl?" Brocade two hands embrace chest, good at the dew: "yes, little girl, we have to play in the future." God knows that since the last time the dew did not hesitate to kick his lifeblood, he was very upset. Xiao Shao originally asked Jin Yi Jin San to guard Jiang Ruan. He was surprised and asked to change the task, but it was not for revenge. Dew "bah" A: "shameless! How could lord Xiao send you to protect the girl? Would it be nice if you could protect your life? Protecting girls? DreamBrocade two almost a mouthful of blood gush out, his magnificent royal guards, elegant, unexpectedly was a little girl said "little white face". This girl is so smart that she is much more fierce than those female secret guards in the royal guards. She looks like a little rogue in the market! As soon as his face changed, he suddenly lowered his head close to the dewdrop and said with a smile, "what''s a little white face? It''s better than your bean sprouts." Jin Er''s life is not bad at all. Dewdrop is just a teenage girl. When she saw Jin * Jin''s smile, she blushed. When she heard him say this, her nose was almost crooked. Without hesitation, she kicked her. This time, Jin Er was ready. She grabbed her foot and said, "don''t be so rude Be careful not to get married in the future. " "Go away! "I''m a disciple!" Dew breath, backhand is a slap in the past. Brocade two just grasped the leg of dewdrop, don''t want the woman''s mind is always enigmatic, such a slap is knot solid solid get on. The little leader of the Royal Guards was beaten in the face by a servant girl who didn''t know anything about martial arts? burning shame and humiliation! Jin Er was also impatient: "who is the apprentice? It''s not up to you to get on. Your small body of firewood stick is despised by me!" Jin San and Tian Zhu stand on one side. Tian Zhu is calm, but Jin San is very happy. He lifts his long hair, and his eyes are full of the look of watching a good play: "tut Tut, the servant girl beside the young lady is really extraordinary. It''s rare to see Jin Er eat so shriveled, so Jin Si should come to have a look." She turned her eyes and thought, I feel that the arrival of the young lady makes the whole spring of the royal guards come. Different from the lightness and pleasure in this corner of the palace, some places are full of Yin. For example Doctor''s house. In the room in the yard, Jiang Li sat quietly on the chair, and the servant girl put the medicine on the table, twisted her waist and said, "madam, I''ve taken the medicine." The maid was dressed in a peach red jacket. Her waist was not full. Her make-up was delicate, which made her more tender. Her attitude was not very respectful. She put the medicine bowl on the table and looked at the people on the bed. She said in a flattering voice: "madam, you''d better eat it earlier. The saving master will look back and make trouble again." Jiang Li took a hard look at her and said in a hoarse voice, "get out of here for me." The servant girl gave her a white look. She was not very respectful. Fu went out. Before she left, she whispered: "what''s the matter? I really think I''m the mistress of the doctor''s house. It''s just a broken shoe..." The voice if there is no spread to the ears of Jiang Li, Jiang Li impatient, the hands of the medicine bowl suddenly hit the ground! "Bitch!" The servant girl was the dowry girl she had brought from Jiang''s house. However, the incident happened within a few days after her wedding. Zuojiang hated him, but the servant girl took the opportunity to climb Zuojiang''s bed. If she had not been pregnant, she would have carried her to be his aunt immediately! Pregnant with the body, Jiang Li a tragic smile, eyes fell on the ground that bowl of broken stillbirth pills, into the house not long before pregnant with the body, this is a great good thing, but, it happened that after such a thing. The child in her stomach, I don''t know whether it is Zuojiang''s or the third prince Xuanyou''s. No matter Zuo Jiang''s or Xuan you''s, she doesn''t dare to let him go. She has to protect the kind in her stomach. The heavenly family is the most irritating, and the people in the left family also know this truth. They fed her tocolysis, but they abused him. Old lady Zuo longed that she would die at once, which ruined Zuo Jiang''s future and reputation. Zuojiang, needless to say, looks at her every day just like an enemy. That man is the devil, looking gentle, but changing the pattern of torture her. Jiang Li bleak smile, how can become like this? It shouldn''t be like this. She was struggling to find out the bronze mirror from her pillow. The person in the mirror was haggard. She was clearly a young girl, but she was just like a 30-year-old woman. Skin withered and yellow, thin out of shape, a pair of eyes dim, embedded in the bony face, a look will make people tired, where there was once flying beautiful appearance. She threw the mirror to the ground in disgust, whimpering. I thought that if I married into the doctor''s house, I would become an official wife, trample on other people, and get rid of the identity of common girl. But now a servant girl can bully her! It shouldn''t be like this. It should have been Jiang Dan''s life. Jiang Li shrinks her body into a ball. If she hadn''t robbed Jiang Dan of his marriage, it would be Jiang Dan who married to the doctor''s house now, and it would be Jiang Dan who was so devastated. She thought she had robbed a happy marriage, but it was the way to the yellow spring! She hated Jiang Dan and Zuojiang, Xuanyou, her servant girl, and Jiang Ruan who caused everything today. Nowadays, giving birth to a child is also a dead word. What''s more, she doesn''t want to give birth to this villain who represents humiliation. Jiang Li''s eyes exuded a trace of fanatical light, if she died, the belly of the child also died, the royal family will not let go of the doctor''s office, Zuo Jiang will also be unable to lift his head. If so, if so, it could be much better than now. At least it could make the doctor''s house unhappy and Zuojiang unhappy. She felt a little happy in her heart. She rolled out of bed, picked up the broken porcelain, murmured: "if there is an afterlife, I will not let you go..." the next day of the manuscript box www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 126 In the Princess Palace where Jiang Ruan lived, an unexpected guest came early in the morning. Dewdrop lifted the curtain and looked at Jiang Ruan who had just finished washing and got up. She said, "girl, beauty Wang has come to send tomorrow''s qintianjian''s clothes." The women''s family members of the Imperial Palace also had to take part in the affairs of the imperial court, and they were also very particular about their clothes. However, they were all sent by the people of siyisi. It was the first time that the emperor''s concubines sent them. Although it doesn''t interfere with the rules, this attitude is too warm. Dewdrop obviously also thinks like this, way: "maidservant remembers a girl to have no friendship with this Wang beauty." Jiang Ruan opened the blanket beside him and said, "what do you think of beauty Wang?" "It''s nice to see him, and he''s very straightforward." Dewdrop thought, "but there is nothing to be gallant about. Girl, you''d better be careful. " Jiang Ruan light smile: "you know good." Although dewdrop is clever, she is good-natured. She doesn''t know where the palace is. If we say that the wolf cave was in Chiang''s mansion, it is like a tiger''s den in the imperial palace. How can a lamb live in a tiger''s den? For example, this beauty Wang, she slowly evokes a smile. After many years of parting, she doesn''t know what it''s like to see you again. "Let''s go and meet this beauty Wang." When Fang went to the front hall, he heard a cheerful voice: "Princess Hong''an." Jiang Ruan looked up and saw the maid in waiting on a young woman, twisting gold and silver threads, sliding silk brocade skirt and wearing a fringed bun. It is neither cumbersome nor plain. A beautiful face is bright and natural, but the smile is as sincere as fire. It''s easy to make people feel good about her. I just feel that she is penetrating and straightforward. The woman looked at Jiang Ruan, stood up and gave a salute, and said with a smile: "I knew that the beauty of the princess was unparalleled. I thought that the clothes used to do the ritual were too plain. Seeing the elegant demeanor of the princess, I thought that I was afraid that the color of the dress could be spread by the princess." If a woman doesn''t like to boast about her appearance, she will be close to her if she is changed. Only Jiang Ruan lightly looked at her and said with a gentle smile, "beauty Wang doesn''t have to be polite." It was Sheng Sheng who turned away, as if he had not heard the enthusiastic praise. Beauty Wang was stunned, but she didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would react like this. Her eyebrows wrinkled and soon spread out. Jiang Ruan sat down on the soft couch, and Wang Meiren also sat down. She told the maid of honor to take the small wooden box with clothes and said, "these are the clothes sent by the Siyi hall. When I go back, I want to pass by, so I bring them to the princess. The Princess won''t blame me for meddling in my business, will she?" A trace of disdain flashed in dewdrop''s eyes. She came from the market and knew the way very well. After a few days in the palace, she found out what kind of master she lived in. The courtyard where Wang Meiren lives is thousands of miles away from here. By the way? I''m lying to ghosts. "How can I blame beauty Wang for her kindness?" Jiang Ruan is not salty and indifferent. It seems that she didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan was a prick. She didn''t want to eat hard or soft. If someone else, she wouldn''t be so alienated. Wang Meiren couldn''t think of any way to offend the princess. It should be Jiang Ruan''s own temperament. She pauses and laughs: "what do you call such a student? I''m a few years older than the princess. If the princess doesn''t dislike me, how about calling her sister? When the princess looks at it like this, it''s really the same as the little sister in the concubine''s house. " Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile: "beauty Wang, the ceremony can''t be abolished." After taking a sip of the tea from dewdrop and seeing the wonderful expression on Wang Meiren''s face, Jiang Ruan said, "I have only one elder brother, but my elder sister doesn''t have one." Wang Meiren clenched her fist tightly and said with a very reluctant smile: "it''s my abrupt body..." Jiang Ruan smiles and doesn''t speak, which makes Wang Meimei feel more and more at a loss. Everyone in the Palace said that she was frank and sincere. Most of the concubines were friendly and considerate with her. Unexpectedly, she met Jiang Ruan today. She looked at Jiang Ruanjiao''s good face, and a trace of jealousy flashed in her eyes. Dewdrop was also a little strange. Although Jiang and Ruan were indifferent and alienated, they would not be so obvious on the surface. In the end, they would leave three points of room. It''s the first time to face a strange concubine like today. Jiang Ruan put the lid on the edge of the cup again, and his mind was full of the past. This beauty Wang is also a capable person in the palace. Among all the Yingyan, her beauty is only medium, and she has no influence. However, she has achieved the goal of being a beauty by means of flattery. At the beginning, she was named beauty Ruan, and beauty Wang specially came to congratulate her. Later, she was left out in the cold. When other concubines came to step on her feet, only beauty Wang comforted her every day. She once regarded beauty Wang as a trustworthy person, until one day Peier was seriously ill. She went to ask for the imperial doctor to treat her, but she overheard beauty Wang telling the people in the imperial hospital not to pay attention. It was beauty Wang who saw that she was beautiful. She was afraid that one day she would win the upper hand. People in the Palace used to step down and hold high, one in front of the other and the other in the back. Beauty Wang is a confidant on her face, but she stabbed her in the back without hesitation.I just don''t know what happened to her last life? But now I look at the person I used to think I could trust, but I feel that every move is a poor performance. I feel disgusted when I see it, and I don''t even have the heart to accompany the performance. Beauty Wang is a figure in the palace. How could she ever have such a cold face for no reason? Seeing that Jiang Ruan has always been indifferent, she hated her secretly, but she didn''t continue to insult herself. She stood up and said, "now the dress concubine has been sent to the palace. The Princess will have a look. If there''s anything wrong, I''ll go back and ask the people in the Siyi palace to change it." "No need," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "I can trust the clothes that beauty Wang has personally worn." This words originally said nothing, but Wang Meiren felt that there seemed to be some special meaning in that words. She subconsciously went to see Jiang Ruan, and was facing Jiang Ruan''s bright eyes. There seemed to be some slight irony in her eyes, which surprised Wang Meiren. She said, "so, I''ll leave first." Jiang Ruan glanced at her lightly, but he didn''t get up to see her off. He only told dewdrop, "dewdrop, send Wang Meiren." After Wang Meiren left, Jiang Ruan opened the small wooden box on the table and picked up a palace Satin snow silk skirt from inside. When qintianjian was doing rituals, his clothes were divided into several grades according to their grades. They were all too bright and gorgeous. It''s also plain. If Jiang Susu saw it, she would like it very much. It''s just because it makes her white flower look more beautiful and beautiful. And Jiang Ruan She threw her clothes to Tianzhu: "what''s wrong with it?" Tianzhu put her clothes under her nose, sniffed them, frowned slightly, thought for a while, went to one side, picked up an oil lamp, and lit it with a fire fold. Then I smoked my clothes on the oil lamp for a while. After a while, I saw that the white clothes gradually showed a red color. More and more red, like the blood leached from the cloth, is more and more frightening. Jiang Ruan was not surprised, only asked: "what is this?" "The more fragrant it is, the more red it is." Tianzhu lengdao. Jiang Ruan suddenly nodded. When Emperor qintianjian was doing rituals, it was inevitable that there would be a little fragrance. As soon as the green fragrance was lit up in the hall, her clothes would shed such a bloody red color, and she would be locked up as a demon. The result can be imagined. It has to be said that this kind of thing is extremely insidious, and the emperor has always attached importance to it. If we make an article about it, we can really kill her. If you don''t have Tianzhu around, you can''t find the problem. Tianzhu asked: "master, do you want to change one?" "Why beat grass to scare snake," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "this dress is so valuable, it can''t be wasted. If someone else gives such a good gift, it''s time to reciprocate. " She gave a cold smile: "I also want to see who will win the battle." After Wang Meiren left, she first went back to her small building and had a rest for a while. Then she went out to the Simeng hall unintentionally. The maids of Simeng hall welcome her in, and beauty Wang enters the hall. Princess Chen is leaning on the soft wool couch to make a fuss. Beauty Wang has always wondered why Princess Chen is in such a high position, or making a fuss like an ordinary woman. Now it seems that she has some understanding of why the emperor dotes on her. Just because any man enters the temple of dreams, he will see a woman like an ordinary young woman gently beating her head. It seems that all the troubles and troubles are gone, leaving only the quiet and elegant corner of the south of the Yangtze River. However, there is a trace of irony in Wang Meiren''s eyes. The woman in men''s eyes is different from that in women''s eyes. The emperor saw Princess Chen, gentle, elegant, graceful, independent from the world, but in her eyes, Princess Chen was ambitious and terrible. "Come, sit down." Princess Chen pointed to the seat beside her with a smile and looked very cordial. "I dare not." Wang Meiren also smile, only way: "clothes have been sent in the past." "Oh," Chen Guifei did not lift her head, but she was still seriously tying a knot. Her fingers were flying in the silk thread: "how about Princess Jue de Hong''an?" "It''s not easy to get close to her," Wang Mei Mei thought for a moment. "I want to get warm with her, but the princess throws her face at me. It''s because I left early. The princess''s face is terrible. " After hearing Wang Meiren''s words, Chen Guifei raised her head from Luozi. She looked at Wang Meiren in surprise and said with a smile: "it''s strange. Princess Hong''an is always a soft person. She never treats people coldly. She is a polite person. How can she treat her sister like this? I think there is something wrong with sister Wang, which makes our princess unhappy. " Wang Meiren smile: "Xu is so, is my body dull." But I thought, if that Princess Hong''an is a soft person on the surface, this is the real smiling tiger in front of me. She looks gentle and harmless on weekdays, and many women in the harem are defeated by her. Chen Guifei smile with satisfaction: "so, this time it''s hard for Wang''s younger sister. She does her best in the palace every day. When I see your majesty later, she will speak for her." "Thank you, sister." Wang Meiren said something to Chen Guifei with a smile. Her words were lively but respectful. After a while, Chen Guifei was very happy. It was not until dark that Wang Mei got up and left.After Wang Meiren left, father-in-law Chen went up to Princess Chen and asked, "madam, I''ve inquired about it. My clothes were collected by Princess Hong''an. I didn''t find anything." "Good." Chen Guifei raised her hands and looked at the bright red Cardan on her white fingers: "I''d like to see who can save her this time." "I''m afraid something will happen to the Zhao family in the future." Mr. Chen warned. "There''s Wang Yi, that fool." Chen Guifei light way: "about has nothing to do with us." That night, many people in the palace were sleepless, but Jiang Ruan went to bed early. Aunt Yang, who was next to the empress dowager, came once and told the emperor what to pay attention to when he was doing the ritual. Jiang Ruan answered, and aunt Yang carefully ordered Tianzhu and dewdrop to go back to the palace. This year, it was the first time for the emperor to observe the stars at night. The emperor attached great importance to this matter, so all the family members had to take part in it. No matter what happened to other people, Jiang Ruan was still as usual, except that dewdrop often quarreled with Jin Er, who was transferred by Xiao Shao, the rest was very calm. In the evening, when she was in charge of the ceremony, Jiang Ruan put on the clothes that beauty Wang sent to the Siyi hall last night. After dew washed her, she followed the little eunuch who led the way to the star stage where she watched the astronomical phenomena. Jiang Ruan followed the family members of the palace. Although she had a long relationship with the empress dowager, the family members of the palace isolated her. However, Princess rongya and Princess Heyi from King Yong are superior. They are surrounded by many concubines and speak, which means they are the apple of the eye. At the top of the list were empress dowager Yide and empress dowager, followed by imperial concubine Chen, imperial concubine De, imperial concubine Shu and imperial concubine Xian. On the men''s table are the prince and the prince, and the emperor sits at the top. The Empress Dowager Yide frowned slightly when she saw that Jiang Ruan was left behind by the family members of the palace. She said in a cold voice, "Hong''an, come to AI''s home." Jiang Ruan comes forward according to the speech, Rong Ya Princess and Yi Princess eyes at the same time across a trace of jealousy, the man there seems to see Jiang Ruan. When Jiang Ruan came to empress Yide, she reached out and took her hand. The intimacy of her appearance surprised everyone again. Although she knew that Jiang Ruan was in favor, empress Yide was cold and indifferent. Even the original Princess Yuanrong could not get the honor for such intimate behavior. Jiang Ruan smile, eyes fell on the men''s table, a familiar figure, can not help but slightly a Zheng, black robe, clearly is Xiao Shao. Why was Xiao Shao in the imperial court? Xiao Shao was also stunned to see Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan was wearing a satin snow silk skirt. His long black hair was only wrapped in a gourd bun and a white jade hairpin. He didn''t wear the ring at all and didn''t apply any powder. Jiang Ruan has always been fond of bright red clothes, and tomorrow is also full of bright and moving images. Now so pure, actually seems to wash lead China, with Jiang Su Su''s pure and beautiful dust, moving different. Jiang Ruan, dressed in white, showed her gentle smile a little indifference. Her eyes seemed to have a sharp irony. If Jiang Ruan in red was a fox, he was like a snake in white. Poor and she does not touch the edge, but there is a kind of heart chilling. A red plum suddenly became a snow-white pear flower, many people''s eyes have looked at her, Xuanli is no exception. Just looking at Jiang Ruan''s eyes, I feel a little dazed. I feel that this woman is so free from dust, which is different from other women. I can''t help but want to take her as my own. It''s a beautiful thing to see that indifferent eyes are obsessed with themselves. In the eyes of the emperor, there was a flash of surprise, but Jiang Ruan was too young and too cold. Men always like to be soft and gentle. The emperor never liked Jiang Ruan, but Princess Chen looked at him with a light smile. Wang Meiren also looked at Jiang Ruan from a distance. For some reason, her heart beat violently tonight, as if she had some unknown premonition. When he saw that Jiang Ruan was really wearing the palace Satin plain snow silk skirt, he was relieved. As long as she wears this dress, the Siyi hall has never made any other dress. Today''s thing is always safe. Jiang Ruan raised his lips slightly. Seeing the emperor announce the ceremony, the people of qintianjian burn incense and wash their hands, and all the divination signs are entrusted. The huge censer slowly rises curling green smoke. Huijue, dressed in monk''s clothes, stood beside the supervisor, reading the Scriptures silently with benevolence. Lingtai Lang is measuring the stars, only to hear a "Dong", placed in front of the huge turtle shell suddenly slowly split from the middle, a sudden crack appeared on the turtle shell. "Fierce..." When the supervisor opened his eyes and said something else, his voice was interrupted, "no, my Lord!" It was the master of Wenbo, who came from the observatory in a hurry and said: "double stars accompany the moon, double stars accompany the moon! "Fierce The emperor stood up and said, "what''s the matter?" Zhu Bo fell on his knees and kowtowed: "Your Majesty, two stars accompany the moon. It''s a sign of great evil!" "What?" The emperor frowned tightly. The emperor had been doing things for so many years. Since he ascended the throne, it was the first time that he had met the image of a terrible omen. Steady steady steady, he said: "give me clear, what double moon?" JianZheng seemed to recover from the shock, knelt down and said, "if you come back, the moon with two stars is a sign of great evil. The state-owned demon star is the disaster of national subjugation. ""Demon star?" But Chen Guifei opened her mouth, and she turned her head in doubt: "what demon star?" "The people who make trouble for the country." The supervisor wiped his sweat: "this man is the reincarnation of the demon star, and the double star moon is a warning from heaven, a sign of national subjugation!" "Where is the demon star?" Princess Chen seems a little nervous. "This Heaven''s mercy may give warning. Minister I would like to burn a note, cherish the incense, and ask the will of heaven. " Jiang Ruan smiles and finally. It''s time. The third day of the deposit box www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 127 "The Emperor..." Imperial concubine Chen looked at the emperor. Although she didn''t say anything, her bright eyes were worried. It seems that I am really worried about the world. The queen moved her lips, and there was a trace of helplessness and silence on her face. "Well, I''ll watch you burn incense now!" The emperor was right. The supervisor bowed his head and ordered his men to send Xiyuan incense to him. Xiyuan incense was very thick, about the size of a small pillar. The emperors of the past dynasties only burned Xiyuan incense when they met the omen of great misfortune. At the same time, the supervisor knelt down and kowtowed three times to xiyuanxiang, saying: "heaven bless you, heaven warn you, now there are two stars with the moon, demon star is now in the world, I hope heaven knows where the demon star is!" Green eyes curl up, gradually submerged in the dark of the night. Jiang Ruan''s lips are smiling and her hands are folded in front of her chest. The wind gently raises her long black hair, white clothes and plain clothes. She has a beautiful face, but she is like a beautiful ghost in hell, coming with hatred. Xiao Shao''s eyes fell on the kowtow supervisor with a slight look. There was a sudden cry of surprise in the crowd. Chen Guifei''s eyes slowly spread, like a clear spring overflowing from the south of the Yangtze River, full of soft joy. "Sister Wang, how can you..." It''s getting louder. The smile in Princess Chen''s eyes suddenly stopped. But seeing that the women''s families were already in a panic, they stepped back one after another and left beauty Wang alone in the middle. At the moment, her plain dress was bright red from top to bottom. It''s as shocking as blood. The color of blood is still expanding. From the chest to the whole body, it''s more and more. It''s like a person who is fished out of the blood. The family members of the palace fled in panic. Only beauty Wang was left to slap her dress and murmur: "how could this happen...". No, how could that be? " Chen Guifei suddenly lowered her head to look at Jiang Ruan beside empress Yide. Jiang Ruan seemed to notice her eyes and turned to look at her with a slight smile. The smile was gentle and self-sustaining, which lit up her charming face for a moment, but her eyes seemed to contain endless irony and provocation. Jiang Ruan Chong nodded to her, Chen Guifei''s body was a little stiff. The emperor said angrily, "the enchantress! Arrest her The bodyguards swarmed up and subdued Wang Meiren without much effort. Wang Meiren didn''t expect that she would suffer such a sudden change. Now she was in a state of chaos. After being arrested, he cried out: "your majesty! Your majesty! I am wronged, I am wronged! " Shufei covered her heart and said, "what''s wrong? Everyone has seen the warning from heaven. It''s clearly the evil of you. It''s really frightening. " "Your Majesty, your majesty," beauty Wang knew that once she was identified as a demon star, she was afraid that she would be miserable. Her eyes fell on empress Yide, who was not far away from the emperor. Jiang Ruan was dressed in white and spotless clothes. What''s going on? It was supposed to be Jiang Ruan. How could it be her? Beauty Wang suddenly realized that it must be Jiang Ruan and that she had done something wrong with her clothes. Otherwise, how could someone who had an accident fall out? "Your Majesty, it was Princess Hong''an who framed my concubine!" Beauty Wang gritted her teeth and said, "it''s Princess Hong''an! She made a move on my dress! Your majesty, I am really wronged "Shut up." But empress Yide gave a cold drink: "nonsense, what''s the matter with Guan Hong''an?" "It''s about Hong''an''s innocence. Beauty Wang must ask for an explanation. Hong''an is not afraid of confrontation with beauty Wang." The emperor on Jiang Ruan Chong''s high seat bowed: "father, yesterday beauty Wang came to the children''s palace with the clothes of Siyi palace, and the children''s palace took them. But according to Wang Meiren''s words, the children''s minister framed Wang Meiren, but Wang Meiren''s clothes didn''t go through the children''s minister''s hand. " She looked at beauty Wang with a smile and said, "Hong an wants to ask beauty Wang how she framed her? Wang Meiren''s clothes have nothing to do with Hong An. If only just entered the observatory until now, Hong An has been far away from beauty Wang. If Wang Meiren wants to say that she has been framed, please show me the evidence, otherwise, she will be lying! " After some questioning, beauty Wang was speechless. Yes, she gave her clothes to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan didn''t touch her clothes, but somehow, she was the one who finally had an accident? Is it difficult to Wang Mei looks at Princess Chen suddenly. Is it her? Chen Guifei will see beauty Wang''s expression clearly, heart said a fool, coldly look back. Beauty Wang shivered at her indifferent eyes. Her family had to rely on the support of imperial concubine Chen to go too far, which annoyed imperial concubine Chen, and the whole family had no good life. This dumbass can only swallow in front of his head, but it''s really bitter. She knelt down and thought that it would be better to die than to be tortured by the demon star. Then she suddenly bit her bodyguard and grabbed her. That bodyguard originally saw that she gradually calmed down and relaxed her vigilance. Unexpectedly, she was bitten. Before she could stop it, beauty Wang had already taken out the sabre from the bodyguard''s waist and wiped it on her neck. No one thought that she would suddenly have this action, a line of blood splash, beauty Wang soft body fell down, eyes stare big, but toward the direction of Jiang Ruan.In this way, everyone''s eyes were focused on Jiang Ruan. They only felt that beauty Wang was dying. Even if Jiang Ruan had just asked perfectly, they could not help but have some doubts at the moment. Xiao Shao''s eyes were cold. That''s what beauty Wang''s purpose was to throw a layer of dirty water on Jiang Ruan with her life. Maybe Princess Chen could take care of the king''s family after her death because she did her best. The bodyguard went forward to probe beauty Wang''s breath and knelt down to plead guilty. The emperor was very angry. In his anger, he watched the stars carefully and saw the blood. In fact, it was ominous to see the demon stars in his country. He looked at the already stunned Supervisor: "what about this?" Prison is a Leng, return to God, the body can''t help shaking more severe. Today''s thing should not be like this. When the so-called demon star became Wang Meiren, things got out of hand. He didn''t expect the situation now, but he didn''t know how to end it. But the next play is still going to be performed, so he said in a trembling voice: "if you go back to the emperor, the demon star has died, and heaven will bless the people." The emperor was obviously not very satisfied with the answer. Looking at Hui Jue, who had been standing aside since then, he said, "what''s the opinion of the national master?" With a sigh, Hui Jue felt compassion on her face. She walked slowly to the corpse of beauty Wang and stroked her eyes with her hands. When she took them away, her eyes were closed. He closed his eyes silently, put his hands together, and seemed to recite a passage of death mantra. After he finished reading, he bowed to the corpse: "Amitabha." But she couldn''t bear to see it like this. She said in a delicate voice: "although the national master is merciful, how can he worship a demon star? Such a demon star is not worthy of dying. Isn''t it harmful to the whole Jin Dynasty that the national master recites the curse of death?" "Shut up." The emperor was angry and trusted huijue. Naturally, he would not refute huijue''s actions. But huijue sighed and turned to worship the Emperor: "emperor, this benefactor is not a demon star." "What do you mean by that?" The emperor asked. The supervisor on the ground couldn''t help shaking her shoulder. The imperial concubine Chen on the seat paused and looked up at the direction of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan stood quietly beside empress Yide. When she heard huijue''s words, her face did not change. It seemed that nothing could enter her ears. The smile on her lips seemed to be engraved. It was gentle and harmless, but it made her back cool. Chen Guifei''s heart sank, and she had a bad premonition. Huijue shook his head and said nothing, but the sadness on his face was deeper. Before he finished speaking, there was a cry of owl in the sky. There were always people sweeping and tidying up the good observatory. How could there be owls. When they were wondering, they saw a black shadow in the sky. The shadow was so fast that it just glanced over their heads. There was no Archer on the observatory, but they could not shoot it down. "Ah Shufei exclaimed. The figure looked like a bird. It seemed that she was holding something in her claws. When she flew to the top of her head, it was loose. It just fell into her arms. It was this that Shufei exclaimed! The Queen''s eyes moved slightly and said, "protect your concubine quickly!" The bodyguard rushed forward to pick out the thing. Princess Chen was also surprised. She was always able to bear it, but she was slightly frightened. After all, she kept her body steady and didn''t do anything wrong. The bodyguard who picked out the thing was startled when he saw the thing on the long sword. He was stunned and didn''t know what to do. Others around the scene were curious, so they stretched their heads to see what it was. When Chen Guifei saw the guard''s expression, her heart was already sinking. When she saw the thing clearly, she almost fainted. The things on the ground are still bouncing. The slender body full of scales is clearly a snake. The scales of the snake are grayish yellow. It seems that there are four raised places under the body, and it''s going to grow snake feet. "Golden Dragon in this world..." Someone murmured. Imperial concubine Chen went to see the emperor''s face. She saw that the emperor''s face was black and blue. She looked at the snake rolling on the ground and suppressed her emotions. Huijue''s voice rang out in the Observatory: "the year stars devour the moon, there is a great funeral, the female master kills the king, and she changes her position." It''s like the apocalyptic proverb of doomsday. It sounds like thunder in everyone''s ears. Huijue''s hands are together. It''s as holy and devout as the disciples who listen to the Buddha''s will. Chen Guifei''s body softened and finally fell to the ground. The emperor''s back color changed at the same time. Empress Yide held her fists tightly. There was a tense atmosphere in the palace. Only Jiang Ruan had a faint smile on his lips. The Golden Dragon falls on the imperial concubine, and the female master kills the king. If there is any reason to get away with it, huijue''s words can be said to be a heavy nail in everyone''s heart. Xuanli immediately came out and knelt down beside Princess Chen. He heavily kowtowed to the Emperor: "father, how can mother be a demon star? Father, there must be something wrong. My son is willing to guarantee his life. My mother and concubine are certainly not the evil stars of the country! " The emperor stood up and walked slowly to the fallen Princess Chen. Chen Guifei didn''t ask for mercy or complain. She looked at the emperor quietly, with a soft smile on her lips.There was an accident in Tianzhu''s eyes. She thought that this imperial concubine Chen was really different from ordinary people. If she were other concubines, she would have made a big noise now. And she did not identify others like Wang Meiren, nor did she beg for mercy from the emperor. Just a smile as usual could make the emperor''s heart hesitant. If it was true, the emperor looked at the woman in front of him with a look of perplexity. In the deep palace, perhaps only imperial concubine Chen could make him walk in the gentle and quiet place of Jiangnan. However is this woman, now is the demon star in the world, want to shake the foundation of big brocade! The emperor''s great cause never tolerated tenderness. It was just a moment''s hesitation. The emperor''s hesitation had already dissipated. He said faintly, "come on, send your concubine to the cold palace." "Father emperor --" Xuanli was shocked, but she shook her head with his hand and said, "emperor, listen to your father emperor." The emperor''s eyes flashed a trace of unbearable, can''t help but call the name of Princess Chen: "Lotus..." Chen Guifei lay down quietly, her voice as soft as before: "if you can do something for the great Jin Dynasty, it''s not a pity that my concubine died. I only wish that all the people in the world will be well, and my concubines will have no complaints. " What beautiful words and awe inspiring justice, all the members of the palace were moved. Even empress Yide sighed. Chiang and Ruan pick eyebrows. If Princess Chen really knows how to play, she doesn''t show any confusion now. Is she sure that Xuanli will save her eventually? It seemed that he felt a look on him. Jiang Ruan turned his head and was looking at Xiao Shaoguan. See her to see come over, Xiao Shao pursed lips, a few invisible point a head. Jiang Ruan gently nodded, today''s matter, she did not show up in the end. It''s just a few words later, but huijue makes her look at it with new eyes. If she doesn''t have some skills, she won''t be able to get to this position after all. Over the years, she underestimated huijue. With a painful wave of the emperor''s hand, several bodyguards came down and took Princess Chen away. But when he was in the cold palace, he didn''t ask for the life of imperial concubine Chen. The emperor was still in love. However, the cold palace has always been closely related to the white bones. If you want to deal with it secretly, it is also a very simple thing. The meaning of the emperor''s action and the outcome in the future are still unknown. Chen Guifei stopped when she passed by Jiang Ruan and said with a smile, "the princess is really beautiful today." "I''m flattered." Jiang Ruan chuckled. The sneer in her eyes made the calm Princess Chen crazy for a moment, almost unable to hold the original smile on her face. How can a smart man laugh when he is caught. "I wish the princess could be so beautiful all the time." Princess Chen gritted her teeth. "I wish the lady could see that day." Jiang Ruan did not give in. Chen Guifei''s action fell in Xuanli''s eyes. Xuanli was shocked. She squinted at Jiang Ruan and slowly squeezed her fists. A good Dharma is done in the end, but the change in the middle is unexpected. Wang Meiren died, Chen Guifei suddenly became a demon star, this life was put in the cold palace. Chen Guogong and his family knelt all night outside Jingyang palace. Chen Guogong was too weak and fainted, but Xuanli continued. But the emperor seemed to be determined, accompanied by the queen, and didn''t pay attention to things outside. Princess de and Xuanhua were overjoyed. Originally, the empress was not afraid, and Shufei had only a daughter. Xuanli lost Chen Guifei''s support, and his power was almost half weakened. A demon star''s son still wants to fight for reserve, unless it''s wishful thinking. If one day the crown prince is established, the crown prince''s position will naturally be in the bag of the fifth prince. Xuanhua was not the only one who thought so. After this, many people in the court who were hesitating expressed their attitude to the fifth prince. Some of the people who were from Xuanli also took refuge in Xuanhua after the event. The matter of seizing the imperial concubine changed rapidly, and the fall of imperial concubine Chen, the most favored imperial concubine in the palace, also gave the imperial concubines many opportunities. In addition, the palace is about to elect a new girl, courtiers have begun to look at their daughter. On the platform of the observatory, all the members of the group were dismissed for dereliction of duty and fined a lot of money. It''s only because the people who were the emperor''s heavenly guardians failed to supervise them. If the National Teacher Hui Jue was not present on that day, there would have been chaos. After this, huijue said that he had revealed too much of his secrets and avoided going to the Buddhist hall. The emperor was more respectful to him, and his position was more stable. When dewdrop told Jiang Ruan about these things, she said, "in a word, all the people in qintianjian are to blame now. It''s really gratifying." Qin Tianjian''s people are in collusion with Chen Guifei. That day, they just want to pour dirty water on her. But they don''t want to, but they kill huijue in the middle of the way. The fragrance on the clothes had already been washed away by Tianzhu. As for the fragrance on beauty Wang, it was given to Jiner and Jinsan. Jin 2 and Jin 3 were much more capable than the guards in the place where the concubines lived. For example, they were more handy in such private affairs. Chen Guogong knelt down in Jingyang palace all night. On the surface, he looked respectful and pleaded for Chen Guifei. In fact, in the eyes of the emperor, it was a grand provocation. The Chen family has already offended the emperor. Maybe the Duke of Chen has not found out yet, but one day he will regret what he did today.Chen Guifei wants her life, but she doesn''t want her to die so early. Just like Xia Yan, imperial concubine Chen can always create a stain on Xuanli''s life if she is alive. Xuanli, a dutiful son, didn''t know if he would kill his mother himself, just like the two brothers and sisters of the Jiang family. However, Xuanli''s actions in the last life showed his attachment to Chen Guifei. If he was still a filial son in this life, he would not kill his mother. What Xuanli can do, then, is to advance the plan of seizing the throne. Without Princess Chen behind him, I wonder if he can be as good as before. It''s just that at the moment, the situation suddenly changes. Xuanli should be very easy to make mistakes. The fourth day of the manuscript box www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 128 At night, the star seems to be the same as the original star, but the situation outside has changed dramatically. On the surface, it''s nothing in the palace, but on the surface, it''s already a big fight. Master huijue was his national teacher as usual. This matter has passed, and his position is more and more stable. The five princes Xuanhua and Defei did not show any joy, and they were even more cautious than before. Now the emperor''s mind is deep, no one wants to take the initiative to touch the mold. Xuanli, who has always been convinced by virtue and talent, really shows filial piety. After kneeling outside Jingyang palace for three days and three nights, he finally fainted due to lack of strength. The emperor was so angry that he sent him back to the palace and ordered him not to enter the palace. When this change happened in the palace, Chiang and Ruan Dao were in no hurry to return to Chiang''s house. Just because - Jiang Li died. If imperial concubine Chen hasn''t lost her power, Jiang Li''s death is bound to cause more waves. However, when imperial concubine Chen is put into the cold palace, Jiang Li''s death is like a small stone thrown into the bottom of a vast lake. No waves have been raised, so she sinks quietly. And because Jiang Li''s death aroused rumors among the people, but also by Chen Guifei become disaster country demon star rumors down. However, no matter what is said outside, Jiang Li is the daughter of the Jiang family after all. As the eldest daughter of the Jiang family, she has no reason to stay in the palace and refuse to go back to mourning. The Jiang family didn''t say anything, but it seemed that the second aunt had lost her heart and went to the door with her family. As a result, the people in the doctor''s office gave a cold face to each other. They only said that Jiang Li lost her virginity first, and it was not the second aunt''s turn to discuss the matter. When Jiang Quan learned about this, he rushed to the door and took away the second aunt, who was in a great decline in her position in the mansion. I thought Jiang Li married the doctor''s wife, and Xia Yan was forced into the small Buddhist temple. Now Jiang Li''s house is dominated by the second aunt. Unexpectedly, such scandals happened on the day of marriage. Now when Jiang Li dies, he and the doctor''s house are totally shameless. Jiang Quan was angry with what Jiang Li had done. Seeing that the second aunt was so shameless that she asked the doctor''s house for an explanation, he was also angry and just put the second aunt under house arrest. After all, except for the big aunt who never cared about anything, the power of Zhongwei in the mansion fell to the fifth aunt Hongying. When Jiang Li died, the doctor''s office did not immediately inform Jiang''s office, so it was only one day after Jiang Ruan returned to his office that Jiang Li''s funeral day came. As a doctor''s office, Jiang Li''s funeral was also handled by the doctor''s office. Jiang Li''s death is inevitable. Some people say that in the doctor''s house, a wife who lost her virginity died within a few days. It''s unbelievable to say that there is no credit for Zuo Jiang. It seems that the left family is also concerned about this, but Jiang Li''s funeral is not careless at all. It''s just that those who come to mourn can see the displeasure on Zuo Jiang''s face. Zuojiang''s reputation has been ruined, and Chen Guifei, the leader, has fallen down. Xuanli dares not to use him again for his reputation. His career is ruined by Jiang Li. When we look at the people of Jiang''s family who came to mourn, we can hardly hide their anger in their eyes. For fear that the second aunt would do something out of the ordinary, Jiang Quan didn''t take her with him. Jiang Ruan follows Jiang Quan, incense is put on Jiang Li''s memorial tablet in the Imperial Hall, and Zuojiang looks at Jiang Ruan coldly in mourning clothes. In Zuojiang''s opinion, Jiang Ruan must have been involved in the incident of the doctor''s house. If Jiang Li was to shame him, Jiang Ruan was the culprit. Jiang Ruan looked at him calmly. He was inferior to others and was willing to accept defeat. Zuojiang thought that he could climb up a road of prosperity, but he didn''t know that it was just a shortcut to hell. Excited by the scorn in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, Zuo Jiang''s eyes are crazy. He only feels that the bad memories and the humiliation of being poked and sneered at by people in recent days all rush to his heart, and he can hardly control it. At this time, I only heard a soft voice: "brother-in-law, I''m sorry for your change." The voice did not come from the thoughtful Jiang Su Su, but from the timid Jiang Dan. Now there are only three daughters left in the Jiang family. Jiang Ruan is charming, and Jiang Susu is clear and beautiful. The only one left is Jiang Dan. It seems that he has suddenly taken off his humble shell and is reborn. Although he is not as good as his two daughters, he has a kind of pitiful temperament. This kind of temperament can arouse a man''s desire for protection. Zuojiang was stunned by the voice, and his eyes fell on Jiang Dan. Jiang Su Su has always been used to wearing white clothes. He has a spirit of immortality. Jiang Dan is more popular, as if the next door beauty, pure and lovely, delicate and moving. Zuojiang then remembered that the graceful girl in front of him should have been the woman who had made an engagement with him three years ago. At the beginning, he saved people''s lives and left a marriage. But I don''t want to be led by the wrong marriage. At that time, both the doctor''s office and Jiang''s office agreed that it was Jiang Li, and he could only acquiesce. He has already inquired that Jiang Li''s temperament is much worse than Jiang Dan''s. originally, he was not happy with Jiang Li. Later, there was a scandal. Before Jiang Li died, he wanted to drag the doctor''s house into the water. When he thought about it, Zuo Jiang was angry. When he saw Jiang Dan today, he couldn''t help thinking that this was his wife. His wife should have been such a gentle and virtuous lady. The more I think about it, the more I think of Jiang Li''s shameless and domineering, the more unwilling I am. But Jiang Dan seemed to be a little frightened by Zuo Jiang''s gaze. He retreated two steps and said, "brother-in-law..."Zuojiang suddenly looked back and looked up at Jiang Quan. Jiang Ruan didn''t look at him, but Jiang Su Su''s expression was full of interest. Red tassel holding old lady Jiang, Zuojiang dropped his head, light way: "thank you four younger sister comfort." "Four younger sister" two words bite very heavy, as if containing some inexplicable emotion. Jiang Ruan''s eyes drooped, his long eyelashes drew a strange radian, his lips slightly tilted, and he actually laughed. Tianzhu noticed Jiang Ruan''s tiny action, and his eyes changed. He looked at Jiang Dan and Zuojiang thoughtfully, and his eyes were confused. Xu Shi''s atmosphere was too awkward. Everyone''s eyes were fixed on this side. After Jiang Quan said a few words in a hurry, he walked away. Mrs. Jiang seems to be ten years old overnight, and there is no daughter of the Jiang family. In such an ignominious way, the Chiang family''s image of being a clean and honest person for decades has been completely defeated in just a few years. Jiang Su Su''s expression is somewhat complicated. On the one hand, when Jiang Li''s accident happened, she was gloating. But Jiang Li''s accident also implicated the reputation of other daughters of the Jiang family and had a certain influence on her marriage in the future. Thinking that Xia Yan is still closed in the small Buddhist hall, Jiang Quan doesn''t mean to let her out. He can''t help but feel a little irritable in his heart. Looking at poor Jiang Dan, who was just like a chrysanthemum, Jiang Su Su''s tone was a bit ironic: "fourth sister, just now the third brother-in-law really cared for you. It''s said that this marriage should have been between you and your brother-in-law, but he was robbed by the third sister. So the marriage should not have been decided at random. The fourth sister, now that the third sister has died of illness, may be God''s suggestion. It''s not too late. Why don''t you go on with your brother-in-law again? " Jiang Su Su was a little angry with Jiang Quan because of Xia Yan. He didn''t have the same respect as before. Now Jiang Quan was on the other side, but he didn''t hear Jiang Su Su''s words. Jiang Dan was timid and said with a smile, "second sister, don''t tease Dan Niang." So lukewarm, not angry, Jiang Su Su''s eyes flashed, his heart could not help but was angry. Jiang Ruan was a deep-seated man with the support of the Empress Dowager and the Zhao family. Now even Jiang Dan has become so difficult to deal with. She felt more and more resentful. Jiang Ruan didn''t seem to hear the conversation between them. His high attitude provoked Jiang Dan to look at her more. The matter of condolence in the doctor''s office passed away, and it was almost a surprise. Zuojiang came back in the middle of the way, and all he did was very respectful, but his eyes drifted to Jiang Dan. What it means is not known. As a result, Chiang Kai Shek''s father-in-law got angry again and scolded Jiang Quan. He only said that if Jiang Quan and his second aunt hadn''t done so many things at the beginning, why would the Chiang family have fallen to the point where they are now allowed to see jokes. Jiang Quan answered with a blue face, but his face was so heavy that he could drip water. The yard where the second aunt of Chiang''s family lived was just a depression. The flowers in front of the window haven''t been watered for a long time, but they all died overnight. Weeds grow everywhere. Second aunt has always been the most particular about these, but also like some magnificent things, the yard has always been a lot of jade, gold and silver, but now it is like being robbed in general, empty shelves. The ground was covered with dust and cobwebs, and there was a smell of decay in the air. The windows in the room were not open, as if the people in the room were extremely afraid of the sun. The curtains were tightly drawn and smelled damp in summer. The people on the bed huddled tightly and held their shoulders in their hands. Their cocky eyes were full of blood, and there was a kind of frenzy in their eyes. The servant girl took the medicine bowl in her hand and said in a soft voice: "aunt, it''s time to take medicine." As if she was completely awakened from the imagination, the second aunt jumped up, grabbed the maid, and said in a hurry: "what medicine do you still take? Li''er is still being bullied in the doctor''s house. The murderous left family should treat Li''er like this. I must ask for an explanation for Li''er!" The maid''s arm, which was grasped by the second aunt, hurt, but she didn''t dare to break away. She only red her eyes and said carefully, "aunt, the second lady is dead." "What nonsense!" The second aunt slapped the servant girl in the face: "let me hear your treacherous words again. I''ll tear your mouth and sell you to the lowest kiln!" The maid covered her face with tears and didn''t dare to speak. Second aunt suddenly and sorry to look at her: "willow, I didn''t mean to hit you, now I can trust, only you..." She suddenly hugged her head and cried out in pain: "my Li''er is dead, she is dead! She died in the doctor''s house. She was killed by the left family. She''s dead, my Li''er! " The second aunt was so crazy that the servant girl could not care about the pain. She quickly said, "aunt, aunt, you are sick again. Let''s drink this medicine. It will be better if you drink this medicine." But since the second aunt''s accident, Jiang Quan put her under house arrest, and only willow was left to wait on her. When the second aunt went crazy, willow couldn''t stay alone. Jiang Li''s death has brought a huge impact on the second aunt. It''s just that she has been acting like a lunatic these days. The doctor has only prescribed some calming prescriptions. It''s a pity that a wanton person has come to such a miserable end.Willow just don''t know what to do, then hear the door "creak" opened, a gentle and clear voice rang up: "you go down, here is me." Yang Liu looked back, startled, stammered: "four, four miss." Come a goose yellow skirt, smile quiet shy, light voice way: "I come to comfort aunt." Yang Liu looks at her second aunt with some worry. When she goes up to Jiang Dan, she is surprised by her eyes. The former weak and incompetent fourth lady has a knife in her eyes, which makes her feel cold, like a snake peeping at her prey. Yang Liu gritted her teeth and said, "I''ll trouble miss four." He ran out with his head down. Second aunt is still holding her head on the bed of pain rolling, Jiang Dan quietly came to her, looked down like appreciation for a long time, then said: "aunt, how about the end of the marriage?" Second aunt body trembled, more painful low howl. But Jiang Dan said slowly: "my aunt is a smart person, and she has always been cruel, so she won Dan Niang''s marriage. How come she has to play a fool to escape the pain now?" The second aunt finally raised her head and looked at Jiang Dan fiercely: "that should have been your fate. Li''er died for you. You are a bad luck star. Li''er killed her. You should return Li''er to me..." After that, she was about to jump up. However, she had been locked up in the room for a long time, and she was haggard these days. Jiang Dan just turned around and avoided. "The second aunt said that strangely." Jiang Dan laughed: "at the beginning, but I want to leave the marriage to my aunt? No, it was the father and aunt who tried to take the marriage away from Danniang. But the third elder sister was very happy for a long time, but she didn''t know that the second aunt had chosen this marriage for her, but finally she was sent to the yellow spring. " Jiang Dan sighed: "what a injustice." Second aunt body a soft, collapsed on the ground: "you..." She couldn''t say a word, because what Jiang Dan said was right, it was all because of her, because she wanted this marriage, and she didn''t want Jiang Dan and Jiang Li to be common daughters, but Jiang Dan could marry so well. Leng is to let his mother''s father to speak, said Jiang Quan, will Geng tie changed Jiang Li. Where know oneself selfish, final harm is own daughter, two aunt repent at the beginning! Jiang Li satisfied to see for a while two aunt''s sad state, just light way: "aunt''s sadness, I can also feel, today is to remind aunt, don''t blame the wrong person, but let the real killer happy." "The real killer?" The second aunt suddenly raised her head. "Yes," Jiang Dan''s quiet smile suddenly became a little strange. She gently said, "don''t you think it''s too strange that the third sister died? It''s true that I should have been responsible for the third sister''s marriage. So I made some special inquiries about it. Who knows that it doesn''t matter if I don''t inquire about it? After such inquiries, I know a wonderful thing. " "What''s the matter?" The second aunt grasped Jiang Dan''s hand, and a trace of eagerness flashed in her eyes. Jiang Dan patted her hand with a smile: "I can''t believe it, because, in the final analysis, it''s about big sister." "Jiang Ruan?" Second aunt look a change, way: "how can and she related!" "The beauty of the country born by the elder sister is admirable to the children in Beijing, even the third Royal Highness is no exception. That day, the third elder sister and doctor Zuo got married. His highness asked doctor Zuo to help him to meet his elder sister. Originally, it was no big deal. However, the eldest sister claims to be a lady, and now she is related to the royal family, so she can''t disgrace the royal family. The third elder sister just wanted to help her brother-in-law, but she didn''t want to be angry with the elder sister. In her anger, the elder sister let her brother-in-law and the third elder sister have something to do the next day. " Jiang Dan said in no hurry, as if telling a story in the general tone stopped in the second aunt''s ear is more subdued. Second aunt look unpredictable, almost to cry and laugh, after a long time, difficult to squeeze out a sentence from the teeth: "you say so, what evidence?" Jiang Dan chuckled softly: "my aunt still doesn''t believe what Dan Niang said at this time. Don''t you think it''s strange? After the three elder sisters got married that day, the elder sister went into the palace. How could the elder sister be so unscrupulous if there were no one in the palace to protect her? If my aunt doesn''t believe it, she can inquire about it by herself. But now it''s difficult for my aunt to go out, and all you can believe is me Every word she said hit the second aunt''s mind. In fact, after Jiang Dan finished, the second aunt believed. Is a lie, this lie is too perfect. What''s more, the second aunt can''t bear the pain of her daughter''s death. Jiang Li''s contribution is made by her. As long as she thinks about it, the second aunt would like to take out her heart. Now, however, Jiang Dan''s words gave the second aunt an outlet to vent her hatred on Jiang Ruan. How could she not be happy? "Jiang Ruan, she did harm to my wife. I want her to be buried with me!" The second aunt clenched her fists, and her eyes almost burst with fire. "Now my father is very angry with my aunt. My aunt wants to avenge her third sister, but she can''t act rashly. Otherwise, she will not only fail to avenge her third sister, but also take her own revenge."Jiang Dan''s voice was cold and thin, and the second aunt seemed to have recovered. Just listen to Jiang Dan continue: "second aunt if still want to be able to give three elder sister revenge, had better obediently listen to my words." Looking at Jiang Dan''s quiet smile, the second aunt could not help shivering. For the first time, she felt that this cowardly and incompetent orphan was so terrible. If she was really against Jiang Li, Jiang Li would not be her opponent. "Why are you doing this?" she murmured "Big sister is living a wonderful life." A trace of ruthlessness flashed in Jiang Dan''s eyes: "she lives so well, but I''m struggling in the mire. How can I be reconciled? It''s better to sink with me." The third day of the deposit box www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 129 Jiang Ruan stayed in Jiang''s mansion for only a few days. This morning, he saw his second aunt for the first time. The second aunt has been banned by Jiang Quan since Jiang Li''s death. Now, it''s a bit surprising to be released. What''s more surprising is that when the second aunt came out again, she seemed to be a different person. She was very low browed and careful. She was still arrogant and domineering in the past. People in the mansion said that it must be the second aunt who knew that Jiang Li was dead now. She had to be careful to live in Jiang''s mansion. Today is different from the past. Xia Yan, a gentle and virtuous Xia Yan, a domineering, beautiful and mean Er Yi Niang all lost their power. At the moment, it''s Hongying, the fifth aunt from the land of fireworks, who is in charge of the house. Now Hongying is in full swing. I''m afraid that things will change in Jiang''s house. Jiang Ruan had met his second aunt in the garden before. She was very obedient, but she looked strange. Back to Ruan Curie, forsythia said: "girl, the second aunt looks strange, and her eyes seem to annoy the girl." Jiang Ruan pondered a little, and called dewdrop: "do you know who my second aunt had seen before she lifted her house arrest, and what''s special recently?" The dewdrop was ordered to leave. Jiang Ruan dropped her eyes, and the second aunt looked at her eyes. She could not be more familiar with that kind of eyes. It was a deep hatred, a poisonous snake waiting for an opportunity, a sharp arrow lurking in the dark, full of the flavor of conspiracy. She wanted to see what the second aunt wanted to do. Dewdrop is now Jiang Ruan''s personal servant girl. All the servants in the house know that she is valued by Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is Princess Hong''an. The servants in the house are more polite to dewdrop than before. Dewdrop quickly inquired about the news and came back. It was Jiang Dan who had met the second aunt. These days, the second aunt has been very careful and polite in the house. She is more obedient to Jiang Quan and generous to her servants. Although the second aunt''s family is well-off, she is a commoner girl. She is as shallow as Jiang Li, so she is not willing to reward her servants like this. But these days, I''ve been bountiful. The dew bead finished saying, eyes Ba Ba way: "girl, two aunt this exactly is what meaning?" Tianzhu is also strange. She is used to killing people, but she is not used to the winding of the house. Forsythia and Angelica are some suspicious, forsythia way: "girl, these days can be careful, two aunt temperament has always been arrogant, now suddenly so low, it is a bit strange." "I see." Jiang Ruan stood up and said, "since the fourth sister is so enthusiastic, you might as well find something to do with her." She squinted, tone suddenly out of a cold: "Jin two Jin three." Two dark Wei suddenly appear in the room, pour to frighten a few servant girls to jump. Jiang Ruan knew that since Xiao Shao had sent them, they were hiding in the dark to protect her. She said: "Tianzhu is from the government. It''s not convenient to go out. When you go to the doctor''s office, I''d like to ask for your help. " Jin two Jin three look at each other and say in unison: "but listen to the girl''s command." But it is said that Jiang Li''s family is all in a shadow because of Jiang Li''s death. The collapse of the former bustling langzhongfu is obvious now. Jiang Quan''s official career was prosperous a few years ago, but now it is more and more unlucky, and his relationship with xiahoufu is also alienated. Several children are a headache, the only two outstanding, but the original house is the most spoiled people. Mr. Jiang''s body is very weak, because of Jiang Li''s death is a serious illness, the doctor came to see, secretly revealed some of Mr. Jiang''s life but this year''s meaning. No matter how old you are, no matter how many elixirs you have, you can''t help. In some ways, Mr. Jiang is a wise man, so he knows that the huge Jiang mansion will soon be on the road of decline. He is worried too much and makes things worse. He looks old day by day, which is different from the smart and dignified old woman he saw when he returned to the mansion . On this day, Du Juan came to invite Jiang Ruan to sit in Guilan courtyard at the command of old lady Jiang. These days old lady Jiang always called some granddaughters to sit in the house. There was no reason for Mr. Jiang''s invitation to refuse. Jiang Ruan with forsythia and Angelica go, on the road is met back to Jiang Dan. Seeing Jiang Ruan, Jiang Dan stopped and said with a smile, "big sister." "Four younger sisters." Jiang Ruan said. Jiang Dan did not look aggrieved when he saw her cold attitude. Instead, he was in a good mood and asked, "is elder sister going to grandma''s yard?" When Jiang Ruan nodded, Jiang Dan said with a smile, "grandma is looking at her big sister now. She is really enviable." Envy? Jiang Ruan smile: "four younger sister why envy, four younger sister in the future than I must be more valued." Jiang Dan was stunned and his eyes flashed. When he looked at Jiang Ruan again, he said with profound meaning: "elder sister is used to talking and laughing. It''s getting late. Elder sister, you''d better go as soon as possible. If the time is delayed, grandma will punish Danniang again. " Jiang Dan stood in the same place, looking at Jiang Ruan''s back, slowly showing a happy smile. In the Guilan courtyard, the colorful sparrow and the cuckoo stand on both sides of Mrs. Jiang, gently shaking the fan for her. The fan is just right, and the cool wind blows slightly. It''s hard for Mr. Jiang to show a comfortable expression. She is too old to use ice for fear of cold.When Jiang Ruan went in, he saw this scene. Old man Jiang looked tired. His clothes were wrinkled and his hair was white. When he heard the news, he opened his eyes slightly and his eyes were cloudy. She was not the hostess who called the wind and rain in Chiang''s mansion, but an old man. "Girl Ruan is here. Come to grandma." Mrs. Jiang waved to her lovingly. In the past and this life, Mr. Jiang had never been so kind to her. Although Mr. Jiang had never embarrassed her in the last life, some of Xia Yan''s actions with Jiang Quan were also acquiesced by her. For Mrs. Jiang, the honor of Jiang''s office is greater than everything else. As long as it can make Jiang''s office prosperous, what is the sacrifice of a Jiang Ruan. In the last life, Mr. Jiang did not survive the winter this year. It should be that after she entered the palace, she began to linger in the autumn and became thinner. At the end of the new year, she drove to the West. Now it''s only a few months. Jiang Ruan went up to old lady Jiang Yiyan and sat down. Caique poured tea for Jiang Ruan. The old man patted Jiang Ruan''s hand and said, "girl Ruan, this is the new Baixiang hawthorn tea this year. Ladies in the palace often drink it. You young girls like to drink sweet tea and have a taste of it." With a smile, Jiang Ruan moistened his mouth with the tea on the table and said, "it''s very sweet." Mrs. Jiang was more satisfied with her smile and told caique, "caique, clean up some for Ruan girl and send them to her." She turned to look at Jiang Ruan. Her eyes were like a loving grandmother looking at her granddaughter: "in a twinkling of an eye, Ruan girl was so big. She thought that when she was just born, she was a little girl." For no reason, Jiang Ruan would not mention this. Jiang Ruan only listened with a smile. The old lady said, "your mother is not lucky. She left your brother and sister early. At the beginning, Xia Yan was so mean that you were wronged. Over the years, your father was so soft that you suffered a lot. In a word, Jiang''s family is sorry for you. caique went to pack tea for Jiang Ruan, and only Dujuan stood aside in silence. Angelica dahurica and forsythia look slightly moving, only Jiang Ruan does not move like a mountain, the spirit of love has not changed, quietly listen to Jiang old man this look quite regretful words. Seeing her like this, Mr. Jiang''s face faltered, but he didn''t know. He took her by the hand and said, "fortunately, your brother and sister are very lucky. They have been lucky since they came back to the mansion. The ancestors who want to come to the mansion also bless you in the morning." Jiang Ruan''s lips curled slightly. The meaning of these words was that the fate of their brothers and sisters could not be achieved by the Chiang family? Mr. Jiang said: "you are all the children of Jiang''s family. You should support each other. My grandmother will live for a few days. I hope your sisters and brothers will love each other. It was your father who was sorry for you. Now my grandmother has locked up the bad woman. Let''s not talk about the past. Now that the Chiang family is well, you will have a good face in the future, won''t you? " She muttered: "your elder brother is an official in the imperial court, and you also need your brother to help you. Your future marriage depends on your family. Grandma knows you are a good friend. She helps them a lot on weekdays, and she will take care of them in the future. " Jiang Ruan hung his head, looked up a moment later and said with a smile, "what does grandma want me to do?" She knew that her granddaughter was not the same. The people who were in Chiang Kai Shek''s family had lost sight of her. She didn''t want to meet her now. Only Mr. Jiang himself knew that she was in her twilight years, and that her time was running out. Seeing the decline of Jiang''s house day by day, she was anxious. Now all her hopes were on Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xin. But these two people had been ignored by Jiang Quan at the beginning, so it was hard to avoid resentment in their hearts. So today she called Jiang Ruan, but she just wanted to say something about Jiang Ruan, but she didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan had such an attitude. Old lady Jiang''s heart raised a sense of depression, but now Jiang Ruan is the princess who was appointed by the empress dowager, and the attitude of the general''s house is also intriguing. Looking at Jiang Ruan''s indifferent look, she felt a little weak and angry, and finally said with a smile: "your second brother is doing a good job now. You are close to the empress dowager, and you can also mention one or two words on weekdays. And su''er, after all, it''s still your sister. I''ll take her to some of the ladies'' parties and let her see the world. " As for Jiang Su Su, now she''s old enough to see each other. After all, she grew up in front of her. Old lady Jiang still has some feelings for her grandparents and grandchildren. It''s just. Jiang Ruan said with a faint smile: "the Empress Dowager is not allowed to interfere in politics. The Empress Dowager is kind to Ruan. How dare Ruan control her mind. As for the second younger sister, she grew up in Beijing when she was a child, and she knows more about the world than Ruan Niang Old man Jiang''s language is very difficult. Not to mention Jiang Chao, Jiang Susu alone is a headache. Since Xia Yan''s accident, not only did people in Beijing laugh at Jiang Quan, but also Jiang Su Su was implicated. The ladies who usually make friends with each other have alienated her. For a long time, no noble girl has come to invite her out. Let alone the wedding in the future. Old man Jiang was worried, so he wanted to let Jiang Ruan take Jiang Susu out. He didn''t want to be rejected by Jiang Ruan. "They are all your brothers and sisters, but you are not willing to raise some?" Mrs. Jiang was a little angry."Excuse me, Ruan Niang is really powerless." Jiang Ruan sighed: "I''m afraid I''ll let my grandmother down." Old lady Jiang looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "girl Ruan, are you still complaining about Jiang''s family Jiang Ruan''s indifferent smile is not resentment, but hatred. Now she doesn''t know if she should think that Mrs. Jiang is naive enough. In this life, she only wants to teach the collapse of the Jiang family step by step. How can she help the brothers and sisters. Not to mention revitalizing the Jiang family, since Jiang Quan cared so much about this mansion, wouldn''t it be better for him to watch his cherished things destroyed in front of him. Xu Shi felt that Jiang Ruan''s smile was too ironic. Seeing that it was very dazzling in old lady Jiang''s eyes, she slapped the table and said, "go away!" The color sparrow was startled and came over to comfort: "old lady, don''t be angry, take care of your body." "Don''t forget that you were born of the Jiang family!" Mrs. Jiang was very angry, and her words were very harsh: "all the food you eat is from the Jiang family. What qualifications do you have to blame the Jiang family? Your mother died early. If it wasn''t for the Chiang family, you would still be alive now? " Caique some uneasy look at Jiang Ruan, Angelica dahurica and forsythia smell speech is angry. Jiang Ruan stood up and looked down at old lady Jiang. The master, who had been a powerful figure in Chiang''s mansion, is now very old. With such a twisted look and a face with loose skin, he looks funny. The Chiang family may have a kind of inborn selfishness and coldness in their bones, and they naturally think that everyone in the world should be used by them. It''s the same with old lady Jiang. She slightly smile, tone is deep-rooted cold meaning: "perhaps I should ask, if not Jiang family, how can my mother die?" Mr. Jiang was stunned, and his eyes were in a panic: "what did you say?" "Maybe grandma knows, doesn''t she?" Jiang Ruan light way. "What are you talking about? Get out! I don''t want to see you! Get out of here But old man Jiang seemed to be suddenly excited. He threw all the pillows out. The pillows were smashed to pieces on the ground, and the powder on the ground was crystal clear. With a low smile, Jiang Ruan''s eyes were a little strange: "so it is." Mrs. Jiang''s smiling eyes made her feel as if she was in a cold cellar, and her whole body could not help shaking. "What is grandma afraid of writing?" Jiang Ruan said, "I will not treat Jiang''s family like Jiang''s family treats their mother." It won''t be so easy. One day, the Chiang family will pay back the pain that was put on them. Old man Jiang looked at Jiang Ruan, his eyes were wide open, his body suddenly stopped, and his mouth slowly spilled a trace of blood. Caique was startled and patted old lady Jiang: "old lady, what''s the matter with you?" Jiang Ruan stepped and looked at Mrs. Jiang, who was slowly soft. Mrs. Jiang''s face was pale and dead gray. The corners of her mouth were black, and the blood was black. In a panic, caique put her finger under Mrs. Jiang''s nose. She turned pale and yelled, "kill, kill!" "What''s the matter?" The cuckoo, who was busy inside, opened the curtain and came in. At first sight, she was shocked. The colorful sparrow, fearing that the world would not be in chaos, cried out: "Miss, kill the old lady! Come on! Help Angelica dahurica and forsythia look a change, Qiqi voice: "what are you talking about? What do you have to do with the girl standing here? You are not spitting blood "My God! Young lady, did you murder the old lady? " A familiar voice from the door, with a bit of the past sharp, listen carefully, can also hear a bit of comfort. It''s the second aunt. Jiang Ruan narrowed his eyes and gave a cold smile. He looked at the colorful sparrow holding old lady Jiang: "colorful sparrow, do you really see me killing people?" The color bird was a pair of eyes to see, in the heart can''t help but a little empty, but she very quickly replied: "in the room only miss and old lady, miss and old lady very close, old lady just quarreled with Miss..." "Oh, my God," the second aunt yelled with exaggeration, "even if you have a dispute with the old lady, you can''t kill the old lady. Such a treacherous thing, my God!" "Aunt, please respect yourself," Forsythia said angrily, "what''s the crime of slandering the princess in the current dynasty?" Second aunt slightly a meal, continue to high voice way: "how? When the princess can kill at will? Why don''t you kill my concubine? Is there any royal law at the end of the day? " Her voice was so high that almost all the people in the house were shocked. Jiang Su Su and Jiang Dan came in a hurry. Hongying was far away from her. She was supported by someone with a big stomach. Along the way, a servant girl should tell her about it. As soon as she saw Jiang Ruan, she looked at her with complicated eyes. Jiang Su Su was a little bit gloating, but Jiang Dan said with a plop: "grandmother, what''s the matter with grandmother?" "Four younger sisters don''t understand?" Jiang Ruan light way: "grandmother was murdered, want to die will not close my eyes." Jiang Dan looked slightly, and looked at Jiang Ruan in dismay: "elder sister, why do you want to harm your grandmother? She loves you so much. Today, she specially comes to you to sit in the yard. How can you harm her so much?" "Four younger sisters, be careful what comes out of your mouth." Jiang Ruan reminds: "this princess, a princess''s words, still can''t compare with a rough servant girl? From the beginning to the end, it seems that caique is the only one who claims that the princess has hurt her grandmother. The fourth sister, as the common sister of the princess, doesn''t believe her sister. Does she believe a servant girl? Is the sisterhood too cold? "Jiang Dan''s words were blocked, but he couldn''t find any words. Only a cold male voice came in: "I''m on a mission. I''ll take down the eldest daughter of the Jiang family who is plotting against my direct ancestor!" It turned out to be a group of officers and soldiers. Jiang Ruan looked at the leader with a smile and said in a soft voice: "I never knew that the action of the patrol room was so fast. It was like. I knew for a long time that something would happen to grandma. " I''m so tired. I''ll continue to write. TUT www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 130 "Cut the crap!" The leading official was a stranger. He saw that Jiang Ruan was also very arrogant. With a wave of his hand, two yamen servants came forward to detain him. At the moment, Jiang Quan is not in the house. The only one who can make the decision among the women''s families is Hongying. Red Ying looked at the official in embarrassment: "officer, this matter has not been understood." "Understand?" The official looked at Hongying in a strange way: "someone sued Jiang''s daughter for setting up her own grandmother. Now there are all human and material evidences. Let''s talk in prison!" He looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile: "Miss Jiang, I''m sorry." "It''s really touching that the official is so dedicated." Jiang Ruan smile: "just where are the official documents?" The official seemed to have known that Jiang Ruan would ask this question for a long time. With a smile of pride, he took out the official document that issued the arrest order from his arms and shook it in front of Jiang Ruan. It was true that it was in black and white. "Miss Jiang, can you see it now?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes swept the second aunt and Jiang Dan on one side, and said faintly: "I see clearly." "Then, please." "Girl!" Forsythia and Angelica urgent way. "You stay," he said The second aunt''s eyes flashed with pleasure. Jiang Dan seemed to be a little distracted by the sight. He just hid behind the second aunt and refused to speak. Jiang Su Su only looked sad. Caique and Dujuan guard the body of old lady Jiang and carefully wipe the blood on her lips. The most calm person in the room seems to be Jiang Ruan. She looked at the two officers and soldiers behind her and said calmly, "I can walk by myself. I don''t need to be polite." Jiang Ruan''s murder of Jiang''s husband and his capture by the officials caused a huge wave in Jiang''s house. Ruan was in the middle, Jin Er and Jin San looked serious, and Jin San said, "I''ll go with you to guard Miss Jiang in the prison, you go to find the master." Jin Er nodded. As soon as he was about to go down, the dew ran to the yard in a hurry. He looked around and seemed to be at a loss. He called in a low voice: "Jin Two? " Jin two steps, a fly from the tree spin down, stop in front of the dew: "what''s the matter?" Dew at the moment can''t take care of Jin Er''s haunting and frightening. She just takes out a letter from her arms and gives it to Jin Er: "girl, send this letter to the Lord." Jin Er put the letter away and nodded: "OK, I see." As he was about to leave, the dew called out to him, "hello." Brocade two turn head, the dew bead hesitates looking at him: "before of all is I wrong, this time the girl is framed, ask you to protect the girl once." Jin Er was slightly surprised that dewdrop rarely begged him in such a low voice. He thought he was very loyal to Jiang Ruan. As a subordinate, he also appreciates loyal people. Jin Eryi smiles: "you don''t have to say that I will protect Miss Jiang. Be careful yourself. " Then he flew away without looking back. Dew turned around, Tianzhu came out of the room, looking a little cold: "do it tonight." The fact that Jiang Ruan was taken away by officials spread all over the capital in the shortest time. The capital was in a big uproar. The original Princess Hong''an was praised immensely since she came back to Beijing. Because of her brother, the God of war, the people in the capital liked her very much. Unexpectedly, it suddenly broke out. It''s really a pity. There are also those who have fallen into the well. They have already seen that Jiang Ruan is a restless man. His charming appearance is just like a snake and a scorpion. Now even his own grandmother is not spared. It''s really vicious. And talk about the center, Jiang Ruan at the moment quietly leaning on the wall of the prison, looking down at the dirty straw in front of him. In fact, the evidence in the second aunt''s hand is not necessarily guilty. Even with the evidence of caique, it is not easy to bring her down. Jiang Dan is not such a short-sighted person, there must be other setbacks. The officer in charge of the army is Li Qiang. Now the inspector''s office is so quick to get the official document of arresting Jiang Ruan. It''s under the command of Hu Qianqiu from the imperial censor. And this Hu Qianqiu. There was a chill in Jiang Ruan''s eyes. The second aunt was originally a commoner girl from the Minister of the Ministry of official affairs. When she was young, she had a young cousin. This person was no other than Hu Qianqiu, who was in the imperial court. But at the beginning, Hu Qianqiu''s family was not as good as his second aunt''s, and the Minister of the Ministry of official wanted to make friends with Jiang''s, so he separated the marriage. Li Qiang is the eldest nephew of the second aunt''s mother''s family, and Hu Qianqiu is the second aunt''s old lover. Now that Jiang Ruan is in prison, it must be the work of these two people. Hu Qianqiu has been in power for many years, and he has a certain ability to sit on the imperial censor''s platform according to the position of the court. He doesn''t want to, but he will stand out for his second aunt. A few days ago, the second aunt was so generous to the servants of the Jiang family that she wanted to die with her. It''s just that no matter how silly or infatuated Hu Qianqiu is, she should not lose her official position for her second aunt. Because her trump card is definitely not the right side of the imperial court, but The corner of her lips slightly tilted, Hu Qiang. Dewdrop inquires clearly. Second aunt seems to have been selling jewelry recently. Hu Qianqiu doesn''t need second aunt''s jewelry. Instead, second aunt''s nephew, illiterate Li Qiang, bought a little official at home. He''s a dandy who sleeps all day. It''s said that he lost a lot of money in gambling house a few days ago. People in the world, gamblers are always brave, especially those who lose red eyes.Second aunt promised Li Qiang a lot of money. What do you want Li Qiang to do? It was nightfall, and the cell was getting colder and wetter. It seemed that this cell was specially arranged. There were no other prisoners around. It seemed that she was the only one. The jailer didn''t know where to go. The sound of footsteps came from the distance, and a group of people came in. The man in the head was dressed in coarse linen. Seeing the appearance of Jiang Ruan, he couldn''t help but be stunned. Then he narrowed his eyes and said, "the courage of the princess is really great. I admire her." It''s Li Qiang. Jiang Ruan smile: "Mr. Li flattered." She had never seen any kind of prison in her previous life. At that time, she had been in a colder place than this. Now, what was so terrible. Li Qiang''s eyes flashed slightly: "I''m surprised that the princess knows that I''m here." Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on several people behind Li Qiang. They were all strong and tough men. When he looked at her eyes, he knew what the idea was. "How much money did the second aunt give?" Jiang Ruan asked suddenly. Li Qiang did not expect that she would suddenly ask. He looked at Jiang Ruan warily and suddenly laughed: "it''s OK to tell the princess, thirty thousand taels of silver." Jiang Ruan nodded, thirty thousand taels of silver, that is, when Jiang Li got married, the whole dowry was only fifty thousand taels of silver. How could the second aunt take out so much silver? She must have sold all her wealth to buy her life? Second aunt''s mind is too simple. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s smiling eyes, Li Qiang looked tight and asked, "does the princess have something to say?" "My princess''s life is worth only ten thousand taels of silver?" Jiang Ruan light way: "don''t you think too much pity?" "What do you mean, princess?" Li Qiang narrowed his eyes. "100000 Liang, I''ll buy the business." Jiang Ruan Dao. Li Qiang was surprised, and several people behind him were also surprised, thinking that it was true that Jiang Ruan was so generous that he would get many good things in front of empress Yide. If you say that you are not interested, it is false. Li Qiang just owed a lot of debt a few days ago. It''s easy for him to get the second aunt''s business. Although he knows it''s dangerous, he also knows that it''s a dead end if he can''t pay off the debt. Today, Jiang Ruan''s mouth is one hundred thousand. Li Qiang has his own thoughts in his heart. He looks moved, as if to change his tongue, but a big man next to him suddenly coughed softly. Li Qiang suddenly woke up with this sound. He looked at Jiang Ruan angrily and said with a hard smile: "the princess is really smart, but I''m not greedy. I really dare not do this business of the princess." If it''s really an ordinary person, it''s OK to turn around like this. Anyway, Li Qiang has no feelings for the second aunt. However, as a princess of Hong''an, if not for this time, Jiang Ruan was really short of money, he did not dare to act rashly against him. If Chiang and Ruan were safe afterwards, they would not let him off. In this case, the mouth of the dead is the safest. Li Qiang clapped his hands and walked forward slowly, saying: "tonight, I''m afraid I''ll offend the princess." He put the torch for lighting in his hand into the mouth of the stone beast on one side of the wall. In the light of the fire, Jiang Ruan sat quietly in the prison. His train was as warm as fire, his eyebrows were delicate and charming, and he had a kind of cynical indifference. Li Qiang swallows his saliva. He knows the charm of the princess. Now it''s even more exciting. Jiang Ruan asked faintly, "is Mr. Li going to kill people?" "Tomorrow morning, the people in Beijing will know the news that the princess committed suicide in prison," Li Qiang said with a smile. "But before that, the princess can have a good time." After killing her, she killed herself. Li Qiang was a fool when he was born in Beijing. He thought that his second aunt and Jiang Li had no brains. He didn''t want to be like this. But I also know that the second aunt hated her to the bone and came up with such a way to torture her. Not only can she lose her innocence before she dies, but also want to damage her reputation. When Li Qiang saw that Jiang Ruan''s face had not changed, he felt more and more itchy. With a wave of his hand, he opened the prison door, and several strong men surrounded him. Li Qiang said with a smile, "Princess Hong''an, we will be very comfortable." As soon as Jiang Ruan''s face was closed, before he pressed down the mechanism of the blood jade bracelet in his hand, he only heard a "bang". The light of the sword and the blood burst at the same time. In an instant, all the people in front of him fell down, leaving Li Qiang alone. The gate had already been kicked open. The light gold unicorn in the corner of the young man in black stepped on the fire and the wind, as if to roar out of the brocade. Xiao Shao came in and said coldly, "look for death." Li Qiang saw the visitor, his body suddenly trembled, and he felt a burst of despair. His second aunt didn''t say that Jiang Ruan had any special relationship with King Jinying of the great Jin Dynasty. He was so frightened that his lower body was moist, and a smell of grumbling filled the cell. Li Qiang fell on his knees and said, "Lord, lift up..." Before he finished speaking, he fell down with a stem in his throat. Xiao Shao put away the dagger without expression and stepped forward. '' hidden in the dark, Jin San retreats quietly. His master comes out to save people without waiting for her. It''s inconvenient to stay here. Jiang Ruan calmed down after a brief surprise. She thought Xiao Shao would come over when she saw the contents of the letter, but she didn''t want to come so quickly. Quietly will cover the left hand on the blood jade bracelet down, she said: "I''ll trouble you to clean this."Xiao Shao nodded, opened the prison door and came in. Seeing the wet environment everywhere, he frowned and said, "is the matter in the letter true?" "It''s true." "It shouldn''t have been used at this time, it''s just Forget it. It''s better to solve it earlier. " The contents of the letter could only be used in the future. I didn''t want my second aunt to be so stupid that she forced her to take them out ahead of time. It''s just that in the end, it will frighten the snake, but in the future, we''ll see what we can do. Xiao Shao pursed her lips, and a trace of coldness flashed in her eyes: "they want to kill you." Not only that, but also he wanted to destroy Jiang Ruan''s innocence before that. Although he knew that Jin Er Jin San was protecting her, he was still a little worried when he heard about it. When he came here like this, he felt a layer of very mild hostility when he thought of the scene. Jiang Ruan Dao didn''t realize it. Only Xiao Shao''s royal guards must have found out the whole story, and she said with ease: "the second aunt was provoked by the fourth sister, so she wanted to deal with me like this. It''s not enough to be afraid of the Minister of the Ministry of officials, but it''s the Yushitai court that is difficult to deal with. " Hu Qianqiu had been an official for many years, and he was very considerate. The emperor also loved him very much. In her previous life, she knew something about the Chiang family, which Hu Qianqiu had never touched. In fact, Hu Qianqiu is the fifth prince. He has nothing to do with Xuanli, but he is a lover. He is willing to take such risks for his second aunt. "Leave it to me." Xiao Shao said, "don''t worry." Jiang Ruan slightly stagnated and looked at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao is looking at her, in the vision is not to hide concern, she said: "good." I can feel that Jiang Ruan''s attitude is gradually changing, from alienation to trust. Maybe Jiang Ruan himself has not found this detail. Xiao Shao was in a better mood. He looked around and said, "tonight Hold on. I''ll take you out tomorrow. " Jiang Ruan pondered, "be careful, too." A smile flashed in Xiao Shao''s eyes. After thinking about it, Xiao Shao squatted down in front of her, took out a small whistle like thing from his arms and handed it to Jiang Ruan: "the royal guards are lurking everywhere. If there is danger, you can use this whistle, and all the Royal Guards nearby can come." It should be his personal keepsake. Before Jiang Ruan could speak, Xiao Shao had stood up and told the royal guards to clean up the body on the ground. Jiang Ruan put the whistle into his sleeve, and his eyes sank into meditation. In the general''s mansion. Zhao Guanggang knew about it when he went down to court. He almost didn''t copy the guy directly to Shangshu mansion. It''s so easy to be persuaded by the people. Li''s tears are very urgent: "ruan''er, how could he be locked up? I don''t believe what he said about murdering old lady Jiang. He must have been slandered." The men of the Zhao family are all extremely brave, and the women born of the Zhao family are all beautiful and weak. With such a tear from Li''s eyes, Zhao Guang is in a hurry. Zhao Yuanping advised: "mother, don''t worry, the third brother has gone to the prison to see what''s going on." "The people of the Jiang family should have taken ruan''er and Xinzhi back when they died." Li''s regret does not fall: "that is a group of jackals, not, Ruan son raised in that house, how can I rest assured." Zhao Yulong whispered, "it depends on her willingness to come back." "Jade dragon." Zhao Yuanping gave his son a warning, but Zhao Yulong kept silent. For his cousin, Zhao Yulong only left the impression that the other side had a weak feeling for the Zhao family. Zhao Yulong''s mouth curled when his grandparents and his family were still worried. Zhao Feizhou looked at Zhao Yuanping: "second uncle, when will sister Ruan be released?" Zhao Guang also stares at Zhao Yuanping, but Zhao Yuanping says, "you have to find out what happened first. With my third brother in the cell, I can always do well. But it''s a bit strange that the Royal censor''s court is sending official documents so quickly. " He touched his chin and pondered: "Dad, you go into the palace and find the emperor first. The emperor will not move ruan''er even though he is in our house. My elder brother and I will go to see the censor taiyuanzheng and my elder nephew. You can transfer some people from the guard to the gate of Jiang''s house to inquire. Ruan''er must have offended someone for no reason. My mother and sister-in-law are waiting for news in the house. If there is any problem, there is a way to deal with it. " After this arrangement, the general''s house was calm again. Xiao Shaofang went out of the prison door, leaving behind a few dark guards to deal with the corpses in the prison. As soon as he got down the stairs, his steps suddenly, and his eyes were cold. The sound of footsteps came from the left. As he walked, Zhao Yuanfeng looked up and down at Xiao Shao, and said sarcastically: "Lord Xiao''s action is very fast." Xiao Shao glanced at him and walked forward. Zhao Yuanfeng reaches out his hand to stop him. Although Zhao Yuanfeng is older than Xiao Shao, he still feels some force in front of the young man who has led hundreds of thousands of royal guards. Dissatisfied with Xiao Shao''s attitude, Zhao Yuanfeng has always been a lawless man. He immediately said, "Lord Xiao is too close to Ruan." Xiao Shao stopped: "what can you do?" Zhao Yuanfeng was almost stunned by Xiao Shao''s rude words. At least he is also the third son of the Zhao family, and he is also a handsome young general. Now Xiao Shao says that, it seems that he is very incompetent.Xiao Shao takes out a letter from his arms and throws it to him. Zhao Yuanfeng takes it over. He doesn''t care about Xiao Shao''s rudeness. After reading it at a glance, Zhao Yuanfeng''s face changes and asks: "you want to send this letter..." "Give it to the censor." Xiao Shao light way: "Hu Qianqiu private, Yushitai yuan is also don''t have to do." "Lord Xiao, the imperial censor will reshuffle the cards now." Zhao Yuanfeng said tentatively: "I''m afraid It''s not that easy. " "Just cleaning." Xiao Shao said indifferently, but Zhao Yuanfeng had a cold war for no reason. He just felt cold. I''ve been informed that I''ll go to Hangzhou next week. I''ll try my best to save and save my tea. My dear ones, if you don''t have enough to eat, you can raise your paper and read it again, but don''t abandon others www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 131 The death of Mrs. Jiang brought a lot of vibration to Jiang''s house. It was not so surprising that Mrs. Jiang''s death was too shocking, but rather that Jiang Ruan was arrested in prison. When Jiang Quan learned about this, he was very angry. On that day, caique was the only one left in front of his wife. Caique had been with him for many years, and his words were convincing. As for Mrs. Jiang''s tea, it was found that arsenic had fallen into it. The rumor in the streets is that Jiang Ruan had a deep grudge against old lady Jiang, so he had arsenic to eat with old lady Jiang. However, although this word is spread far away, a wise man can hear the clue as soon as he hears it. If he wants to murder a person, is it too stupid to put arsenic in front of him. Princess Hong''an is not a fool. How can she find her own way to die. However, suspicions belong to suspicions. After all, it''s Jiang''s own business. While people are talking about it, they are also waiting to see how the sister of the God of war in the great Jin Dynasty, the Red Princess beside the Empress Dowager Yide, is going to turn this situation around. Maybe it''s too fierce. Jiang Quan issued a ban on foot, and all the people in the house were not allowed to go out and walk except shopping. Two aunt hospital, willow is carefully serving two aunt drink medicine. "Take it far away!" With a wave of her hand, the second aunt pushed the medicine bowl away, and her face was a bit agitated. Jiang Quan didn''t allow the people in the mansion to go out, and the outsiders couldn''t get in. Even the servants who spread the news didn''t get the news, and they didn''t know what the outsiders were like. Thinking of the thirty thousand taels of silver she sent out, the second aunt clenched her teeth, and she put all her wealth into custody. It was hard for Jiang Ruan to escape. Although Hu Qianqiu invited her, it had been many years. On the surface, Hu Qianqiu helped him because of his past love, but in fact, he didn''t want to join the Chiang family quietly. The fight between Xuanhua and Xuanli became more and more fierce. Although Hu Qianqiu was in Xuanhua''s line, he was inevitably hesitant. If you can get on the line of Chiang''s office, you can take care of it in case there is one in the future. Li Qiang is his nephew. He is a gambler and owes a lot of money. If she didn''t see through this, she would not let Li Qiang do things for her. She didn''t want to overthrow Jiang Ruan by framing this. She just wanted to let Li Qiang do something when she was in prison. If a woman would commit suicide after this, she would not commit suicide. Li Qiang would also help her to commit suicide. Jiang Li was given by Jiang Ruan at the beginning. Her body was ruined by the lustful prince, and she lost a reputation of debauchery. Now she wants Jiang Ruan to have a taste of that. She has been ruined and lost her reputation. Only in prison, there was no one around Jiang Ruan, so it was best to start. It was a safe thing to do, but there was no news there. There was a trace of anxiety in the second aunt''s heart. This anxiety also brought an unknown premonition, which made her feel confused. After a pause, she stood up and said, "I''ll see Jiang Dan." The courtyard of Jiang Dan, which is close to Ruan Ju, is also quiet at the moment. All over the place, the white silk has been hung up for the funeral. Jiang Dan, dressed in white and plain clothes, sits in front of the window, fiddling with the white flowers on the table. Her long hair did not roll up, casually spread a shoulder, lining that shoulder is more fragile, the whole person is like the white flower on her hand, fragile and helpless. "Girl." The servant girl came forward and said, "the second aunt is outside." "I don''t feel well today. I can''t see you." Jiang Dan fiddled with his hair, got up and walked to the bed. The servant girl was in a bit of a dilemma, but she didn''t dare to go out. Jiang Dan went to the bed and sat down. He pulled down the soft smoke tent with his backhand. The newly made tianxiangluo soft tobacco tent in autumn fragrance color emits the fragrance of "if there is nothing" and its color is bright and moving. One of them is also very expensive. Although Hongying was not sure what she was doing, she could not afford to use these things as a common girl. But it was a gift from someone else, but he didn''t leave his name. He just wanted to know who that person was. Zuo Jiang''s attitude was too warm. There was a trace of disdain on Jiang Dan''s face. In the past, the doctor''s office was indeed a good place, but now the future of the doctor''s office is worrying, and there is no room for further advancement in his official career. She''s not a fool. How can she get in? Zuojiang is very proud of herself. She really thinks she wants to marry. In the end, it''s still useful to keep it. Jiang Dan is in a good mood when he plays with the chain of the tent. The fool of the second aunt wants to do it yesterday. It was only a few words of provocation that made the stupid woman find someone by herself. It would be good to bring down Jiang Ruan, but Jiang Dan himself knew that with Jiang Ruan''s skill, the second aunt would not be her opponent. In the end, the loser is the second aunt. So what? Jiang danmou hate flashed by, when the second grade aunt encouraged Jiang Li to win her marriage, really think she is a soft persimmon? Jiang Li died, the second aunt live well, that is not. People who have offended her always have no good fruit to eat. It was Jiang Li at the beginning, but now it''s the second aunt, and there will be With a smile, she stretched out her porcelain white hand and picked up an embroidery. There was a young Phoenix embroidered on the embroidery. She stretched out her neck and wanted to cry. It seemed that the Phoenix could roar for nine days just waiting for a breeze. In the imperial library, Zhao Guang wiped the sweat on his head and finally relaxed. At any rate, the emperor always revealed that this matter would not end hastily. I think Jiang Ruan is also the princess of the royal family. If something really happened, would it not be a blow to the emperor''s face.When he thought of Hu Qianqiu, a member of the Yushitai court, Zhao Guang was very angry. Zhao Guang was an elder of the kaichao Dynasty and a great general of the auxiliary country. His colleagues always had three points of courtesy when they met him. Hu Qianqiu''s ability to sit in the imperial court was closely related to his shrewd and smooth nature. Zhao Guang has always complained about Wen Chen, but he has not had much contact with Hu Qianqiu. I didn''t expect that this courteous and respectful press court sent Jiang Ruan to prison this time. It seemed that there was no problem, but Zhao Guang''s intuition was that this tortoise grandson must have played a part in it. The emperor threw the fold aside and pressed his forehead. Gao Gonggong looked at his eyes and nose and looked at his heart silently. The Empress Dowager Yide came here just now. She told the emperor about Jiang Ruan. The Empress Dowager Yide paid little attention to such trifles these years. Unexpectedly, it was for the sake of Princess Hong''an to manage these things again. Gao Gonggong thought in his heart that Princess Hong''an was really loved by the Empress Dowager. With Zhao family behind her and Jiang Xinzhi''s meritorious service, the Emperor didn''t pay much attention to her either. Now I''m afraid that I have to reexamine her. Just at this time, he heard that the little eunuch outside came to inform King Jinying that he wanted to see him. When Xiao Shaofang came into the room, the emperor looked at him and said, "why, don''t you tell me, you are also here for Princess Hong''an?" Xiao Shao is silent. The emperor said this unintentionally, but he was stunned when he saw Xiao Shao. He frowned and said, "what''s the relationship between you and Hong''an?" Xiao Shao said faintly: "Hu Qianqiu, as an official of the imperial censor''s hall, is not strict in investigation. He has been hoodwinked by bitches and has been promoted many times. Please punish him severely." "When you talk to me like this, it means that you have already done something. What else do you want me to do?" The emperor snorted coldly: "Princess Hong''an really has some means. Just for a while, I''m very eye-catching to talk about people who love me. I never know when my ministers have such friendship with Princess Hong''an. " Xiao Shao frowned. What the emperor said was not like Zhao Guang and empress Yide. It''s reasonable for Zhao Guang and empress Yide to plead for Jiang Ruan. The Emperor didn''t have to say that. Is there anyone else. He looked at the emperor suspiciously, and the emperor patted the fold on the table: "don''t think about it, Liu Taifu has been here." Liu Min also came to ask for love for Jiang Ruan, and Xiao Shao was stunned. The emperor is a little angry, such a small matter, should not have been taken to the imperial study to say. However, what he heard today is all about Jiang Ruan. How can he not think about it in his heart? Liu Min has always been aloof and aloof since he became an official in the court. He has never even had a particularly familiar courtier. Today, for the first time, he interceded with Jiang Ruan. He took a look at Xiao Shao, and the gorgeous and charming appearance of Jiang Ruan floated in his mind. Was he really fascinated by beauty? "Ah Shao, your marriage..." Before the emperor finished, he saw Xiao Shao and said, "since there is nothing else to do, I will leave first." The emperor choked and waved for a long time: "go down." The little eunuch waiting outside watched Xiao Shao go in and go out of the door very quickly. Seeing the emperor''s not so good face, he thought that King Jinying was a bandit. Even the emperor could not help him. In the room, father-in-law Gao sighed and shook his head. Xiao Shao''s visit to the imperial study today was only to inform the emperor. He didn''t even need permission. Out of the imperial study, Xiao Shao went directly to the imperial platform. The officials of the imperial censor station are dealing with official documents. They are busy and idle. Only cases related to the royal family or important ministers will be under the jurisdiction of the censor. Most of the people above are idle while the others are busy. In addition, everyone in the officialdom knows it by heart, so they have never made any big mistakes. According to the court, Hu Qianqiu''s rash arrest of Jiang Ruan has already discontented all the people in Taichung. At present, there are two people in the imperial censor''s station, one is Juyuan and the other is Chayuan. Juyuan Hu Qianqiu, the other is Chayuan Ke xiuran. Ke xiuran always lives under Hu Qianqiu. Only Hu Qianqiu firmly holds the seat of Juyuan, which makes Ke xiuran unable to find a chance. The officials of Yushitai were divided into two groups, one supporting Hu Qianqiu and the other supporting Ke xiuran. Naturally, they were more self-supporting. This time, Ke xiuran is against Princess Hong''an''s imprisonment. Suddenly seeing Xiao Shao come in, the officials of the imperial censor station were surprised. There was a middle-aged man in a dark blue official uniform sitting in the hall. He was thin and dark, and his eyes were dark. This man was Ke xiuran. Ke xiuran stood up, saluted Xiao Shao and said, "Lord Xiao." Xiao Shao takes a cold look at him and throws his things to Ke xiuran. Ke xiuran was stunned at first. He saw clearly that it was a letter. He went to one side and read the letter. He looked excited and couldn''t help himself. He looked at Xiao Shao, his eyes were very excited: "this..." "Hu Qianqiu doesn''t want to do this, so he doesn''t have to do it." Xiao Shao said, then he turned and left the censor''s platform. He left Ke xiuran alone holding the things in his hand. What was written in the letter was enough to make the imperial censor clean again. Of course, it had no effect on him, but Hu Qianqiu''s official position was not guaranteed. Since Xiao Shao has lost this thing, his attitude is tacit. What Ke xiuran does will not be stopped. It''s just why King Jinying, who has never cared about the affairs of the court, suddenly targets Hu Qianqiu. Ke xiuran thinks about it, and suddenly thinks of Jiang Ruan, who is still in prison. It''s just like this. Hu Qianqiu wants to die himself. He has long seen that Princess Hong''an is not easy to provoke. He is aiming at the name of Jiang Xinzhi, and the emperor will protect Princess Hong''an. Pian Hu Qianqiu didn''t know what evil she had hit, so she locked up Princess Hong''an. Don''t think about it. If something happens to annoy Jiang Xinzhi, the God of war, the road back to his official career will come to an end.For Hu Qianqiu''s ending, Ke xiuran is naturally gloating. He thinks that if Princess Hong''an is really no one else, King Jinying will come out for her. Suddenly thought of what, quickly stood up, even if it is to see in the face of the king of Jin Ying, to this Hong an princess is absolutely not to neglect. Now it''s better to tell the official there. The atmosphere in Chiang''s mansion was heavy. Mrs. Chiang''s coffin was placed in a new funeral hall. All the people in the mansion were in mourning. The people guarding the funeral hall at night were Rhododendron and caique. After the death of Mrs. Du Jiang, the two servant girls had no place to go. After years of hard work with Mrs. Du Jiang, they still went to the mansion according to the usual practice. Du Juan and caique are still unmarried for seven years now. Du Juan is the son of his family. Lao Tzu''s mother is still working in Chuang Tzu of Jiang''s mansion. When they are released from the mansion, they still have a place to live. Caique was bought from outside by Mr. Jiang at that time. He was alone all the time. At night, the funeral hall is even colder. Mrs. Jiang''s coffin exudes a faint dark color. The wind outside passes through the hall and blows the weak white wax to the ground. The paper money in the basin floats up like an invisible hand playing with the paper money. The people of Si Le had already gone back, and Chiang''s house became more and more deserted. It seemed that there were only two of them in the huge mansion. The cuckoo got up and went to the cottage. He didn''t come back, so he was left alone. The white paper lantern is wobbling on the beam of the house, casting a mottled black shadow, and seeping people for no reason. The color sparrow heart a tight, can''t help reaching out to embrace his arms, flower window moonlight don''t know when has disappeared, seems to only Lingtang this weak light, and the wind together, this weak light seems to be extinguished. All of a sudden, the coffin suddenly gave out a crisp sound. The sound was strange, just like someone scratched the board with his fingernails. The colorful Sparrow''s body was stiff, and it was cold, and it poured a chill on her body. Uneasy to go forward, it is a huge noise, scared her face white, the body suddenly soft to the ground. As soon as the cuckoo went away, it seemed that there was no sound, and it never came back. The huge sound became louder and louder, almost exploding in the ears of the colorful sparrow. On the ground, in the bright shadow of the lantern, a shadow suddenly appeared. The shadow was long and thin. It seemed that it had been strangely elongated. It was a woman''s figure. Its hair was long and pulled down. It was very conspicuous in the hall. Caique screamed and couldn''t keep calm any more. The sight was too seeping. She knelt down and kowtowed to the spirit card in the Lingtang: "old lady, it''s the maidservant''s fault. The maidservant shouldn''t hurt you. Please forgive me, please." The shadow did not let her go. She watched from behind and came closer and closer. Caique only felt a pair of cold hands caressing her neck. The long gray fingernails rubbed past. Finally, she couldn''t help looking up and facing a pale face. Her eyes were black and big, her straight hair was around her body, and her lips were large black blood stains. Caique finally broke down and cried out: "old lady, I''m wrong! Old lady... " The voice stops suddenly, the color Bird Eyes lax, soft fall down. That living of seeping person''s ghost but a pull to own head cover, peep out a piece of amorous feelings ten thousand kinds of face come, is exactly brocade three. Jin three felt a medicine bottle from his arms, skillfully pinched the chin of the color bird to feed her, and the color bird fell to the ground. Brocade three this just big stride of walk out of the window, brocade one side of the expressionless of grasp cuckoo, cuckoo was point acupoint, look terrified incomparable, a word also can''t say. "Darling, do you want to be like her?" Jin San smiles. Although she is beautiful, she looks like a ghost in the eyes of cuckoo. The cuckoo shook his head in horror. Jin San said with a smile: "I''ll untie your acupoints. Don''t shout. If it distracts me, then..." One end of the silver hairpin in her hand was emitting faint blue light, which was obviously poisoned. The cuckoo nodded quickly. Jin San just solved the acupoint. As soon as he solved the acupoint, the cuckoo quickly asked, "how is she?" "Not much." Jin three tone relaxed: "just about since then has become a fool." The cuckoo was stunned, and a sense of sadness suddenly rose in his heart. She and caique served old lady Jiang together in their early years, and they had a deep feeling for advancing and retreating together these years. But just now she was held by this stranger, and she was stunned to see caique frightened. And then he became a fool What''s the good end of a servant girl who becomes a fool? "Don''t patronize heartache." Jin three giggles: "do you want to be a fool like her? But I don''t know if a beautiful girl like you will turn into a fool. Does Mr. Wang still like it? " The cuckoo was stunned and suddenly became cold. Mr. Wang, how can she know Mr. Wang? She knew better than anyone how old man Jiang died. She was shocked by caique''s courage, but she also received the man''s chips. The man said that as long as she could testify, she would be freed from slavery. Azalea follows Mr. Jiang. She originally planned not to marry for life. I don''t want to meet a prince, but a slave is not qualified to marry him anyway. If you can get rid of slavery, will you be able to live with Prince Wang and become a couple. So the cuckoo was silent. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 132 The cuckoo looks at Jin San tremblingly, and Jin San smiles sincerely: "but I like a beautiful girl like you most. You are obedient, and I''m willing to do the whole marriage. If you don''t listen to me," Jin San''s tone suddenly turns cold: "your little lover will be involved by you." "I promise you." The cuckoo is in a hurry. At the beginning, she helped caique frame Jiang Ruan. She was also very hesitant. Caique is not born at home, so you need to look at it when you go out of the house. Du Juan''s family is still working in Jiang''s house, just because they should not be involved in these things. Later, because Prince Wang reluctantly agreed to this matter, there was some hesitation in his heart. That day, Mr. Jiang asked her to pack tea, so she took the opportunity to stay in for a long time. Later, when I asked, I only said that what I saw was not true, and my attitude was specious. At the moment, the cuckoo was relieved. Fortunately, she had left her heart in the first place. Otherwise, she would end up in the same situation as the colorful sparrow. Looking at the appearance of the colorful sparrow falling on the hall, the cuckoo could not help fighting a cold war. Jin San and Jin left as soon as they finished. Ruan''s Tianzhu also jumped into the yard at the same time. Angelica dahurica and forsythia dew had been waiting anxiously for a long time. Seeing Tianzhu coming back, they were all relieved. In recent days, Ruan juwai''s mother-in-law has been watching. Fortunately, Tianzhu has martial arts skills and can avoid those eyes and ears. Angelica asked: "things can be done." Tianzhu nods. It''s not difficult for her to put arsenic in the house. She wanted to put some in Jiang Dan''s yard, but Jiang Ruan had told her before that Jiang Dan could pick it up after the accident. Since she couldn''t take it at one stroke, there''s no need to scare the snake. Although Tianzhu was not reconciled, she still put up with it. Forsythia was relieved: "just waiting for the good news of the Lord tomorrow." As the night passed, everyone had their own thoughts. In the early morning of the next day, a group of officers and soldiers arrived in the prison. The officer in charge was very strange. Facing Jiang Ruan, he was very respectful. He only said that it was just a misunderstanding and hoped that she would not punish him. Xiao Shao moves quickly, but Jiang Ruan doesn''t embarrass the official. When Fang goes to the big man''s door, he sees Zhao Yuanfeng waiting for her at the door. Seeing that she came out and rushed forward to look her up and down, he nodded with satisfaction when he saw that Jiang Ruan was safe and sound: "he really wanted to be considerate." Jiang Ruan whispered, "little uncle." Zhao Yuanfeng looked at her with a smile and waved: "girl Ruan, since you come out today, I will show you a good play." Jiang Ruan smile: "good." But in the early morning, people in the middle and lower levels of Chiang Kai Shek''s house got up early to clean up and sweep. Then they heard the sound of heavy blows coming from the gate of Chiang Kai Shek''s house. When the guard opened the door, he saw a line of officers with swords coming in, looking fierce. The old lady, who was a little longer, came forward and said, "officer, why..." However, the official waved the woman aside: "get out of the way, I''m acting according to the order, and I''ll catch the imperial criminals!" The old lady was so scared that she was very excited. There was no one in the house to be an official except Jiang Chao and Jiang Quan. How could she stand up to the word "chaotingqin criminal". Is there something wrong with the master? The old woman was so frightened that she kept silent. The officers and soldiers did not pay attention to her any more. They went into the gate of Jiang''s mansion and searched one by one. Soon, the second aunt was escorted out of the yard. "My Lord, I didn''t do anything for you?" The second aunt still didn''t understand what happened. She didn''t wait for the news of Jiang Ruan''s accident, but a group of officers and soldiers came. Li Qiang was not the leader of the officers and soldiers, and glared at her: "shut up, what do you want to say with us to the Yamen!" The official was really vicious, and the second aunt was too scared to speak again. But Jiang Quan said that when he heard the news, he rushed out with people to inquire. When he saw the official leader, he frowned and asked, "what did you do?" Originally, with Chiang Kai Shek''s rank, these officials met him, not to flatter him, but also to be courteous. Today, however, it was not the case. The officer and soldier leader took a look at Jiang Quan and said in a meaningful tone: "Mr. Jiang, it''s better not to interfere in this matter. Be careful to cause trouble." After that, he called the bottom people and left without looking back. Jiang Quan was cool in his heart. The official''s tone was quite profound. He took away the second aunt, but he said it was so serious. What''s causing trouble? And it''s too much of a fuss to bring so many people to catch the second aunt. He was also a man who had been fighting in the officialdom for so many years. At that time, a conjecture floated in his mind. Was there something wrong with the Secretary of the Ministry of officials? Besides, the second aunt followed the officers and soldiers all the way to the yamen, leaving two officers and soldiers to watch her, and the leader led her men to go ahead. Second aunt in the heart seven up and eight down, thought, then ruthless heart, pull out two jade rings from the finger. Earlier in the day, in order to buy Li Qiang, she had sold all her jewelry. This jade ring was given to her by Jiang Quangang when he brought her into the mansion. He was reluctant to pawn it. Now the situation is urgent, but I don''t care too much. I grabbed two jade rings and put them into the hands of the two officers. I said with a smile, "officer, why do you want to catch my concubine?" The quality of the jade ring is excellent. If you take it out, you can be a thousand eight hundred taels. If these yamen officers seldom see such goods on weekdays, they will know it by heart. But today, this move didn''t work. The two yamen servants looked at each other and didn''t reach for the jade ring.The second aunt''s heart became cold when she saw it. She was not afraid to ask for something, but she was afraid that she would not accept it. Is it serious enough? What is it that even two yamen officers dare not accept things? The second aunt''s face changed and she said with a smile, "that''s. Do you know where your Mr. Li Qiang and Mr. Li have gone? " One of them looked at her in surprise: "Mr. Li? There was no shadow yesterday, and there was no one in the house. There was a change of people. Even if he came back, it would not be his turn. " After thinking about it, he looked at the second aunt and said, "don''t play tricks. Save your strength and wait for the court." "You don''t talk to her." Another yamen servant impatiently urged. The second aunt was even more frightened. She didn''t know how long she had been waiting. Then she heard that the drum for redressing grievances outside had been pounded heavily. It seemed that it hit her heart. The drum for redressing grievances is that only when there is a big case will people sing, which usually involves court officials. The second aunt was taken to court when the drum stopped. The two lines of Yamen servants were standing on both sides, but the old man above was not the one whom the second aunt was familiar with. He looked very hard to be close to people. What shocked the second aunt most was not this. On the left side of the middle seat, she was sitting with her familiar figure. Jiang Ruan''s makeup was clean and ironed, and she changed into a light blue dress. She was still as gorgeous and charming as before. Now she looked at her with a smile. What''s wrong with her appearance? The second aunt''s heart sank, and she hated Jiang Ruan for escaping. She was very unwilling. Looking at Jiang Ruan, her eyes were like a poisoned sword. The appearance of the second aunt was a little displeased in the eyes of other people in the hall. Zhao Yuanfeng coughed softly: "I haven''t found out my identity yet, Mr. Ke?" Ke xiuran on the seat excites himself and looks at Zhao Yuanfeng. Everyone knows that the Third Master of the Zhao family is a rebellious man. He was born to a three generation General of the Zhao family, but he still has the ability. If I offend him, I''m afraid it will be more difficult in the future. Besides, today, Zhao Yuanfeng came to watch the case in person to support Princess Hong''an? If you don''t sell him a favor, you can do things in the future. Thinking of this, Ke xiuran patted the wood and said, "don''t you know sin The second aunt shook her head and said, "I don''t know what crime I committed." Ke xiuran said: "take the witness!" Then he saw the official escorting two servant girls to come forward. One of them had disheveled hair and murmured: "I''m wrong, old lady. I didn''t mean to hurt you. It was the second aunt who made me do this. Old lady, I''m wrong..." I''m already out of my mind. The other man knelt down and said in a loud voice, "if you''re going to return to your master, I''m cuckoo. As a witness, it was the second aunt who bribed caique to give the old lady medicine to slander the princess. The second aunt also threatened the maidservant. If she told the truth, she would kill her family in Chuang Tzu. " "You''re bullshit, when will I --" the second aunt was not willing to say. "The second aunt gave a large sum of money to caique. If you don''t believe me, you can go to check caique''s house." "No, I have already checked." Ke xiuran waved. The case officer on the other side said: "Mr. Jiang Li, you poison Mr. Jiang for money. You don''t want to repent and plot to frame Princess Hong''an. It''s not enough. In order to kill people, you buy murderers and kill people. Your heart is evil. You don''t want to starve snakes and scorpions. Your nature is vicious. You''re like a jackal. Who can bear it or not? It''s clear that heaven''s right. How can our government tolerate you You have to make a decision. " As soon as the word "chop, stand and decide" came out, the second aunt was like a cork that had lost her heart and soul. The whole person could no longer support her and collapsed. She was a timid and vicious woman, and she had no strength to defend herself. There is only one thing in my mind, that is, it is revealed. But when he thought that his father was a minister of the Ministry of officials, he might have a way to save her. Suddenly, his eyes lit up and he cried, "I''m wronged, I''m wronged! Please let me see my father! " Jiang Ruan smiles when he hears the speech. Second aunt wants to rely on her mother''s family. Maybe she wants Hu Qianqiu to help her. But now the Li family is still struggling to protect themselves. As for Hu Qianqiu I''m afraid there will be no such person in Yushitai in the future. Ke xiuran was startled again. His eyes flashed a trace of deep meaning, and he cheered: "Li Dexing, the guilty minister!" The second aunt was struck by lightning. They saw that the officers and soldiers were escorting several people in shackles and prison clothes. It was none other than Li Shangshu, the father of the second aunt, and his brother. Li Shangshu was very embarrassed all over. Obviously, he had suffered a lot. Seeing his second aunt, he spat at her viciously and scolded, "disaster!" Second aunt is stunned: "father, this is..." "Get out of here!" But Li Shangshu is very irritable. "Silence Ke xiuran''s face was very serious. Li Shangshu gritted his teeth. As usual, how dare Ke xiuran treat him like this? Early this morning, the official copied Shangshu mansion according to the order. It was unbelievable, but the news revealed by the official surprised him. All those past things have been turned over, that is, the past business that we thought was perfect has also been turned over. If we say nothing else, it''s against the emperor''s taboo to form cliques with courtiers.Li Shangshu had a good life. He didn''t expect that he would be cheated by others. He didn''t remember some things clearly, but he was also turned over. He pleaded guilty one by one in prison. Li almost suspected that his confidants had betrayed him. Hu Qianqiu was also implicated in the crime. It was only said that Hu Qianqiu had collected money from her second aunt, who interfered with her official business. At that time, Li Shangshu was still surprised that the other charges were just enough, and how could he get involved in the second aunt''s affairs. The prison leader once had some friendship with him. He kindly reminded him, "Li Shangshu, blame your daughter. Who''s wrong? It''s Princess Hong''an. The people behind Princess Hong''an can''t be offended by Shangshu mansion. " Li Shangshu asked who was behind Princess Hong''an, but the prison refused to say. However, Li Shangshu knew something, which was all caused by the second aunt. In other words, the second aunt destroyed the whole Li family. Now when Li Shangshu saw the second aunt, he wished he hadn''t strangled her when he was born. All the court officials of the Li family were destroyed by this stupid daughter! Seeing Zhao Yuanfeng again, I wonder if the person behind Princess Hong''an is the Zhao family. When Jiang Ruan was the grandson of the Zhao family, it was natural for him to help. But the Zhao family is always open and aboveboard, and they will not be so cruel. They want people to fill their lifeblood. The case officer shook open the scroll and read word by word: "Li Dexing, as an official of the imperial court, you have ignored the law, hurt people''s lives, embezzled and bribed, cheated the saints and the common people. The court orders you to decapitate and die together with plants, to feed insects, to bite rats, to feed flies, and to die without burial. " "In the Li family, there are men stealing and women prostitutes. They don''t cultivate their morality inside and outside. They lose their morality and conduct. They are so gentle that they insult the sages. The court ruled that if the Li family were deprived of their official status, they would never be admitted to the imperial examination. " "No," cried the second aunt. Why is this so? It''s just that she had an accident in the east window. How could Li Fu have been copied? What''s the matter with the accusations? She raised her head and looked at Jiang Ruan, who sat down with a smile on her lips, as if with deep ridicule, overlooking their embarrassed state. "It''s you..." The second aunt murmured. "Take Hu Qianqiu!" Ke xiuran also said. This time, Hu Qianqiu was escorted by officers and soldiers. Hu Qianqiu was brought up, first of all, he glared at Ke xiuran fiercely. At the beginning, Ke xiuran was promoted by him, and he was also a talented person. However, in recent years, he was more and more threatened. This time he fell, there must be Ke xiuran''s help. Ke xiuran also saw Hu Qianqiu''s eyes, but he was a little proud. He cheered: "Hu Qianqiu, after hearing the sentence, you acted as an official in vain, colluded with other concubines and framed the princess. You are really stupid and shameless. Now you are deprived of your imperial examination background and demoted to the common people. You will never be an official." Ke xiuran''s heart was blocked. Although he knew that his official position would not be guaranteed, when he heard that he would never be an official, he couldn''t help feeling stuffy and spat out a mouthful of blood. "Forever!" Second aunt heart a panic, climb to Hu Qianqiu side. "Get out of here!" Hu Qianqiu no longer has the former affectionate appearance, a palm will pull her away, look at her eyes like looking at an enemy: "bitch!" If it wasn''t for her, how could he be reduced to the present situation? He wanted to get involved with Jiang family through her. Now his career has been ruined. Who dares to tolerate him in the capital in the future? Second aunt stupidly looking at Hu Qianqiu, like looking at a stranger, she does not understand why overnight all things have changed. The Li family has been reduced to the present situation, and Hu Qianqiu''s official position is not guaranteed, and they all hate her. She did this to them? Jiang Ruan sat in the hall with a smile, as if nothing could shake her calm and calm. She is like a wandering in the world of mortals outside the witch, indifferent and cynical overlooking the struggle of the people. Feeling the second aunt''s eyes, Jiang Ruan turned his head. His clear eyes clearly showed no emotion, but the second aunt understood it. She''s saying: accept defeat. Willing to accept defeat, willing to accept defeat, the second aunt chuckled, and the laughter became bigger and bigger, which made everyone on the scene frown. The second aunt was still smiling, with tears all over her face. She looked at Jiang Ruan: "Miss, you are cruel! I can''t fight you. I can''t fight you when I die. " Jiang Ruan did not speak, and the second aunt laughed miserably. It''s her fault. She''s responsible for it. She ruined her family and childhood. She killed her daughter in the doctor''s office. She was inferior to others and was provoked by others. She was so stupid that she let the whole Shangshu house bury her with her! However, if she is wrong, others are not wrong? As a concubine, she has no way to decide her lover, so she can only be given to another person by her father as a gift. There is a main room above the house, and other concubines compete for favor. The only daughter, however, can only bear the identity of a common girl forever like her! But she wanted her daughter to live a better life. She fought hard and won other people''s marriage. In the end, she got her daughter''s revenge. Want to die with the culprit, but finally catch up with the whole Li family.By now, she has finally become a sinner hated by everyone. She is wrong, but she is forced to do so! The second aunt collapsed to grab her hair. The long hair, which was always in a bun, was torn apart by her. She was unkempt and dirty. If she was a madman, how could she still look smart and beautiful? She fondled her long hair and looked lax. She said in a low voice, "Li Er, don''t be afraid. My mother will take you home." His face is no longer clear. Some of the people on the scene could not help but sigh. Hu Qianqiu and Li Shangshu are even more disgusted. Zhao Yuanfeng subconsciously looks at Jiang Ruan''s look. He thinks he can find other emotions on her face, but he sees that Jiang Ruan''s expression is indifferent. Although he has a smile on his lips, he doesn''t even have a trace of extra emotion in his eyes. It''s like everything in the world can''t move her. Zhao Yuanfeng sighed in his heart. Seeing what happened today, I don''t think she didn''t know all about it. Maybe there was a contribution from her niece. I had known that Jiang Ruan''s heart was like a rock, but his indifference was really shocking. Other girls are just as old as Huaer. They laugh and make noise every day, but their nieces are calm all day. It''s like Like an old woman who has lived for many years. Zhao Yuanfeng shakes his head. He doesn''t know if he can meet someone in the future and open her heart. There must be something hateful about the poor man. After all, the second aunt is just a victim, so she needs a candle. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 133 The Zhao family specially told Ke xiuran about it. Ke xiuran reciprocated and spared no effort to publicize the case outside. In just one day, people in the whole capital knew that Jiang Ruan had been wrongly imprisoned. Not only that, but also the details were circulated. Hu Qianqiu and his second aunt''s early love affair was also exposed, so the green hat on Jiang Quan''s head became more green. However, people didn''t sympathize with Jiang Quan. Just because Jiang Ruan was in prison and out of prison, his father, Jiang Shangshu, had seen Jiang Ruan in the future, and there was no shadow of Jiang Quan in the court that day. People always sympathize with the weak. At first, Princess Hong''an has been promoted step by step, but now she is full of flowers. It''s really pitiful that she doesn''t want to live such a miserable life in Jiang''s house. The second aunt was sentenced to be beheaded and decided to behead at the Meridian Gate the next day. Ke xiuran was very concerned about this. Naturally, after Hu Qianqiu was dismissed from office, Ke xiuran sat in the right position of the imperial censor''s station. Not only that, in Hu Qianqiu''s original crime, nearly half of the officials of the imperial censor''s station were implicated. After such a long series of clean-up, the imperial censor''s station reshuffled, but none of Hu Qianqiu''s original people was found. New officials have completely rewritten the structure of Yushitai, saying goodbye to the staleness of the past decades and ushering in new vitality. Li Shangshu''s family, apart from Li Shangshu, who was sentenced to beheading for the most heinous crimes, had not suffered any harm to the rest of their children. However, they would never be allowed to take the imperial examination. Li''s family was finally this generation, and it was meaningless to stay in the capital. So they moved out of the capital, even Li Shangshu and his second aunt, who were still in prison. Before he left, Li Shangshu also asked Li Qiang about his whereabouts, but Li Qiang was like the evaporation of the world, and he never heard from him again. Li Shangshu knew that Li Qiang was more or less unlucky, so he fainted again. In Jiang''s mansion, the news of the second aunt came back. With a click, the porcelain cups in Jiang Dan''s hand fell to the ground one by one. Tea mixed with porcelain pieces fell everywhere. The servant girl knelt down to pick them up. Jiang Dan said in a hurry: "is the Shangshu mansion copied?" The servant girl has already told Jiang Dan what happened outside. At the moment, listening to Jiang Dan''s question, she says, "yes." Looking at Jiang Dan again, he didn''t seem to hear her, and he was in a trance. The servant girl was always inexplicably afraid of the master, and she didn''t dare to say anything more. She picked up the debris on the ground in a hurry and quickly walked out of the house, looking for a towel to clean the water stains on the ground. Jiang Dan looked at a large pool of water stains on the ground, but the news he had just heard appeared in his mind. The second aunt was sentenced to death, and Li Shangshu was sentenced to death. The Li family''s children would never be allowed to join the imperial examination. Hu Qianqiu was also deposed. Li Qiang was not found. Although Jiang Dan had already expected that the second aunt would not be able to fight Jiang Ruan, he did not expect that Jiang Ruan was so cruel and ruthless that he let the whole Li family bury him with him. There was a trace of fear in Jiang Dan''s heart. He still treated his second aunt like this. If Jiang Ruan knew what happened. She felt a chill in her heart and felt a cold sweat on her back. Jiang Dan "Huo" stand up, Jiang Ruan is too dangerous, Jiang Ruan one day live in this world, is a one day threat to her. Either get rid of Jiang Ruan immediately, or enter the palace in the shortest time, and then. Get rid of her slowly. She squinted, her nails embedded in her palms. Because of the second aunt''s affairs, when they returned to the mansion, the servants in the mansion looked at Jiang Ruan with a trace of fear. Jiang Ruan just did not know, the death of old lady Jiang was unexpected, and the house was busy with funeral. Everyone is a plain clothes, originally she felt disgusted when she saw white, but now she can only change into white plain clothes. According to the rules of the Dajin Dynasty, the family members of the elders in the mansion died, and the family of Ji''s daughter had to be filial for one year. At the age of Jiang Ruan, it was time to talk about other people. As soon as Jiang Ruan''s husband died, his daughter''s family had to be filial for a year, so the marriage had to be delayed. In addition to the fact that the portrait of Jiang Dan has been sent up and can not be changed, the marriage of Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu must be put down for the time being. Angelica dahurica a few people really worry about this, Jiang Ruan himself is not very interested. Hongying is the only woman who can be the master of this mansion. But Hongying is only a concubine who wants to be the master of Jiang mansion. She has no qualification and no mind to worry about her marriage. At first, when Mrs. Jiang was still there, she might have thought about it. As soon as Mr. Jiang left, no one in the Chiang family would have noticed whether she could grant it to others. Even Jiang Quan would only consider her as a gift in exchange. In this way, filial piety may not be a good thing. Dew pushed the door and came in: "today afternoon, my second aunt decapitated at the entrance of the vegetable market, girl..." The dewdrop hesitated for a moment and then said, "do you want to go?" Angelica dahurica frowned: "that dirty scene, did not dirty the girl''s eyes." "Go and have a look." Jiang Ruan said, "at least I have some friendship. I should give her a ride." The friendship between the two generations is not shallow. The entrance of the vegetable market is full of onlookers. The women kneeling on the ground with ropes are dirty on their clothes, and their hair is covered with stains and rotten vegetable leaves. There are always people filled with righteous indignation to express their anger at the prisoners."Bah, I have no face and no skin. I''ve come to harm the princess with my adulterer." "No, I''m not a girl from a good family. Haven''t I seen that the Shangshu mansion has been raided?" "It''s self inflicted. Sure enough, what kind of people raise what kind of daughter. That shameless doctor''s wife may have been taught so badly a few days ago." In the process of discussion, the woman in prison clothes raised her head and showed a mottled face. She could see the beauty of the past, but her eyes were extremely lax, her lips were full of silly laughter, and her mouth was full of water. She whispered to herself, and only the executioner of the nearest evil way could hear her clearly. She is saying: Li''er, my mother will take you out to buy clothes. The executioner disdained to curl his mouth and looked at her with disdain. In the crowd at the entrance of the vegetable market, dewdrop and Tianzhu protect Jiang Ruan from being crowded by the crowd. Jiang Ruan lifted his hat and looked at the woman who was mumbling to himself. Second aunt''s silly appearance, where there was a smart and beautiful shadow. Although the second aunt was not smart all the time in fact, she once envied Jiang Li in her last life, because Jiang Li had such a strong mother that a common daughter had a better life than her own daughter. When Jiang Ruan was a child, Zhao Mei was still the head mother of Jiang''s family, but the name of the head mother was not true. Xia Yan was gentle, and she was always considerate and could not be manipulated. However, her second aunt saw that Jiang Quan didn''t like Zhao Mei and bullied their mother and son. The second aunt was very domineering when she was young. She secretly threatened Jiang Ruan many times behind her back. However, those who had been afraid of in the previous life came to such an end in this life. When she came back again, she felt that the original powerful people were just like this, just paper tigers. As early as the second aunt lifted the foot ban, her attitude changed greatly, she noticed that Jiang Dan only killed people with a knife, but the second aunt also had some old grudges with her. Before she was put into prison, she wrote a letter overnight, which was nothing else. It was Li Shangshu and Li Dexing''s record of collecting money and keeping connections over the years. In the last generation, the Li family finally defected to Xuanli. The Li family and the Jiang family were related by marriage, and Xuanli was willing to take care of them. It''s just that Xuanli has a habit. It''s not as good as using people without doubt on the surface. Everyone should always investigate and grasp the weakness of that person in case of emergency. What Li Dexing had done was done by her at the beginning. I remember clearly that Hu Qianqiu was not aimed at the second aunt. At first, Hu Qianqiu was in Xuanhua school, but when he saw that the momentum was not right, he went to Xuanli. Nearly half of the people in Yushitai later became Xuanli''s people. Yushitai''s position in the court is very important, especially in the case of officials. When Hu Qianqiu was taken down this time, Yushitai reshuffled, that is to say, it cut off a large part of Xuanli''s power in the future. Li''s family, Hu Qianqiu, Xuanli''s future wings, are now cut by her, but she doesn''t know whether Xuanli''s way of seizing the throne in the future will go smoothly. As for the second aunt, she is just a victim. But she didn''t feel the same way. No one has ever sympathized with anything in the world. At the end of the last life, she was in such a situation. However, her second aunt, by virtue of the relationship between Li Shangshu and Xuanli, had a prosperous life in Jiang''s mansion. Although she was not as good as Xia Yan, she also stepped on her blood. The people of the Jiang family used her blood to pave the way, but they didn''t feel the same. They were just former enemies. How could she be soft hearted. It seems that the time for execution is coming. If the prisoners in the past come to this time, all the relatives and friends who have relatives and friends will come up to deliver the last journey. Second aunt is not an orphan, but today there is no one to go for her last journey. Jiang Li had already gone down the yellow spring before her, and the Li family moved. As for Jiang Quan, his second aunt gave him a green hat. It was kind of Jiang Quan not to kick her feet to vent his anger. How could he come to see him off. Then, in the sound of sobs, a man came forward slowly, wearing plain clothes and hats, and walking freely. The crowd gradually quieted down, looking at the woman who suddenly stepped forward. The woman walked up to the prisoner and lifted her hat to show her beautiful face. Some people who had seen her face in the crowd immediately took a cold breath: "it''s Princess Hong''an!" It''s Princess Hong''an! The common people are the people who can think freely. For a moment, the voice of discussion suddenly rises again: "it''s actually Princess Hong''an. How can Princess Hong''an come here?" "It''s so compassionate. This poisonous woman has done so much harm to her. It''s really rare that Princess Hong''an came to see her off." "If you are the sister of the God of war, not everyone can do it." Jiang Ruan Chao''s Executioner tilted his head and said, "brother, may I have a few words with my aunt?" The executioner was surprised by Jiang Ruan''s beauty. Seeing her polite address, he was excited and embarrassed for a moment. His face turned red and said, "princess, please be polite." Then he went to one side and emptied his seat with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan squatted down in front of the second aunt. Dewdrop quickly took out a clean wet pad from the basket and wiped the second aunt''s face a little bit. Second aunt hands and feet are tied, struggling to open, can only twist in vain. After the dew wiped the second aunt''s face clean, Jiang Ruan looked at her and said, "aunt is still beautiful like this. Otherwise, when I meet my old friend underground, what can I do if I can''t recognize her?"Second aunt originally is the eyes light lax silly appearance, hear Jiang Ruan say like this, but the body lightly trembles. Jiang Ruan lowered his body, lips close to the ears of the second aunt, and said in a soft voice, "the second aunt should have tasted what my mother had tasted." She said, "you can understand me whether you are crazy or not." She looked down at the prisoner lying on the ground, and even Tianzhu on one side could not help but feel a little frightened. Jiang Ruan''s eyes suddenly became very deep and dark, like a deep whirlpool. She said: "the second aunt should know what happened at the beginning. All the people in Jiang''s house should know that they killed my mother because they were so bad. " "My elder brother, and I, the people of the Jiang family like to step on the blood of our mother and son. Now it''s time to teach the Jiang family to taste it." "The second aunt and the third sister were the first to go down to the yellow spring, and the old lady. When they meet at the bottom, they should greet each other, but don''t go too fast. It''s better to wait for other Chiang''s family." "Isn''t he the one who cherishes the Jiang family most? I want him to live and see for himself how the Jiang family is destroyed in my hands when I sacrifice my life for the sake of the Jiang family." "I will get back the debts that the Jiang family owes me one by one. No one can escape." Her lips were soft and her voice was smiling, but her words were as chilling as ghosts: "you should enjoy the path of hell that I have gone through, and the manjushahua in the accumulation of bones along the way." She said, "take care, aunt." The second aunt''s eyes seemed to turn when she finished this sentence, but for a short moment, she laughed again. Jiang Ruan stood up straight, and the executioner came up with a little sorry smile to Jiang Ruan: "this man''s brain is a little noisy, I''m afraid the princess''s words can''t be heard." Jiang Ruan smile: "just send aunt." Then he turned away with dew and Tianzhu. The beheader threw his signature to the ground and said in a long, sharp voice: "the time is up -" suddenly, the executioner''s hand fell, silver and blood, and blood gushed out, and life fell. Jiang Ruan''s steps did not stop. It seemed that it was not worth stopping. Only the prisoner''s head rolled into the crowd, rolling on the muddy road, almost unable to see the original appearance. The Li family, who used to be an important official in the capital, collapsed like this. Jiang''s house was even more desolate. Only Hongying was very happy. She didn''t have to be filial and eat fast, but she was able to mend her body every day. Her stomach grew up every day. If she didn''t know that she was pregnant with a pillow, Jiang Ruan might have thought that she was a lin''er. After the death of Jiang''s husband, the power of Chiang''s family''s contribution fell to Hongying. Xu felt that it was wrong for a concubine who came from fireworks to be in charge of the family. For the first time, Jiang Quan ordered his aunt to take care of the family affairs with Hongying. Aunt is almost invisible in the mansion, and she has no threat to Hongying. Usually, she is not as good as a big girl. Hongying has never paid attention to her. The daughter''s family of Jiang''s family should be filial to his wife, but Jiang Dan is an exception. Just because the portrait of the talent show has been sent up, there has been a reply in recent days. There are people coming to the palace. Jiang Dan has been selected to go into the palace with other beautiful girls to show her talents. It is still unknown whether she can live in the palace. In fact, the emperor did not choose Jiang Dan because he was very talented. The last generation chose Jiang''s daughter to enter the palace just because they wanted to contain Jiang''s family. At this time of the last life, the power of the Chiang family has reached its peak. But since she returned to Beijing three years ago, the Chiang family has been hindered by many ways, and their influence is far less than that of previous generations. But even so, the emperor was wary of the Chiang family. Jiang Quan called Jiang Dan into the library and talked for two hours. All the people in the government guessed that it was Jiang Quan who told Jiang Dan what to do. Jiang Quan valued Jiang Dan so much that his servants were happy to have a dream of a lady in Jiang''s mansion. As Forsythia brought in the peony cake made in the kitchen, she said: "the master really wants to praise the four girls. The four girls can''t even compare with the two girls. How can they win the favor of your majesty?" Forsythia is forthright, even more forthright when there is no one. It''s true. If you really want to use one of your daughters to be the empress of the Chiang family, why don''t you send Jiang Susu in. Chiang Su Su Sheng is beautiful and talented. Though not as tolerant as Jiang Dan, he is more liked by men than Jiang Dan. If you send Jiang Susu to the palace, you will surely get the favor of the emperor. "The master is reluctant to give up the two girls." Angelica dahurica said in a low voice: "the palace looks at the glory and wealth, among which the hard work is not humane." Dewdrop curled her lips: "the master''s heart is too biased, but I don''t think others think so. The servant girls in the house are all trying to curry favor with the four girls these days." No one knows Jiang Quan''s mind better than Jiang Ruan, because she was coaxed into the palace in the last life. Jiang Quan only said that there was someone in the palace to take care of him, but Jiang Su Su was not in good health. All this was for the sake of the Chiang family, and Xuan Li said she would take care of her, so she went into the deep palace, and finally the whole body did not fall.Now she stands aside and looks coldly at Jiang Quan''s old tricks again. Jiang Dan is not her. Jiang Dan enters the palace voluntarily. Jiang Quan didn''t want to sacrifice Jiang Su Su, but he didn''t know that Jiang Dan had the courage to sacrifice his family as long as he could climb up. Jiang Quan may think that he can control Jiang Dan, but he doesn''t know that this move is like letting the tiger go back to the mountain. Once Jiang Dan has moist soil, he is bound to grow fast, and then There''s nothing left to swallow up Chiang''s house. The two men were possessed by a ghost. Jiang Quan thought that he was hiding the truth from the world. In fact, Jiang danshun pushed the boat by the water. It''s a great pleasure to sit on the mountain and watch the tiger fight. There was an earthquake yesterday morning. Cha Cha was on the seventh floor. Ha ha ha, dear ones, were you scared? www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 134 The days passed peacefully, as if they were not affected. In the twinkling of an eye, it was the end of summer, and the weather was a little cooler than before. The miscellaneous things in the past have gradually settled down, and the death of old lady Jiang seems to be gradually forgotten. Jinying palace, snow pigeon flying in from the window, landed on the room boxwood desk, wings accidentally stained with ink ink, white feathers appear a few ink. Xiao Shao lifted the snow pigeon from the inkstone and put it in the palm of his hand. The snow pigeon''s small white head looked at him with his eyes like black beans. Xiao Shao touched the head of the snow pigeon and untied the copper bar on its leg. The note in the copper strip was not long, and there was a small line of writing on it. After reading the note, Xiao Shao slowly frowned. A moment later, he put the note aside on the oil lamp and burned it. He told the people around him: "prepare the horse, I''m going out of Beijing." "Master..." Jinyi hesitated. "Ask Yefeng to come out. Yibao Pavilion doesn''t need any more hands. Go to Baizhang building and find the fourth one." Brocade a facial expression a Lin, way: "is." Ruan said, "girl, the carriage is ready." Dew picked up a small basket of snacks on the table and said with a smile, "it''s better to take some on the road." A few days ago, I received a post from Mrs. Dong, which was signed by Dong Ying''er, but it was Mrs. Dong who invited her. She only said that she wanted to invite Jiang Ruan to get together in her house. Since the death of old lady Jiang, and in order to keep filial piety, Jiang Ruan simply stayed in the yard for a long time and never went out. Dong Ying''er said that she had not seen her for a long time, and suddenly received a post from the Dong family. Forsythia suspense and Angelica dahurica were surprised. So today he asked Tianzhu to prepare his carriage and go out to Dong Fu. When I went out, I happened to meet Jiang Dan and Hongying, who were talking. Hongying''s stomach became more and more pregnant, and she was about to give birth in a few days. Now Jiang Quan leaves all the affairs in the mansion to Hongying. Xia Yan has never released her. Her former second aunt has already died. Hongying is the only one in the mansion, and she seems to be the mother of the family. Dewdrop''s eyes flashed, and she didn''t know if Hongying wanted to find her way. Besides Jiang Susu, she was always kind to Jiang Dan, and they had a good relationship. On the surface, Jiang Dan didn''t do anything, but dewdrop had been following Jiang Ruan for so long. Naturally, she could see that Jiang Dan was not harmless on the surface. Isn''t Hong Ying beating Jiang Ruan in the face? Or does Hongying think that if she flatters Jiang Dan, she will be able to go to the empress of the palace in the future? Although the face is still sweet smile, eyes are hard to hide not angry. But Jiang Dan first saw them and said with a smile, "big sister." Jiang Ruan nodded: "fourth sister, aunt." Hongying holds her stomach with one hand, and her face is nothing else. She looks haggard and slovenly when she is pregnant. On the contrary, she is more colorful and charming than before. Her skin is as shiny and smooth as jade, and her clothes and jewelry are all excellent. She is obviously favored by Jiang Quan. When she saw Jiang Ruan, she said with a smile, "where are you going, big girl?" "Miss Dong invited me to have a party at your house." Jiang Dan laughed: "big sister is really enviable." "You will be able to bear many sisters in the future. What do you say is envy." Hong Ying joked. "My aunt teased me." Jiang Dan looked down shyly. Jiang Ruan looked at the scene of harmony in front of him. The concubine and the concubine got along very well. Hong Ying''s action was closely related to Jiang Quan''s command. There was a chill in my eyes. When I looked up again, I still had a smile like a flower: "in that case, I will not disturb my aunt and my fourth sister''s chatting. I''ll go first." "Big sister, walk slowly." Jiang danxiao''s kindness, if not knowing, I''m afraid he thought these two sisters were his own. When she got out of the house and got into the carriage, dewdrop could not help saying, "what does the fifth aunt mean? It''s hotter than the fourth lady." Jiang Ruan faintly shook her head: "fifth aunt is a smart person, naturally understand that I can''t get any benefits here." She was cold tempered. Before, because of Xia Yan and her second aunt, she was on the United Front with Hongying. As soon as Xia Yan and Er Yi Niang go, Hong Ying doesn''t have any threat in the mansion. She just needs to please Jiang Quan. Er Jiang Quan doesn''t like to see her all the time. If Hong Ying is intimate with her, she will lose Jiang Quan''s favor. "It''s too much of a rudder." The dewdrop thought about it and finally shook her head. "People are fickle, so why look forward to it." Jiang Ruan closed his eyes and rested against the wall of the car. The dew spat out her tongue and stopped talking. But Tianzhu looked at Jiang Ruan thoughtfully. The longer she followed this master, the deeper her doubts about Jiang Ruan became. She didn''t understand where the cool and thin image of Jiang Ruan came from. In some things, she is more ruthless than a killer. Tianzhu in the royal guards has seen all kinds of people, but she has never seen such a lady. She is smart and terrible. What Jiang Ruan said before her second aunt died was deeply imprinted in her heart. Jiang Ruan said that she would recover one by one the debts of her life owed by Jiang Fu. But from the beginning to the end, Zhao Mei was the only one in her family who died in Jiang Fu. Where did she get the debts of her life one by one.Tianzhu felt that there was a deep secret hidden in Jiang Ruan''s heart, which she didn''t know even a few servant girls who were very close to her. She thought, maybe we should find a time to report these things to the young master. On the house of jingzhaoyin. Dong Ying''er leans on the soft couch, not so much because he is leaning on it, but rather because he has no strength. Compared with the thin and gaunt days before, he seems to have gained some weight these days, but his face is full of sadness, which makes him look like a carefree girl. The maid, hong''er, came forward and put the cooked brown sugar lotus seed porridge on the couch. She said respectfully, "Miss, use some porridge." "I don''t want to eat it." Don''t turn your head. "You have to eat if you don''t want to." A cold voice came, but Mr. Dong stepped in. But his face was very cold, and he said abruptly, "put away your unrealistic thoughts. The portrait has been sent to the palace. In a few days, someone will come to the palace, and you will come to the palace." "Father," Dong Ying''er said in a soft voice, but insisted, "Ying''er will never enter the palace." "Not in the palace? Then you and your mother go to Chang''s home to make amends and enter Chang''s door! " Lord Dong said angrily. "Ying''er only married one person in this life, that is, Jiang Xinzhi, general Jiang!" As soon as this remark came out, Dong Da was very angry. He immediately raised his hand to Dong Ying''er. Dong Ying''er looked at him without fear. In the end, he couldn''t bear to fight. Just angry way: "muddle headed! I don''t think you''re sober. You''ll be locked up for a few more days! " After that, he left in a huff. After Mr. Dong left, Dong Ying''er seemed to have exhausted all her strength, and her whole body faltered and fell on the soft couch, weeping. Mr. Dong had always loved her, but now he put her under house arrest and ordered people to take good care of her every day, just to send her to the palace. She thought that she had a good father and sympathized with Jiang Ruan''s experience, but now it seems that her father and Jiang Ruan''s father are just as cruel! But in the outer hall, Jiang Ruan got out of the carriage and was welcomed in by Dong Fu''s servants. Jiang Ruan has been to jingzhaoyin''s house several times, and my servants have to know her well. When she was led into the main hall, Mrs. Dong was sitting in her seat. When she came in, she got up and said, "princess." "Just call me Ruan Niang, madam." Jiang Ruan smiles. Mrs. Dong said with a smile: "Ruan Niang, in fact, I sent you that post in the name of Ying''er, you Don''t blame me "Madam said and laughed," Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "but what happened to sister Ying''er?" Mrs. Dong jumped in her heart and looked at Jiang Ruan. There seemed to be a kind of reassuring and trusting magic in her gentle and smiling eyes. She was a little wider in her heart and sighed: "you are not afraid of the princess''s jokes. Ying''er has never let me worry about her before, and she is sensible too early. Ruan Niang may have heard that Ying''er made an appointment with the third son of the Chang family in his early years, but. Ah, but at this point, she has a sweetheart. She went to talk to the third young master of Chang and retired from the Chang family. " She saw that Jiang Ruan didn''t show a look of disdain, so she went on boldly: "such a thing happened in our house, which is also intolerable. The Chang family is the same. After leaving her parents, this matter was spread away. Ying''er''s age is long ago when it''s time to talk to her. With such a fuss, some people who want to marry Ying''er also gave up their thoughts. Seeing Ying''er stay in the mansion is also Ren Ren''s saying. In his anger, the master let people draw a picture of Ying''er and send it to the draft. " "Sister Ying''er doesn''t want to?" Asked Jiang Ruan. "I don''t want to." Mrs. Dong''s face was more worried: "Ying''er knew this and had a big fight with the master. The master was stubborn, and he also mixed up with his daughter. He locked Ying''er in the room and made the servant girls watch her eat every day. He said that if he threatened her body, he would kill all the servant girls in her room. Ying''er can''t help it. She eats every day, but she looks more and more worried. " She said to Jiang Ruan, "good boy, I know you have a good relationship with Yinger. Yinger can always listen to your words. You let her get rid of those unrealistic ideas and stop indulging in them Jiang Ruan smile: "naturally, Ruan Niang, can you ask who is Ying er''s sister''s sweetheart?" As soon as the words came out, Mrs. Dong''s face changed. She lowered her head as if she could not bear it. She did not dare to look at Jiang Ruan''s face. After a while, she squeezed out a few words from her mouth: "it''s the eldest brother of the princess Deputy general Jiang. " When the maid opened the curtain, Dong Ying''er said impatiently, "go out. I want to be alone." "Miss, Princess Hong''an has come to see you." The servant girl whispered and nodded to Jiang Ruan behind her. Jiang Ruan motioned the servant girl to go out. The servant girl closed the door and left. Dong Ying''er was lying on the soft couch. He was stunned when he heard the maid''s words. He didn''t seem to understand the "Princess Hong''an" in the maid''s mouth. After a while, he came to see Jiang Ruan''s way. "Sister Ruan." Dong Ying''er stood up in shock. Since the death of Mrs. Jiang, she should have followed her family to Jiang''s house to express her condolence. But Mr. Dong shut her in and did not allow her to go out, so she could not see Jiang Ruan. They haven''t seen each other for many days. Dong Ying''er hasn''t seen anyone outside these days. When he suddenly meets Jiang Ruan, he is still a little happy.She looked at Jiang Ruan carefully. Because she was still in filial piety, Jiang Ruan could not wear red clothes, but only blue Bola robes. She was so simple and pure that she added some refined elegance to her. Looking at the appearance is also very spirit, but not because of the death of old lady Jiang into sadness. "How are you, sister Ruan? I can''t get out of the house. I heard that you were put into prison that day, but I didn''t suffer any injustice, did I? " Dong Ying''er asked with concern. Jiang Ruan shakes his head, and his eyes pause on Dong Yinger''s face. Dong Ying''er has always been lively and cheerful. Mr. Dong protected her well, and she has always been carefree. Now it seems that the happiness often hanging on that face has disappeared, leaving only a thick sadness. Dong Ying''er noticed that Jiang and Ruan looked at her eyes. She lowered her head uneasily and asked, "sister Ruan, how can you come to see me?" Zhao Jinlin from Xiangwen Feifei, they didn''t come to find her, but they were all blocked back by Dong adults because she was sick. There must be some reason why Jiang Ruan was allowed to come to his house by Mr. Dong. "Mrs. Dong invited me." "My mother?" Dong Ying''er has some doubts: "what does she want you to do?" Jiang Ruan looked at her and did not speak. Dong Ying''er was silent for a moment. Then he said, "you know all about it, don''t you?" "Yes." Jiang Ruan light way: "you want to enter the palace." "I don''t want to go into the palace." Dong Yinger shook her head desperately: "I don''t want to be sent to the palace. Sister Ruan, please help me." "Then, do you marry the Chang family?" Asked Jiang Ruan. "No, I don''t want to marry Chang family. I Mr. Chang is a good man. I can''t cheat him. " Dong Ying''er murmured: "I already have someone in my heart. I can''t marry anyone else." She tightly pinched the silk cloth under her body: "my father wanted to send me to the palace, regardless of my wishes, he would not listen to what I said." "Mr. Dong is right." Jiang Ruan looked calm, not moved by Dong Yinger''s words. Hearing this, Dong Ying''er looked at Jiang Ruan incredulously and said, "do you think he is right? No, my father just wanted to exchange me for the honor and wealth of his family. He just didn''t want me to damage the reputation of Jing Zhaoyin. My father didn''t think about it for me at all. Don''t you hate sister Ruan and Jiang Shangshu for treating you like that? How can you say father is right? What''s the difference between what my father is doing and what Jiang Shangshu is doing to you? Sister Ruan, how can you say that? " Her tone is full of complaint and paranoia, where there is the original cheerful appearance. Jiang Ruan quietly looks at the woman in front of him. Time flies by. Love is poison, so Dong Yinger seems to be a different person. Even his father can do the same. Mr. Jing Zhaoyin and Mr. Dong are two different people. What Jiang Quan wants is to be rich and powerful, even if he wants to take her and Jiang Xinzhi''s life together. But Jing Zhaoyin just wants to make this crazy daughter sober. It''s a pity that his efforts are in vain. Dong Yinger not only fails to sober up, but also hates him. Dong Ying''er suddenly raises her head and stares at Jiang Ruan. She suddenly falls down from the couch and falls at Jiang Ruan''s feet. Two lines of tears flow down her face. She says, "sister Ruan, you help me, you help me. I have only deputy general Jiang in my heart. I will never marry anyone else in this life. You help me to persuade my father. Sister Ruan, you are so smart, you will have a way." Her hair was disordered and her tone was humble. She fell down at Jiang Ruan''s feet like a weed, and her hands were holding Jiang Ruan''s legs tightly. Her tearful eyes looked like she was desperate. Jiang Ruan sighed, bent down, pulled Dong Yinger''s fingers away one by one, and looked at her pitifully: "why should I help you?" Dong Ying''er was stunned and didn''t understand what she meant. Jiang Ruan''s expression was gentle and his tone was gentle, but his words were full of coldness: "my elder brother has no intention of you. Do you like him or not, what do you have to do with him?" "I..." Dong Yinger''s words were not clear. Yes, Jiang Xinzhi had just met her in a hurry, and Jiang Xinzhi didn''t show any special meaning to her. She fell in love with Jiang Xinzhi with all her heart. She didn''t know Jiang Xinzhi''s attitude. But because Jiang Xinzhi led the army to the battle, she could cheat herself. Now she was told the truth by Jiang Ruan, and Dong Yinger felt embarrassed. "You don''t want to go to the palace or marry into Chang''s family, but you can never marry big brother." Jiang Ruan said softly. "Why?" Dong Ying''er''s voice was filled with tears. She looked at Jiang Ruan as if she were looking at a stranger. Why? Jiang Xinzhi has made a good progress in the imperial court, and he will not be able to join the eighth Prince faction in the future. However, Jing Zhaoyin maintains a neutral attitude in the imperial court, neither offending the eighth Prince nor offending the fifth prince. In the future, if Jiang Xinzhi really married Dong Yinger and Xuanli threatened him with Jing Zhaoyin, Jiang Xinzhi would have a soft spot and would always be taken care of. If Jiang Xinzhi really likes Dong Yinger, then all this is nothing. Unfortunately, Jiang Xinzhi never shows his love for Dong Yinger. "Because big brother doesn''t like you." Jiang Ruan''s words beat Dong Yinger''s last point delusion. She opened her mouth and said to Jiang Ruan, "Why are you...". Do that to me? ""Love is the only thing in the world." Jiang Ruan nodded: "it''s Ying''er''s sister''s business to like big brother. Sister Ying''er has a firm mind. " She light way: "just don''t know to eldest brother get married that day, Ying son elder sister will still be like today general without regret." "Sister Ruan, are you really so heartless?" Dong Ying''er said with difficulty. Jiang Ruan Mei''s eyes were gorgeous, his face was calm, and he said, "yes." Jiang Dan is not * OSS, and * OSS won''t come out for the time being. He won''t come out until the later stage. Jiang Danding is a big shrimp, and he''s doomed not to go far. You don''t have to worry ~ about it www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 135 When she came out of jingzhaoyin''s house, dewdrop and Tianzhu did not dare to ask more. Jiang Ruan had just treated Dong Yinger coldly, as if all the old feelings did not exist. In the end, Dong Ying''er''s face was very ugly. He was afraid that he would be estranged from Jiang Ruan. However, Jiang Ruan has never paid attention to this matter at all. She has no obligation to Dong Yinger. Now she can only teach herself to figure out that between Jiang Xinzhi and Dong Yinger, she should attach great importance to Jiang Xinzhi. It is still early to leave the house of jingzhaoyin. I haven''t been in the palace to see empress Yide for a long time. A few days ago, aunt Yang, who was next to the empress dowager, sent a letter to teach her to go to the palace. Seeing that it was still early, he ordered the carriage to turn around and go directly to the palace. Miyagi is now busy with the selection of women. All the way, it used to be the name of the breeding aunt who was assigned the name on the roster. Jiang Dan''s name was also on it. With a smile, Jiang ruanyang walked to the CI Ning palace. When I came to the corner of a corridor, I saw a familiar figure standing in the flower bed beside the corridor. It was Princess Heyi. Princess Heyi is talking to another person with several maids in waiting. Come in, just hear and Yi Princess mouth not to live a way: "is just a humble palace girl under the humble embryo, still really think oneself is a royal son?"? Hum, I don''t know if I can grow up safely. My princess is beating him today, so what? " The villain who was pointed and scolded by Princess Heyi kept his head down without saying a word. It seemed that he was very afraid and shrank behind the maid of honor. The maid in waiting is also a timid, and she bows and makes amends to Princess Heyi. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were slightly fixed. When he saw the little figure, he could not help shivering and almost stood still. She was seldom in a state of emotional excitement. At this moment, she was seen by Tianzhu and dewdrop. She was puzzled and looked at the villain. He was only a boy of three or four years old, but he was very simple. Even if he was more careful, he could see that although the material of the clothes was gorgeous, the workmanship was not very exquisite. The child''s skin was delicate, and it was easy to be worn by such rough sewing. The child was pale and looked as if he was malnourished, but he was very delicate and lovely. He just held on to the corner of the maid''s clothes and looked very timid. Looking at the status should be not low, but the look is not like a serious aristocrat''s son, moreover, if it is really the son of a minister, it is too impolite to beat and insult Princess Yi like this. Just now and Princess Yi''s "Royal Children" fell into everyone''s ears. Dewdrop wondered, which little prince is it? But the little prince was treated like this, not even a decent servant of the royal family. Jiang Ruan stared at the child without blinking. It was like a big wave in his heart. The child was not someone else, it was pei''er! Not long after the last life, she went to the palace. When she became a beauty, she accidentally saw pei''er. At that time, the emperor was also present, so she simply handed over pei''er to her. It''s lonely in the deep palace. The child''s life experience is pitiful, but he is very sensible. The mother and the son depend on each other and work hard. Now I think of it, it''s the happiest time since I entered the palace in my last life. * s brain emerged from her previous life, and finally she was put into a wooden basin by an adult. She saw her Pei Pei playing by Li Dong, and her cries seemed to be ringing in her ears. Jiang Ruan closed his eyes deeply. When he opened them again, his eyes were clear and bright. No, Li Dong has already died in this life, and the prime minister''s office has no longer existed. She didn''t enter the palace, and pei''er didn''t have to accept the tragic ending. She walked forward slowly and said with a smile, "what is Princess Heyi doing?" Princess Heyi was scolding xuanpei, but she didn''t notice Jiang Ruan. At the moment, when she saw Jiang Ruan, she was stunned, and then a trace of resentment flashed in her eyes. Princess Heyi was dressed in red today, which was originally Jiang Ruan''s favorite dress. She was born with a kind of exotic style, which seemed warm and bold. But because he was still filial, he could not wear gorgeous clothes. Today he wore a light blue plain robe. The more plain the clothes are, the more beautiful they are. The more beautiful they are, the more beautiful they are. There is a more eye-catching style. As for women, it''s always necessary to compare them when they see people of outstanding beauty, especially Princess Heyi, who is already in conflict with Jiang Ruan. Seeing that he was dressed up and was compared by Jiang Ruan, he was immediately annoyed. "Jiang Ruan, do you want to meddle in your own business? It''s none of your business All the maids around lowered their heads. Everyone knew that Princess Heyi and Princess Hong''an had always been different, but these two princesses were not easy to provoke. Xuan Pei, who was hiding behind the palace maid, seemed to be startled by Jiang Ruan, who suddenly appeared. He hid behind the palace maid and stared at Jiang Ruan without blinking. Jiang Ruan didn''t look at Xuan Pei. He just said with a smile, "I don''t care about these things. I''m going to see my grandmother." She took a light glance at Princess Heyi and said, "the emperor''s grandmother knows how to manage these things." "You --" and Yi Princess angry way: "you dare to threaten me!" What Jiang Ruan meant was to tell empress dowager Yide everything that happened here. If Princess Heyi is deeply loved by the emperor and lawless, empress Yide is an existence she has always been afraid of. Just because empress Yide is eccentric and not close to others, the relationship between Jiang Ruan and empress Yide is even closer than that between her granddaughter and empress Yide. Every time I think about this, I feel angry with Princess Yide. Empress Yide is a man of rules. If empress Yide knows that she beat xuanpei, she will punish her severely."It''s not a threat." Jiang Ruan smile: "but I think the princess is not afraid, is not it?" "You -" and Princess Yi just want to tear Jiang Ruan to pieces. If as usual, in accordance with her temperament, it is regardless of a big fight. But since Chen Guifei lost her power and was thrown into the cold palace, in addition to the empress, the remaining three concubines began to fight for the emperor''s favor again. In addition, a new batch of beauties are about to enter the palace. Shufei wants to win the favor in front of the emperor. She has been warning her not to make trouble. Especially for Jiang Ruan, remember not to conflict with her openly. Today, she was in a bad mood. When she passed by here, she happened to meet Xuan Pei, the most unpopular prince in the palace, who was brought out to bask in the sun by the palace maids. Xuan Pei was holding a handful of mud in her hand and accidentally fell in front of her. The mud soiled her skirt. Princess Heyi is so angry that she starts to fight xuanpei. When she is scolding, she doesn''t want to meet the evil star Jiang Ruan. Although he hated Jiang Ruan in his heart, he and Princess Yi learned better after several lessons. They didn''t dare to scold Jiang Ruan in front of him, so they scolded him: "bad luck!" He threatened xuanpei: "hum, she can''t always protect you in the palace!" After that, he left with a female spirit. After Princess Heyi left, Jiang Ruan just looked at the child behind the maid with a smile. Xuan Pei''s white face was marked with a red palm. He wanted to know who made it. Xuanpei Xu was scared by Princess Heyi just now. His eyes were full of tears, red and heartbreaking. Dew is a pity for the child, immediately squat down in front of xuanpei, take out a handkerchief, wipe the dirt on his face, way: "Little Prince OK?" She didn''t know how many princes this was, but she thought Xuan Pei was pitiful and lovely, so she called him little prince. "Thirteen, thirteen princes." Jiang Ruan Dao. "How does the girl know?" The dew said in surprise. Xuanpei was looking at dewdrop. Seeing this, the maid in waiting fawned on him and said, "look, your highness seems to like the princess." Jiang Ruan coldly swept her one eye, the tone suddenly turns cold: "kneel down!" The maid in waiting was startled. She looked at Jiang Ruan as if she had fallen into the ice cellar. She knelt down without saying anything. Dewdrop face show disdain, just now they can see clearly, this palace girl is the thirteen Prince''s close palace girl, but actually don''t know the protector. Let that overbearing and wayward and Yi county master hit their own little master not to say, but also has been bowing to please. I''m afraid I haven''t paid attention to my master. It''s a great sin to be a close servant. "Is that how you take care of your highness The maid shivered and kowtowed her head: "princess, please forgive me. I dare not do it any more. I know I''m wrong. Princess, please forgive me." Dewdrop''s eyes widened curiously. She was so afraid of Jiang Ruan that she seemed to be a terrible person. "I won''t punish you." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "only from now on, if your highness 13 has another mistake, you don''t have to live. He has a palmprint, you must have a thousand. If he gets one wound, you''ll get the same thousand. " Her tone was flat, but the maid of honor shivered for no reason. She felt that what she heard seemed to be the voice from hell. Zheng Zheng just understand come over, suddenly and toward Jiang Ruan mercilessly knock a few heads: "maidservant Xie Princess punish." Jiang Ruan then looks at the child who has been peeping at him. Xuan Pei stares at her and gives her a timid smile. The black eyes almost softened her heart, and she wanted to go forward and hold him in her arms - as in the past. But in the end, she just took out a small blue porcelain vase from her arms, which was the elixir Xiao Shao had sent when Jiang Quan beat her. She put the medicine bottle into xuanpei''s hand and told the maid of honor on the other side: "remember to apply it to your royal highness once a day." After a pause, she added, "remember what I said." The maid nodded busily. She was puzzled and thankful. She didn''t know why Princess Hong''an was so sad to her thirteen highness. But if she was interested in it, she didn''t make any special intimacy to her thirteen highness. She even seemed to be a little bit of a stranger. The same doubts existed in Tianzhu and dewdrop''s heart, but Jiang Ruan didn''t give them time to doubt. He said to the palace maid, "take your thirteen highness back." The maid of honor saluted Jiang Ruan and left with Xuan Pei. Xuanpei was led by the maid of honor for a long distance, but he couldn''t help looking back at Jiang Ruan. His little figure was very pitiful. "Why are you so cold to him when you help him?" A deep male voice came from behind. Jiang Ruan turned his head. Liu Min was dressed in a green official robe. He didn''t know how long he had been standing here. Then he came out and said. Tianzhu frowns slightly. She is a martial arts practitioner, and Liu Min''s hidden skill is not very good. She has found Liu Min for a long time, but the other party hasn''t come out yet. She thinks it''s the eunuch who is eavesdropping, but it''s Liu min. The relationship between Liu Min and Jiang Ruan is delicate, and Tianzhu is not very welcome to Liu Min since he is facing his own little master. Liu Min was stunned to see Jiang Ruan turn around. He had always seen Jiang Ruan in bright red. Today, for the first time, Liu Min is wearing a green suit. Liu Min loves the color of green. Besides, Jiang Ruan is wearing the same color as him.Liu Min didn''t know what he was thinking until Jiang Ruan said, "it''s just a convenient move. Why talk about affection?" That is to say, she is only doing something unintentionally for xuanpei, the 13th prince, today. She doesn''t mean to do it. Seeing xuanpei again in the future doesn''t mean anything special. It''s too cold to talk like this. Besides, seeing that scene, Liu Minfang has already determined that Princess Hong''an is a kind person who is cold on the outside and warm on the inside. He only thinks that Jiang Ruan is shy. He said: "not everyone is willing to offend Princess Heyi for the sake of the prince who is not in favor. Even if it''s a convenient move, Princess Hong''an is really very righteous. " Xuanpei''s position in the palace has long been known to Liu min. The 13th prince was born in a humble family, and his mother was just a maid in waiting for the emperor. And on the day of the birth of the thirteen prince, he died in childbirth, and the palace almost abandoned and grew up at will. It''s natural to grow so timid. The servants in the palace were not very respectful to the thirteen prince, and even secretly bullied him at will. I didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would stand up for the thirteen princes he had never met. Liu Min, with the noble character of a scholar in his heart, highly appreciated Jiang Ruan''s behavior. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "Liu Taifu looks at me too much. Only the 13th Prince is my brother in name. He is a commoner in the mansion and can''t beat or scold at will. The common people are still like this, and the royal family should pay more attention to the rules. " The thirteen princes were considered to be concubines, so they were beaten and scolded in the palace. When Zhao Mei was still in Jiang''s family, Jiang Chao and Jiang Susu were also common sons, but they lived a better life than her own daughter. People are so different. Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan''s eyes darkened. Liu Min was a little surprised when he noticed the anger on Jiang Ruan. It reminds me of what happened before, that is, when Jiang Ruan was wrongly poisoned and Mrs. Jiang was put into prison, Jiang Quan, as his biological father, had never visited him once. At that time, he was anxious, so he went to the emperor once. Liu Min still remembers the emperor''s eyes. The emperor half joked and looked at him seriously: "Liu Aiqing, I''m so devoted to Princess Hong''an. How about I promise her to you?" Liu Min was flustered and refused without thinking about it. Later, when she thought about it, she couldn''t help thinking deeply. It seems that after knowing that the man was Jiang Ruan, Liu Min would think of this special woman from time to time. Even when the prince saw his appearance occasionally, he would ask: "Taifu doesn''t think about food and tea all day, but he has a sweetheart?" Now see Jiang Ruan standing in front of him, Liu Min heart will surge with a sour, can''t say exactly what the feeling is. He hesitated and said, "I admire the princess." "I''m flattered by Liu Taifu." Jiang Ruan''s attitude is still mild, but he refuses to be seen outside. Liu Min is disappointed with himself. He was able to write beautiful articles and put forward excellent national policies, but he didn''t know how to talk with the woman who was once a bosom friend. It seems that no matter how much he said, Jiang Ruan''s attitude was light. Dewdrop''s eyes turn around and makes a turn on Liu min. she thinks that this person is still a master. How can she be a nerd. Stupid. But Tianzhu frowned. Her young master didn''t like Liu Min''s approach to Jiang Ruan. She knew it all. There are many young ladies in the royal guards. How can they be robbed by a Taifu. Moreover, from the point of view of a servant girl, Jiang Ruan''s temperament is definitely not something that a Taifu who only knows the national policy articles can grasp. How can Liu Taifu protect Jiang Ruan. Tianzhu said in a low voice: "girl, the time has passed for a long time. The Empress Dowager''s side.... " Jiang Ruan nodded and gave a smile to Liu Min: "Liu Taifu, if I want to go to the CI Ning palace, I will go first." Liu Min''s eyes flashed a trace of disappointment and said, "that''s it. Goodbye." Jiang Ruan turns around and follows Tianzhu in the opposite direction. Liu Min stands behind him for a moment. Then he pats his head and leaves unhappily. When she arrived at the CI Ning palace, aunt Yang was relieved to see Jiang Ruan. She looked inside and said, "the Empress Dowager is not happy today. The princess is more relieved." "I see." Jiang Ruan nodded. After entering the room, the Empress Dowager Yide was leaning on the soft couch of the gentle nine sons, and the long Ruby armor was drawing the edge of the couch. The edge of the soft couch was made of agarwood, and the armor made a slight pricking sound. The Empress Dowager Yide frowned tightly and looked gloomy. Jiang Ruan walked past with a smile and a very light step. The Empress Dowager Yide looked back when she heard the sound and saw that Jiang Ruan was also slightly stunned. It seemed that she had fallen into the memory of a long time in her eyes and unconsciously whispered: "Yuanrong..." "Grandmother." Jiang Ruan said. It seems that she was awakened by Jiang Ruan''s words. Empress Yide suddenly regained her consciousness and patted her forehead helplessly: "it''s really old, and her eyes are dazzled." On the small table in front of us is a picture unfolding. On the picture scroll is the endless grassland and desert. A round of setting sun slowly falls from the horizon, and the bloody setting sun shines on the whole picture. In the distance, a group of camels passed leisurely. It seemed that the sound of camel bells could be heard. Jiang Ruan slightly pick eyebrows, painting is actually Southern Xinjiang? The Empress Dowager Yide noticed Jiang Ruan''s eyes and sighed. She seemed very tired. She had no strength to say anything more. She just said, "Hong''an, please sit with me for a while."Jiang Ruan responded gently: "yes." The country is punishing Internet pornography severely recently. The disaster princess is relatively clean, but she is still a little afraid. I don''t want to be caught and go to jail ~ (> I''m not going to be arrested and go to jail ~ (> I''m not going to be arrested)_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 136 At the end of that day, empress Yide still didn''t say anything. Jiang Ruan min felt that there must be a secret hidden in empress Yide''s heart, just like that inexplicable picture of Southern Xinjiang. However, this secret, empress Yide did not seem to want to tell her. Last I stayed in the palace for many years, but I haven''t heard of the secret of empress Yide. I don''t think even Xuanli knows it. If there is anything special, it is said that in the battle between Tianjin Kingdom and Dajin Dynasty, the Dajin Dynasty had been more brave in the war. Seeing that Tianjin kingdom was about to lose, I don''t know what was wrong. Tianjin Kingdom suddenly came back to life, but I didn''t know where it came from, and resisted Tianjin Kingdom''s last strike. The war situation is deadlocked again. Jiang Su Su was happy again. When he met Jiang Ruan in the mansion, he often deliberately mentioned it. Jiang Ruan pretended that he was barking like a mad dog. Jiang Susu came down several times and saw that Jiang Ruan was indifferent, so he was disappointed. He simply stopped talking about it and concentrated on preparing for the golden chrysanthemum banquet later. Jinju banquet is the custom of the great Jin Dynasty. In the early autumn, there were a lot of chrysanthemums. The princess presided over the banquet and invited the young girls in Beijing to get together, while the young people talked about making friends on the other side. Although on the surface it looks like a small gathering, in fact it''s just the wives of different families who look after their son-in-law and daughter-in-law for themselves. The atmosphere of the great Jin Dynasty was still enlightened. There were also young girls who met at the golden chrysanthemum banquet. They finally got married and had a good story. Jiang Quan may finally realize that his two daughters in law have reached the age of engagement. Leaving aside Jiang Ruan, Jiang Su Su is the apple of Jiang Quan''s eye and wants to find a good husband for her. This time, she also invited Shen Rou, the eldest grandmother of Xiahou mansion, to take Jiang Ruan with her. Xia Jiaojiao''s portrait has also been sent to the palace. There is no need to participate in such occasions. As Jiang Chao became more and more proud in front of Xuanli, Xia Cheng also seemed to realize something. In addition, Xia Yan''s affair was that Xiahou''s house was in the wrong, so his relationship with Jiang''s house gradually eased, just as it didn''t happen. Jiang Su Su went to the golden chrysanthemum banquet. If Jiang Ruan didn''t go, he was bound to get tongue in cheek. In addition, the name of Jiang Ruan also appeared on the post of the sheriff''s wife, so she went with Shen rou. Xu saw this golden chrysanthemum banquet as very important, but Jiang Su Su stayed in the room all day. The occasional melodious music from Suxin garden was elegant. Some of Ruan Curie''s girls don''t think so. Xia Yan is suffering in the Buddhist hall. As a daughter, she still has the heart to go to these laoshizi''s banquets. At the beginning, Xia Yan thought about everything for Jiang Su Su, but her daughter was a white eyed wolf. Jiang Ruan Dao did not pay attention to this golden chrysanthemum banquet, but still did what he should do every day. Tianzhu is very glad to see her like this, but her painstaking efforts are not in vain. If the good Chinese cabbage let other pigs arch for nothing, I will be angry when the young master returns to Beijing. Well, of course, Jiang Ruan is not cabbage, and the young master is not. So what. The last tail of the hot summer is finally over. In the twinkling of an eye, it''s early autumn. The sun has already gone away from the poison of earlier days, and it''s becoming a bit mild. Occasionally, there was a cool wind. In the small flower bed outside Ruan''s house, the unknown white daisies planted at random also opened up - the golden chrysanthemum banquet was coming. If the usual golden chrysanthemum banquet, Jiang''s house must be very lively. Xia Yan, who was in charge of the management, ordered his wife Jiang, who was in charge of the rules, and his second aunt, who was buying jewelry everywhere, to wear beautiful red tassels. That Jiang Li is arrogant and domineering as before, Jiang Su Su smile again to do not eat the fairy between fireworks. Jiang Dan was timid and careful to please. There is no shortage of women in Chiang''s family. The red rouge in the house is of endless charm. However, the past is fleeting like flowing water, as if those beautiful shadows are just a dream. Today''s Chiang mansion has only one aunt with a big stomach, but she seems to have changed her disposition. She never talks about the wind and the moon any more, and only worries about the trivial things. There is no lightness in the past. And the rest of them are dead and mad. The huge Chiang''s mansion was empty and lonely, showing a kind of depression. The servants in the mansion were most sensitive to these changes. In just a few years, Chiang''s house seemed to have changed. These children who had lived in Chiang''s mansion since childhood had a vague idea in their hearts that the flowers of Chiang''s mansion for decades might soon be as dusty as those women of Chiang''s mansion. Early in the morning, Jiang Ruan was groomed by Angelica dahurica and forsythia. Today, God is willing to show his appreciation. He has a little bit of sunshine and sprinkles it on his body, but there is no heat. Cool wind, the best view of flowers. Because of not yet out of filial piety period, Angelica dahurica picked Lianqing clothes for Jiang Ruan, forsythia said: "it''s a pity that the girl''s color, originally wear the best red, no one can compare." "Girls don''t go to the beauty contest." Angelica dahurica way: "Lianqing is also very good, solemn." It''s so easy to clean up. The servant girl says that the carriage of Xiahou mansion is waiting outside the gate of the mansion. Shen Rou came early to pick up people. As soon as Jiang Ruan went out, he saw Jiang Susu in plain clothes. Because Jiang Su Su has been staying in the house these days, he may be anxious every day, and his former beauty has been reduced by three points. Today, I think I''ve dressed up with great care. I''m dressed in a soft silver green Lily skirt, which is exquisitely cut. It makes her slim and graceful. Her long hair is turned into a shenluan bun, with a glass Ruyi hairpin inserted obliquely. It is not only plain, but also refined, and seems to be the original flattery. Every move has faded that layer of frivolity, showing a unique charm. Is always attracting people''s eyes, only feel that she really if nine days fairy down to earth in general.When Jiang Ruan came out, Jiang Susu also looked at him. He had not worn red clothes for a long time. Today, he chose a Lotus Blue plain embroidered jacket and skirt. Lotus Blue is very attractive, and her complexion is white and her eyebrows are deep. Her solemn color makes her more royal and noble than others. It''s like being born a princess. When Jiang Su Su looked at him, a deep hatred gradually formed in his eyes. In fact, I don''t blame Jiang Ruan. When empress Yide asked Siyi hall to make clothes, she often made some for Jiang Ruan. There is no need to mention the clothes and materials given to the princess in the palace. Although Jiang Quan had many good things in his hand, he could not compare with the tribute in the palace. In addition, Jiang Ruan''s last life spent so many years in the palace, which naturally infected the habits of the palace. This habit can''t be learned in a short time. People don''t know her past, they just say she is born with grace. The curtain of the carriage was lifted, and Shen Rou said with a smile, "two girls, are you not going to get on the carriage?" With a glance, Jiang Ruan saw another man on the carriage. Slightly a Zheng, after waiting for the carriage to find that the person is not others, it is the second grandmother of the Xia family Yu Ya. In the early Xia Dynasty, it was because of Xia Jun that Hou Fu and Jiang Fu had a bad relationship. When it happened, Yu Ya hated Jiang Su Su, but Xia''s family was not a fool. As long as you think about it, you can know who was arranging it. Xia Jun can''t become an official because of her. Yu Ya can bear it if she doesn''t kill her. Shen Rou looked at Jiang Ruan and then at Jiang Susu. She covered her mouth and chuckled: "master Shangshu is very lucky. Both girls are like jade and flowers." "Yes," Yu Ya said for the first time, "the princess is more gorgeous now than three years ago." Jiang Ruan smiles and doesn''t answer. He just looks at Yu Ya. There are two grandmothers in Xiahou mansion. Shen Rou, the eldest, is a smiling tiger. She is gentle and kind to everyone. She is also beautiful. Just by looking at what Xia Jiaojiao looks like, you can know what nature she is in private. Yu Ya, the second grandmother, is mean and sour. Master Xia Er is famous for her romantic style. If it wasn''t for this second grandmother who gave birth to a son for him, I''m afraid master Xia Er would have abandoned her with a letter of divorce. If the compliment comes from Shen Rou''s mouth, there''s nothing wrong with it. It''s from Yu Ya''s sharp and mean mouth. Moreover, Yu Ya is still in the same boat with her. It''s weird. Yu Ya was Jiang Ruan''s eyes a look, don''t open eyes to Jiang Su Su, said: "two girls today will be gorgeous surprise four." Jiang Su Su soft smile: "second aunt flattered." All the way to the sheriff''s wife''s house, nothing happened. When I got out of the carriage, the servants waiting outside came to meet me. All the way to lead them in, the hall had already sat a group of ladies, young ladies in the courtyard to enjoy chrysanthemum. The sheriff''s wife was a flower lover, and a large field was set up in the mansion to plant flowers. It''s spacious enough for those young people to talk or compete in the yard. It''s just that the teenagers are in the west garden and the girls are in the east courtyard. If they come to see each other secretly, they don''t mention it. As long as they don''t do anything out of the ordinary, others just don''t know what to do when they see them. On this day, young people are always very tolerant. The sheriff''s wife got up to meet several people, and her eyes fell on Jiang Ruan. She couldn''t help but brighten her eyes and said, "if Princess Hong''an is really natural, it''s really envious of her." Jiang Su Su was so ignored that a sudden anger rose in his heart. But I found that most of the people in the hall were looking at Jiang Ruan. For a moment, they were suspicious and suspected that her flattery had regressed. Otherwise, why did everyone not look at her and go to see Jiang Ruan instead? She doesn''t know that flattery is effective for men, but all of you are official ladies. How can you care who looks good or not? Jiang Ruan is now Princess Hong''an. There is a general''s house behind him, and there is a elder brother, the God of war. All the people who have sons in the seat are thinking about whether they can marry Jiang Ruan back to be their daughter-in-law. Jiang Ruan''s original dignity was that he was a little too beautiful, but his noble manner was to suppress the charm, showing a little atmosphere. Even if Jiang ruansheng''s appearance is salt free, it is also a sweet cake in the eyes of these wives. The sheriff''s wife thought it was the same idea. She has two sons. Now it''s the age of weak crown, and it''s time to get married. The more she sees Jiang Ruan Zheng, the more satisfied she is. She needs to say a few words more warmly. Then a clear voice behind her rings: "sister Ruan Er, I''ve been waiting for you for a long time." Jiang Ruan raised her eyes, but Zhao Jin came from the seat and blinked at her. Jiang Ruan nodded, and Zhao Jin came forward to hold her hand and said to the sheriff, "madam, sister ruan''er and I went to the yard to have a look at the chrysanthemums. Sister ruan''er hasn''t seen the beautiful chrysanthemums yet." The sheriff''s wife''s words stuck in her throat. Shen Rou suddenly laughed and said, "I just want to talk to my wife. Let''s go to the yard and play by ourselves. Su Su, you can follow me. " Yu Ya frowned and took a look at Jiang Ruan. She followed Shen Rou after all. Jiang Su Su also smile: "good." Three people together out of the main hall, Jiang Su Su just said to Jiang Ruan: "big sister and Miss Zhao should have a lot to say, Su Niang left first." She didn''t want to stay with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan always compared her brilliance with her. How could she be reconciled? What''s more, she wants to go to the west garden to see the teenagers. She doesn''t believe it. With her beauty, she can''t have more courtiers?Looking at Jiang Su Su''s back, Zhao Jin said strangely, "that''s not the direction of Xiyuan. What does your second sister want to do?" "Don''t worry about her." Jiang Ruan Dao. "Well, you''re not afraid of what happened. When you look back, you''ll say that it''s not Jiang Fu?" Zhao Jin is even more strange. If she comes with her brothers, her parents will tell her how many brothers she has. What she says will represent the head of the whole family. She will never lose face outside, and she will never have to complain about her family. Jiang Ruan smiles a little. Zhao Jin''s life is sincere. It''s a good thing if Jiang''s family really collapses because of Jiang Su Su. If she is crazy, she will take the initiative to clean up the mess for Jiang Su Su and save her face for Jiang''s family. Seeing that Jiang Ruan didn''t speak, Zhao Jin didn''t continue this topic. She just looked at her and said, "you''re kind-hearted. We haven''t seen each other for a long time. I want to talk to you. " She looked outside and asked, "do you want to see chrysanthemums?" Speaking of chrysanthemum, Zhao Jin''s face flashed a trace of impatience. She is the daughter of the general''s family. She doesn''t like flowers and plants, and doesn''t use it to hurt the spring and autumn of other maidens. As for the women in the yard who were watching the flowers, they were really fighting with each other, which made her headache. If her mother had not asked her to come here, Zhao Jin would never have wanted to come. As soon as Jiang Ruan looked at her face, he knew what she was thinking. He couldn''t help smiling: "I don''t want to." "Well, I don''t want to either." Zhao Jin was happy when she heard this: "I knew sister Ruan was with me. Come on, let''s find a quiet place to talk Then he took Jiang Ruan and walked in the opposite direction of appreciating chrysanthemums. Zhao Jin and Jiang Ruan said: "I haven''t seen Ying''er for a long time. The day before yesterday, I met Mrs. Jing Zhaoyin. She said Ying''er was ill, and now she can''t go out to suffer from the cold. I don''t know if she is better now." Jiang Ruan droops his eyes, and Mrs. Dong really conceals Dong Yinger''s story. Now Dong Yinger''s portrait is sent to the palace, which is also hidden from the public. When Zhao Jin talked about this, she still had some doubts: "why did she suddenly get sick. It''s said that the engagement between Mr. Chang and Ying''er has been broken. At the beginning, I thought that the Chang family disliked Ying''er''s weakness and wanted to find Chang''an for an explanation. But I heard that... " Zhao Jin is very careless. When she talks about it, she suddenly stops and seems to understand what she has said. Looking up at Jiang Ruan, he saw that he was smiling and asked tentatively, "do you know?" "I know. Mrs. Dong has talked to me. I hope I can persuade sister Ying''er not to focus on unrealistic things. " Zhao Jin sighed: "I grew up with Ying''er. She has a simple mind and doesn''t know anything. However, does sister Ruan know who is in Ying''er''s heart?" Jiang Ruan smiles: "I don''t know." Zhao Jin sighed: "I only hope she will understand earlier. There is Feifei. Her family has already chosen a family, and they just wait for years to pass by. It''s also a military general in Beijing. " Wen Feifei was also born in Wumen. Now she is old enough to get married. Jiang Ruan asked, "how is sister Lin?" "Zixiang," Zhao Jin said with a smile, "she is stubborn. She should come to Japan today, but Leng had a big fight with Mr. Lin in the mansion. She said that she couldn''t learn the pedantic style. If she wanted to find a good person, she had to be a good person." It''s really Lin Zixiang''s shocking temperament, but I don''t know that Mr. Lin will have a headache again. They had already arrived at a quiet place. Jiang Ruan asked, "has sister Zhao ever thought of looking for someone else?" "Me?" Zhao Jin shook her head: "I don''t want to be like the girl in the boudoir. It''s trivial to get married and stay in the house all day. I just want to fight like my father and brother to protect the people of Dajin Dynasty. " This is not like a woman can say, only Zhao Jin has always been his father and brother to develop a tomboy general temper, but a bit heroic. Zhao Jin seems to have thought of something. She looks dark and shakes her head: "it''s just..." Jiang Ruan looked up at her. Zhao Jin thought for a moment, approached her and said, "sister Ruan, I''m in love with you, so I''ll tell you a secret. You can''t tell me about it." Jiang Ruan nodded. "That day, the state of Jin seemed to have colluded with the South Xinjiang, and the South Xinjiang sent reinforcements. These days, the war was tight, and the Emperor gave death orders, as if to increase the troops." Zhao Jin pressed her ear and said, "my father has received the emperor''s secret order. He will go to war in a few days. The state of Tian Jin has a long history. I''m really afraid that something will happen." Jiang Ruan was stunned. Zhao Jin had let her go and looked at the distance with some sadness: "I have all my martial arts skills and can go to the battlefield to kill the enemy, but I can''t share anything for my father. I''m really ashamed. " Jiang Ruan Zheng wanted to comfort her. Suddenly he heard a strange voice coming from the quiet garden in front of her. The voice is very low, if not just at the moment Zhao Jin''s voice also put down, that sound is about to be covered up. I''m leaving today. I''ll be back at the end of the week. Don''t think about me, dear ones. I''ll leave the manuscript for you to eat www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 137 Zhao Jin is a practitioner. Her hearing is better than that of Jiang Ruan. She also pays attention to the movement. She takes a look at Jiang Ruan, makes a gesture, and goes forward quietly. Jiang Ruan motioned to Tianzhu to follow Zhao Jin, so as to avoid any accident. He also followed. Several people are trying to put light step, just walk to the corner not close, then hear a Jiaochi female voice: "you! You are shameless Another voice then rang out, but it was a male voice, which seemed to contain anger, and a few strands of confusion, said: "you are strange, what do you do to take off your clothes in front of me? No shame Zhao Jin and Jiang Ruan look at each other, randomly and carefully remove the dense branches and leaves in front of them. There was a man and a woman in the woods with their backs to them. The man should be the boy who came to the Jinju banquet today. Look at the young master who should be dressed up. The woman is very strange, clothes slant to the shoulder, showing white skin, really a bit embarrassed appearance. "It''s Miss Guo Wu, Guo Meng, the common daughter of the servant''s family." Zhao Jin attached to Jiang Ruan''s ear and said in a soft voice, "I came with her sister today." "You..." The fifth miss of the Guo family seemed to have a cry in her voice. She was very sad: "you insult me, and now I have no face to see people. I''d better die!" Then he stood up and hit the tree. The young man was startled, quickly reached out to pull her, almost fell down with her, and said in a hurry: "there is a misunderstanding about this, how can my Zhao man be the shameless one you said!" He turned his head and showed a familiar face. Several people hiding behind the woods could see clearly that it was Zhao Feizhou, the third young master of the Zhao family. Zhao Feizhou is only a teenager now. His face is red now, but there is no guilty attitude on his face, only anger. Zhao Jin saw clearly, then touched Jiang Ruan: "sister Ruan, I''m afraid there''s something strange about this." There is something strange about Jiang Ruan''s eyebrows. The fifth miss of the Guo family kept saying that Zhao Feizhou insulted her, but I haven''t seen her tidy up her clothes since the beginning. But the girls of good families are really insulted. At least they have to put on their clothes. This woman is very good, for fear that others will not see her skin. Moreover, among the three young masters of the Zhao family, Zhao Yi is calm and resolute, and Zhao Yulong is resourceful and resourceful, following Zhao Yuanping''s temperament. The only one is Zhao Feizhou, who does not inherit Zhao Yuanfeng''s cunning, but inherits his Lao Tzu''s Mao impetuousness. What''s more, there''s no plan. A fool, if someone really wants to count on the Zhao family, it''s strange that he doesn''t find Zhao Feizhou. Zhao Feizhou is now seventeen or eighteen years old. He is just about to get married. As for the fifth miss of the Guo family, she was originally a common girl, so she couldn''t reach the general''s mansion. But if Zhao Feizhou insults other people''s girls, he has to marry if he marries them, or if he doesn''t, doesn''t Guo Meng get what he wants? It''s just. How can a common woman have such courage? Jiang Ruan had a hard face in his mind. "Mr. Zhao San, you want to be irresponsible." Guo Meng sobbed: "today, I came to a golden chrysanthemum banquet with my sister. How come..." She paused: "young master Zhao San, if you don''t want to be responsible, meng''er''s life will be ruined. What''s the meaning of living? It''s better to finish the rest of your life." Jiang Ruan looked at this place. Not far away, there was a small house. It was built in the garden of the mansion. It was usually used as a place for recreation. If a guest came and felt tired of visiting, he could go to the cabin in the forest and have a cup of tea. Today, seeing that there was no one outside the cabin in the forest, not even a maid guarding the door, Jiang Ruan knew clearly. The fifth miss of the Guo family is crying now. She is as naive as Zhao Feizhou. It''s very difficult for her. Soon, when she thought about it, the originator would lead people to "accidentally" pass by and bump into this scandal. Then Zhao Feizhou''s face will be lost in front of countless ladies and young ladies in Beijing. The two grandmothers of the Zhao family are both kind and gentle. No matter how to protect their weaknesses, they are outnumbered. In front of the crowd, another person forced Zhao Feizhou to show his attitude to Guo Meng, and Guo Meng could enter the Zhao family smoothly in the future. As long as Guo Meng enters the door, the Zhao family will not want to live in peace in the future. Guo Meng will try his best to stir up the relationship between the Zhao family, and even bring disaster to the Zhao family. But the fifth miss of the Guo family came into Zhao''s house in front of the public. After Zhao Feizhou had done something wrong to Guo Meng, Guo Meng was like a crystal man. She could not fight or scold. With Zhao Guang''s temperament, she might be angry. It can not only destroy Zhao Feizhou, but also add obstacles to the Zhao family. It''s hard not to let people doubt it. Jiang Ruan''s eyes narrowed and asked, "what''s the origin of Miss Guo family five?" Zhao Jin was stunned and said in a low voice: "Mrs. Shi Lang is very ill. She can''t survive this year. Mrs. Guo spoils his concubine and destroys his wife. Mrs. Shi Lang has only Miss Guo as her daughter. Miss Guo Wu is born to her aunt and has a brother. These two brothers and sisters are tyrannical in the house. Poor Miss Guo has to deal with them every day. Today, it is also the servant of Guo who asked Miss Guo Wu to follow him. Otherwise, a commoner girl would not be qualified to come to Jinju banquet? " Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes, but he was a concubine who spoiled his wife. Miss Guo Wu is very brave, but If you have the courage to do something, you have to have the courage to bear the consequences.She reached out and pulled away the branch. Zhao Jin was stunned and pressed her hand and said, "sister Ruan, what are you going to do?" "Give Miss Guo Wu a personal certificate." Jiang Ruan smiles. When Guo Meng and Zhao Feizhou heard the news, they all looked back and saw Jiang Ruan in a daze. Zhao Feizhou had never seen Jiang Ruan since three years ago. From the girl''s eyes in front of them, they finally recognized that this was the beautiful girl in red, her cousin. However, Miss Guo Wu had never met Jiang Ruan before. All she saw was a charming girl suddenly appeared with noble elegance that she didn''t have. She immediately became jealous and embarrassed. As a common girl, what she cares about most is her status. Guo Meng, like Jiang Su Su Su, is hostile to anyone who can compare herself. So the moment she saw Jiang Ruan, she was indignant and said, "who are you?" "The princess just passed by and saw a good scene." Jiang Ruan smiles. "Princess?" Guo Meng is stunned. The girl''s bearing is not very good. Even her own elder sister is three points shorter in front of her. If she is a princess, is it difficult? She looked at Jiang Ruan, two lines of tears immediately flow down: "I beg the princess to make the decision for the little girl, Zhao three young master occupied the little girl''s innocence..." Jiang Ruan nodded: "good." Zhao Jin and Zhao Feizhou were stunned at the same time. The former didn''t understand what Jiang Ruan wanted to do, while the latter was furious. Jiang Ruan was also his cousin, so why did he trust a stranger? Dewdrop and Tianzhu stood quietly on one side. The longer they followed Jiang Ruan, they knew that when Jiang Ruan Yue was gentle, it meant that someone was going to have bad luck. Guo Meng seemed to be extremely ashamed. She covered her face and sobbed: "I was just enjoying chrysanthemums with my elder sister in the yard. I saw butterflies playing for a while and then followed them. I didn''t want to see Mr. Zhao San on the way. Mr. Zhao San talked with me for a while, and then. Then I sprained my ankle. When master Zhao San helped me up, I was dazed. When I woke up... " She couldn''t go on, but just sobbed. "Definitely not!" Zhao Feizhou gas jump foot: "is you sprained foot, I kind-hearted help you, you take the handkerchief to wipe sweat for me, I do not know how I fainted, when I wake up here, you say I took your innocence, but I have done nothing!" Thinking of this, Zhao Feizhou was annoyed. He thought that there must be some magic drug on the handkerchief. It was at that time that he started the way. "Mr. Zhao''s words are so unreasonable. Can it be that I deliberately bewilder you so that you can contaminate my innocence? What good is it for me to spread them out?" Guo Meng, however, was also very eloquent. She turned her head to Jiang Ruan and sobbed, "the princess knows the truth and will make decisions for the little girl." Jiang Ruan squatted down, looked at Guo Meng and said with a smile, "OK, I''ll make the decision for you." She said softly, "well. Is Miss Guo really innocent? " This question is very strange. Guo Meng looks at Jiang Ruan suspiciously. Jiang Ruan looks at her with a smile. His eyes are like a clear spring, but they are like a black whirlpool. If he probes deeply, he only feels that there is a hidden giant beast inside to break out of the air and swallow her up. Under such eyes, Guo Meng could not help feeling guilty. She bowed her head and said sadly, "why did the princess ask like this? I''m not as good as dead after such a thing happened." "I didn''t -" Zhao Feizhou still wanted to speak, and Zhao Jin shook her head at him. With a smile, Jiang Ruan stood up and said, "well, Miss Guo, don''t cry. Later, I''ll let my mother-in-law come to have a physical examination for Miss Guo. If she is not innocent, I''ll let Mr. Zhao marry you, OK?" "No, no, I didn''t touch her with Ben!" Without waiting for Guo Meng to speak, Zhao Feizhou jumped up first. "Is this to humiliate me, princess?" Guo Meng''s eyes flashed with panic, then changed into an insulted look, and asked with extreme shame and indignation. "It''s not," he said slowly. "It''s just a misunderstanding. Since Miss Guo Wu said that she was innocent by young master Zhao San, she must have fallen red. But this princess saw this square circle, has not seen falls the red. Is it not that Mr. Zhao has not polluted Miss Guo Wu''s innocence here, but since then, Mr. Zhao has come here with Miss Guo Wu in his arms. Is it not to paint a snake to add to the food, or to show off Mr. Zhao''s good physical strength? " As soon as this remark came out, all three of them were stunned. They were used to Jiang Ruan''s unexpected dewdrop and Tianzhu, and could not help but gasp. Zhao Jin''s mind is the same as Zhao Feizhou''s at the moment. Jiang Ruan talks about such a shy thing in front of several people. As a young girl who has not yet come out of the cabinet, what she says is open and aboveboard. She has no sense of shyness at all. Her calm face is amazing. It subverts the image of the gentle and indifferent lady. Zhao Feizhou''s face turned red, and he was almost stunned by Jiang Ruan''s shocking words. His grandmother and several aunts usually spoke of Jiang Ruan with admiration. They only said that he was polite and behaved, and his bearing seemed to come from everyone. Who knows today this is to make him suspicious, this is really the girl cousin in his own mouth. Guo Meng was silenced by Jiang Ruan''s words. She didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would use such words to block her. Who would have thought that a princess would be "Luohong" if she opened her mouth and closed her mouth, but Luohong couldn''t be fake. If she really wanted to find a woman to check her body, she would have nothing to do. As soon as Guo Meng''s face changed, he suddenly said, "what''s the princess dissatisfied with me? Why is that such insulting words? "Jiang Ruan''s smile was mild. Instead of being infuriated by her words, he said softly, "it''s not an insult. It''s really for the sake of fairness. You can''t be biased towards a girl just because she is a woman, and master Zhao can''t be dumb. It''s like going to the market to buy. People have to see if the goods are in good condition. " She compared Guo Meng to goods, and Guo Meng''s face turned pale. Zhao Jin covered her mouth and laughed. It was the first time she saw Jiang Ruan''s aggressive appearance. She never knew that Jiang Ruan could speak like this. After a few words, she only said that Miss Guo Wu had no face to see people. "It''s too strange that Miss Guo Wu didn''t fall into the red, but she asked young master Zhao San to be responsible. Either Miss Guo Wu is still innocent, and what happened just now is just a misunderstanding, or..." Jiang Ruan looked at her suspiciously: "is Miss Guo Wu not a virgin?" "Poof --" Zhao Feizhou was happy. He felt that Jiang Ruan was no different from his second uncle. His gentle words were actually swearing, and at last he got people around. No matter how Guo Meng answers, he is not a person inside or outside. Guo Mengji''s cigarette ring is a little red, and she is surprised. Although she is a common girl, she also calculated Zhao Feizhou with a shy face, but she has not yet come out of the cabinet. I don''t want Jiang Ruan to say everything today. She has nothing to say. She just feels ashamed. Now, if she admits that this is a misunderstanding, she will not be reconciled. But as Jiang Ruan said, if she makes any rumors that she is not innocent, she will be the one who has the right, and others will see her differently. Guo Meng couldn''t calm down. In a panic, he asked: "is it really unfair for the princess to help because she is related to Zhao San? Can the Royal people bully people at will?" Jiang Ruan chuckled, and his eyes were so bright that he only said, "I didn''t say that I was related to Zhao San. How can Miss Guo Wu come here?" As soon as Zhao Feizhou looked restrained, Zhao Jin stopped laughing. Although Zhao Feizhou was straightforward, he was not stupid. When he heard Jiang Ruan''s remark, he immediately understood that he had been calculated. He inherited Zhao Yuanfeng''s temperament. He was very hot. He just thought it was just a misunderstanding, so he didn''t do anything to Miss Guo Wu. Now he was angry. He stepped forward and said, "dare you count me?" "I don''t understand what the princess is talking about?" Guo Meng knew that he had lost his word and only bit him to death. In the heart chagrin extremely, this Hong an Princess how even more difficult than the rumor. Today''s affair is about to be completed. However, it is hard to succeed when she is so involved. At the same time, he was angry and resentful. Jiang Ruan said faintly: "Miss Guo Wu, don''t you understand? How about my princess explaining for Miss Guo Wu? " "Sister Ruan, what do you want to explain?" Zhao Jin is also very cooperative. "Miss Guo Wu, the men in the general''s mansion are the best. Many daughters in the capital want to marry into the Zhao family. But if everyone uses your poor means to calculate, I''m afraid the general''s mansion is already full of people. I really don''t understand. Where does a common woman have the courage to think about the general''s residence? " Guo Meng jumps in his heart and looks up at Jiang Ruan. I just feel that the girl is gathered in the blue-and-white coat and skirt. It is clear that her face is as bright as a flower, but she is plated with a layer of black sun for no reason. It seems that It''s like the spirit born from the bones of hell, beautiful but terrible. "Princess, it''s just a misunderstanding," Guo Meng made a quick decision. As a common girl, she knew that she had to take the helm when she was in the mansion. Seeing that things were no longer successful, Jiang Ruan was not a good one. She was the only one who would suffer losses if she kept on pestering. Even if he loves her more than his own sister, he will not let her go when he learns that she has offended Princess Hong''an. The more I thought about it, the more I was afraid. Guo Meng said with a smile: "it seems that there is some misunderstanding between me and Mr. Zhao San. Now the misunderstanding has been solved, but it''s all right. It''s my fault to blame Mr. Zhao San. I''ll make amends to Mr. Zhao San." Zhao Feizhou was a little annoyed. He was in a family of military generals. He didn''t deal with women very much. His aunts and mothers were all kind and peaceful. There was no intrigue among women in other mansions. Where have you ever seen such a brazen person? I don''t know what to say for a moment. Zhao Jin also said: "Miss Guo Wu, your apology is not sincere." Jiang Ruan looked at Guo Meng and said, "you didn''t blame him." Zhao Feizhou was stunned and looked at Jiang Ruan. Guo Meng didn''t understand what Jiang Ruan meant and stared at her. Jiang Ruan faintly smile: "Miss Guo Wu, if you do something wrong, you just run away. Has no one told you that this is very dangerous?" Guo Meng was shocked. He had a hunch that he didn''t know. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s expression, he couldn''t care about anything else. He would open his mouth and yell. "Tianzhu, knock her out." Jiang Ruan said. As soon as the voice fell, before Guo Meng could cry out, he saw the servant girl who had been staying behind Jiang Ruan in silence leaping up. Guo Meng only felt that it was dark and nothing could be seen. Guo Meng''s body fell down on the grass, Zhao Jin frowned, Zhao Feizhou asked: "you...". What do you want to do? " Jiang Ruan looked at the man on the ground: "I don''t have much patience to rescue you the next time you are stupid. If you do that again, you will kill the Zhao family sooner or later. " She sneered: "Tianzhu, take Miss Guo Wu to a play." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 138 Zhao Feizhou is now a vigorous young man. He didn''t want to be underestimated by Jiang Ruan today, but he was not convinced for a while. Jiang Ruan phene told Tianzhu to throw Guo Meng to the rockery beside the pond. Tianzhu spared no effort to do so. Guo Meng''s head hit the rockery and immediately shed a trace of blood. Although several people present were surprised, they didn''t stop. Zhao Jin usually is also the most disgusted with such a stab in the back, Zhao Feizhou needless to say. Tianzhu took out a small porcelain vase from her arms and shook it under Guo Meng''s nose. She stood up at random and said, "girl, she can''t wake up in two hours." Zhao Feizhou stares at Guo Meng''s every move, some strange, ask a way: "you this servant girl unexpectedly also can martial arts?"? Where did it come from? " Zhao Feizhou himself is also a martial arts practitioner. Naturally, we can see that Guo Meng''s martial arts are not weak. Jiang Ruan took a look at the distance, and the dew on the other side came in a hurry: "girl, the two grandmothers and several wives of the Xia family are coming here." If it was the Xia family, Jiang Ruan''s eyes flashed and said, "it''s very good. Let''s go around to avoid it." But he said that a group of people came in from outside the forest. It was the sheriff''s wife at the head. Shen Rou talked to her, but Yu Ya''s eyes were wandering in the forest all the time. It seemed that she was looking for something. A servant girl beside Yu Ya walked in the front and suddenly exclaimed: "there seems to be someone over there!" Several madams are all show surprised facial expression, that servant girl but seem to have met what difficult to say general affair. Yu Ya''s eyes flashed a glimmer of joy, but he said solemnly, "what are you calling at random? Are there any rules?" "Granny Xia, don''t rush to teach her servants," the sheriff''s wife patted her hand and asked the servant girl, "what''s the matter? What''s the fuss about meeting people? " The servant girl faltered and did not speak, only lowered her head. When you ladies saw her look, they were both puzzled and guessing. Today''s Jinju banquet was set up for those young ladies and young friends. If there is someone out of line, it''s private. Most people like to watch, especially women''s home. What''s more, these wives are worried that their daughter or son will be involved in the process, and they will be in a dilemma for a while. Seeing this, Yu Ya said: "the servant girl has become more and more listless recently. I''ll go to see what makes her so frightened." Then he took the lead. As soon as Yu Ya walked forward, the other ladies had no reason to stay, but they followed. Shen Rou looks thoughtfully at Yu Ya and shakes around. She pulls at the corner of her mouth and shows a happy smile. But when they came to the front, they were surprised by the sight. A woman was lying beside the rockery beside the pond. Her clothes and jewelry were in good condition, but there was a bloodstain on her forehead, which was startling and suspicious. The maid''s aunt Rumei immediately exclaimed, "Menger!" His wife is now seriously ill in bed, so she can''t go to the banquet any more. Her aunt, who has given birth to a young master and a young lady of the Guo family, brings some of them to the golden chrysanthemum banquet. The maid''s aunt Rumei used to be a troupe singer. She used to do the business of flattering men. Today, she comes to the dinner party dressed in gorgeous clothes. The jewelry piled on her head only makes everyone''s eyes dazzled. I don''t know that she wants to see her husband instead of her daughter. Most of the ladies present were in the main room, and there were also a few side rooms. They were also well-dressed. They didn''t like such frivolous people. Aunt Rumei has been sitting on the bench from now on. She is very dissatisfied. At the moment, when something happened to her daughter, she couldn''t care about anything. She ran forward quickly and held Guo Meng in her arms. After seeing the scar on Guo Meng''s head, aunt Rumei yelled: "which medicine is this for premature life? It''s so harmful to my dream! If you are good enough, you will be broken. How can you get married in the future? " Her voice was sharp and ugly, and everyone frowned slightly. Without noticing, aunt Rumei pointed at the sheriff''s wife and said, "my dream is that something happened in the lady''s house. The lady must find the driver and punish him severely. When I find out, I won''t pull out his skin!" In the end, a person who was born on the wrong side of the table and spoke and acted like a shrew in the stock market. If he didn''t say such ugly words, he would be rude. Even the sheriff''s wife could not say clearly. Although the sheriff''s family should also be responsible for this matter, such as Aunt Mei''s attitude, it immediately made people feel sorry for Guo Mengqi. "Don''t worry, madam," but Yao, the second grandmother of the Zhao family, couldn''t look down and said, "let''s have a look at Miss Guo''s injury." This Niang only cares to shout, but doesn''t see how her daughter is hurt. As soon as the ladies listen to this, they despise aunt Rumei a little more. For example, Aunt Mei has the means in front of the Chamberlain, but she has no brain in front of the ladies who come from all walks of life. She can''t notice the change of people''s eyes. Just in a hurry to shake the arms of Guo Meng: "dream, dream?" Guo Meng''s eyes were closed, but she didn''t move. Aunt Rumei was in a hurry. She couldn''t care to splash it again. She said in a panic: "what should I do? Don''t you wake up? What''s the matter? " Yu Ya frowned tightly, and the maid who had just been embarrassed lowered her head in panic. It shouldn''t be like this. How could it be like this? Before they come, they should see Zhao Feizhou and Guo Meng together. Guo Meng is bullied and weeps. Zhao Feizhou is irresponsible. Why is Zhao Feizhou missing now, but Guo Meng is so badly hurt?Yu Ya has already inquired about it. Although Zhao Feizhou has a hot temper and follows Zhao Yuanfeng, he is not a person who will fight for no reason, and the Zhao family will not beat women indiscriminately. How could that be? Only listen to the sheriff''s humanitarian: "come, help Miss Guo to the house, take the master''s post quickly to ask the doctor." When the servant girls helped the unconscious Guo Meng to lie down in the room, Yu Ya turned her eyes and said, "that man dares to hurt Miss Guo in the house. He must be from the house. There are so many people coming to the Jinju banquet today. It''s hard to avoid that there are so many people with mixed eyes. Why don''t you ask someone, who was Miss Guo with The sheriff''s wife felt that what she said was reasonable, so she went to find someone to send a message. She only said if anyone had seen her. Who was Guo Meng with today? The servant girl who spread the word came back soon. She said that she was Sasa''s little servant girl. Today, Guo Meng and Zhao Feizhou went to the same place. Yao''s eyelids jumped as soon as this remark came out. Today, she came with Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou. Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou are now at the age of matchmaking, but they are both stone like. They are not intimate with any girl. After discussing with Zhou, Yao came with his son and nephew. Who knows such a thing happened. Yao''s family comes from a scholarly family. Since childhood, he has paid attention to the rules and etiquette. Hearing this, he was a little annoyed: "I grew up watching the child flying boat. I would never do such a dirty thing!" "You know people, you know faces, you don''t know hearts." Yu Ya said: "what''s more, I didn''t say anything. I just saw Zhao San young master and Miss Guo together. What''s Zhao''s grandmother worried about?" "You --" Yao was furious. Seeing Yu Ya''s provocation, looking at Shen Rou on one side, I think of something. When the story of Jiang Ruan came to the Zhao family, it was this woman, that is, Xia Jun''s mother. Is it revenge to deliberately provoke today? Aunt Rumei cried out for fear that the world would not be in chaos: "it''s you! I didn''t expect that young master Zhao San was such a shameless person. I don''t care. Young master Zhao San has hurt my dream. I''ll go back and find someone to tell my master that even if you go to the government, you can''t get any advantage! " "If eyebrow aunt," Yao Shi really angered, every word sonorous powerful way: "dare to ask my family flying boat why harm your daughter? For no reason, there must be a reason. " "Xu is your son. Seeing that Menger is beautiful, he has the heart of pickling. If Menger doesn''t follow, he will be hurt by your son''s anger!" Such as eyebrow aunt some have no face have no skin of words come out, around of Madam but also eat of smile. This if eyebrow aunt really like a shrew general, but I don''t know what kind of influence these words will have on her daughter. I''m afraid it will be very difficult for Guo Meng to find a good family in the future as soon as the news of today is spread. Mother and father are like this, don''t face, daughter can be better where to go? If the eyebrow aunt Wu said cheerfully, but I do not know that the Zhao family has always been short, not to mention what people hold soft persimmon. It''s the Yao family who has been married to the Zhao family for so many years. In his heart, he also has the courage of the Zhao family. Then she sneered: "aunt Rumei is used to joking. What kind of girl is Feizhou? I can''t find her. I have to find a common girl. Or aunt Rumei thinks that Miss Guo can sing a few songs, so Feizhou likes it very much. I don''t know how to compare with the little peach in the stage on the East Street of Beijing? " Some of the ladies around also made friends with Yao, and they knew that Yao''s usual temper would not say such unkind words. Today, however, I was forced to be tight and angry. After Yao''s words, even the sheriff''s wife wanted to laugh. That is a good song sung by Xiao Taohong in the East Street stage. She comes and goes every day. I don''t know how many officials are involved in it. Yao''s words are not poisonous. Yu Ya''s heart, I did not expect to see good bullying Yao was also so glib. Aunt Rumei in that room also heard the sarcasm of Yao''s words. She only hated her liver. She didn''t have Yao''s agility, so she couldn''t come up with an answer. Seeing that the atmosphere was stagnant, I heard the sound of walking outside, but the group of noble girls playing in the yard came. Guo Xiang, the first lady of the Guo family, walked to the door. Fang looked at her maliciously and said, "Miss, how can you go out with meng''er to have fun? It''s just that meng''er has an accident. How can you be such a big sister? Don''t you know how to take care of your sister? " Miss Guo is only 15 or 16 years old this year. Because her mother is still seriously ill, she only wears a dark green gown. She is very plain, and her eyebrows and eyes are as quiet as the whole person. Hearing aunt Rumei''s vicious accusation, she shook her head and said, "aunt, I''m not a worm in my charming belly. How can I follow her all the time. What''s more, I asked Wu Mei to join me before. Wu Mei refused. " as soon as she was stunned, she saw another young lady beside Guo Xiang and said, "yes, sister Guo wanted to go with Miss Guo Wu before. Who knows, Miss Guo Wu not only didn''t want to be with sister Guo, but also insulted sister Guo." Around a few expensive women are nodding, said they are also seen with their own eyes. The noble girls didn''t look up to the common girls. Besides, Guo Meng''s temperament was not very pleasant. When she sympathized with Guo Xiang, she stepped on Guo Meng. If Aunt Mei vomited blood in anger, there were so many valuable women, and they could not be offended by the public anger, so they had to attack Guo Xiang''s anger and glare at her.Guo Xiang was not moved, but Yu Ya''s eyes flashed and fell on Jiang Ruan, who followed Zhao Jin. Jiang Ruan raised her eyes and gave her a little smile. At that time, Yu Ya had an uncertain premonition in her heart. She just felt that something was missing. "Aunt, five younger sisters are harmed like this." Guo xiangdao. "What?" As soon as she heard it, she immediately asked, "do you know who it is?" "This..." Guo Xiang was in a bit of a dilemma, but Zhao Jin said, "because Miss Guo Wu broke someone else''s secret." "What''s the secret?" If the eyebrow asks closely, Zhao Jin is a bit embarrassed and refuses to say any more. "What''s the secret?" See Zhao Jin so, such as eyebrow heart is more anxious, just stretched out a hand to pull Zhao Jin''s sleeve, Mrs. Zhao see this, slightly wrinkled frown. The young lady who had just spoken for Guo Xiang said, "ah, we all heard that just now. Now it''s not a secret." This young lady is a young lady of the scholar bureaucrat''s family. She is not yet hairpin this year, but she is 11 or 12 years old. She doesn''t have so many scruples, and she speaks more simply. The ladies present looked at each other and bowed their heads. It seems that this secret is extremely difficult to tell, and it can''t be mentioned any more. Yu Ya jumped in her heart and looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s smile seemed to deepen a little. There was something strange in her eyes. She stared at Jiang Ruan, frowning. "What is it?" The sheriff''s wife said in a soft voice, "speak it out, you are not afraid." The young lady said with indifference, "just say it. The secret is that Miss Xia is the child of the second master." I''m surprised to hear that! Shen Rou, who used to watch the drama on the wall, didn''t expect that her face turned white as soon as the words turned around her head. "What the hell is going on?" Yu Ya asked harshly. Subconsciously, she went to see Shen rou. Shen Rou''s face didn''t look like her usual appearance. After a meal in her heart, her heart sank slowly. Suddenly, she felt an overwhelming hatred. She has been fighting with sister-in-law Shen Rou for so many years. She knows what Shen Rou''s expression means. It means that what the young lady said just now It''s true. When she went to the gate of Xia''s home, she knew that Xia was born with a romantic heart. But when she gave birth to Xia Jun, she became the mother of the family. No matter how chaotic she was, she had to take care of her. Yu Ya is a mean person and jealous. Xia family''s big room is quiet in summer, but she married Shen rou. A woman''s family is always trying to keep up with the Joneses. She can''t stand Shen Rou''s love for her daughter and her husband. She has a son, but her heart is not in her. What I hate most is that only in summer do I occasionally have a casual look on Shen Rou, full of appreciation. Now when I think about it, it turns out that the two of them have already had a head and tail. No wonder that they are not so close to their elder brother in summer, but they love Xia Jiaojiao very much. But it turns out that Xia Jiaojiao is the base of both of them! My uncle and sister-in-law have a head and tail. In summer, I''m green capped and I raise my daughter for others. It''s really the best in the world! "I''ll tell you," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "just now we were here. A little servant girl came, but she was shocked. Only that Miss Guo Wu broke the secret of the Xia family, that person killed Miss Guo Wu, but also killed her. The little servant girl was so scared that we asked her and told her the secret. That''s what we see right now. " "Well, it''s you who made my dream come true!" Rumei is a man who knows what to do. As soon as he hears this, he immediately turns his direction and spat at Yu Ya and Shen Rou: "you''ve done something shameful and you want to kill people. If there''s something wrong with my dream, my master won''t let you go!" Yu Ya takes a deep breath and knows that it''s not the right time to pursue others. If the Xia family really spreads bad rumors, it''s not a good thing for her. Then way: "if eyebrow aunt just by a don''t know where to come out of the small servant girl one side words to determine whether too arbitrary.". My sister and I have been here from beginning to end. That''s right. Where are we from to harm Miss Guo Wu? " "This..." If the eyebrow stops. Jiang Ruan smiles: "why don''t you see the maid beside Xia Er granny?" Generally speaking, the lady who comes out will take two servant girls with her, but from the beginning until now, Yu Ya has only one servant girl, but the other one has never appeared. That is to say, it was delayed to get some other things, but it was too long. Yu Ya''s face changed. She knew where the maid had gone. The servant girl was hiding here to let the wind blow and led Zhao Feizhou to meet Guo Meng, but now she didn''t come back. Naturally, she could not tell the truth, but Jiang Ruan did not give her time to react. Then he went up to Guo Meng, who was lying on the couch. He gently twisted a silk of Juan PA and said in a soft voice: "this pa seems to have something strange..." The doctor who happened to have seen Guo Meng''s injury finished prescribing, came over to take the handkerchief in Jiang Ruan''s hand, smelled it, and said: "I just saw that the girl was unconscious because she was drugged. This handkerchief has the smell of drugged." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 139 "Ecstasy?" If eyebrow aunt lost voice to call up: "that wound on forehead is how come?" "This..." The doctor pondered for a while: "it''s about where I was knocked after I was addicted to drugs. Maybe I was hit by a hard object on purpose. Fortunately, I don''t have much strength. I''ll be fine after drinking a few pieces of drugs for a few days." "When will my daughter wake up?" If eyebrow asks. "It doesn''t matter," the doctor looked at Guo Meng on the couch. "As long as you wait for the drug to pass, you will wake up." The sheriff''s wife nodded her thanks and let the girl take the doctor to get the medicine. The atmosphere was a bit stalemate for a while. Jiang Ruan chuckled: "this Young master Zhao San is a seven foot man. He doesn''t always bring a handkerchief to harm people. The handkerchief is embroidered with flowers. How do you think it''s all A woman''s thing. " When people heard this, they all felt polite. Not to mention that Zhao Feizhou is a good young man, how can he take a handkerchief on his body for no reason. If you look at the flowers and grass embroidered on the handkerchief, it can''t be a man''s thing. If the eyebrows are sharp, she can see the appearance of the handkerchief at a glance. Naturally, she knows that it is Guo Meng''s handkerchief. Although I don''t know why Guo Meng put the overpowering drug on the handkerchief, now that something has happened, he has to rely on others. Xiahou''s house is also a house of nobility. Maybe we can get something from it. Otherwise, Guo Meng will suffer for nothing. Therefore, Rumei immediately said: "it''s just that. I didn''t expect that grandma Xia was so cruel. The handkerchief must have been dropped by your servant girl. Hum, your servant girl was so confused with the handkerchief that she wanted to kill people and pour dirty water on master Zhao San! It''s a good calculation. " Both Shen Rou and Yu Ya''s faces changed. Yu Ya was even more angry. After hearing Shen Rou''s story, she didn''t turn around and didn''t want to be entangled with her eyebrows again. She looked at Jiang Ruan fiercely. If it had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan, she would not believe it if she killed her! It must be her, little bitch! Jiang Ruan smile, facing her eyes to see back, the end of the eyes if there is no rise, dense out of a mocking provocation. Yu Ya felt the blood rushing to her forehead, and her voice was sharp: "why should I send someone to kill your daughter? I''m not the one who has adultery with others? I didn''t do anything shameful! " In her anger, she blurted out the words in her heart. The resentment in her tone surprised all the ladies and ladies present. Looking at her at the moment is different from Shen Rou''s expression. Shen Rou is on the verge of collapse. The Xia family''s reputation has been destroyed when today''s news spreads. She has no idea what is waiting for her. However, in the Dajin Dynasty, if an official''s uncle and sister-in-law had a head and tail, the man would not be able to lift his head all his life, and the woman would be immersed in a pig cage. Just like this, Xia Jiaojiao''s second half of her life was destroyed. Rumei, however, was not a good talker. He immediately began to laugh. He took out his shrewdness of being a pillar on the stage and said, "you want to protect yourself. You didn''t do those things and make a fool of yourself. But if your husband''s scandal is spread, you will be ruined as a wife. You want to harm my dream and cover up the scandal of Xia Fu. I want to tell you what I want to tell you and let everyone know! " Then he cried out, "come on! Xia er''s grandmother wants to cover up the scandal of Xia''s house and kill my girl. Xia er''s grandmother killed her. Xia''s eldest daughter was born by Xia Da''s grandmother and Xia er''s grandfather - " Rumei was born as a singer, and she was full of breath. She didn''t even have a breath when she yelled. Her voice was loud and clear, and the whole sheriff''s house could hear it. Around a crowd is to see silly eyes, this such as eyebrow is also really too will not put the status etiquette what in the eye, say shout. Even though Yu Ya had been acting for many years, she had never seen such a woman who didn''t play cards according to common sense. For a moment, she forgot to stop her coming. They were both surprised and amused. Zhao Jin almost fainted with laughter. She bit her ears with Jiang Ruan and said, "what a pillar! This voice is really gorgeous!" Shen Rou''s eyes turned when she was called like this. There was no son inside or outside today. She just fell back and fainted. The maid beside her helped her up and said, "madam, my grandmother is not feeling well. I''m afraid she''s going to faint. Please let my grandmother come in and have a rest The sheriff''s wife is the answer. Yu Ya is the only one left in the Xia family. Yu Ya''s heart is very soft and cunning, and Zhao Mei''s heart has a faint pleasure. Shen Rou has done such a scandal, and she will be known by the whole capital tomorrow. Shen Rou has no face to live. Now she wants to avoid Shen Rou to the inner room. The eyebrow was sharp eyed. She was shouting and staring at Yu Ya''s action. Seeing that she was about to faint, she immediately stepped forward, grabbed Yu Ya''s shoulder and said, "Granny Xia, you can''t turn over your face when you make my dream look like this! Why don''t you come to court with me to see an official, and you''re not paying any attention! " Yu Ya''s eyebrows suddenly shook her, and she couldn''t feel dizzy. She was annoyed that Guo Meng had such a difficult mother. Yu Ya was about to get angry when he was so wrapped up that he heard another sound of footwork outside. A voice came out from afar: "mother, are you ok?" It was a group of young men who rushed in. After listening to the news here, they rushed to the front. The young man was dressed in a jade white gown, his face was like a crown jade, and his expression was somewhat clever. He had a folding fan around his waist. He looked at it wisely and spiritually. It was Zhao Yulong, the second young master of the Zhao family.Zhao Feizhou followed Zhao Yulong closely. As soon as he entered the door, he looked at Jiang Ruan. He saw that Jiang Ruan''s face was as usual, with a smile on his lips. Then he looked at Yu Ya and aunt Rumei''s embarrassed appearance. He was relieved and relaxed. When Yao saw that his son and nephew had come, and that there was nothing wrong with them, he was relieved and said, "what are you doing here?" In the heart is not willing to let their two young master see these pickled things. At the thought that these people had just wanted to pour dirty water on Zhao Feizhou, he got angry again. Zhao Feizhou and Zhao Yulong noticed Yao''s anger. Zhao Yulong said, "I heard the news here. I''m so anxious. Please forgive me." His manner is polite, but also a talent, the presence of the ladies are happy to see, where they want to go out to blame him. Seeing that Zhao Yulong is like this, Yu Ya can''t help but think of Xia Jun. with a pain in her heart, she looks at Zhao Yulong in a vicious way. Then, behind a group of young men, there was a petite figure in white. Who was Jiang Su Su? Just now, the ladies were all here. They were only concerned about Guo Meng, but they didn''t pay attention to Jiang Su Su''s absence. At the moment, they saw Jiang Su Su Su''s coming in with the men''s relatives. Their heart was clear, and they looked at Jiang Su Su Su with disdain. Looking at the elegant and clean appearance of the second miss of the Jiang family, who knows that she is also a restless person. She secretly goes to see the teenagers, but this is face-to-face. Jiang suhun didn''t care about those eyes. If she had nothing to gain today, several young men had already fallen in love with her. Jiang suhun got satisfaction from them. But although these people are not lack of noble children, they are far away from the position she expected. At the thought of Xuanli, the eighth prince, Jiang Su Su was a little worried. He had not seen him for a long time. But Xia''s family was in touch with her. Jiang Su Su frowned and asked, "second aunt, what''s the matter?" If eyebrow aunt saw Jiang Su Su one eye, in the heart also is disdain. Jiang Su Su was so beautiful that she compared her dream with Guo Meng. Her tone was not very good. She said, "since you are the second aunt, if I didn''t have a big dream today, I would be killed by this vicious woman!" Zhao Feizhou''s eyes jumped and he couldn''t help looking at Jiang Ruan. Before Jiang Ruan let Tianzhu make Guo Meng dizzy, then let him go back quickly. Zhao Feizhou didn''t want to, but Jiang Ruan''s cold appearance really made him feel bad, so he should. After Jiang Ruan asked him to go back, he told Zhao Yulong the whole story. After listening to Zhao Feizhou''s words, Zhao Yulong thought for a moment and asked him to keep quiet. After a while, when he heard the news from the west garden, Zhao Yulong inadvertently asked all the brothers to have a look. Zhao Yulong''s eyes slightly bent and looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan noticed his eyes and returned with a smile. Zhao Yulong is Zhao Yuanping''s son. He inherits Zhao Yuanping''s cunning and is very satisfied with his cousin''s behavior. The two exchanged a tacit expression and then staggered their eyes. There is a miss who admires Zhao Yulong around, quietly and Zhao Yulong said what happened in the end. After hearing this, Zhao Yulong frowned and asked, "well, can the servant girl who had an accident and the servant girl beside the second lady Xia be found now?" "I''ve found it." Sheriff humanitarian: "just two people are missing." One of the childe brothers said carelessly: "what can I guess? It must be that the murderer killed the informer. Knowing that the matter was revealed, he just ran away, so he couldn''t find it!" As soon as this remark came out, everyone was silent again. It''s very possible and natural. Looking at Yu Ya''s eyes was different. Yu Ya is impatient. Finding those two servant girls can prove her innocence. At least it can prove that she didn''t ask people to murder Miss Guo Wu. But these two people suddenly disappeared, how also can''t find. She couldn''t help looking at Jiang Ruan. Could it be that he did it again? The smile on Jiang Ruan''s lips did not fall from the beginning. The servant girl who told the story couldn''t be found in the whole sheriff''s house, just because it was not a servant girl. Although Jin San was a killer, he disguised himself well. Even these young ladies had no doubts. As for the girl beside Yu Ya, she will never come back. Yu Ya is really hard to ride a tiger at the moment. She is so aggressive that she doesn''t know when she will wake up after Guo has been poisoned. It''s hard to steal chicken today. She is anxious and angry, can only rigidly repeat a way: "I have no life person to harm Guo Meng." Unfortunately, no one believed her. In the middle of the stalemate, someone rushed to report. It''s only said that the Marquis of the Xia family told Yu Ya and Shen Rou to go back to the house immediately. The Marquis of the Xia family must have got the news before they could spread the word like this. At the thought of Shen Rou''s fate, Yu Ya''s heart will rise a pleasure, but Xia Cheng''s anger has always been very terrible, she will also worry about what she will suffer. Although Rumei is as shrewd as a shrew, he is also shrewd. It''s Xia Cheng who knows that the Xia family is in charge. It''s not good for his master to annoy him. Yu Ya has almost no room to deny it in front of all the ladies today. The Xia family will tell her sooner or later that the Xia family can''t run away, the monk can''t run away from the temple. Now that Xia Cheng knows about it, he is not in a hurry. The Marquis of Xia will try to make up for it for the sake of his superior son and not being criticized by outsiders.So aunt Rumei said, "it''s all right. I think the Duke of Xia should know about it and ask his grandmother to go back to discuss it. I''m not that unreasonable person. Now Menger hasn''t woken up, so we''ll talk about it slowly when Menger wakes up. At that time, I hope Xiahou mansion can give Meng er a clear explanation. " Yu Ya is angry again in the heart, fiercely should, teach the servant girl to enter the inner room to call Shen rou. A moment later, Shen Rou comes out with the servant girl in pale complexion. They leave in a hurry with the sheriff''s wife, and then they run away with the servant girl. This embarrassed appearance, where come before of time of high spirited, even forget Jiang Su Su Su and Jiang Ruan. However, Jiang Su Su Su and Jiang Ruan are not suitable to go to Xia Fu. When such a thing happened, but it was still early now, and the sheriff''s wife didn''t want to have a good party, she was stirred up by this inexplicable thing, so she made amends again. Please don''t worry about this accident. Please continue to enjoy the flowers. People are not good to sweep the sheriff''s wife''s interest, so they should, but after such a thing has happened, how can they be like the previous mood? When we start again, the topic of discussion is not flowers, or even "she" or "he". It''s the secret of Xiahou''s residence. It''s a wonderful conversation. Because Guo Meng has not yet awakened, the sheriff''s wife has always asked her servants to guard her. But aunt Rumei seems to have been wronged by Tianda. She has been crying with the sheriff''s wife. The sheriff''s wife is a little annoyed. Until she guarantees that the sheriff''s house will make up for Miss Guo''s family, Rumei just put away her crying. Time flies by. In a twinkling of an eye, it''s almost dark, and it''s time to leave. When Zhao Jin and Jiang Ruan talked about this, they shook their heads and said, "aunt Rumei is really a bad girl. Even my concubine has gone too far. What she said to the sheriff''s wife is like a poor relative who wants to take whatever''s good This is unheard of. " Jiang Ruan smiles and shakes his head. He happens to meet Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou. When he meets Jiang Ruan, Zhao Feizhou says, "cousin, my great aunt says that I will take you to Jiang''s house with us later." Yu Ya and Shen Rou run away, but she and Jiang Su Su still want to go back to the mansion. Jiang Ruan nodded. Zhao Yulong looked at her with great interest and said, "my cousin is really smart. Today''s methods are amazing." "My cousin knows how to make things better." Jiang Ruan lightly replied. One by one, these two people''s words fell into Zhao Feizhou''s ears, but they felt confused and grabbed his head: "what do you two say? I can''t understand you." Zhao Yulong took a deep look at Jiang Ruan: "anyway, I thank you for the Zhao family." Although Zhao Yulong is the same age as Zhao Feizhou, he is more mature than Zhao Feizhou. All the time, he also felt that Jiang Ruan''s heart was too cold and thin, and he made more use of the general''s house. If he said that he was in love, he really couldn''t see it. Today is to help. If it wasn''t for Jiang Ruan, I''m afraid it would be Zhao Feizhou who suffered at the last golden chrysanthemum banquet. If Guo Meng really entered Zhao''s house, he could not be sure what storm he would turn up. Jiang Ruan''s willingness to help shows that he still has some feelings for the Zhao family. "You don''t have to thank me. The Xia family is here for me." Jiang Ruan replied. Yu Ya is so good that she doesn''t need to calculate the people in the general''s house. She wants to revenge her anger on the Zhao family. Now emperor Jiang xinzhitiangao has no way to do everything. Yu Ya is afraid of her status as a princess. It was Zhao Feizhou who was a good bully. He came up with such a sinister way. Zhao Yulong was about to say something when he heard another sharp female voice: "Jiang Ruan! Zhao Feizhou Who is Guo Meng who came here with a fierce questioning attitude? Guo Meng is suffering words, inexplicably broke phase, wake up but heard other things, now and Yu Ya''s Liangzi is married, to say anything is too late. When I came out and saw Jiang Ruan, why didn''t I get so angry? Two hours later, Guo Meng woke up and just put on such a gesture. It should be said that the fifth miss of the Guo family is not as smart as her mother. Guo Meng rushed in front of Jiang Ruan and said angrily, "you have calculated me, you..." "Shut up," but another female voice came with a stern tone. Looking back, it was Guo Xiang, the eldest miss of the Guo family. "It''s you! Did you work with them on me? " Guo dreamt of Guo Xiang, but he was even more arrogant. He raised his voice and asked, which was somewhat similar to Jiang Li in Jiang''s house. "Pa" sound, saw Guo Xiang crisp gave Guo Meng a slap, so that several people are stunned, Guo Xiang face cold, tone with a slightly cold meaning: "this slap, is to teach you what to say, what not to say." She looked at Jiang Ruan again. The elder Miss of the Guo family was generous and decent. She also had a clear and decisive manner. She gave a quiet salute to Jiang Ruan and said, "I hope the princess will be magnanimous." "No problem." Jiang Ruan chuckled. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 140 After the golden chrysanthemum banquet, everything seems to be calm. On that day, Jiang Su Su did not go back with Yao''s carriage. He just said which childe had let his carriage out and insisted on sending Jiang Su Su back to Jiang''s house. Jiang Su Su also somehow should come down, but people talk about the center is today''s Xia grandmother, but she ignored. On the carriage back to Jiang''s house, Yao learned what was in his heart from Zhao Feizhou, and thanks Jiang Ruan again. Just some strange way: "where did those two servant girls go?" Yu Ya''s servant girl and her former informer couldn''t be found at last. Jiang Ruan said, "the informer''s servant girl is my own. As for Xia er''s servant girl, she is sent to Chuang Tzu first. She will be sent out of Beijing in a few days." Yao nodded and settled down. However, Zhao Yulong did not believe it. Jiang Ruan always did things cleanly, and he would not leave any handle. Yu Ya''s maid''s life is a hidden danger. If she is so cruel as Jiang Ruan, how can she rest assured that a hidden danger will stay around. However, her words were always half true and half false, and Zhao Yulong could not find any evidence, so he had to keep them in mind. After returning to the mansion, before Jiang Quan came back, the ladies looked at Jiang Ruan with different eyes. The bolder woman pulled the dew and asked quietly, "is Miss Xia really the daughter of Xia Er ye?" After a few perfunctory words, dewdrop and Jiang ruanxian go back to ruanju. When they go back, they close the door of the house and meet forsythia and Angelica dahurica. Forsythia takes the lead in saying: "girl, the scandal of Xia family is now known in the whole capital, and the master also knows about it. When she meets two girls who go back to the house at the door, she quarrels with them after a few words The girl is thinking in the yard now, and the Master goes out in a rage. " Jiang Ruan picks eyebrows. When is it now? The Xia family has such a big problem. Since Jiang''s family is in law, they will naturally be watched by the people. Just because Jiang Su Su didn''t know what was at stake, he came back as a carriage for other people''s children. Didn''t he send the handle to the people for discussion. All they can say is that Xia''s family has their own blood in their heart, and Jiang Susu sent Jiang''s house to the fire to roast. Now Chiang''s house is not as colorful as it used to be. It''s only allowed to enter but not allowed to leave. How can it stand the ridicule of others. Rao is Jiang Quan. No matter how much he loves Jiang Su Su, he will be angry. Baizhi said: "now the Xia family is in disrepute. I''m afraid that the eldest miss of the Xia family has to get rid of her name from the pretty girl in the palace." The uncle and sister-in-law have children born from the beginning and the end, so they are not allowed to enter the palace. Jiang Ruan droops her eyes. Xia Jiaojiao, who was supported by Xia Cheng in the palace in her last life, is very proud. She is a beauty of the same rank, but her life is very different from that of Xia Jiaojiao. Even if she did not have any threat, Xia Jiaojiao also asked her every other time. This Miss Xia, who thought she was a gold branch and jade leaf, now knows that she is just a villain. Is there any other gap? In Xiahou mansion, shenrou and Xiaxia just kneel on the ground. Xiaxia Yi''s face is livid and kicks shenrou: "bitch!" Looking at the summer is full of resentment. Xia Cheng holds the whip that he asked for. The black and shiny whip is very strong. It is very strong because it has been soaked for many years, and it makes a "pop" sound on people. After each sound, Shen Rou''s delicate skin will have a bloody scar. "Stop fighting, stop fighting." Shen Rou cries, her clothes are already ragged under the whip, but her delicate and white skin is now covered with bloodstains, and her scarred appearance is no longer as beautiful as usual. She looks disgusting. Xia Cheng breathlessly stops the whip in his hand. He has just whipped more than ten times in a row. He already feels a little hard. Xia Xia has been getting along with Shen Rou for so many years. Seeing Shen Rou suffer, she feels pity for her and says to Xia Cheng, "Dad, this has nothing to do with rou''er. It''s all her son''s fault. Don''t beat rou''er!" It''s not so bad, but Xia Cheng is even more angry. When he thinks that it''s this incompetent son and his immoral daughter-in-law who have made such a big joke for the Xia family, he feels that he just wants to have his son in summer. The whip was thrown at once, and it was drawn towards the summer. "Master, don''t!" A exclamation came from the side. Mrs. Xia had already rushed over and grasped Xia Cheng''s arm in one hand. She said, "genius is your son. How can you fight him like this? It''s all the talents seduced by this woman. If there''s anything wrong with today''s talents, I won''t live. If you want to fight, you can fight with me! " Summer''s easy temper is stiff, but it''s not as flexible as summer''s. The veteran of fengyuechang talks about beautiful flowers, and usually coaxes Mrs. Xia into obedience. Mrs. Xia loves her little son the most. Although she also resents the fact that she has done this kind of mischievous thing in summer, she is worried and wants to protect herself. When Xia Cheng saw this, he was even more angry: "my dear mother, how many losers! What a loser Seeing that Xia Xia just defends Shen Rou in this way, Yu Ya, who was watching a good play, is not reconciled. She is just a slut. Now she can get Xia''s pity. She only hates Xia Cheng for not killing Shen rou. Xia Xia Yi also sees his second younger brother''s behavior in his eyes, angry. On weekdays, people who are gloomy and hard tempered are really venomous, which is unexpected to all of us.Yu Ya''s voice was sad and sorrowful, and she said, "what Niang said is so unfair to uncle? Uncle, however, has been wronged. Who should ask him? " Mrs. Xia''s words stop, and Xia Cheng looks at his eldest son apologetically. What impact does this matter have on ER Fang? Let''s not say for a moment, but for Da Fang, it''s like a disaster to Xia Tianyi. In fact, his wife, who has been doting on him for many years, has already given him a green hat. The adulterer is still his second younger brother and his daughter, who has been raising for others for many years. All kinds of behavior, for a man, is a great shame. If it''s Xia Cheng himself, I''m afraid it''s just a knife to end the two men and women, then I''ll have to vent my heart. Xia Xiayi is not used to be so romantic in summer. Although he is moderate in his work, he is safe. From small to large, he has not caused any trouble to Xia Cheng. The only thing that makes Xia Cheng dissatisfied is that he dotes on Shen Rou too much. Even if Shen Rou only gave birth to a daughter for him, Xia Xia Yi didn''t have a concubine. Only the two Tong Fang that Shen Rou had taken away from her body at the beginning still remain the same. And it''s Xia Xiayi''s beloved wife, who gives him such a big green hat. You can imagine Xia Xiayi''s mood. Only Xia Cheng can''t let Xia Tianyi kill Xia Xia. He knows that he''s sorry for his eldest son. He has to whip Xia to let Xia Tianyi take a breath. Just as he was about to start, he heard a girl''s voice in the hall: "Niang! What''s the matter with you? " Xia Jiaojiao heard that her mother and second uncle were whipped by Xia Cheng in the hall. At first, she thought it was the servant''s broken mouth nonsense. Just because Shen Rou is very respectable in the Xia family, why should she punish her mother. In the heart suspicions to come over to see, but is the soul flies out of one''s wits. Shen Rou was beaten, bloody, lying on the ground dying. But her father, who has always loved Shen Rou, stands on one side indifferently, without the appearance of heartache. Look at the summer just, also did not have the usual romantic appearance, just compared to Shen Rou''s injury has been much better. Kneeling on the ground in embarrassment, there are also several scars on the body. Xia Cheng is holding a whip in his hand, and his eyes seem to eat people. Xia Jiaojiao was afraid. She ran to Shen Rou in three or two steps and cried, "what''s the matter with you, mother?" Shen Rou raised her eyes slightly to see that she was her own daughter, and spewed out a few words Jiaojiao, let''s go. " "I''m not going." Xia Jiaojiao cried even more. She glared at Xia Cheng and said, "grandfather, what''s wrong with my mother? Why do you want to beat her like this? Isn''t it going to take my mother''s life? " Xia Cheng didn''t want to ask Xia Jiaojiao to know these things. He said in a deep voice: "go back to your yard, don''t come out!" "I won''t go!" Xia Jiaojiao screamed, turned her head and looked at Xia Tianyi, who was standing on one side and didn''t speak. She hugged Xia Tianyi''s leg and cried, "father, my grandfather is going to kill my mother. Do you want to stand by like this? Father, are you so cruel? " Xia Jiaojiao was born a beautiful girl. She is crying now. Xia Tianyi always dotes on her. When Xia Jiaojiao was born, even if she was a daughter, Xia Tianyi didn''t feel half lost. From small to big, Xia Jiaojiao grew up in a honeypot. Xia Yi didn''t even say a word to her. If as usual, Xia Jiaojiao such a cry, summer Yi already distressed. However, when she saw Xia Jiaojiao''s face today, Xia Xia Yi thought of her beloved wife and her second younger brother''s appearance in bed. Her heart suddenly became angry. She felt that Xia Jiaojiao''s face was particularly disgusting. Xia Jiaojiao saw that Xia Tianyi changed her face. Before she understood it, she was kicked away by Xia Tianyi! Xia Xiayi is a man. Because he is still angry, his foot is the real strength. Xia Jiaojiao flies out. He just meets the hot soup which is simmered in a small porcelain pot on the table. At that time, he only hears a scream. The hot soup is burning from Xia Jiaojiao''s head to her feet. Xia Jiaojiao covers her face and can''t help rolling on the ground . This is a burning hot thing, pouring on the girl''s delicate skin, how can there be a good reason? Everyone was shocked by the sudden change. Shen Roupu spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted in the dark. Summer just painful tight, Xia Jiaojiao this is his daughter, at the moment see so almost mad to go, then red summer Yi roar: "Xia Tianyi!" Summer just this action, will finally summer Yi in the heart of the last trace of complex feelings also disperse clean. He gave a sneer, and there was a strange smile on his always rigid expression. He said to Xia Jiaojiao, who was shouting and rolling on the ground: "I''m not your father, your father is him, your second uncle! You are the wild seed that your mother gave birth to with the wild man outside. Don''t call me father Xia Jiao Jiao has always been the most favorite man to spit out this sentence, not only summer just, even Xia Cheng and Xia''s wife are also stunned. Xia Jiaojiao doesn''t know if she has heard Xia Xia Yi''s words. She just covers her face and screams on the ground. Xia Cheng and Lady Xia feel a little numb in their hearts. They call their servant girl to carry Xia Jiaojiao away and take the post to ask for a doctor. However, people can see clearly that the boiling hot water poured down, I''m afraid Xia Jiaojiao''s face is also destroyed. Although summer just loves Xia Jiaojiao, can be more afraid of this suddenly become gloomy terrible big brother. I didn''t dare to say anything at that time. Shen Rou has been in a coma, and now she is scarred, so she wakes up. Knowing that Xia Jiaojiao has become like this, she is afraid that she will live worse than death, if she can live.Yu Ya looks at what happened in front of her. She is very happy. Shen Rou eats the evil fruit. Now that the wild seed has destroyed her appearance, she doesn''t dare to go out in summer. Xia Jiaojiao out of this and other things, lady Xia crying, Shen Rou dying, Xia Cheng also no intention to continue to please the family law. Xia Cheng looks at Xia Tianyi and wants to talk. However, Xia Yi turns around and goes away without a word. When Xia Cheng sees this, he is surprised. The more calm Xia Yi is, the more uneasy Xia Cheng is. He is afraid that Xia Yi will do something out of the ordinary in his anger. You know, although Xia Tianyi looks at nothing, if it was put in any man''s heart, he would not be so willing to give up. If Xia Tianyi had a good fight in summer, he didn''t say anything. Summer left, summer was supported back to the yard, the hall is only left in addition to Xia Cheng, Yu Ya alone, Xia Cheng coldly looked at Yu Ya, snorted and left without saying a word. Yu yaleng thinks that Xia Cheng is blaming her for Guo Meng''s affairs. He quickly catches up and says, "Dad, I didn''t let anyone harm Guo Meng." "Yu Ya, don''t forget your identity." Xia Cheng is suddenly to such a sentence, see Yu Ya doubt appearance, just coldly way: "is dead, you are also the person of Xia family." In the evening, Yu Ya finally understood what Xia Cheng meant. Summer just because of the body has hurt, summer lady love his tight, then sent someone to boil the medicine to bring in, explain Yu Ya to take good care of summer just. Yu Ya''s heart is full of resentment towards Xia Chai, but she recognizes him as her husband and treats him sincerely. Although angry, now see Shen Rou become like this, Xia Jiaojiao disfigurement, heart resentment out of a, is also much more comfortable. Regardless of the past, he took the medicine to the bed in summer, and had to feed it himself before drinking it in summer. Don''t want to summer is a hand to Yu Ya in the hands of the medicine bowl overturned, Yu Ya a Leng, immediately anger also came up, scream, high voice: "summer genius!" "Bitch!" Summer is looking at her coldly. Although it used to be summer when I was out to make love, I was born with a face that would please women and speak beautiful words. There is nothing special about Yu Ya in the room. It''s kind on the surface. There has never been such a big voice. "What do you say --" Yu Ya was impatient and would not be soft hearted. She immediately stood up and said, "it''s only in summer that you hook up with your sister-in-law. Do you still have the face to scold me? What right do you have to scold me? " "Who can I show you with such a high look?" Summer just smile of Satire: "if you want to, big can also go to big brother, see big brother will also be willing to spend time with you?" "You, how can you be so brazen?" Yu Ya was shocked. "Hum," summer just may have a lot of dissatisfaction with Yu Ya, the words in his mouth can not be described as vicious: "you do this today, don''t you want rouer to be disgraced? Are you satisfied now? Yu Ya, to tell you the truth, I would not have married you if I hadn''t seen your father and dowry. What are you good for? You are neither gentle nor respectable. It makes me sick to see you cocky all day long. Do you think if you have a son, you can run roughshod in the mansion? I tell you, your son is not worth mentioning in my eyes, and I can have many sons in the future. In my heart, only Jiaojiao is my daughter... " " Xia Tiancai, how can you say such a thing... "Yu Yaru was struck by lightning. She has been a sleeper for so many years. Now she finds out that she seems to realize what her husband is thinking. "You have done such things. Do you think there is no anger in your father''s heart? Is Xiahou''s residence just a mess if you think so? " Summer just sneered: "since you occupy the seat of the second grandma, you have to listen to me!" Yu Ya then understood why the last look at Xia Cheng when she left was so strange. She also understood what Xia Cheng''s last sentence meant. Xia Cheng is blaming her for poking this matter out to discredit the Xia family. Xia Cheng is very dissatisfied with her. He thinks that he will not stand out for her in the future. Even in the days after that, he will try to embarrass her. Xia''s own eyes out of such a dirty thing, do not reflect on themselves, actually have a face to blame her! Yu Ya wants to laugh. "Just stay in the house and make atonement for rouer and Jiaojiao." It''s summer. "Summer just, you''re not human -" Yu Ya screamed and jumped on the general, as if he had poisoned summer just, scratching his face with his hands. Xia Xia didn''t expect that Yu Ya was so shrewd and unsophisticated. Although he was injured, he was a man. His strength was much stronger than Yu Ya''s, so he would fight back immediately. For a time, they were entangled, and it was hard to part. When they are so busy, they don''t expect the door to be pushed open. Xia Jun stands outside the door quietly, looking at the scuffle in the room with no expression. A pair of eyes look gloomy, so motionless staring at the inside of the action, it is a bit terrible. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 141 The next day, the story of Xia''s uncle being hooded by his second younger brother spread all over the capital. Xia Cheng himself felt shameless and told the emperor that he had not gone to court. Even so, the impeachment of the censor was flying to the emperor''s desk like snowflakes. All of them said that Xiahou''s house was in chaos, and even his wife and children could not manage how to become an official. Xia Yan''s adultery had been discredited in the Xiahou mansion. After Xia Er Ye''s affair came out, the common people suddenly realized that it was no wonder that the lady of Jiang''s mansion was going to be like this. It was just that the upper beam was not right and the lower beam was crooked. There''s everything that''s said outside. When it comes to Xia Cheng''s ears, he can''t listen at all. Xia Xia Yi has stayed in the house all day since she left. She teaches her servant girl to buy wine. She gets very drunk every day. She doesn''t have the appearance of serious self-improvement, just like the drunkard on the street. Xia Cheng said it several times, but it made Xia Yi more and more excited. In a fury, he didn''t say it at all. He just wanted to say that it would be better for Xia Yi to figure it out in a few days. Shen Rou''s family came to see her once, and knew that she had such a thing, and her family had no face. She said that Shen Rou was married to the Xia family, and even if she died, it had nothing to do with her family. She left Shen Rou in the Xia family. But at the moment, all the people in Xia Fu are busy with Xia Jiaojiao''s injury, but no one is in charge of Shen Rou''s life. Since Xia Jiaojiao was kicked by Xia Xiayi that day and her face was destroyed by the boiling hot water, Mrs. Xia invited many doctors to come and said that she was helpless. Xia Jiaojiao''s face was doomed to leave a large scald. This kind of scald on the face, do not say into the palace, want to marry an ordinary family do wife are some difficulties. But now Xia Jiaojiao has become a child born to her uncle and sister-in-law. Even the dandies in Beijing disdain to marry her, let alone marry to any good family. Xia Jiaojiao has always loved beauty and looked at her face more than anything else. Knowing that she had been disfigured, she spent the whole day searching for life and death, which made Mrs. Xia have a headache. Besides Yu Ya and Xia Tiancai, I don''t know if Yu Ya''s temperament has changed greatly due to the stimulation of this event. Even the seemingly obedient in the past doesn''t have to pretend. Every day and summer are either noisy or noisy. They become female worms. Every day in summer, their faces are scratched red and red. Yu Ya''s body is also black and blue. It''s shocking to see. Now Xiahou''s house is a mess of internal and external troubles. The people outside are waiting to see the excitement. When dewdrop heard these things with Jiang Ruan, she couldn''t even smile: "this time, Xia''s family is suffering from their own troubles. Let them fight back in their nest." Forsythia also laughed: "there is a saying that there is a samsara in the way of heaven. The Xia family''s big room and the second room have made such a scandal by themselves, and they will be exposed one day." Outside the sky is already dark, Angelica dahurica will take scissors in the lamp wick cut some, the lights will be bright a lot, no longer flashing jump. Angelica dahurica gave Jiang Ruan a thin Cape, said: "girl, deeper dew cold, be careful to catch cold." It''s early autumn, but I don''t think it''s much by day. At night, I feel the cool of autumn. Jiang Ruan closed the book in his hand and caught a glimpse of a whistle on the table. The whistle was exquisitely made. He couldn''t help but reach out and hold it in his hand and look at it carefully. This is the whistle Xiao Shao gave her that day in prison. At that time, he was in a hurry and didn''t have time to look at it carefully. Now he saw that the whistle was made of some unknown material, with a faint fragrance. There is a golden unicorn carved on the body of the sentry. If Jiang Ruan gets closer, he can smell the clear smell. Xiao Shao has been missing for more than 20 days. Something should have happened. Jiang Ruan put down his whistle and was about to walk towards the collapse. Suddenly he saw Tianzhu standing up in the outer room with a very serious expression. Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned, but he saw a light of warm yellow in the slightly shaking candle fire, in which a slender, tall and thin figure appeared gradually. The man walked a few steps forward, and then his eyebrows and eyes became clear. He was cold and beautiful. Who was Xiao Shao? Tianzhu called in a low voice: "little Lord!" His expression was a rare anxiety. Jiang Ruan smelled a strong smell of blood from Xiao Shao. Looking at Xiao Shao again, although his expression was plain, his face was a little paler than usual, and even his lips were slightly white. "Are you hurt?" She frowned. "Nothing." Xiao Shao pursed his lips. As soon as his voice fell, he fell down on the soft couch of Jiang Ruan''s outer room. Tianzhu did not dare to say anything else, but said anxiously: "girl, master..." Jiang Ruan glared at the man who fainted on the bed for a moment, and finally said: "close the door and window, ask Forsythia dahurica to make a pot of hot water, dew guard the door, Tianzhu, do you know medicine?" Tianzhu shook his head: "my subordinates can only identify some poisons." Jiang Ruan had a headache: "what would you do if you were injured in the past?" "Forbearance," Tianzhu said, "forbearance to the building, there will be a doctor to see." It is impossible for a killer to pay attention to the injury all the time. If he really cherishes his life, he should not do such dangerous work. Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes, thought about it, and said, "if you carry him to my bed, it''s easy to leave traces in the outer room." "This..." Tianzhu is a little surprised. Isn''t it a default to let a man lie down in his own bed But now Jiang Ruan has no special intimacy with her little master."Hurry up." Jiang Ruan did not give her time to be in a daze: "if you slow down, your master will bleed and die." Tianzhu then converged his conjecture and helped Xiao Shao to Jiang Ruan''s bed. Outside the house, dew stood at the gate of the courtyard, dutifully guarding the gate, so that something could happen. But the heart is always thinking about the house in the end what is the situation, has been urging fall on the roof to look inside the brocade two: "in the end how?" Jin Er lazily sat on the roof, lifted a tile and looked in. He tut tut said: "nothing, but your girl carried the young master to her bed." "Ah --" dew covered her mouth: "how can a girl let a man go to her own bed?" "I think it''s your girl who wants to insult my master while he''s unconscious." Jin Er said: "the black moon and the high wind are the best time. You see, she also put down the tent. Isn''t that... " "Shut up The more he said, the more shameful he was. The dew was not angry, and said, "you are such a dung spouting apprentice, you can''t slander my girl''s innocence. What''s so great about your master? My girl is brilliant and intelligent. Is it necessary to do this? It''s your master. He doesn''t want to go anywhere else. He comes to my girl''s yard instead. What''s the point? " Dewdrop is very eloquent, but she asks Jin Er about it. But the reason can''t be explained by outsiders. For a moment, she can''t find the best reason. However, Jin San, who was sitting in the tree watching the play, chuckled. He only thought that Jin Er and Lu Zhu were a pair of natural living treasures. It was very interesting to watch these two living treasures playing. In the room, Tianzhu had already checked. Xiao Shao was injured and the wound was poisoned. Only Xiao Shao himself knew how to cure. He took some antidotes, but now he is better. But I have to deal with the wound. In Tianzhu''s way, he tore open the wound and bandaged it to stop bleeding. Although it was convenient for a while, the wound was easy to rot over time. Seeing that Tianzhu was unreliable, Jiang Ruan had to come by himself. After Tian Zhu helped Xiao Shao to bed, Jiang Ruan sat down beside the bed. Xiao Shao''s black clothes can''t see the blood, only show a big block of wet under the light, can''t tell whether it''s blood or sweat. When Jiang Ruan put his hands on the black clothes and took them away, his palms were full of shocking blood. After the hot water, forsythia took a breath of air conditioner and said in a panic: "girl, Lord Xiao has been seriously injured!" Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the young man''s face on the bed. Even though he was hurt, he looked as cold as ever, as if it was not a very important thing. With eyes closed, long eyelashes hang down, showing a deep shadow under the light. The paler the face is, the lighter the lip color is. The whole person is made of jade, with a cold taste. Only thin lips tightly, in the end can feel this is not a how comfortable thing. Jiang Ruan took the clean handkerchief from Angelica dahurica, dipped it in hot water, reached out and picked up the scissors scalded with hot wine on the other side, holding Xiao Shao''s collar in one hand and scissors in the other hand, and carefully cut it along the bleeding part. Although she started steadily, she still held her breath and concentrated. When Tianzhu saw this, her face moved slightly. It''s so easy to cut off the clothes. Jiang Ruan opens Xiao Shao''s clothes and reveals Xiao Shao''s chest. Angelica dahurica and forsythia saw this, their faces turned red. Although they knew that their girls would not be shy about these things, they didn''t care much about women''s sensitive reactions, they were surprised to pull open a strange man''s clothes. Anyway, Jiang Ruan is also a girl who has not come out of the cabinet. She looks at a man''s body like this. Baizhi and forsythia don''t know whether they should cry or smile. But Jiang Ruan''s expression is weak, and how can they be touched by it? It''s just that the woman holding the scissors is not as calm as the two maids think. Xiao Shaoping looks thin day by day, but when he opens his clothes, the body is thin and the texture is clear, and his whole body contains this kind of wild power. The skin is the color of jade. If you look at it carefully, you can see the tiny scars on it. Some of them are old, others are brand new. If he is really a killer, Jiang Ruan thought. Only heard the side of Forsythia suddenly "cough cough" cough non-stop, Jiang Ruan lift eyes, is on Xiao Shaoruo thinking eyes. This person didn''t know when to wake up, but she was a flower gatherer with scissors in her hand. Jiang Ruan glared at Xiao Shao and asked, "how did you do that?" "Ambush on the way back to Beijing." Xiao shaodao. Looking at Jiang Ruan''s eyes softened a little. Jiang Ruan pauses, takes out the hot water soaked handkerchief, wring it out, and carefully helps Xiao Shao clean the wound. At this time, he can see clearly that there is a Mitsubishi thorn on the top, and the sharp one goes into Xiao Shao''s chest. It''s hard to start with the deep pricking. Jiang Ruan was bullied all the time in the palace. He was the easiest to bandage the wound, but he couldn''t deal with it. Xiao Shao noticed her eyes and said, "I''ll come." Reaching out to pull out the Mitsubishi sting, Jiang Ruan said, "if you want to die, no one will stop you. Don''t die in my room."Xiao Shao is a Leng, Jiang Ruan pulls away her hand, carefully wipe the bloodstain beside Mitsubishi thorn again. Xiao Shaofang''s indifferent appearance made her feel terrible. Even if the killer no longer regards his life as his life, it''s too casual. Jiang Ruan looked at it for a while, looked for an angle, reached out and grasped the part of Mitsubishi thorn left outside. He hesitated slightly and pulled it up from the side. Xiao Shao snorted. Jiang Ruan quickly picked up the handkerchief and pressed it on the wound. The bloodstain instantly wetted the handkerchief. Jiang Ruan ordered Angelica dahurica to change two pots of water. It''s impossible to bandage the wound directly. Jiang Ruan thought about it and asked Forsythia to bring the needle and thread. Forsythia took the needle and thread and asked, "girl, do you want to sew the wound for Lord Xiao?" "No sew, no sew." Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao and said, "are you afraid of pain?" Xiao Shaowei was stunned, then shook his head. "I can bear the pain." Jiang Ruan took the silver needle, went through the candle, and found the clean silk thread. Although he hesitated, he did it anyway. She doesn''t take Xiao Shao''s skin as cloth to embroider on it, but she embroiders it very seriously. Jiang Ruan''s embroidery work has been excellent since he gave it to Zhang Lan for money many years ago. But never has it been as dignified as before. Forsythia watched the sweat oozing from Jiang Ruan''s forehead, and her heart was also seized. Xiao Shao''s silent Ren Jiang Ruan stitches up the wound, but there is no Ma Fei San. Sheng Sheng bears the pain, but he doesn''t cry. He just purses his lips and looks at Jiang Ruan. He doesn''t know what he is thinking, and his eyes look more like stars. Rao is Angelica dahurica and Forsythia on Xiao Shao to their own girls in the yard of the dizzy thing quite criticism, see him so or can''t help but admire in the heart. In the world, there are not many men who can bear the pain, and there are even fewer who can bear to become Xiao Shao. Finally, after finishing the last stitch, Jiang Ruan tied the silk thread, threw the silver needle into the sewing box, and took some hemostatic powder to sprinkle on Xiao Shao''s wound. Tianzhu handed over the clean and refreshing white cloth. Jiang Ruan looked down. Xiao Shao looked at the white cloth with his chest bare. Jiang Ruan picked up the white cloth and said to Tianzhu, "help him sit up." Tianzhu did as he said. Jiang Ruan put Xiao Shao''s blood soaked clothes aside and asked him to lower his head. Xiao Shao is a Leng at first, then seem to realize what, handsome face slightly a red, unexpectedly is some uncomfortable don''t turn head. Jiang Ruan didn''t notice his expression. He put his hands around his back and passed the cloth around his back to his chest. It seemed that Xiao Shao put Jiang Ruan in his arms and Jiang Ruan could touch his chin as soon as he looked up. Jiang Ruan bowed his head to tie a knot on the cloth. Xiao Shao pursed his lips and looked down at Jiang Ruan, who was very close to him. The peculiar fragrance of young girls filled his ears. The strange feeling floated again. He had an impulse to hold the young girl in front of him in his arms. Angelica dahurica and forsythia quietly do not open their eyes, into is not back is not. Jiang Ruan bandaged the wound, thought about it, and asked Forsythia to boil some brown sugar water. Although brown sugar water was used by women to replenish blood, it couldn''t make people suspicious. It made Xiao Shao look stiff again. When these things were finished, Jiang Ruan was relieved. He thought that it was strange that he was tired to bandage Xiao Shao once. She sat down by the bed and asked, "how can you faint here?" "There''s ambush all the way. It''s the nearest place." Xiao shaodao. When they went out to Beijing to do business, people in southern Xinjiang became more and more rampant. They were already injured, but there were ambushes all the way. People in southern Xinjiang were good at using poison. Those people tonight were Miao Gu, which confirmed his suspicions. Those people in Beijing had already colluded with southern Xinjiang. There were many ambushes along the way in King Jinying''s mansion. They were afraid of scaring the snake. Seeing that Jiang''s mansion was in front of them, they thought about going to Jiang Ruan''s yard. As a matter of fact, his whereabouts should not be disclosed by outsiders. However, I don''t know why I think Jiang Ruan can be trusted, but I feel relieved to faint in her room. In fact, the injury is not a big problem. It''s better to have a rest. But seeing how Jiang Ruan carefully bandaged her wound, he just didn''t know what to do. At this time, Xiao Shao did not know why he would act so differently from the past, or why he felt so different. He is young and precocious, but in one thing, he is like a young man of fifteen or sixteen years old. He allows the sour and astringent feeling to ferment in his heart. Jiang Ruan Qiao looked out of the window, and then looked at the sand leak next to him. It was already three o''clock. After Xiao Shao finished drinking the bowl of brown sugar water, he put down the tent and said, "you sleep, I''ll go outside." Xiao Shao is about to get out of bed: "no, I''ll be fine outside." Jiang Ruan looked at him: "if you are not afraid of implicating me, you can sleep outside. I have a lot of eyeliner in my yard. My sisters are counting on catching my handle. If you want to bring the handle to other people, I owe you a few people. I have nothing to say. Xiao Shao was a little embarrassed by Jiang Ruan''s confession. If he wanted to refuse more, it seemed that he was a little fussy. It''s just that it''s not right for a man to occupy a woman''s boudoir. There''s nothing wrong with Jiang Ruan, and he can only give up. After Jiang Ruan left the room, Tian Zhu, who had been silent, came forward and gave him a deep thanks: "thank you for saving my life." Jiang Ruan said nothing, and Tianzhu said, "from now on, this life belongs to the girl." Today''s matter in the end how dangerous, perhaps Angelica dahurica and forsythia do not understand, but as the royal guards she is very understanding. Jiang Ruan braved the hidden forces in Beijing to hide Xiao Shao in his boudoir and heal him, which needed a great courage. However, Jiang Ruan''s performance from the beginning to the end was very flat, which seemed to be a very common thing.Tianzhu said: "from now on, the life of my subordinate will be the girl''s It was Xiao Shao who was injured As a result, it became a forbidden word. No more love. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 142 When the rooster crows, the young man on the couch arranges his clothes and stands up. After a night''s rest, and Xiao Shao''s own recovery ability is better than that of ordinary people, there seems to be nothing wrong at the moment. Outside, Jin San jumped in from the window. He was worried about his injury and asked hesitantly, "master..." Xiao Shao waved his hand. Jin San closed his mouth and thought about it. He said, "Miss Jiang is awake. She''s outside." After Jin San left, Xiao Shao looked around. Yesterday he was in a hurry, but he didn''t notice anything. Now when he woke up, the whole room seemed to be filled with a faint fragrance. At this time, he realized that it was really a girl''s boudoir. Since Xiao Shao took over the royal guards, he has received all kinds of tasks. It''s not that he has never seen a woman''s boudoir, but in his heart, it''s just an ordinary place, which is no different from garden and lake. Today, he is aware of the difference for the first time, so he will not waste his time on boring things. He looks around carefully for the first time A woman''s boudoir. Although it''s a boudoir, it doesn''t look much like a boudoir. Unlike other women, there are no flowers, no gaudy curtains, and no delicate and beautiful decorations. For a girl who has just reached the hairpin, it seems too clear and bitter. Mo Cong, as a man, was more particular in the room than Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao also heard about the sad story that Jiang Ruan had been sent to Chuang Tzu by Jiang Quan at the beginning. If it was the thrifty habit left behind at that time, he would not like to do more gorgeous decoration in the house. But that dark and gloomy color is a little unusual. The eldest daughter of the Chiang family loves to wear red. She has a charming face. She should be as enthusiastic as a red fox, but she is as cold as a green snake. Look around the room, the color is deep black, which ordinary women like black. Xiao Shao himself likes black, because he is cold-blooded and precocious than his peers, but Jiang Ruan is just a young girl. Xiao Shao is a little surprised, and seems to be able to see the deep secret in Jiang Ruan''s heart through these dim colors. There were also a pile of books on the desk. Xiao Shao turned them at random, but they were the laws and military books of the Jin Dynasty. Most of the rigid things were read by old people, but the military books were turned yellow. It was obvious that the master often read them. What''s more, Xiao Shao also found that these law books are not only the latest ones, but also those of earlier years and decades ago. He did not know what Jiang Ruan was doing with them. He stood still and thought for a while, then he looked away and walked out of the door slowly. In the outer room, Jiang Ruan Zheng was sitting in front of the window, but the book on the desk was not opened. With her chin in one hand, she looked out of the window in a trance. She didn''t know what to think of, but she looked a little chilly. Hearing the sound of footsteps, Jiang Ruan looked back, saw Xiao Shao coming, and asked, "why don''t you have more rest?" Ruan Ju is now an iron fence in Jiang''s house, and no one dares to come here. Jiang Ruan doesn''t like the separation rules. On weekdays, the servant women are more tired and lazy than other people in the yard. At this time, she wakes up, but some of Ruan''s servant women are still awake. Xiao Shao also had some doubts, but just after the rooster crowed, Jiang Ruan looked like he had been up for a long time. His eyes fell on Jiang Ruan''s light green and black eyes, and he knew clearly that he was sorry and said, "you Hard work. " This words say of have no head and no brain, pour teach a side of Angelica dahurica almost can''t resist to smile a voice, low head looked for a reason to quickly back down, make room for Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao to talk. Jiang Ruan nodded. She had been sleeping. In fact, since she was born again, although she looked calm and indifferent, at night, the nightmare of her previous life would never go away. Once she was awakened by the nightmare in the middle of the night, she would never sleep again. If you have something to do in your heart, you will sleep shallower and shallower. Xiao Shao suddenly appeared last night. After she settled down, she went to the outer room. She thought a lot in her heart, but she didn''t feel sleepy any more. If it wasn''t for Baizhi and forsythia, she wouldn''t have been able to sleep that few hours. Xiao Shao sat down in front of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on his chest and said, "how''s the injury?" Xiao Shao nodded: "I''ll leave later." "Don''t be so anxious," Jiang Ruan said, looking at him. "It''s not too late to go with a bowl of brown sugar water." When it comes to brown sugar water, Xiao Shao''s expression is a little stiff again. He doesn''t know the effect of brown sugar water. Jiang Ruan has been drinking brown sugar water since kuishui came these days, but he is a good man. If he drinks brown sugar water, how can he convince people in the future? Looking at his unnatural appearance, Jiang Ruan felt a little funny. He turned the topic aside and said, "how many days will it take to return to Beijing this time?" Hearing this, Xiao Shao looked serious. Seeing him like this, Jiang Ruan understood something in his heart. Xiao Shao said, "I''m afraid it''s not peaceful in Beijing recently. You should be more careful in your house. If you have something to do, just use the Whistle I gave you." Jiang Ruan fixed his eyes: "people in southern Xinjiang are going to start?" Xiao Shao was surprised that this was the secret of the palace. Ordinary women would not think about it in other ways even if they knew it. However, Jiang Ruan seemed to be very sensitive to these things. Looking at Jiang Ruan''s eyes, he unconsciously praised: "yes.""I see." Jiang Ruan did not say much. After a pause, he said, "you are the target of public criticism. Since the people of Southern Xinjiang are rampant in Beijing, most of them will come to you. You should also pay attention." In the last generation, the name of Xiao Shao, the king of Jinying, often seemed to be linked with southern Xinjiang. That is to say, when the former Emperor was poisoned and Xuanli seized the throne, Xiao Shao was also in southern Xinjiang and couldn''t come back for a while. If Xiao Shao was still in the capital at the beginning, I don''t know how the situation would develop later. Thinking of this, Jiang ruanyi was a little disappointed for a moment. She noticed Xiao Shao''s eyes, and then she settled down a little. Although she didn''t know the specific reason, she felt that Xiao Shao had an unclear origin with southern Xinjiang. I don''t know whether it''s a feud or some other reason. In a word, Xiao Shao always has a light sense of hostility when he is against the people in southern Xinjiang. That layer of hostility was very light, but because Jiang Ruan had died once, he clearly understood that feeling. Xiao Shao bent the corner of his mouth, softened his eyes and said, "good." After a moment''s silence, he said, "how do you plan for Xia family? Can I help you? " After Jiang Ruan left yesterday, Tianzhu went to the house and made clear what happened in Jiang''s house these days. When Xiao Shao heard that Yu Ya had designed to frame Zhao Feizhou, he was very unhappy. These people were like flies. They were always around people, which was boring. If Jiang Ruan agreed, he could think of a way to wipe out Xia''s house and eliminate future troubles forever. "No, I have a way." Jiang Ruan Dao. There is no need to fake the hand for revenge. If Xiao Shao''s killing is as clean as Xiao Shao''s, it''s not cheap for them. Xiao Shao see her so, also don''t insist, only way: "good." They said something more, but it had nothing to do with the wind and the moon. They picked up the dew from the window and wanted to hit the wall. But at this time, angelica rushed in the door, said: "girl, four girls came to the courtyard." At such an early time, besides, Jiang Danping would never come to Ruan Curie. It is doubtful that he is doing so now. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "she paid so much attention to me that she heard something last night. Now she''s coming all the time to block all the way back." She looked at Xiao Shao: "I''m afraid you can''t leave now." Xiao Shao stood up and said, "I''ll go out now." "Why," Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "my fourth sister, who looks like a delicate little flower, has to make things worse for you." "If you find me here, it will damage your reputation." Xiao Shao pursed her lips. He knew what fame meant to his daughter''s family. Besides, Jiang Ruan is now Princess Hong''an, and many eyes are staring at her inside and outside. If anything happens, people''s saliva will drown her. "Do you really think that my fourth sister is just to smear my reputation?" Jiang Ruan shook his head with a smile: "I''m afraid the people who hurt you outside last night have to find a way to search people. I think they should be assassins. If you guessed correctly, Jiang Dan should have suspected me last night. At this moment, there are several floors outside Jiang''s house, waiting for you to go out. As for me, the charges of harboring assassins and having an affair with assassins are much more serious. " Because if the Empress Dowager Yide has a head and tail relationship with an ordinary man, she can still explain something. But if she has a relationship with an assassin, the common people can tolerate it, and the royal family can''t. The person who set up the Bureau and Jiang Dan just cooperated. They thought Xiao Shao was seriously injured, and once he went out, he could take him away without waiting for him to show his identity. They didn''t know whether it was naive or stupid. Xiao Shao frowned. He didn''t think so much about it last night. He didn''t know that even a common girl in this house was so complicated. He wanted to aim at Jiang Ruan and his death everywhere. When he was slightly angry, he felt pity for the girl in front of him. He paused, drooped his eyes and said, "then I''ll coerce you out now to prove that you have nothing to do with it." "You might as well go out and kill all those people." Jiang Ruan Dao. Xiao Shao was stunned. It was not that he had never thought that killing people at the gate of Jiang''s house might cause a lot of trouble in the future. It was nothing else, but that some things could not be exposed for the time being, so as not to scare the snake. Jiang Ruan patted him on the arm: "don''t worry, since I dare to keep you last night, I''ve been ready." Xiao Shao stares at her, and now her guilt is deeper. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ruan is in trouble because of her frankness. He had ten thousand ways to get out, but they were not safe enough. It was inevitable that he would leave something behind and bring trouble to Jiang Ruan in the future. At this moment, listening to Jiang Ruan''s words, I thought she had something good to do, and immediately I was all ears. Jiang Ruan went to the soft couch of his inner room and lifted the thick mattress to reveal the thick and heavy bed board inside. She reached out and patted the bed board, groped all the way along the edge of the bed board. When she touched the complete and seamless bed board, a crack suddenly appeared in the corner of the bed board. She lifted it down, and the bed board was lifted tightly, revealing a small iron door with a small lock on it. Jiang Ruan took out a small silver key from the foot of the bed on the other side, opened the iron lock, lifted the iron plate up, and said to him, "go in." It was a small secret road."It''s not a secret way." Seeing Xiao Shao''s stunned appearance, Jiang Ruan explained, "I don''t have that great ability. I''m just a storeroom for storing things. You go in and stay Since she came back to the palace, she has done a little bit of storage. When she was in the palace in her previous life, I was lucky to see a noble man do this, only digging a secret road. Jiang''s house is besieged. It''s hard to avoid that someone will turn over her house when she''s away. Although she won''t leave anything behind, only this warehouse can come to the emergency room occasionally. Xiao Shao was also surprised by Jiang Ruan''s sudden entry into the warehouse. He just listened to the voice of Angelica dahurica urging him. Without hesitation, he immediately jumped in. Jiang Ruan restored the bed to its original appearance. Put down the tent. Forsythia''s voice was a little anxious: "miss four, the girl hasn''t woken up yet. She''ll come out after she''s washed up. Now her make-up isn''t finished..." "It''s all my sisters," Jiang Dan''s voice came from afar. It was still as delicate as usual. But when I listened carefully, I felt a little happy. Forsythia anxious appearance fell in the eyes of Jiang Dan, the heart is a bit more base. Last night, the maid beside her went to pour water. In the middle of the night, she saw Ruan Curie and forsythia coming out in a hurry, but it was like a small kitchen. In line with some curious mood all the way with, but heard that Forsythia ordered the small kitchen to make a bowl of brown sugar water. This is no strange place, Jiang Ruan came to the sunflower water, the body is not refreshing in the middle of the night, drink a bowl of brown sugar water to keep a good. Can be strange in more than that, Angelica dahurica also let people to play the hot water over. The servant girl thought that Jiang Ruan was going to wash her body in the middle of the night, but she also mentioned a word with Jiang Dan unintentionally. Jiang Dan is somewhat scheming, Jiang Ruan never love trouble, not because kuishui came to the body is not refreshing, so the midnight, it is too labor a few servant girls. She left a heart, let people to check, sure enough, bribed Ruan Curie to sweep the door of the mother-in-law, learned that Angelica dahurica poured out of the basin of water, the water also with the smell of blood. Jiang Dan''s intuition is that there must be some reason. Her servant girl, yu''er, happens to have a brother on duty in the gate room. When she turns back at night, she meets the boy of the gate room, saying that Yan Dong, the gate leader in the capital, is taking men and horses to catch the assassin. As if in a daze, Jiang Dan had a guess in his mind. He was afraid that the assassin was in Jiang Ruan''s room right now. Although I don''t know why Jiang Ruan wanted to save the assassin, the brown sugar water and clear water should be prepared for this moment. Jiang Dan himself guessed that he was threatening Jiang Ruan to do so at the moment, but it was a hard won opportunity for Jiang Dan. Jiang ruan''an was very uneasy in her heart one day. Now she has a chance to send her home. How can she not use it? Now I had an idea in my heart. Only Jiang Dan has always been a calm man, and he doesn''t want to scare Jiang Ruan at the moment. Moreover, it will take some time to find the city gate leader. If something happens, the assassin will escape and make the city gate leader unhappy. After thinking about it, Jiang Dan decided not to say anything for the time being, but to calm down and wait until dawn. She only secretly sent people to quietly, inadvertently "remind" the city gate leader, it seems that someone saw the assassin near Jiang''s house. The leader of the city gate was not stupid either. In severe winter, there was no official document approved by the government. He knew he was in the wrong and could not go into Chiang''s house to get people. Moreover, Chiang''s rank was much higher than that of him. Even so, he could wait at the door of Jiang''s house to catch a turtle in a jar. If as usual, these things teach brocade two brocade three see, from is not. But it happened that Xiao Shao was injured last night. They went out of the house together to do what Xiao Shao told them. Tianzhu was busy fighting for Jiang Ruan, but he taught Jiang Dan''s people to take advantage of it. The porter stayed all night, but no one came out of Jiang Ruan''s yard. He became more and more determined. The assassin was still in Jiang Ruan''s house. Jiang Dan is so happy that he hides the assassin in his boudoir. Even empress Yide can''t protect Jiang Ruan. She can''t guarantee that she will accept her jade dish. What good prospects can Jiang Ruan have in the future? When she came to the door of Jiang Ruan''s house, she did not wait for Tianzhu to talk to dewdrop. She took the lead in lifting the curtain and said with a smile, "elder sister." The room is very quiet. The copper deer with unique shape in the corner of the table slowly spits out the fragrance of Duro''s bitterness. The dark colored tent shakes gently, and the figure is whirling. The outline of the woman can be seen vaguely. Jiang Dan''s eyes swept the incense, and the corners of his lips involuntarily hooked. Everyone knows that Jiang ruanping Rili doesn''t like to use incense. Ruan Curie doesn''t want the incense distributed every month. Today, for the first time, I used the fragrance of Duro. The purpose is clear. What is it to cover up the bloody smell? Thinking like this, Jiang Dan took a few more steps: "big sister?" "Miss four," the dew stopped her, "the girl is still resting. She was not very healthy yesterday. She got up late today." Jiang Dan laughed: "what are you talking about? Forsythia just now can be said that the eldest sister has woken up, but she hasn''t dressed yet. How can she lie down at this time? I don''t think you don''t welcome Danniang. " When she said that, she would move forward again. The dew was lying in front of her. Jiang Dan laughed and Yu Er grabbed the dew. She was so strong that she said with a smile: "the eldest girl and the fourth girl are sisters. Is it hard to be angry for such trifles?""That''s the reason." When Jiang Dan said this, he had already come to the edge of Jiang Ruan''s collapse. There was a flash of light in his eyes, and he immediately reached out to lift the dark colored tent. As soon as the dark curtain was opened, a delicate flower bag was hung on each corner. The fragrance was rich. Jiang Ruan was lying on the couch with only a light color inside. His temples were slightly disordered and he closed his eyes to rest. Hearing the news, she opened her eyes. Her black and white eyes were staring at Jiang Dan. The water was moist like a spring in the mountains, but there was an inexplicable deep meaning flowing. Jiang Ruan voice slightly cold: "four younger sister really don''t treat oneself as an outsider, my tent also dare to lift at will." Jiang Dan stood in the same place, some unbelievable eyes, only to see the account empty, in addition to Jiang Ruan one person, what else? Yesterday, the grey machine was late, and the light was off when I came back. Today, I went to class early in the morning, and now I have finished today''s work. I''m sorry to be late. Emma was tired to death and found that the end of the article section was locked for more than half of the OTL time www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 143 Open the tent, the inside is empty, just dew and forsythia abnormal behavior has let Jiang Dan in the heart that person is in the house, now how willing, just want to see the tent inside and outside, but no matter how you look, but an inch of space, in the blink of an eye can see clearly, clearly no one else, as if it is a joke. Jiang Dan reluctantly laughed, looked at the incense curling up from the copper deer, and said, "the elder sister doesn''t like to use this incense all the time, but now she uses it again?" "I don''t like it very much." Jiang Ruan said slowly, "it''s just to cover the smell in the house." Jiang Dan suddenly raised his eyes. He didn''t understand why Jiang Ruan said that. Isn''t that recognition? Jiang Ruan smile: "small days come, the body is not refreshing, four younger sister how to look at me with this kind of eyes?" Jiang Dan was so angry that he almost spat out his blood and decided that Jiang Ruan was playing tricks on her. Such words only embarrassed her, but there was no refutation. Looking around the room again, there were not many decorations in Jiang Ruan''s room. Except for the soft couch, it was hard to hide a big living person. Although Jiang Dan was disappointed, he had some doubts. He was in a daze and didn''t know what to do. Jiang Ruan sat up from his couch, gathered his long hair and said, "my fourth sister will be in the palace draft in a few days." "Yes." Jiang Dan was surprised and bowed his head. "I think the fourth sister is very happy these days," Jiang Ruan looked at her fingernails as if nothing had happened. "In that case, you should stay in the house every day. If something goes wrong at this point, you can What a pity. " There was a hint of coldness and warning in her words. Jiang Dan could not help but fight a cold war. She had seen Jiang Ruan''s methods. If anything happened before that, wouldn''t all her efforts be wasted? Even though he was unwilling, Jiang Dan did not show the slightest sign on his face. On the contrary, he was timid and some cowardly again. Nodded: "the big sister''s lesson is that Danniang will go back to the yard and have a good look at the ring." After Jiang Dan left, Dewdrop said angrily: "the fourth young lady is obviously upset and kind-hearted. Look at that, I really wish something happened to the girl." Lu Zhu has known about the relationship between Jiang Dan and Jiang Ruan since she came to Jiang Ruan''s house. It is reasonable to say that since Jiang Dan was brought up by Zhao Mei, he should be close to Jiang Ruan. As a result, he fell down everywhere, which is really sinister. Rao is the truth that dewdrop wandered in the city well in the early years, and even knew his kindness and intended to repay him. It''s the first time that he met the person who avenged his kindness. Jiang Ruan doesn''t speak. Dewdrop is just seeing the tip of the iceberg. Since Zhao Mei''s death has something to do with Jiang Dan, she won''t spare Jiang Dan. If Jiang Dan wants to go to the palace like this, why not help her. No one knows more about the place in the palace than Jiang Ruan. It''s more painful to torture Jiang Dan in the palace than to think of a way to get rid of her now. Lu Zhu noticed the anger in her girl''s eyes. She was slightly surprised. She seemed to think of something. She said, "since the four girls have gone, let''s release Lord Xiao. It''s boring to save you." Xiao Shao was born with a golden spoon. It''s hard for him to be packed in the narrow space of the warehouse like this. Tianzhu and Baizhi went to guard outside the door. Jiang Ruan opened the bed board, opened the door of the storehouse, and Xiao Shao came out. When he came out and saw the appearance of Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao was slightly shocked. His face was a little red, and he didn''t want to look at him. Just lying on the couch, Jiang Ruan only wore a snow-white tunic. After Jiang Dan left, he also forgot this. It was strange to see Xiao Shao''s behavior, but dewdrop said "ah" in a low voice. She quickly found a cape for Jiang Ruan and covered her whole body tightly. But he was annoyed. Now Xiao Shao had fallen asleep and looked at Jiang Ruan''s collapse. It was Jiang Ruan who had suffered a great loss. Dewdrop and forsythia were both very angry. Jiang Ruan, dressed in clothes, seems to understand why Xiao Shaofang''s unusual action is. He can''t help looking up at him. Just hit Xiao Shao''s eyes. The girl''s beauty is peerless, and her face is deep and bright, just like the brightest cloud from the sky in the brocade Dynasty. The shallow point is on the slightly bleak autumn scenery. When the sunlight slants down, it becomes more and more like a spring flower, fading away sharp, and her eyes are at a loss. It attracts people''s eyes to her like a provocative cub. Jiang Ruan also looked at him. The young man was as tall and straight as jade, his skin was like snow, his eyes were like paint, his eyebrows were like ink painting, and his thin gold thread was embroidered with Kirin riding on the fire and burning the wind, which was deeply painted in the black material. Thin lips light pursed, more and more beautiful, but a closer look, and heroic, cold to the extreme, elegant to the bone, since it is a romantic. There are beautiful people in the world. They have dark clothes and ink hair. They are like unicorns and auspicious animals. They are naturally noble and have high temperament. Two people look at each other, each other look slightly fluctuation, seems to be frightened by each other, and seems to have some emotion out of the ground. Forsythia and dew quietly stand on one side, the sun is gentle and kind, as if also can''t bear to break this quiet picture, this moment of peace, such as Castle Peak. Xiao Shao had never seen a beautiful woman. He was also born with a beautiful face. He thought that his appearance was just a skin. He never knew that Jiang Ruan was not bad, but at this moment, he deeply understood the beauty of the girl. It was different from any beauty he had ever seen. It was the coldest heart, but it had a charming and warm appearance. When he is quiet, he seems to be a different person, stable and kind. Even if he knows it well, it''s just an illusion.The girl was different from anyone he saw. She was obviously full of anger, but she could hide under the appearance of Enron. What kind of fortune could make her today? The cloak was wrapped tightly, revealing only Jiang Ruan''s small face. Xiao Shao suddenly remembered the girl who had just been dressed in snow. She never hated white and refused to wear it. However, when she was wearing middle clothes, she was quiet and weak. She was like a newly blooming lotus standing between the branches. Breeze with spring blowing, blowing the branches of the flower shadow into his heart. I don''t know when that rock like heart will have a shadow. He was stunned by the ups and downs of his mind. Although he didn''t know the feeling, he knew what it meant. Different from those superficial thoughts in the past, from last night on, he subconsciously regarded the yard as a trustworthy place. Xiao Shao knew that it was different. Last night, she was calm, gentle and determined to bandage his wound, without hesitation. Time turns back, it seems to go back to the Baoguang Temple many years ago. It seems that the girl who doesn''t know the taste of sorrow looks at him with clear eyes and smiles. In such a lonely and cold moon night, the lonely and cold youth has a trace of warmth in the heavy killing. Now the girl has already grown into a decisive and indifferent girl. She has a heart of thousands of cities, but she has no blood. But still in the lonely cold night, bring a basin of water, talk and laugh, everything is easy to solve, there is no trace of panic. He took a deep look at Jiang Ruan and said, "I''m in charge." Jiang Ruan was stunned for a moment. If Xiao Shao''s dark eyes were sprinkled with the night sky, it would be bright, as if it was going to be deeply addictive. When Xiao Shao finished this sentence, he stared at Jiang Ruan tightly, and his eyes flashed an imperceptible tension. He lived through countless dangerous situations in his life. When he was in danger, he was not as nervous as this moment. Dew and forsythia are not, stay is not, the forehead will exude some sweat. Forsythia heart also some hesitation, dew is full of hope looking at Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao is what kind of person, these days they these servant girls also see in the eye. If Jiang Ruan could follow Xiao Shao, it would be safe. Although the girls in my family usually have their own opinions, even their close servant girls sometimes feel that they are very close to Jiang Ruan. If someone could come into her heart and protect her, maybe Jiang Ruan would not be so lonely. After a short period of astonishment, Jiang Ruan began to smile gently. The smile was gentle, but there was a trace of disgust towards him. Xiao Shao keenly caught this expression and just heard Jiang Ruan say: "Xiao Shao, you know I don''t care." This is a polite refusal. Xiao Shao felt lost for a moment, but it didn''t last long. If the person''s mind in front of her was so easy, she would not be moved. He nodded: "the door of Jinying palace will always be open for you." After a pause, he added, "I''m always on your side." Jiang Ruan nodded: "thank you very much." She looked out of the window and said, "in that case, you don''t have to go back in a hurry. Anyway, there are people waiting outside. It won''t be any later." Xiao Shao wanted to refuse, but suddenly he changed his mind and said, "OK." Outside, Jin San, who is enjoying himself, stares at the room. His face is full of disbelief. It''s clear that he has to go to baizhanglou today. As a result, Xiao Shao responds to Jiang Ruan''s words and makes a reasonable appearance. Once a serious person tells a lie, it''s really bad! Xiao Shao doesn''t know his subordinate''s abdominal Fei. He feels very satisfied with the arrangement, but he feels that he is quite suitable for the injury. But Jiang Ruan didn''t seem to realize that there was one more man in the room, and he would do whatever he had to do. He didn''t feel uncomfortable, which made Xiao Shao feel a little depressed. I thought the day had passed, but in the evening, another thing happened. Ruan in the courtyard, dew rare and Jin two sitting together, not fighting, but some nervous asked: "is this really successful?" Jin Er nodded solemnly: "it should be possible." "I think so too," agreed dewdrop. "I''ve seen that in all the plays." "Where is this play?" Jin Er was surprised: "isn''t it a wild group?" After that, he laughed a little: "I can''t see your age, but it''s a good mouthful." Dew gas''s small face rose red, and kicked him a foot, angry way: "that also can''t compare with your nerve hundred Zhang, really not afraid of which day hurt the son and grandson root, become a useless person." After that, he left bravely, leaving Jin Er Yi in a mess in the wind. He hates people doubting his ability most, very good, this girl has stepped on his thunder several times! No matter what happens outside, things inside must be done step by step. After dinner, Jiang Ruan went out to look for some books again. Although Xiao Shao was in the room, he also abided by the etiquette and got along well. Fang wants to enter the room, but there is no one outside. He can''t help but feel a little strange. He happens to see the dew come in and change the tea in the afternoon. Jiang Ruan then asked: "how many Forsythia are missing?" "Sister forsythia and sister Angelica went outside to help Xiao Wang Ye boil brown sugar water," dew told a lie without changing her face: "sister Tianzhu and sister Jinsan have something to discuss."Jiang Ruan felt a little strange, but he didn''t think deeply, so he nodded and said, "well, you can go." Dew went out with tea. When Jiang Ruan entered the inner room and Fang entered it, he heard a "click". Looking back, he found that the iron locks of the inner and outer rooms had been left behind. In order to prevent insecurity at night, Jiang Ruan added a door to the inner and outer rooms, and specially locked them. He didn''t want to be closed by Lu Zhu now. Jiang Ruan slightly raises her eyebrows, and her maid can''t really do anything to hurt her. Although she doesn''t understand Lu Zhu''s intention, Jiang Ruan doesn''t worry. Only thoughtfully looked at the door lock, turned to face the curtain in front of the inner room. It''s not the Pearl crystal curtain that ordinary daughters like to use. It''s just the ordinary rain silk brocade curtain. Because of filial piety, it only uses light green. Through the hazy screen curtain, there was no one. After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan opened the curtain and walked in boldly. However, as soon as she went in, she found that she was wrong and had no chance to go back. There was no one in the room. I didn''t know when the screen next to the soft couch was put up. There was a slender figure on it. The bee''s waist was narrow and buttocks were thin. Every move had an implicit beauty. The next moment, the figure broke the screen, Xiao Shao only gathered a jade robe appeared in front of Jiang Ruan. Beauty is like spring flowers. Jiang Ruan didn''t know how to react for a moment. It''s a good thing to say if it was a broken situation. But at this moment, he was stunned. Xiao Shao retreated from his usual black clothes, and his jade robes were loosely gathered on his body, revealing a large area of bright and white skin. His skin was also jade, and the halo of the lights made him feel like a layer of moonlight. With red lips and white teeth, star eyes and eyebrows, the whole person is like a leisurely relegated immortal in the picture. It takes off the cool elegance and adds a warm and gorgeous look. In people''s eyes, it has a kind of enchantment and charm that we don''t usually have. Jiang Ruan stood in the same place, and Xiao Shao was also stunned. Xu did not expect to see Jiang Ruan as soon as he came out. The impact was so strong that they looked at each other and did not move. A moment later, Xiao Shao coughed lightly, walked to the soft couch and sat down as if nothing had happened. His robe was spread all over the floor at will. His long black hair came down from his shoulders, which made him look more and more like a jade. In her former life, Jiang Ruan thought Xuanli was the most gentle man she had ever seen. Even if she saw through Xuanli, she had to admit that Xuanli''s appearance was good. At least outsiders could stand the title of "modest gentleman, gentle as jade". But at the moment, this man only made a random move, and then he could compare Xuanli with jiuxiaoyun. Different from what he deliberately created, Xiao Shao was full of beauty. The world says that she is the evil girl of disaster country, but in her opinion, only Xiao Shao can afford the word disaster country. Xiao Shao finally couldn''t help her eyes. Looking back, she began to smile. She hooked her lips and eyebrows and said, "do you admire me like this?" Once a cold person laughs, his deep eyes seem to be more brilliant. When he laughs, it is a different temptation. Jiang Ruan was stunned for a moment. He didn''t expect to hear this from Xiao Shao. He looked up and down and commented: "the skeleton is romantic, beautiful, beautiful, strong, really Beauty. " Beauty Xiao took a look at her from the corner of her mouth. She took back her seductive attitude and took out a white porcelain vase from her arms. She said, "I''m going to take medicine. Turn around." When he opened his clothes, the scar on his chest came out, which was shocking. It was inconvenient for Xiao Shao to do it by himself. Seeing this, Jiang Ruan went over and took the porcelain vase in his hand and said, "thank you, I''m here." "Men and women are not compatible." Xiao Shao reminds me. Jiang Ruan''s voice: "I''ve seen what I should see, and I''ve seen what I shouldn''t, and I''ve touched it. You might as well treat me as a man." At first, when she heard Jiang Ruan''s words, she was quite satisfied. When she heard the latter part, she felt something was wrong. Looking down at the top of the girl''s hair, she forbeared and said, "I can be responsible." Jiang Ruan, a cruel hand, deliberately pressed the wound down. If he really heard Xiao Shao''s murmur, he let go and said, "you''d better take care of your body first. What''s the responsibility for your weakness." Xiao Shao''s face is black again. Housekeeper Lin and several subordinates secretly discuss that he doesn''t understand amorous feelings. Like a stone, Xiao Shao thinks that these people should come to see Jiang Ruan and see what they really don''t understand amorous feelings. Jiang Ruan also wondered why Xiao Shao had suddenly become a rogue. Why didn''t he feel so annoying before? The guards outside lined up, ears sticking to the door, hoping to hear something from them. But I didn''t dare to make it too obvious, and I was separated by two doors. I was really reluctant to listen. Can only vaguely distinguish, one person said: "ah, I seem to hear a little Lord called." "Young lady is really a hero." It was praised by one person. "Teach me how to be convinced!" More and more excited. In the room, however, they are ambiguous and not intimate enough. He wasted a good opportunity to make his subordinates. If he was seen by housekeeper Lin, he would have to sigh again: you can''t teach me!Miss Xiao is an activist. You don''t have to worry. When you understand what you''re thinking, you''ll start a strategy in silence. Well, first use beauty to lure you. Ha ha ~ ha www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 144 One night later, nothing was done. I wanted to be Xiao Shao, but I didn''t want to do anything out of the ordinary. But at least the relationship between them was a step closer. However, when they opened the door the next morning, they both looked cold, and there was no such emotion as shyness that everyone expected. Everyone knows that they have made mistakes, so they should be punished. After Xiao Shao left, Jiang Ruan sent the crowd to sit at his desk and pulled out a stack of books with a rough map of Southern Xinjiang to Tianjin. South Xinjiang is in the south of Dajin Dynasty. Across a river is Tianjin kingdom. Xiao Shao came back from injury outside Beijing the night before yesterday. Although he didn''t say anything, Jiang Ruan felt that he had nothing to do with the south of Tianjin. He thought deeply that there might be something wrong with the battlefield. However, after all, she had no way to go to the battlefield. Since the Tianjin counterattack was successful in the capital, Jiang Xinzhi no longer sent letters back home. The war situation was generally tight. But with Jiang Xinzhi''s temperament, if he doesn''t worry about her, he will pretend that everything is OK. Now that I haven''t even sent a letter from my family, I''m afraid the war is already very fierce. Jiang Ruan frowned. The state of Jin was ready to move. If the imperial court could send more reinforcements, it should be able to solve the problem. But now the Zhao family''s military power is only 200000, and there are still people in Beijing. The rest of the generals were either privately captured by the eighth prince or became Xuanhua. Xuanli would not have sent reinforcements obediently. Even if the Emperor gave an imperial edict, it was inevitable that Xuanli would do something in it. Jiang Xinzhi is now a sweet cake. With Xuanli''s temperament, if he can''t use it, he must abandon it and kill it. Now if Jiang Xinzhi is really in prison, Xuanli is afraid that he will fall into the well. Jiang Ruan stood up, pondered for a while, and said, "I want to go into the palace." In the imperial study, the emperor put down his letter paper and knocked on the desk in front of him. After a while, he looked up at the young man in front of him: "ah Shao, do you want to send troops?" Xiao Shao is silent. "The mother won''t agree." The emperor said, "in those days..." "I''ve forgotten." Xiao Shao interrupted him: "the emperor does not have to mention." "Well," the emperor said, "let''s not mention this. I heard that you and Princess Hong''an were very close. The night before yesterday, you were injured and rested in Princess Hong''an''s courtyard?" "The emperor knows everything. There''s no need to ask Wei Chen again." The emperor said sternly: "she''s the Jiang family!" "So what?" "Do you really like her?" The emperor was a little excited. Seeing this, Li Gonggong came over and patted him on the back. The emperor waved Li Gonggong''s hand: "I know you have your own ideas, but Jiang Ruan can''t do it." "Why?" Xiao Shao asked. "Why." The emperor repeated, "you know better than I who Jiang Quan is." "She is also Zhao Guang''s granddaughter." Xiao Shao reminds me. "So what!" The emperor said angrily, "ah Shao, you can''t tolerate any stain in your life. Princess Hong''an doesn''t deserve you. I don''t know anything. That woman has a deep mind. How can she raise her eyebrows with you? Moreover, although Zhao Guang had military power, he was too straightforward, and Jiang Quan was a poisonous insect. If you are with her, you will not only get no help, but also drag you down the muddy water. I''ve got a good idea. Governor Binhai Yao''s age is similar to yours, and he''s very proficient in military and cultural strategies. The forces behind Miss Yao can also help you and match you best. " "Your Majesty is too worried." Xiao Shao''s tone was cold: "I have my own opinions about my marriage, and I don''t need your Majesty''s trouble." "You --" the emperor seemed to be very insistent on this matter, and said coldly, "if I want you to marry Miss Yao, I will marry you tomorrow. How about you?" Xiao Shao raised his eyebrows: "that minister had no choice but to resist the order and refuse to marry, and his head fell to the ground." The emperor coughed again. Without waiting for him to speak, Xiao Shao said, "the southern Xinjiang is in a hurry to be in power. Your majesty doesn''t have to concentrate on the trivial matters of the minister. As for Miss Yao..." The long dark eyes are deep and cold, and the tone is plain: "if your majesty gives you a marriage, it''s not to let down a life." Then he left without looking back. Mr. Li held the crumbling emperor. He took out a small porcelain vase from his arms and poured out two pills for the emperor to swallow. The emperor''s face was better. But his expression was a little rusty, and he sighed: "he disobeyed me for that girl." "Your Majesty." Mr. Li Wenyan advised: "you have seen the temperament of Mr. Xiao since you were a child. What you have decided is that you can''t get nine cows back. Your majesty has just said that. Lord Xiao must be unhappy in his heart. He spoke in a more blunt tone, but his mind is not beside him. " "Of course I know he''s not different." The emperor pressed his forehead and heart wearily: "I think about him everywhere. Miss Yao is knowledgeable and reasonable. She came from all walks of life, and I have seen her with my own eyes. It''s wonderful. If governor Yao becomes the assistant of a Shao, it will be much easier in the future. I''ve paved the way for him, but he won''t go my way. " "Lord Xiao is still a young man after all." Li Gonggong advised: "maybe the princess and he really have different friendship. Lord Xiao attaches great importance to friendship and righteousness, and he is not a follower." "There is a shortcut, but the most difficult one." The emperor snorted coldly: "Jiang Ruan is really a smooth woman. I can see clearly that she has a deep heart, but her temperament is very cold. Ah Shao''s temperament is very cold. How can such a woman live well? Jiang Xinzhi''s two brothers and sisters have their own ideas and are not easy to control. Especially if Jiang Xinzhi has a different mind, the world will not be in chaos. "Li Gonggong didn''t know how to comfort him. He knew that Xiao Shao was a disaster in the emperor''s heart. The emperor was wise and resolute in other matters, but when it came to Xiao Shao, he couldn''t see the situation clearly. How can Xiao Shao be manipulated by others for his temperament? Now that he has made that remark, if the emperor really ignores the marriage, I''m afraid the next day the Yao family''s gold will disappear in the world. What Xiao Shao did was something that father-in-law Li had seen. At that time, the Yao family and the royal family turned against each other, which was a major disaster. The emperor sighed: "forget it, we''ll discuss it later." From the beginning, he intuitively disliked Jiang Ruan. It''s strange to say, but people in high positions are especially sensitive in some ways. For example, every time Jiang Ruan talked to him, although he didn''t see much, he always seemed to feel a touch of resentment and hatred. The feeling was very weak. The emperor noticed that he was not used to Jiang Ruan. In his opinion, Princess Yuanrong is the most noble princess in the world. She is gentle, considerate and considerate. But at the beginning, empress Yide insisted that Jiang Ruan was somewhat similar to Princess Yuanrong, but in fact, from what happened to Princess Chen Guifei, it can be seen that Jiang Ruan did not appear gentle and magnanimous on the surface, on the contrary, her nature was very stingy, but she just hid it deeply. After knowing that Xiao Shao had an unusual relationship with her, the emperor sent people to investigate the things that Jiang Ruan had gone through. The more he went on, the deeper he felt that Jiang Ruan''s city was. The emperor did not allow Fang, a dangerous man, to be around Xiao Shao. He didn''t know why he didn''t like Jiang Ruan. I''m afraid it''s just the hatred he owed in his last life. There are many things in the world that can''t be explained clearly. The conversation between the emperor and Xiao Shao was like the Dragon birthday incense burning in the imperial study, which disappeared in the blink of an eye. At this time, Jiang Ruan met empress Yide, talked with her for a while, and went back to the Princess Palace with Tianzhu. Fang went to the door, but met an acquaintance, the fourth Prince xuanlang. Xuanlang is the fourth prince, but he is wearing a half new dark brown brocade. He only has a jade pendant on his waist to decorate his whole body, which is very simple. However, in the eyes of those who have a heart, I''m afraid they will just feel that this is just a prince who is not in favor. Seeing Jiang Ruan, the fourth prince came forward and made a bow: "princess." Xuan Lang seems to be used to flattering others on weekdays, with a trace of imperceptible humility in his tone. Listening to these words in Jiang Ruan''s ears, he felt like a hundred percent of Jiang Dan. But on his face, he replied with a smile: "Your Highness." This attitude made xuanlang''s eyes flashed a little hurt, but it was fleeting. He said with a smile: "I heard that the war in Tianjin was tense, and I thought that the princess must be very worried. Now that the princess is in a good mood, I can rest assured. " Jiang Ruan raised his eyebrows. He was not afraid that he would ask, but that he would not ask. If it''s true, the affairs of Tianjin state have something to do with Xuanli. Isn''t it that xuanlang deliberately "bumps into her" to test her attitude? At the same time, she also wanted to see what ideas these people were fighting and what they were testing? "How could it be all right." She sighed a little, her eyes turned to dim, and her tone was a little melancholy: "big brother killed the enemy at the border, but I enjoyed the safe and stable life with ease. At the moment, the war is tense, and my elder brother has not sent a letter home for a long time. Whenever I think of this place, I feel very uneasy. " Xuan Lang''s eyes flashed, and he carefully observed Jiang Ruan''s face. Seeing that she didn''t look like a hypocrite, he comforted her and said, "deputy general Jiang Ji has his own appearance, and he is also a natural God of war. That day, the state of Jin was just a tiny place. How could it win? Don''t worry, princess. Your brother will come back in triumph. " Jiang Ruan laughed: "thank you for your comfort." It''s just that the smile is a little bit reluctant. Xuan Lang shook his head and said, "I''ve heard from my father, but now the war is a little tense. Although Tianjin is a tiny country, it has excellent smelting technology and sharp sword and shield. Plus the tactical cunning, ah... " On hearing xuanlang''s words, Jiang Ruan''s expression changed again and reluctantly said, "what your highness said is true." Her uneasy appearance fell in xuanlang''s eyes. Xuanlang had more confidence and said unintentionally: "if only general Wu could send troops." "General Wu?" Jiang Ruan was puzzled. "The princess doesn''t know much about the imperial court." Xuanlang explained with understanding: "general Wu is also a military general. There are a lot of good soldiers under his command, and each of them is a good hand. He used to guard Xirong, but as early as a few years ago, Xirong bowed to the throne, and the Wu family army retreated from Xirong. General Wu has not brought any more soldiers these years, and he is worried that the heroes have no place to fight. With the help of Wu''s army, general Wu will come out of the mountain again and want to conquer Tianjin. It''s just around the corner. " Jiang Ruan''s eyes drooped, general Wu. Naturally, she knew this general Wu. Xuanli left the upper position in his previous life and gradually encroached on those who were not his school. He suppressed the Zhao family everywhere and promoted the Wu family at the same time. The Wu family and the Zhao family are the old meritorious officials who accompanied the former Emperor to fight. But after the death of the old general Wu, the present general Wu is a self willed and self righteous man. Even more ambitious, delusion to sit in the big Jin Dynasty "first" position. In the suppression of the Zhao family, we spared no effort. In the last life, when she was put into prison, she heard that it was the general Wu who was taking people to arrest the people in Zhao Jiaquan''s family.Jiang Ruan lowered his head and didn''t know what he was thinking. Xuan Lang stared at her. Jiang Ruan raised his head and said, "what your highness said is, why don''t you let my grandfather''s uncles be reinforcements? Isn''t it more convenient? " "General Zhao''s soldiers are guarding the key points of the capital. How can they get away from people?" Xuan Lang shook his head: "besides, the relationship between deputy general Jiang and General Zhao. My father won''t let the Zhao family send troops? " Is this to sow discord? Want their brother to be cold hearted to the emperor? Jiang Ruan''s smile on his lips was fleeting, but for a moment he had changed his expression: "that...". What shall we do? " "Don''t worry," Xuan Lang thought for a moment and hesitated. "Badi has a good relationship with general Wu. If Badi can speak..." "Eight princes?" Jiang Ruan a Leng, urgent way: "can ask eight princes to help persuade general Wu?" "At the end of the day, it''s not my father''s mind." Xuanlang seemed helpless, shaking his head and saying, "besides, what father and Emperor hate most is that ministers and sons cling to each other. Eight younger brother is so bold to say, afraid will cause father emperor''s suspicion "What about that?" Jiang Ruan''s voice was a little disappointed. Xuanlang took a look at her and said, "princess, I don''t know if I should tell you something." "You said Jiang Ruan looked at him. "In fact, it''s not totally out of the question." Xuanlang road. "What can I do?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes brightened and he couldn''t wait to ask. "Now it''s time to choose a concubine. At the beginning, because of the imperial concubine''s affairs, my father always had some prejudice against him. Fortunately, a few days ago, he took the initiative to ask about his marriage. He once told me that he already had someone in his heart. " He looked at Jiang Ruan and saw that he didn''t show a sulky expression. Then he continued: "if Ba Di and the princess become relatives, there is no such precedent in the great Jin Dynasty. At that time, the princess proposes to help the princess again. As a husband, it''s natural for Ba Di to help the princess. It''s also natural to recommend general Wu to his father. " "I Your highness Asked Jiang Ruan. Xuan Lang nodded, as if for some reason: "this is not really a good idea, but there is no other way at the moment. If the princess wants to save Jiang''s deputy general, this is the quickest way. Eight younger brothers are infatuated with the princess. The princess should be able to get along with eight younger brothers. " "What can I do with my parents'' orders and matchmaker''s words?" Asked Jiang Ruan. "It''s easy." Xuanlang said: "as long as the eighth younger brother asks his father to marry him." Jiang Ruan sneered in his heart. It''s easy to say that she would ask for a marriage. I''m afraid that in the end, it''s still up to empress Yide. If she really doesn''t want to, empress Yide won''t force her. It is for this reason that Xuan Li asks Xuan Lang to lobby to confirm that she will not refuse. She was still thinking about what idea Xuan Lang was trying to make, but she didn''t want to make it to her. It''s a good calculation. Marry her, and then take Zhao Jiana as his own. Jiang''s family is his own. Isn''t Jiang Xinzhi just letting him have fish and meat? Even the last thing that let general Wu send troops was to borrow her situation. In the end, if he really wins, won''t all the credit go to Xuanli? It''s a business that won''t lose anything! It''s just Xuanli really wants general Wu to send troops to help Jiang Xinzhi, but she can''t believe it. I''m afraid that if Jiang Xinzhi showed a little bit of mind that he would not submit to Xuanli, general Wu would stab him in the back without hesitation. Even if Jiang Xinzhi didn''t show that intention, with general Wu''s narrow-minded and jealous temperament, it''s hard to guarantee that he will have a different mind when he meets Jiang Xinzhi, who has made outstanding military achievements at a young age. Xuanlang thinks that this statement is perfect. You should know that Jiang Xinzhi is Jiang Ruan''s weakness. The two brothers and sisters are very affectionate. Jiang Ruan is a woman after all. He is easy to be emotional. When he hears about Jiang Xinzhi, he is not immediately anxious. But after waiting for his answer, he could not help but feel a little anxious. Jiang Ruan raised his head, but he did not look helpless and flustered as Xuan Lang thought. The expression was cold and calm, and the slightly upturned eyes showed some clear sarcasm. Under such eyes, the people who almost wanted to see ran away in confusion. "Princess..." He was about to speak. "Your Highness is so proficient in current affairs." Jiang Ruan smile, a word will successfully let xuanlang look changed. She looked at xuanlang with a smile rather than a smile: "the eloquence of the fourth Royal Highness should really let his majesty see clearly the longitude and latitude in the chest of the court hall." With a smile and a sigh in her voice, Xuan Lang was in a cold sweat. Who is he? He is the most incompetent and mediocre prince in Dajin Dynasty. Anyone can despise him, the most incompetent, but also the safest. At the beginning, several princes died more or less suddenly. Why did he survive alone? Not because he was lucky, because he was stupid! Even if that stupid, is to pretend! In fact, although he was mediocre and had no great talent, he was not as stupid and cowardly as many people expected. Before several brothers than he intelligent and sensitive and what a good end, is not the same as a yellow mud.The emperor knew that he could not bear the responsibility, and the courtiers also knew that he had no ability. In the whirlpool of seizing the throne, he was always abandoned. He is humble and small. Among all his brothers, he only takes a fancy to Xuanli. On the surface, he was close to the prince, but in fact he was Xuanli. No matter how incompetent a person is, he has been pretending to be a fool for more than ten years, but he still yearns for power in the royal family. Although I know that he is not qualified to compete for the highest position, it is also good to be a little higher than his current position. Xuanli has a mask of a gentle gentleman. Why doesn''t he? But this mask is not good-looking, she is humble, cowardly, timid. But it''s just like the poisonous snake, insect and ant hidden in the dark. It looks insignificant, but it can give people a fatal blow at a critical time. He is a transparent sword used by Xuanli in the palace. But what did Jiang Ruan mean just now? To let the emperor know that he is so concerned about current affairs, even a fool knows that he pretends to be stupid in his ordinary life. Isn''t it a bad thing? Once bad things happen, even Xuanli will not let him go easily. Xuanlang reluctantly smiles: "princess, I''m not good at learning..." "Where, where," Jiang Ruan said in a relaxed tone, "Your Highness is clearly clear-sighted and has a good sense of response. If your highness knows that there is such a smart man around, isn''t it superfluous for Taifu? " She smiles and looks at Xuan Lang''s panic expression: "maybe the fifth highness will be very glad to know that his brother is so talented." Listen to the tone of the opposite person, relaxed smile, where there is just a little bit of panic. If Xuan Lang didn''t understand, he would be a fool. He knew that Jiang Ruan had just cheated her. She didn''t worry about Jiang Xinzhi, this woman! Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile. Her skirt was slightly raised by the breeze, but her eyes were as bright as a spring, and there were some other things in them. She only felt that the cool Qinqin was like the wind in winter, and it was blowing through her heart, leaving a piece of cold ice there, which covered her whole body. Xuan Lang said: "Princess. Is there someone in my heart that I don''t want to marry my eighth brother? " Jiang Ruan smile: "you said, what is it?" Xuan Lang stayed for a while. Tianzhu is still, dew looks serious, Jiang Ruan looks at him lightly. She knew that every word of today would eventually reach that person. He personally directed such a good play for her, she might as well let him down. Calculate, who won''t? "My elder brother is fighting bravely in the front line. How can I be willing to get married in the capital. Even if they marry, they must be decent men. This great Jin Dynasty is not to be guarded by his daughter''s family. Even I still know a way. How can your eighth brother not know? Then, I would not even ask your majesty to send troops to help and protect the people of Dajin Dynasty. How can I promise to give my life to him. Even the country has no courage to protect people, will one day even I can not protect? " "I want to marry a man, not a soft one." Jiang Ruan smiles. Xuanlang was speechless, but his forehead was sweating more. Today''s words reached Xuanli''s ears. How could Xuanli not be angry. At the end of the day, is it not anger to vent this anger on him? "The princess''s words are really serious." Xuanlang said: "eight younger brother is also helpless." "The relationship between the fourth highness and the eighth highness is really better." She light way: "go back to tell your master, the thing of wishful thinking, that calls daydream!" roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll roll_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 145 At the end of a good conversation, Xuan Lang broke up unhappily. When he left, his face turned pale, as if he could not bear Jiang Ruan''s eyes. Even when he left, he had a sense of escape. When I arrived at the man''s house, I was as expected. Although I didn''t lose my manners, the smile at the corner of my mouth became a little stiff. I don''t know that after a long time, the man on the seat took a cup of tea in front of him, lifted the lid of the cup and took a sip of it. He looked as cold as a river: "my palace wanted to show mercy to jade. Since I don''t know good or bad, I don''t have to hesitate any more." There was a cruel sneer in his eyes: "close the net." The night in the capital is no different from the past. In early autumn, the sky is always dark earlier. In the dark night, Jinying palace is full of lights. Xiao Shaoduan sat in a high position. He had always been a little cold and calm. Yefeng and jinyijinsi were standing on both sides. Xiao Shao burned the letter in his hand in the fire as usual, and the light of the fire leaped, reflecting his dark eyes like a superior black gem. "Qi Si''s news can''t be wrong." "Xuanli started," he said "The eighth Prince is too brave. This deal is so dangerous that he is not afraid to lead a wolf into the house." Brocade four can''t help but open mouth, in the vision contain a few Fen disdain. As the son of the emperor of Jin Dynasty, he did something worse than pigs and dogs. Taking the lives of tens of thousands of people at the border is like a joke, but it''s just to satisfy their own ambitions and selfish desires. Such people are despised wherever they go. "The news will reach the court early tomorrow morning." Xiao Shao didn''t pick up Jinsi''s words. He reached out and knocked on the table: "this matter is very important. It''s really the same as what Qi Si said. Boss Guan is also dangerous." "General Guan?" Jin Yi frowned: "master, do you want to remind Mr. Mo that the eighth Prince is in danger when he does this?" "Go to Mo Cong''s house." Xiao Shao stood up and picked up the dress on the bench The emperor really wanted to attack Jiang Ruan, but she couldn''t stop him. Xiao Shao''s method, though reckless, was very effective. If Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan are engaged, Jiang Ruan is a member of Jinying palace. Even if something happens to Jiang Xinzhi in the future, Jiang Ruan is no longer the Jiang family, but the Xiao family. The married woman is not involved, but can protect her. As a matter of fact, empress Yide is not a pedantic person. As early as the three years when she got along with Jiang Ruan, she clearly realized the difference between Jiang Ruan and Princess Yuanrong. But Jiang Ruan''s temperament and behavior are very to her taste, if as early as 30 years, empress Yide would even want Jiang Ruan to enter the palace as a concubine. Empress Yide has a genuine love for Jiang Ruan. Besides This is still Xiao Shao''s sweetheart. Although she hesitated, Xiao Shao was so cold-blooded, and Jiang Ruan was not too warm-hearted, how could they be together. After those words, she was relieved. She thought Xiao Shao was just trying to repay her kindness, but how could the affection in the eyes of the young people be concealed? The Empress Dowager Yide decided that Xiao Shao had already been attracted to Jiang Ruan. It was impossible for her to refuse Xiao Shao''s request, no matter what it was for. The Empress Dowager Yide smiles: "you are a child. At the beginning, I was watching you grow up. In a twinkling, it''s time to get married and start a business. " aunt Yang breathed a sigh of relief, only to hear empress dowager Yide continue:" marriage, this matter has been written down. Hong An''s child has been with AI''s family for several years. AI''s family can see clearly. He has a good disposition. It''s just that the AI family has to ask Hong An what he means. If Hong an doesn''t have any opinions, the AI family won''t be the one who beats mandarin ducks. The sad family has always been beautiful. " Xiao Shao bowed down and said," thank you for your kindness. " The Empress Dowager Yide said a few words with a smile. After she took Xiao Shao away, the Empress Dowager Yide leaned on the soft couch. She was a little absent-minded, and her anger seemed to be pulled away. Aunt Yang took a cup of hot tea and handed it to the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager unconsciously took it over, gently rubbed the lid of the cup and murmured, "he has come to the palace of CI Ning I didn''t expect that I would see him enter the CI Ning palace in my life " " empress, "aunt Yang said comfortingly," Lord Xiao is just a little colder, and his heart is the same as mingjing''er. But is empress, really want to give Xiao Wang Ye and Princess bestow marriage? " " what if you don''t get married? "The Empress Dowager Yide looked tired and sighed:" this is owed by the family, and the emperor also owes him. Even if he wants that position, no one says he is not. Besides, it''s just a gift marriage. " aunt Yang pondered and said," the slave saw that Lord Xiao had just said what he wanted for the princess. It doesn''t look like a fake. " " he really loves Hong''an. "The Empress Dowager Yide sighed deeply:" this is the worry of AI Jia. Hong An''s temperament is colder than him. Usually looking at the mild, in fact, nothing in mind. If a Shao can''t move Hong An, it''s also in vain for AI Jia to marry them. " empress Yide frowned:" besides, the emperor has already chosen for him. The governor of Binhai Yao family has a lot of money and is good at literature and martial arts. Even if he is a man, he is not inferior, and he is born well. The emperor knows what he is thinking. I''m afraid that if I get married at this end of the family, the emperor will find Hong''an in trouble. "She pauses:" Jiang''s family is also a big trouble. AI''s family always thinks that if a Shao marries Hong''an, it will be more difficult in the future. Aunt Yang rubbed her shoulder to empress Yide with a smile, and comforted her: "why do you think so much, madam? Lord Xiao is not an ordinary person, and Princess Hong''an is also a sensitive person. How can she be so easily knocked down by calculation. Since Lord Xiao likes Princess Hong''an, the princess must have something extraordinary. What''s more, Lord Xiao is the girl''s dream. How can the princess not like him. The better the days are, the more generous the lady is. " aunt Yang''s words are considerate and pleasant, and the frown of empress Yide is gradually relaxed. Maybe she thought of something and slowly spilled a smile:" you''re right, the days are always better, it''s sad and confused. It''s a good thing. It''s sad. When the sun went down, the AI family called Hong An to talk about it. " - - digression - Emma''s collection is over 4000 ~ scatter flowers ~ " www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 146 What happened in the palace of CI Ning is unknown to Jiang Ruan. However, things in the world are destined to happen. Even if they happen by coincidence, they are easy to bump into each other. Xiao Shao''s mind, some people and he thought to go together. In the chief soldier''s house, Gu Yi is trying to sneak out of the house. When Fang walks to the gate of the courtyard, he hears a familiar voice behind him: "Yi Er, where are you going?" As soon as Gu Yi''s face broke down, she turned back. As expected, she saw Mrs. Gu standing behind him. She walked up to him and scolded him: "now it''s such a mess outside, where else do you want to go?" Gu Yi''s eyes turned a few times and had an idea: "I. I want to go into the palace and see my cousin. " Gu Yi''s cousin is also a talented person in the palace. The two brothers and sisters had a good relationship. Since her cousin entered the palace, Gu Yi hasn''t seen her for a long time. But the reason is far fetched. Mrs. Gu raised her eyebrows and said, "Oh? Looking for my cousin, isn''t it looking for Princess Hong''an? " "Niang -" Gu Yi was a little worried: "I, she and I are friends at least. Now she is in an awkward situation, so she can''t ignore it. I just want to care about her Mrs. Gu looked at her with hatred: "care about her? Now is the time of the storm, you don''t want to die, you just don''t want to die, and don''t involve the whole house. It''s hard to say what''s going on with Jiang Xinzhi now. You should be careful to be dragged in. Our house is clean. You can''t get involved in these things for no reason. " "I just want to comfort her for a while, how could my mother think so complicated." Gu Yi said anxiously: "Niang, I can''t be a villain who takes the helm at the mercy of the wind." Mrs. Gu sighed and looked at her son, who insisted. She didn''t know whether she was happy or sad. When his son grew up, he had his own ideas, but Gu Yi''s dim sum was clear to Mrs. Gu, and she was not thinking about Jiang Ruan in her heart. I thought it was a child''s favorite for a while, but I haven''t put it down after such a long time, which may not be a good thing for Gu Yi. Seeing that Mrs. Gu''s expression was somewhat relaxed, Gu Yi was delighted and said to Mrs. Gu, "mother, my aunt and I will go to send something to my cousin and come back soon." Mrs. Gu didn''t speak, which is the default meaning. Gu Yi quickly asked the boy to prepare the horse and turned out of the yard. The next mammy said, "madam, just let the young master go?" "Princess Hong''an is a smart man," Mrs. Gu said faintly, "let him go, or break his mind." At the same time, it''s on the house of jingzhaoyin. The maid hands a small cup of water and sugar to stew Sydney. The sugar water is thick and looks good in the crystal cup. The servant girl put the sugar water aside and reached out to help the person curled up on the couch: "girl, get up and drink some sugar water." "No." Weak voice, it seems that also contains a strong nasal and crying. The servant girl was in a bit of a dilemma. Wen Yan advised: "girl, don''t worry too much. The matter hasn''t come to the bottom yet. Maybe it''s not the worst. Why delay your body?" The man lying on the couch seemed to be hurt by these words, and his shoulder stirred up and became more and more sad. A moment later, he sat up slowly, showing a haggard and pale face. It was Dong Yinger. Dong Ying''er was wearing a honey colored jacket. Her hair was only in a simple bun. The rest of her hair was a little messy behind her head. There was no light and delicate appearance in the past, but at the same age of flower, there was a state of aging. The eyes were swollen because they were soaked in tears for a long time. The hair on both cheeks was wet by tears, and they looked pitiful. She licked her dry lips and asked, "what time is it?" Outside, Mr. Dong and Mrs. Dong were worried. Mr. Dong put his cup on the table and sighed heavily. "Now that this is the case, Ying''er has no other choice." In Mrs. Dong''s eyes, she was extremely firm: "don''t get involved with Jiang Xinzhi. As soon as this matter comes out, Ying''er can stop thinking about it." "Madam," Mr. Dong shook his head: "Ying''er is gentle on the surface, but stubborn in the heart. I''m afraid she will do stupid things." "Daughter, I know better than you." Dong Fu said: "long pain is better than short pain. It''s better to be sad than to indulge in impossible things all one''s life. What''s more, sir, you know best. Now that''s the only way to go. " She stood up and seemed to have made up her mind: "I''ll go in and persuade you." Dong Yinger sat on the couch like a lifeless clay doll. As soon as Mrs. Dong Fang came into the room, she saw this scene and felt a pain in her heart. Wave a hand to let servant girl go down, oneself walked to collapse side to sit down. Wen Sheng called: "Ying''er." After a long time, Dong Ying''er seemed to react. She turned her head and looked at Mrs. Dong''s face. With her loving eyes, she immediately felt mixed feelings. After calling "Niang", she could not speak any more and fell over Mrs. Dong and began to cry. Who can know the shock and great pain she felt when she heard the news that the border was in danger and Jiang Xinzhi was defeated and captured. If not for her daughter''s family, I''m afraid I would like to fly to the border to see what it looks like. Dong Ying''er is in great pain at the thought that such a brilliant and handsome man, like countless soldiers, will eventually become a piece of the battlefield.Pitifully, I am still in my dream. She hasn''t expressed her anxiety to him, and he doesn''t know her mind, so heaven and man are separated forever. In this way, she suffered a lot for Jiang Xinzhi, and was forbidden in this house, all in vain! There is something saddest in the world. It is over before it can begin. The obsession in Dong Yinger''s heart is Jiang Xinzhi. Now that Jiang Xinzhi has come to such an end, how can she not collapse. Mrs. Dong took Dong Ying''er in her arms, patted her on the back and comforted her: "it''s not your fault, it''s just God''s fault. Now deputy general Jiang has come to such an end, but don''t delay your body. Father and mother, and your brother love you, if you hurt, mother will love you. See you ache, Niang heart also follows ache "Niang," Dong Yinger burst into tears: "I feel so bitter in my heart -" "Niang knows you feel bitter in your heart." Mrs. Dong took Dong Ying''er more tightly: "why don''t you suffer. You only know that Jiang''s deputy general was defeated, but you know that the forces in the DPRK and China are more and more complicated now. Our house was neutral, but vice general Jiang was defeated. Some things were put on the table. Our house is the chestnut in the fire, and everyone wants to take it. Your father and your elder brother are not going in or out now. They lose everything by mistake. How can we cook in the fire She stroked Dong Ying''er''s long hair lightly: "deputy general Jiang really died in the battle, and the Military General Ma Ge wrapped his body. That''s a proper death. I''m afraid I''ll die if I''m confused. " Mrs. Dong''s voice was full of fatigue and worry. Dong Ying''er looked up. These days, she was locked in the house, and even ignored Mr. Dong and Mrs. Dong. She didn''t pay attention to the affairs in the government. Why, when she didn''t know, the government was in such a dilemma? She looked at Mrs. Dong in a twinkling of an eye. She didn''t pay attention to it. She saw that Mrs. Dong had lost a lot of weight. Her brows were full of sadness and her expression was very haggard. Dong Ying''er asked: "what happened, mother?" "It''s none of your business." Mrs. Dong laughed and touched her head: "as long as you are good, my mother will be more happy than anything." Dong Ying''er doesn''t think so. Just now, Mrs. Dong''s words have been deeply rooted in her heart. Originally, she was in love with Jiang Xinzhi, but now whether Jiang Xinzhi was captured or killed in battle, it is impossible for her to be with her in this life. Now she has retired from the Chang family, and there is no way out in the future. Anyway, she has no love in her life. When I saw Mrs. Jiang, I changed my mind. The world can always accompany in her side, as always for her good, only relatives. She had disobeyed her relatives for the sake of Jiang Xinzhi. Since she had no other wish in this life, why not complete it? She looked at Mrs. Dong: "Niang, I enter the palace." "You..." Mrs. Dong was stunned and forced to smile: "you''d better have a rest now. If these things happen, it''s the right thing to have a good rest. Don''t think about other things." "Niang," Dong Ying''er said with a slight smile. For a moment, something seemed to disappear in her playful eyes. Instead, it was a kind of light coldness: "since it was so hard in the house, my brother and father had to stand in the court. They accidentally made other people''s rafts. When I enter the palace, I can at least seek your Majesty''s protection, and at least change your Majesty''s confidence in the Dong family. " She suddenly stood up, knelt down to Mrs. Dong, and kowtowed three times respectfully: "my daughter is unfilial. Before, it was her daughter who made the mistake first. She abandoned Dong''s house for her own sake, and asked her mother to give her a chance to make amends and let her enter the palace." Her tone persisted, as if there was no attachment to Jiang Xinzhi, even the pain of the stars disappeared, as if she had never admired a general named Jiang Xinzhi. When Mrs. Dong looked at her, she did not know whether she was happy or sad. All her emotions turned into a long sigh. That Jiang Xinzhi eventually turned Dong Yinger into a completely different person, and Dong Yinger''s life was rewritten. At this moment, the playful and unrestrained girlhood is over. From then on, Dong Ying''er will go into the deep palace, step by step in the cage of conspiracy and power, and seek a temporary prosperous glory for herself and her family. Out of Dong Ying''s room, master Dong came forward and asked, "madam, what''s the matter?" Mrs. Dong was silent. She just slowly closed her eyes and stood in front of the Avalokitesvara in the hall. As she put her hands together, a tear splashed out quickly and disappeared in the incense burner. If you don''t want to live with her, you have to make atonement with the rest of your life. I only wish you peace and happiness in this life, even if it''s just Extravagance. In the garden outside the Princess Palace, Jiang Ruan looked up at the young man in front of him. Gu Yi is dressed in a lake green sky brocade dress, embroidered with big clouds on his chest, but his black eyes are staring at Jiang Ruan, with some nervous color in his eyes. In a trance, he seems to be back on the Linglong boat that he first saw a few years ago. He is the son of heaven from a rich family. Just like the peonies in this palace, his life is full of flowers, which are naturally appreciated. At the beginning, it was just a simple use. Now things are different. Young people grow into young men, but their eyes seem to be more sincere than before. Flighty back a little, a little more calm, just look at the same person or."Mr. Gu." Jiang Ruan nodded. She can smile gently to the vicious people in her heart, but she can only use cold to treat the persistent love. "Miss Jiang." Gu Yi didn''t call her Princess Hong''an. In Gu Yi''s heart, Jiang Ruan was just like Ruan Niang of Jiang family when she first met. He marveled at her beauty, my fair lady, gentleman''s love. Later, Jiang Ruan went with the Empress Dowager to the imperial mausoleum. Three years later, Gu Yi came back from ronghua. However, Gu Yi was surprised that it was like a piece of pure jade that had been unearthed. It had been carved for some time, and it was more and more difficult for people to move their eyes. However, although he was the son of the chief soldier''s family, he had to be careful in his words and deeds. Now, Jiang Ruan is Princess Hong''an, which is hard to get in touch with. Besides, Mr. Gu also ordered him not to get too close to Jiang Ruan. Until the news of Jiang Xinzhi''s defeat came, Gu Yi couldn''t help it any more. In his view, a defeated deputy general''s final result in the court can be imagined. Jiang Ruan was in the palace and had no intention of being pushed to the top of the storm. The longer you stay in the palace, the more dangerous it is. It is inevitable that Jiang Xinzhi will be implicated. Gu Yi said, "Miss Jiang, I hope you will be more relieved about your brother''s affairs." "Thank you for your advice." Jiang Ruan light way. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s attitude, Gu Yi was a little nervous for a moment, but thinking of what he would say next, he was full of courage: "Miss Jiang, now that the life and death of Jiang''s deputy general are uncertain, Miss Jiang is too dangerous in the palace. Now the situation in the imperial court is chaotic, and Miss Jiang and his deputy general are brothers and sisters. It is inevitable that someone will be implicated in Miss Jiang because of his deputy general. Even the Empress Dowager has something she can''t take into account. I I have a way Jiang Ruan raised his eyebrows and lips: "Oh? What can Mr. Gu do? " Gu Yi''s heart beat a little fast when she saw it. After a pause, she said, "as long as Miss Jiang makes an engagement quickly, it has nothing to do with Jiang''s house. If someone takes Jiang''s deputy general as a raft in the future, Miss Jiang is not a member of Jiang''s family, and she can''t rely on it before she can leave. " "Mr. Gu is right." Jiang Ruan sighed and said with a smile, "but at this time, who is willing to make an engagement with me? It''s too late to hide. " "Me Gu Yi blurted out. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s expression, he hesitated for a moment and said bravely, "I''ve been admiring miss for a long time, and the chief soldier''s house is not something that can be moved by a curfew. If Miss Jiang is willing to make an engagement with me, I will take good care of her and not let her suffer any injustice. With the support of the general headquarters, Miss Jiang will never be set up to cause trouble. " Jiang Ruan looks at the young man in front of him with a smile. The man''s eyes are full of hope and passion. In her previous life, she had never met such a blazing expression in the name of a witch. It''s a pity that Gu Yi met her in this life. Even such a clean and blazing confession could not move her at all. She drooped her eyes: "I only ask Mr. Gu, what does Mr. Gu say?" When Gu Yi was stiff, his father told him to stop thinking, not to put the headquarters on the fire just because of a woman. But he looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "I will persuade my father myself." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "Mr. Gu will not be convinced by you." She said gently: "thank you for your kindness, but I know I''m embarrassed. How can I marry into the chief soldier''s family. Not only Mr. Gu, but Mrs. Gu also disagreed. To make an engagement against the will of one''s relatives is only to add a couple of grudges in the end. Mr. Gu has given me this heart, and I will keep it well in this life. But it''s not my wish to insist on this heart and change it beyond recognition. " Gu Yi was a little worried: "Miss Jiang..." "Mr. Gu," Jiang Ruan interrupted him, "Mr. Gu is not a young man now. He knows that if he has to pay for me, is it really worth it to ask the general headquarters to pay such a price? You know, if you marry me, you will be watched by people all the time. When you climb to this position, you will be hindered in your official career because of a decision of Mr. Gu, and Mrs. Gu will be worried about it. It''s just for a woman, Mr. Gu. Is it really worth it? " Gu Yi was speechless when he was asked by Jiang Ruan, and his self-confident mind could not help hesitating. For the sake of a Jiang Ruan, is it really worth putting the headquarters in such a position? Jiang Ruan stepped back and said with a smile: "Ruan Niang thanks for what Mr. Gu said today. Ruan Niang will remember such a precious thought. I''ll see you in the future. I''m still friends. It''s just the fate of a partner, but it''s gone in this life. " Gu Yi only felt numb and bitter in his mouth, and the heart of astringent people was sore. Beauty is close at hand, but it is across mountains and rivers in general, this life can not be together. Although Gu Yi is impulsive, he can distinguish the pros and cons. If other people say this to him, I''m afraid he can''t listen to it. It''s Jiang Ruan, his sweetheart, who makes his heart cool down. He gave a wry smile: "I see. Well, if you''re not the princess, and I''m not the son of the chief soldier''s family, do you think it''s possible to fulfill a fate? " "There is no if in the world." Jiang Ruan smiles. Gu Yi stepped back two steps, and his face was plainly sad: "there is no if." He shook his head as if he had grown up in an instant. The involvement in his eyes was so hard to give up that he was caught in his heart. He turned his head and left. After two steps, he stopped and said, "I only want to ask you one question. Is Miss Jiang willing to stay for a moment?""No Jiang Ruan replied with a smile. Gu Yi''s body shakes twice, pauses, and then walks away with great strides. Seeing Gu Yi''s back disappear, Jiang Ruan just lowered his eyes and turned to return to the Princess Palace. Fang turned around and saw that under the osmanthus tree, she was dressed in black. The young man looked at her quietly and didn''t know how long she had been standing here. It''s about 600000 words. Maybe it''s almost half finished. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 147 Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned and went to Xiao Shao: "Why are you here?" "If you have the same status, do you really agree to marry him?" Instead of answering her, Xiao Shao asked an irrelevant question. "Yes." Jiang Ruan said: "if you can be sheltered and have a plot, why not marry into the Gu family? It''s just that it''s not the best policy to protect the Gu family. " Xiao Shao looked down at her, there was a flash of emotion in her eyes: "if there is a suitable family, you will marry?" "Why not marry?" Jiang Ruan asked. Xiao shaoding looked at her for a while. When he thought Jiang Ruan would keep silent, he said, "what do you think of me?" Jiang Ruan was stunned. Xiao Shao said, "King Jinying''s residence is directly under your majesty. There is no worry about establishing a school. The power is enough to protect you. There are no parents in law and no slaves. When you enter the palace, no one dares to bully you. You are the only one who respects you. How can this family be regarded as a happy one? " His words are serious, his black clothes are as cold as autumn, and his eyes are as deep as stars. When he looks at people, the stars are as bright as the Milky way. He teaches people to drown in the vast starry sky. Such young people, asked: "can be considered satisfactory?" Dajin Dynasty countless daughter''s spring boudoir dream people, in a serious attitude at the moment, how not to be lost. Jiang Ruan was silent for a moment and said, "why do you want to marry me?" "The situation in the palace is clear in your heart," Xiao Shao said lightly. "If you stay in Jinying palace, you will be protected." "I don''t want people to protect me," Jiang Ruan interrupted. "To welcome me into the government is just a disaster." Xiao Shao was silent and asked, "what are you asking for?" "What are you asking for?" Jiang Ruan repeated low, and suddenly raised his head to smile. The smile was gorgeous, with irony that could be engraved into the bone marrow. It''s a dark dark dress, but it seems to step out of the sea of fire, and the whole body is full of fire. She said word by word: "I want people who once owed my life to come to me with their hearts in their hands. People who look down on me can only look up to me forever. The purple king will tremble when he sees me. He will trample on all the beautiful rivers and mountains! " Xiao Shao looks at the girl in front of him deeply. It seems that this is the first time that she has not concealed her hatred and anger. He always knows that there is a secret in Jiang Ruan''s heart. Now he knows that the secret is not as simple as he imagined. Such words, each sentence is like a heavy hammer, sound. What kind of fortune can make her say such a rebellious but natural word. "Now you see, I''m the evil girl of the disaster country. Wherever I am, I will bring disaster." "You are the evil girl of the evil country, and I am the bandit." His robe is like night, his eyes are like cold stars, but the words from his thin lips are so hot that they almost burn people: "it''s just a perfect match." Jiang Ruan looked at him speechless. "You want revenge, you want to kill all the people who bear you. If these can make you happy, I can help you. But you are not happy Xiao Shao''s words floated along the wind, but when they reached Jiang Ruan''s ears, they made her heart ache. She''s not happy. How can she be happy. Indulging in revenge, one day she will lose herself. The heart blinded by hatred will make her a revenge machine one day. She looked up at Xiao Shao. The young man''s speech is sharp, his eyes are sharp as a knife, and he speaks the weakest part of her heart. In front of her, she fell from the nine steps. Jiang Quan''s indifferent eyes came from the moment when Xuanli announced that she was the evil girl of the country. A sudden pain in my heart. There is no turning back in hell, and there is no turning back in the yellow spring. If this life is the curtain of heaven, give her the chance of revenge, even if it is the last to burn herself, she will not hesitate. It''s just. But I met him again in this life. She slowly lowered her eyes, and a bitter smile slowly overflowed from the corner of her lips: "I knew that a long time ago. Xiao Shao, I fell into a nightmare. " That fragile expression is fleeting, her voice is warm and light, with a trace of imperceptible despair and struggle: "but I can''t wake up." Zhao Jin put the secret letter back to the original place, quietly out of the door, just met the big brother who came back from practicing martial arts. Zhao Qian looked at his sister and said, "little sister, how did you come out of dad''s study? Didn''t dad come back?" "I can''t find my handkerchief. I''ll go to my study to see if I lost it yesterday when I sent my father snacks." Zhao Jin stammered a little. "Oh." Zhao Qian did not doubt that he had him, so he had to smile: "you are also a daughter''s family. Don''t be rash all day. How can you find a good mother-in-law if you go on like this?" "Big brother," Zhao Jin impatiently scratched his ear, suddenly thought of something, approached Zhao Qian and said: "big brother, are you going to war with your second brother and dad?" Zhao Qian''s face changed and his tone became heavy: "where did you hear that?" "What is it?" Zhao Jin curled her lips and said unintentionally, "isn''t the frontier in a hurry? The war in Tianjin is so tense that your majesty will send troops to reinforce it. General Wu and general Guan are not the same. Since we are generals, we can''t run away. ""Presumptuous, is it possible for you to speculate the mind of the emperor?" Zhao Qian sternly reprimanded: "don''t talk about these things outside, otherwise it will bring trouble to the house, and you will have a good look!" "Big brother -" Zhao Jin was not afraid. She took Zhao Qian''s arm and said, "I won''t tell anyone, and you are not an outsider. It''s not to speculate, it''s to care about national affairs. You just tell me, don''t you? If you go to war, I''ll be the only one left in the house Zhao Jin is a little sister at home, and several elder brothers also love her very much. She didn''t listen to Zhao Qian''s warning just now. Zhao Qian is also helpless, but he really loves his little sister. Besides, Zhao Jintian is not afraid of the earth. Even if he says so, he will not take it seriously. Can''t help Zhao Jin''s irresistible temperament, Zhao Qian finally said: "you know how old you are. When your mother finds a good marriage for you, it''s someone else''s daughter-in-law. You dare to be so lawless. This time I went to the border to reinforce. Tian Jin is extremely cunning and dangerous. I''m afraid my father will leave every few days. " He took a look at Zhao Jin and said with concern, "don''t get into any trouble when you are at home." "I see." Zhao Jin turned her eyes and asked tentatively, "what''s the appearance in front of her now? Is deputy general Jiang really captured like what is rumored? Is this defeat all due to him? " "I''m afraid I can''t leave ten, Emperor..." Zhao Qian suddenly realized something. Seeing Zhao Jin''s caring eyes, he immediately shut up and said, "how do you care so much about this?" "This is a matter related to our family. The so-called" know yourself and know your enemy "will win a hundred battles," Zhao Jin said bluntly Zhao Qian funny: "this is not you on the battlefield, you know what to do so much." Without waiting for Zhao Jin to speak again, he said, "besides, it''s all confidential. I can''t talk to you." Patted Zhao Jin on the shoulder: "dear, go back to learn more embroidery with Mammy. Yesterday, my mother said that the mandarin ducks you embroidered are like ducks. How can you hold them in the future. And take away your wildness. I don''t want to talk to you about other things. " After that, I didn''t wait for Zhao Jin to ask again. I left first. Looking at Zhao Qian''s back, Zhao Jin was a little annoyed, so she had to go back to the yard by herself. All the way, she heard people talking about the emergency at the border. All of her suspicions were that the God of war, who had been on the rise and had a promising future, was now defeated. She was afraid that it would be the best thing to end up with a dead man. When I went back to my room, I sent out all the servant girls. Sitting at the table, Zhao Jin took a military book and spread it on the table, but she didn''t have the heart to read it. Her mind was full of the secret letter she had just seen in her father''s study. The frontier is in a hurry, and the war is imminent. The original God of war was defeated once, and many people despised him, saying that he was a traitor. Zhao Jin thought of the Yingwu Confucian generals she had met at the Palace Banquet. The benefactor was in prison before he could repay his kindness. As the saying goes, a drop of water should be rewarded by a spring. Moreover, the daughter of the general''s family should pay more attention to kindness and not be afraid. Besides, staying in the house means that her mother may be busy looking for a match for herself all day. Zhao Jin felt the book of war in front of her and made a decision in her heart. She didn''t know what change this decision would bring to her life. The courage of this moment is precious. There are gains and losses in the world. If you want to get something, you must lose something. The wheel of fate turns, Zhao Jin spread out a cloth bag, put the book of war on the table. Jinying palace, Lin housekeeper in the hands of the account book is almost kneaded into a ball, can''t help looking into the room. "Don''t look." Jinsi pours a cup of tea for himself: "master is in a bad mood at the moment. You should be careful to get moldy." "What do you know, little girl?" Housekeeper Lin shook his head and said, "it''s the time when Wang Ye was young and angry. This time he was rejected by a woman. It''s more humiliating than sad. Now he must be thinking about how to save him." The brocade four follow the vision of the forest housekeeper to look toward inside, really didn''t see what shame annoyed facial expression from that cold and quiet person''s face in the room, had to shrug a shoulder. "That Princess Hong''an really has some skills. There are still women who can refuse the Lord these days." Housekeeper Lin said, and a trace of disbelief crossed his face: "but it''s not right. Last time in the house, the young lady was very fierce. Why did she shrink back when the good things were near her eyes? Are you taking Joe? Well, women always want to be coaxed. It must be the prince who won''t coax people and scare other girls away. " Jin four speechless, looked up at the sky, only when did not hear the housekeeper Lin nagging words. But housekeeper Lin couldn''t shut up easily. He stroked his moustache. Housekeeper Lin sighed and said, "everything is good, but he has a bad temper. When the master was alive, he was just like today''s young master. Yushulinfeng was unrestrained and unrestrained, and his style was unique in the world. At that time, the master was the whole brocade. No, the reputation was spread to other countries. Everyone praised him as a beautiful man. The master''s temperament is much more lively than the young master''s, especially for the women. They have never touched their bodies. When they first married their wives, many of their daughters had to commit suicide in the lake. " Housekeeper Lin doubted: "why is the young master so unattractive? It''s really frightening. ""What are you afraid to do? Even if you''re scared, it won''t help Jinsi finally said: "Lao Lin, don''t worry about it. Ah, now the master is in a bad mood. If he can avoid it, he can avoid it. Be careful to light a fire. " "Of course I can help." Housekeeper Lin was proud of his not great body, and said confidently: "it''s not my boasting. When I was young, although I was not as gorgeous as my master, I was also a pretty young man. At the beginning, there were many aristocratic ladies who loved me, but I despised them. Up to now, I haven''t seen anyone who can communicate with me. Youth is perishable. " The brocade four had to do a to vomit of facial expression, the vision is in the wood housekeeper wrinkly old face lightly sweep, silently don''t turn head. "What''s your expression?" Housekeeper Lin felt that his self-esteem had been strongly insulted and protested. Xiao Shao''s eyes dropped to look at the tea at hand. His long eyelashes dropped gently and his posture was quiet. The dark guards hidden in the dark did not dare to make a sound. Although he was as leisurely and elegant as before, his whole body exuded a kind of air-conditioning that "I am in a bad mood today, and I will soon retire.". Obviously, uncle Xiao and beauty Xiao are angry, maybe even a little depressed. Today, the story of Xiao Shao''s refusal to marry by Jiang Ruan spread all over the royal guards within a quarter of an hour. The royal guards are fighting against Xiao Shao''s injustice one after another. Princess Hong''an doesn''t like her master''s talent and appearance? No vision! In fact, although uncle Xiao was a little upset, he didn''t have the impulse to look for life or death because of this. Although he is pitiful in the eyes of the royal guards, Xiao Shao is thinking about something. The secret guards have been sent to check, and the news is still the same as usual. But Jiang Ruan''s words are still in the ear, full of hate oath, ironic smile, still hidden in the depths of the secret and hatred. But nothing can be found, as if there is a hand to erase all traces of Jiang Ruan''s past, but Jiang Ruan''s past is so simple, as if those traces exist in another world. There is no love or hate in the world for no reason. Yibao pavilion has all kinds of information, but it is impossible to find out Jiang Ruan''s secret. Xiao Shao frowns slightly. Several royal guards thought that Xiao Shao was still struggling to get married. After thinking about it, Jin Er finally summoned up the courage to jump down from the beam: "master, the young lady may be scared, and the master doesn''t have to be so depressed. Just talk about it a few times. My subordinates see that the young lady is still a little different to the young master. As the saying goes, "a good man is not afraid of failure. He must try more." "Nothing." Xiao Shao looked at his sleeve. The gold thread of the cloud pattern brocade was hidden in the dark and cold cloth, reflecting a faint luster. "You don''t have to ask her to agree, just marry." Housekeeper Lin, who is eavesdropping on the crack of the door, can''t help but burst into tears when he hears this. Ah, the young master of his own family finally has the style of the old master. Men should be so strong! It''s heartbreaking! In the palace of cining, sandalwood is curling, and the main hall is filled with an Enron fragrance, which makes people''s impetuous mood calm down. On the scarlet Satin cushion, empress Yide is lazy, but her eyes are sharp as a knife. She looks at the gentle girl sitting on one side and thinks deeply. Aunt Yang stood silently, and the atmosphere in the hall was strange. "Hong An, AI Jia now comes to ask you what you mean. Are you willing or not?" Just now the words have been very clear, will Jiang Ruan to Jinying king do is imperial concubine, to Jiang Ruan''s birth, in fact, has been considered high. Xiao Shao had a great military power and won the emperor''s trust. He was even more noble than several princes. Besides, I am not vulgar in appearance, but also outstanding in style and style. I am a master of many stars everywhere. Although Jiang Ruan is now a princess, he is only a nominal name. The Jiang family behind him is now in decline, and the Zhao family is actually the forefather family. Jiang Ruan looked at empress Yide. Her eyes were as calm as before, but her eyes were sharp. Although the tone was discussed, there was no choice for her. She dropped her eyes and was silent in her heart. Xiao Shao actually used such a method of forced buying and forced selling, which made people laugh and cry. But I didn''t feel angry. Jiang Ruan knew that it was the best choice to marry into King Jinying''s mansion. At least compared with other places, King Jinying''s mansion could give her more protection. She said with a smile: "Hong an doesn''t dare to climb up. It''s all up to her grandmother. She''s just engaged now. I''m afraid it will bring trouble to Jinying palace." Aunt Yang relaxed. The Empress Dowager Yide''s eyes flashed. She looked at Jiang Ruan with satisfaction: "you don''t have to worry about this." As long as Jiang Ruan Fang showed a little displeasure, she would not point out the marriage. Even though Xiao Shao''s opinion is important, if the marriage is not a good marriage, she will not act as a matchmaker. She also came over from her girlhood and knew that Jiang Ruan was not completely untouched. Besides, Jiang Ruan had not thought about Jinying palace just now, which made her comfortable. Jiang Ruan swept the Empress Dowager Yide''s face and looked at her sleeve. She knew what she had just said, and she was right.The Empress Dowager Yide thought, "speaking of it, it''s really a matter of your children''s family. You stay with me. I know you''re a good friend. Now that I have promised Xiao Aiqing, I have something to give him. Hong''an, you''ll take this trip for AI''s family and go to King Jinying''s house. " Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. After a moment, he said with a smile, "yes." In this chapter, I feel sad and happy. I feel like I''m going to divide OTL. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 148 When he learned that Jiang Ruan was coming, the gate of King Jinying''s house was wiped clean by the servants under the command of housekeeper Lin. he instructed the boys to wipe the ground three times in a row and wax it. The emperor had never met such a great honor before. But it was because Jin Er said: "in a word, the royal court''s marriage grant should come down soon. For the first time, the whole family should welcome the young lady, and they should not be more respectable?" Housekeeper Lin is like ten years younger in one night. He''s doing everything in the house. Jin Si looks at housekeeper Lin''s enthusiasm, so he has to shake his head: "it''s not a housekeeper. Nanny is not so hardworking." When Jiang Ruan came to Jinying palace with dewdrop Tianzhu Fang, what he saw was "good young lady." The momentum is magnificent, reaching the sky. The birds in the garden are flying in disorder, and the dog barks in disorder. Dewdrop lowered her head and snickered. Tianzhu took a puff at the corner of her mouth. Jiang Ruan looked calm and said, "the Empress Dowager taught me to send something to the king." It seems that the "young lady" just now didn''t call him. The servants of King Jinying''s mansion were all shocked by the future young lady''s letting you go. I didn''t know how to play the next drama. Xiao Shao had already come out. Without looking at housekeeper Lin, he said to Jiang Ruan, "follow me." He took her to the mansion. In the house, the young man and his subordinates consciously scattered. Jiang Ruan followed Xiao Shao step by step. When he came last time, he was in a hurry, but he had never seen the scenery of the house carefully. At the moment, when you look carefully, you can see that the scenery is very similar to that of Xiao Shao. Black stone and white water are as cool as ever. However, the trees are clumped, and there are some differences between them. Compared with the flowers and plants in the yard of the wives and aunts in Chiang''s mansion, such a simple scene seems to move her heart more easily. Xiao Shao''s back is as cold and elegant as ever, but today he is walking slowly for some reason. Jiang Ruan is fascinated by the landscape all the way. He doesn''t notice when Xiao Shao has stopped, and accidentally bumps into Xiao Shao''s back. Xiao Shao turned his head and saw Jiang Ruan rubbing his forehead. He was tall, with long hands and long legs. Jiang Ruan had just reached his chest. It''s rare to see her make such a mistake. The movement of rubbing her forehead reminds Xiao Shao of a young Sika Deer he raised in the back mountain when he was a teacher in Canaan mountain. People can''t help but feel its head. In fact, Xiao Shao did the same thing. The hairy touch on his palm suddenly made his earlier unhappy mood clear for a moment, but he looked down at Jiang Ruan. Then light cough, as if nothing happened to take back the hand. "The Empress Dowager has decided to get married." Jiang Ruan came straight to the point, but he didn''t say much about the rest. He went straight to the subject: "do you have anything to say to me?" "If Xuanli and Xuanhua want to fight for the military power under Jiang Xinzhi and Guan Lianghan, they are bound to send reinforcements. Nowadays, most of the military generals in the court are divided into two groups. Xuanli''s people are xuanlang''s people. The Zhao family should not act rashly. Although Xirong bowed to the throne, he seemed ambitious this year. Once he left, Xirong might change. Southern Xinjiang is already difficult to deal with. At that time, there will be internal and external troubles, and there will be a great crisis in Dajin. " Xiao Shao paused, looked at her and said, "Xuanli has a heart for you. If you make an engagement with him, the Zhao family will be held hostage. Even if Jiang Xinzhi is still alive, he will control him. If the wind is not right, you are the only one who will be pushed out." His eyes were as black as ink, and he said, "you are in a very difficult situation. I want to protect you." "Xiao Shao, don''t you understand what I said?" "I don''t want protection, I want revenge," he said "I''ll help you." Xiao shaodao. "You''re not afraid that I''m the evil girl." Jiang Ruan gave a smile. "I owe you my life. Now it''s yours." Xiao Shao said solemnly: "I will not stop you." "Is that how you repay others for saving their lives?" Jiang Ruan asked: "who saved you, you will promise to marry whom?" "You''re the first one." The young man''s eyebrows and eyes are picturesque, and his posture is cold but affectionate. His eyes contain a little connivance he doesn''t know. If he moistens things silently, his voice is slightly dumb: "you are the only one." Dewdrop stood outside the pavilion and looked at the two people talking from a distance. She was so worried that she pulled down more than ten hairs: "this. Can it be done? " A figure suddenly hung upside down from the beam and appeared in front of her. Dewdrop was startled and screamed. However, she saw that the man quickly turned around and stood in front of her. Without thinking about it, she put out her hand to cover her mouth: "Shh, be quiet, don''t disturb the master!" Dew hate hate looking at in front of brocade two, angry way: "ascend apprentice!" Jin Er then let her go: "what kind of apprentice, I''m handsome and handsome, and I''m adored by countless women...". Oh, don''t go Dew head also don''t return of walk away, brocade two also want to chase, but be stopped by a person in front of the way, is brocade three. Jin Sany''s long hair is full of style: "what? Please the little girl? " "What nonsense?" Brocade two waved hand, picked a root grass to take in the mouth with one''s hand: "have no strength son.""The veteran of Huacong, there will be times when he fails." Jin San mysteriously approached Jin Er''s ear and said with a smile: "you have to watch it. The royal guards in the mansion are covetous for the little girl. Now the maid beside the young lady is a sweet cake. Besides, the dew is lovely. There are many people who want to start. Let alone the brother didn''t remind you." Then he jumped up and disappeared from the front of Jin Er. Brocade two complexion is complicated, stiff for a long time, just vomit the grass in the mouth, big stride forward. On the tree, Jin San took a basin and rubbed his hands: "come on, come on, let''s see if Jin Er will miss this time. Buy big and buy small. Hey, bet quickly. It''s too late." In any case, the quiet and desolate Jinying palace is because of the arrival of Jiang Ruan and his party. Jinsi attributes this to the fact that there are too few women in Jinying palace. That is to say, there are only ten women and maidservants in the royal guards. They can only see but not eat. In addition to Tianzhu, the maids brought by the young lady had their own characteristics. For a while, the hairy boys of the royal guards, who had been vegetarian for more than ten years, were eager to have a try. Dewdrop Forsythia several in Jinying palace is almost flattered, either this bodyguard sent a box of snacks, or that bodyguard sent a handful of flowers. Strange dew complained: "all my subordinates are clever. Why is my master so ignorant?" Although the master is not open-minded, there is a group of lively and enthusiastic subordinates. For example, this night, Jiang Ruan should have gone back. As soon as he went out, he heard housekeeper Lin exaggerate and yell: "Oh, God, who broke the young lady''s carriage? Oh, it seems that the horse has a bad stomach. God, I''ll find a veterinarian to show it to the horse. " After that, he came to make amends to Jiang Ruan with an apologetic face: "young lady, I''m really sorry, that carriage is broken. There is no other carriage in our house, and the horse needs recuperation. What''s more, young lady, look at this day. It''s going to change. If it rains heavily, I''ll slip on the road. What if there''s an accident? Ah, bah, it''s old slave''s nonsense. How could there be an accident? But it''s better to be safe, isn''t it? " Dewdrop speechless listen to Lin housekeeper a ramble, this horse how can just eat bad stomach in this section bone eye. Isn''t it a joke that there isn''t even a carriage in Jinying palace? Also, the weather, the moon and stars, where the momentum of changing the sky? The intention of housekeeper Lin is too obvious. But dewdrop is quite satisfied with housekeeper Lin''s action. At least it shows that Jinying palace attaches great importance to her own girls, doesn''t it? At the moment, he followed the words of housekeeper Lin: "yes, girl, it''s late at night now. I''m afraid it''s not safe on the road." Clearly or evening, where also late at night, Angelica dahurica and forsythia while listening to dew nonsense, simply do not know. In the end, Tianzhu came to Jiang Ruan with a solemn face and said, "girl, the Empress Dowager has sent a message from her aunt in the palace. She says that it''s late tonight, so she can rest in Jinying palace." Even the Empress Dowager has moved out. Does she care about her reputation! Fortunately, although resting in Jinying palace, I didn''t see Xiao Shao all night, which saved me a lot of embarrassment. But dewdrop is disappointed once, feel such a rare night, Xiao Shao unexpectedly not in, really have negative grace. King Jinying''s mansion is very respectful to Jiang Ruan. Before the marriage documents come down, they all seem to regard Jiang Ruan as a "young lady". Jiang Ruan accepted it without surprise, but he only knew what he thought in his heart. At night, all the maidservants of King Jinying''s mansion leave. Jiang Ruan is sleepless. He lets the dew light the oil lamp. He has many thoughts in his heart. He just goes to find a lantern, puts on his coat and wants to walk around the mansion. It was almost the Mid Autumn Festival, and the moon was bright and mellow. Jiang and Ruan went out with a lantern and only dew. Both of them had something in mind, but they didn''t pay attention to the road at their feet. They walked casually to the Pavilion by the lake. You can see a figure standing in the pavilion with his back to them. I don''t know what he is doing. The long flowing moonlight reflected the water in the lake and made the shadow in the dark clearer. Looking carefully, it was Xiao Shao. After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan said to dewdrop, "here you are." He came forward with a lantern. When people in the pavilion heard the movement behind them, they turned around and saw that it was Jiang Ruan who was stunned and said, "why don''t you rest?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the table. There was a jade pot with three wine cups on it. There was a wet spot on the ground. There were also some burnt paper money marks by the lake. He is. Who are you worshiping? Xiao Shao sits down in the pavilion. Jiang Ruan Min feels that Xiao Shao''s mood is not normal. I don''t know if it''s her illusion. In Xiao Shao''s expression, there is some ferocity that she doesn''t usually have. All the time, Xiao Shao appeared in front of the public is quiet, in Jiang Ruan''s view, sometimes Xiao Shao is even gentle and lovely. Such obvious hostility seems to coat his whole body with a chill, which makes people feel a little afraid.He should pay homage to the people who are very important to him. There are two wine cups, two people. But the memorial day of the old king and Princess Jinying is in winter, not now. Jiang Ruan thought in his heart, picked up the wine pot on the table and weighed it. The wine was only half, and he drank a lot. Xiao Shao said suddenly, "I have asked your majesty to levy." Jiang Ruan suddenly looked back at him, but Xiao Shao was staring at the moon in the lake. The moon was big and round, and the moon was dim. He skirted his pretty nose, tight lips, and graceful chin, and finally fell into those deep and cold eyes. When the moon came into his eyes, Xu drank the wine, and Xiao Shao''s voice was hoarse: "three hundred thousand royal guards, take back one hundred thousand and go to Tianjin with me." He slowly turned his head and looked at Jiang Ruan: "Jiang Xinzhi will be OK." "You don''t have to." Jiang Ruan looked into the lake and said, "you shouldn''t have been involved in the affairs of the imperial court. You can stay out of it." "It''s a matter of time before we end up with Nanjiang," said Xiao Shao. "It''s not all for you." Jiang Ruan was speechless. Fang turned his head and continued to look at the lake. Then he felt that his hand was held by someone. Someone pulled it hard. The strength was just right, so that she could fall into Xiao Shao''s arms. Looking down, he was sitting on Xiao Shao''s lap. There seems to be a low pumping sound from someone in the distance. Jiang Ruan wants to get up, but Xiao Shao''s strength is very ingenious, not to hurt her, also let her move. Sitting on someone''s lap like this is something that has never happened before. But now Jiang Ruan is not a girl with a hot temper, let alone make a fuss. Just staring at him and not talking. Xiao Shao looks at her appearance but Yang lips a smile. This smile, full of moonlight flowing in his eyes, red lips and white teeth, beautiful, the original born of the brilliant youth is unconscious with temptation, but it seems to contain a trace of sadness and pain is not easy to detect. When Jiang Ruan was slightly absent-minded, she felt that her lips and teeth were cool, and the fragrance of wine came to her nose, with a strong masculine flavor, gently covering her lips. Before she could react, she felt that someone held her head and deepened the kiss. The lips are as cold as others, but the kisses are gentle and firm. They lick the scallops on the tip of the tongue wantonly, and the warm aroma of wine sweeps in, bringing a strange touch. It''s scary, but I don''t know how to let it go. At the end of the kiss, Xiao Shao let go of her imprisonment. However, before Jiang Ruan got up from his leg, Xiao Shao put her in his arms, chin on the top of her hair and said, "now, you are my princess." Jiang Ruan was locked in his arms. He could not see Xiao Shao''s expression at the moment. If he could see it, he would find that the young man''s deep eyes showed rare gentleness, and his handsome face showed a faint blush and smile. No matter how intoxicating the moonlight is, it''s not as gorgeous as the waves in those cold deep eyes. Only when you hold the girl in your arms like this, can you clearly feel the thin body in your arms, as if a gust of wind can blow it down. But Xiao Shao knew that it was this thin body that could shake the deepest foundation of the great Jin Dynasty. In the past 20 years, Xiao Shao never felt like this. In fact, on this day of every year, all kinds of things in the past take root in my heart, and there are huge waves in them, which almost make him out of control. he is an old head on young shoulders, a steady and low-key temperament, and a good natural looking person. Even when he suddenly changes in his home, he adjusts his mind in the shortest time. But there was never something that happened overnight in the world, and the pain hidden in the heart gradually settled down, almost isolating him from the world of mortals. But I don''t know when because of a person''s soft mood, for example, at this moment, the pain and hatred deeply buried in the dark, will dissipate bit by bit in this warm embrace and light kiss. Fortunately, a hundred years of life, but a moment lonely, thought that the hope will never come, salvation is now in his arms. Feeling that the embrace was tighter, Jiang Ruan was stunned. Chaotic mind gradually sobered up, I don''t know if it is just Xiao Shao mouth residual liquor make her head dizzy, for a time did not respond. Until now, the firm and domineering words came out of the young man''s mouth, and she didn''t know how to answer them. There is something wrong with Xiao Shao today. Jiang Ruan thinks about it, but he doesn''t know if it''s because of the people he worships. But is it because he is drunk? After being taken advantage of by Xiao Shao one after another, Jiang Ruan''s expression of exasperation and anger seems to be hypocritical. But at the moment, I''m so confused that I can''t think about it well. Thinking that Xiao Shao was drunk and heartbroken at the moment, he sighed in his heart and made a wooden stake for him to hold for a moment. It was better to calm down. Jiang Ruan himself had no idea what such a default represented. Although she doesn''t care much about these men and women''s affairs in this life, she won''t fall into the hands of others. How can she make people feel at ease to take advantage of others? It''s just that Xiao Shao''s angry words are redundant. She thought and thought, and finally she was a little discouraged. Xiao Shao hugged her so tightly that she couldn''t break free. Seeing the expression of her partner at the moment, she didn''t know what mood Xiao Shao was holding her. There seemed to be some warmth on her lips. Jiang Ruan''s eyes turned red on her white cheek.She took a deep breath and said coldly, "Xiao Shao, since you are drunk, I will treat you as awake. I won''t refuse the Dowager''s marriage. When we enter Jinying palace, we are the people on the same boat. " After a pause, she said, "since you don''t like Xuanli very much, what can I do for you except him?" She is always unwilling to take a little loss, because she took advantage of it, but also for Xiao Shao in addition to Xuanli. "You kiss me, but I don''t care about drunkenness." When she said this, her face was open and generous. But I don''t know that the man who holds her in his arms slightly picks his eyebrows, his eyes move, and he is charming. Well, she doesn''t know one thing. The men of Xiao family are never drunk. This chapter has been stuck in tea all afternoon_ ١ϣ_ How about Uncle Xiao''s quick action? Are you satisfied with that ~ Mr www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 149 Xiao Shao hugged Jiang Ruan while he was drunk. The next day, the news spread all over Jinying palace. Jinying palace people admire their master''s action again. Look, it''s courage! Although many people know that tuming has lived for so many years and has never seen Xiao Shao drunk before, the purpose is to think that if the king really does not make a sound, he will make a great success. Jiang Ruan didn''t know about all of them. Last night, Xiao Shao didn''t know when to fall asleep. Jiang Ruan asked Tianzhu to help Xiao Shao to the room to have a rest. He had a lot of thoughts in the night, but he didn''t sleep well, "elder sister." Jiang Dan looks dull, and his words are a little aggrieved: "Danniang is not someone with ulterior motives. What can she do with the news? " JIANG Ruan said with a smile," it''s not difficult for the fourth sister to know these things. Three days later, she will enter the palace. "She laughs meaningfully:" the fourth sister can hear a lot. If she can get the favor of her majesty, she will be able to find out more recent news. At that time, maybe I will ask for news from the fourth sister. " when Jiang Dan heard this, he didn''t know whether he was happy or sad. He gave a strange smile:" the eldest sister teases Danniang. There are so many women in the palace who are of top quality. Danniang is just a common woman. "She looked at Jiang Ruan and said," if you change to the eldest sister, it will be the blessing of Jiang Fu. " " that''s all, "Jiang Ruan said with a smile," since your father let you into the palace, it''s your own unique. If you enter the palace, you will prosper. If you are born more noble than yourself, you will not have to stand aside as long as you are favored. Besides, there is Jiang''s house behind you, and your father is supporting you. "In her previous life, when she learned that she was going to enter the palace, all the nominal relatives of Jiang''s family were so comforting. Now she gives all these words back to Jiang Dan, but she doesn''t know what it''s like to hear them. Jiang Dan was not sure what Jiang Ruan was thinking for a moment, so he forced a smile and said, "do you know elder sister, madam is crazy. She was taken out of the house by the young master to have a rest in the countryside. The second elder sister also went to Xiahou''s house, saying that his wife was ill and went back to see a doctor. " " the second brother has a heart. "Jiang Ruan said:" Hou Ye''s wife has never been in good health. It''s right for her to go back. " JIANG Dan frowned and was disappointed that he didn''t get the expected response. But after a short time, he said unintentionally, "but where can I recuperate? I have to go to Chuang Tzu. I don''t know if I can stand the bumpy road to Chuang Tzu " " the second brother has his own ideas. "Instead of taking her words, Jiang Ruan blocked them. Jiang Dan had no choice but to understand that Jiang Ruan didn''t want to go deep. Then he said a few words casually, stood up and said with a smile, "Danniang still needs to go back to prepare some things to enter the palace, so she won''t delay the elder sister. She will go back to the yard first and see her later. " after seeing Jiang Dan off, Dewdrop came to pour tea for Jiang Ruan and said," I''m really playing a pig and eating a tiger. Once I''m powerful, my eyes will see the sky. "In the eyes of several servant girls, Jiang Dan came to Ruan Ju today just to show off. By the way, he went down the well to see the current situation of Jiang and Ruan. The villains in the world are about like Jiang Dan. Jiang Ruan''s mind is not on Jiang Dan. Just now, Jiang Dan''s words intentionally or unintentionally reveal a meaning. The prey who has been enduring for a long time can''t help but walk to the edge of the trap. Do you want to wait for the prey to fall or push it? Jiang Dan wanted to borrow her hand, but mistakenly regarded everyone in the world as a fool. Just now, I didn''t expect that Jiang Chao was the first one who couldn''t calm down? She sipped her tea slowly and said, "Tianzhu, please check which Chuang Tzu Xia Yan is in. Jiang Chao is going to do it. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 150 The early autumn has passed, and the flowers in the various gardens of the palace seem to be more prosperous, especially the large chrysanthemums, which are so colorful that the petals are stacked and curled into a beautiful arc. It''s also a grand scene when they are placed. Everywhere fragrance, these days in order to welcome a new batch of the palace draft of the show, the palace eunuchs and maids are busy enough. Every year, there are new comers. Every year, a group of unknown spirits will be added to the palace to nourish the seemingly prosperous flowers in the land. Although it sounds a little shocking, there is always no shortage of new fertilizer - there is always no lack of people who want to fly to the branches to be Phoenix. Lying lazily on her couch, the lady''s exotic silhouette is decorated by the halo of candlelight. She also knows her own advantages. She wears a gold thread short silk yarn jacket, a fine gem forehead between her forehead, a long sapphire blue yarn skirt, and her lower toes are delicate and white. She looks like a jade carving. This is a beauty with unspeakable amorous feelings all over her body. No wonder this beauty is still the first time in the palace draft. Looking at her fingernails, she feeds the peeled purple grapes in the crystal bottle to her mouth. The grapes are mellow and lovely. The cherry lips are small and the pink tongue is flexible. It''s true that you can have a different taste even if you eat a grape. The unique incense of the western regions is rising in the crane mouth copper stove. It is warm and bold. With the warm candlelight, it makes people feel like they are in a foreign land. Since Chen Guifei was put into the cold palace, Shufei''s life is more and more moistening. Imperial concubine de and imperial concubine Chen fought for a lifetime. Now imperial concubine Chen is losing power, but the fourth Prince and the fifth prince are still fighting for that position. Shufei herself only gave birth to Princess Heyi, without any children. Naturally, she didn''t have any other dreams that she shouldn''t think about. It was too far away for her to seize the right. Being in the harem, Shufei paid more attention to winning the emperor''s heart. When Chen Guifei was there, most of the emperor''s thoughts were on her. Rao Shishu''s countless patterns and customs were not equal to Chen Guifei''s gentle smile and ordinary colorful complexion. In this deep palace, what Shufei hates most is Chen Guifei. Everyone knows that Shufei and Chen Guifei are natural enemies. Now there''s no chance for Princess Chen to turn over. She''s like a fish in water without a strong opponent. It''s just that it''s common for a beautiful woman to be late in the evening in the palace. Although Princess Chen has lost her power, it''s inevitable that a second and a third will appear in the new batch of beautiful women. The girls are all at the same age as Hua. Shufei is lucky enough to beat the middle-aged Chen Guifei, but she can''t beat the young Chen Guifei. Even so, these days, Shufei''s life is much more comfortable than before. Before the sound of silk bamboo stopped, I saw a small figure rushing in angrily. Without looking at it, I ran straight into the imperial concubine''s couch. In the tone of the visitor, he was still angry: "mother concubine!" Who is Princess Heyi? Shufei frowned slightly and waved her hand. The maid in waiting stopped playing the piano and left the palace in a hurry. Princess Heyi jumped onto the imperial concubine''s couch without looking at it. She saw that the maid in waiting was wearing a red dress. She suddenly felt that the red dress was very dazzling and said, "stop." The palace maid didn''t know what was the matter. She quickly stopped. Qu Qi knelt down and raised her chin with Princess Yi. She said: "this palace maid looks so annoying. She dragged it down and cut it." "Forgive me, Princess!" The maid in waiting was shocked. She didn''t know what she had done wrong, but she also knew that it was impossible to reason with the domineering princess, so she had to kowtow and beg for mercy. Seeing the miserable situation of kowtow in front of her body, Princess Heyi felt a faint pleasure in her heart. She suddenly gave a cruel smile: "my princess is always kind. Since you beg for mercy and are a member of the imperial concubine''s palace, my princess is very kind. You don''t have to die. Drag it down and cut her hands." When the maid in waiting heard the first part, she was just glad to hear the last sentence. She almost fainted. After looking at his hands, he cut off his hands to a music slave who lived in the palace playing the piano. Would it not have ruined his life? It''s better to go now. Princess Heyi, however, has no sympathy for the palace maid''s collapse. She waves her hand and has several bodyguards to drag down the palace maid who suffered from the disaster. When the other eunuchs in the palace saw it, they all bowed their heads and did not see the scene in front of them. No one wanted to be the next plaything favored by the moody princess. From the beginning to the end, Shufei leaned on the concubine''s couch and looked at the scene in front of her. She didn''t say a word to stop it. There was a faint smile on her lips. She seemed very satisfied with this cruel game, and even felt a little interesting. This kind of expression appears on a beautiful woman, it is really a little terrible. "What''s the matter with you?" She asks and Yi County Lord way: "who provoked you again?" Don''t ask good, a ask and Yi princess suddenly complexion a change, hate hate bite lip way: "mother imperial concubine, you killed Jiang Ruan for me good?" This words say of startle, Shu imperial concubine but also just frowned a way: "Hong an princess?"? What''s wrong with her? " "It''s not just unhappy?" He Yijun said: "the last time she threatened xuanpei, I didn''t mention it. This time, I heard the people in the imperial study say that King Jinying asked the emperor to marry that bitch! The little eunuch outside can hear, mother concubine, how do you let me swallow this breath! "Princess Heyi''s resentment towards Jiang Ruan has been born for a long time. Since she first met Jiang Ruan, the charming appearance of Jiang Ruan has left a shadow in her heart, and she has become Princess Hong''an. In Heyi''s eyes, Jiang Ruan is just an unpopular daughter of Shangshu mansion. How can she be compared with her golden branch and jade leaf. Last time, because Shufei had warned her not to make trouble for the time being, she didn''t bother about xuanpei. If these can be tolerated, Xiao Shao asked the emperor to marry Jiang Ruan, but this matter touched the bottom line of He Yi. As long as you think of this, He Yi would like to cut Jiang Ruan to pieces, so that she will never live beyond her! "Xiao Shao asked to marry Princess Hong''an?" Shufei look: "this matter seriously?" "It''s true." Qu, chairman of Heyi County, said: "how can such a bitch be worthy of King Jinying? Why does King Jinying want to marry her? Mother imperial concubine, do you go to kill her for He Yi? " Shufei looks at Princess Heyi. Her facial features look like her. She is born with a kind of beauty from a foreign land. At the moment, the expression on her beautiful face is distorted, which destroys the beauty. Although her daughter can''t be used as a bargaining chip, she grew up in the palm of her hand when she grew up with Princess Yi. No one knows what Princess Heyi thinks about Xiao Shao better than Princess Shufei. The emperor''s attention to Xiao Shao is in the eyes of Shufei. Although the emperor also dotes on Princess Heyi, Shufei knows that the emperor will never marry her to Xiao Shao. And Yi princess''s this idea, afraid is can''t realize forever. Now Xiao Shao has a lover, and Princess Yi is so excited. Shufei''s beautiful red lips, Xiao Shao''s lover, unexpectedly is Hongan princess. She looked at her daughter and sighed in her heart that she should have kept away from this matter, and let Princess Heyi also keep away from it. But looking at the expression of Princess Heyi, she could not say that sentence. Just because of the feeling of Princess Yi at the moment, she also felt the same experience. I watched my beloved and my sweetheart fly together, but it was not her in my arms. That kind of jealousy, loss, madness, hatred, the idea of dying with each other in the heart of inflation, almost burst. She had put up with it. Did she want her daughter to go her way? "No princess Hong''an, there are others." Shufei reminds Heyi: "he always wants to get a wife. That person won''t be you." As a mother, Shufei is more willing to tear the truth to her than to create a dream that will never come true for Princess Heyi. "Then I''ll try to kill them. I''ll kill whoever he likes. " Princess Heyi''s look flashed a kind of astonishing Madness: "his princess, can only be me." Shufei definitely looked at Princess Heyi for a while, then sarcastically hooked her lips. She didn''t know who she was laughing at. She said in a tired voice: "you really like him." Princess Heyi is silent. Since she first met Xiao Shao, she fell in love with that lonely boy. She has been following him for so many years, but Xiao Shao never looks back at her. She is the emperor''s favorite princess, Golden branch and jade leaf. She is so beautiful that she can''t compare with an unloved courtmaid? What''s good about Jiang Ruan? Why did Xiao Shao identify her? At the thought of the picture of Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan staying together, Princess Heyi is jealous and wants to go crazy. He wants to rush to tear Jiang Ruan''s face and trample her in the dust. "Don''t be so upset." Shufei was playing with her fingernails: "although the old thing of the Empress Dowager is protecting her, there is nothing she can do. Princess Hong''an is in the limelight. If you are in the limelight alone, you will go downhill. " "Concubine..." Princess Heyi''s eyes brightened. "Isn''t this an opportunity?" Shufei raised her lips and said with a smile, "Jiang Xinzhi''s whereabouts are unknown after his defeat. If he really becomes a prisoner, Princess Hong''an''s life will come to an end. At the moment, his position in the palace is also awkward. At this time, it''s better to start. " "Mother, what should we do? Collusion, treason. "Shufei looked at the grapes in the crystal plate in front of her and laughed happily:" this crime is not small. Xuanli''s hand trembled slightly, a few drops of tea splashed out and spilled on the table in front of him. Xiao Shao asked the emperor to marry him? "He exclaimed. Your highness, it''s true. "The people at the bottom hang their heads. What a king of Jinying! "Xuanli snorted coldly, and put the cup on the table. Suddenly, there was a fire in his heart. The reason for this suffocation is that he was not so angry when he was rejected by Jiang Ruan earlier. At first, he thought that it was Jiang Ruan who was young and didn''t know anything about it. Now he repeatedly refused his kindness. He still felt strange. He asked himself that Jiang Ruan was the most gentle and outstanding of all the princes in the palace. Why did Jiang Ruan treat him coldly every time? Now it seems that he has been secretly cheating with Xiao Shao for a long time! At the thought that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had already had a head and tail, Xuanli was deeply depressed. As a matter of fact, if you can exchange a Jiang Ruan for Xiao Shao''s support, as long as you help Xiao Shao with his marriage, maybe Xiao Shao will sell him a few favors in the future. He always considers the best interests when he does things. This is the best way to get Xiao Shao''s support. What is Xuanhua afraid of? I don''t know why, but now his heart is very upset. It is reasonable to say that Xuanli did not have much contact with Jiang Ruan, but he did not have deep feelings. But I don''t know why, now I hear the news that Xiao Shao asked the emperor to marry him. It''s like the thing that originally belonged to Xuanli was robbed, and all of them are unwilling. As if Jiang Ruan was born to be his man, as if the development of things should not be like this.After a pause, Xuan Li slowly clenched the cup: "stop him. " " this "The staff hesitated:" if nothing happens, it''s better for King Jinying not to turn around. " although Xiao Shao was named a disorderly official and a thief, he didn''t do much in the imperial court, but all the civil and military officials knew that Xiao Shao was the emperor''s confidant. Otherwise, why did the emperor defend him for so many years. The royal guards under Xiao Shao''s hands are also enough to be feared. Now Xiao Shao has not indicated which faction he stands for, and it is best to remain neutral. If Xiao Shao is annoyed, which faction Xiao Shao chooses will have a huge impact on the pattern of the court. Stupid. "Xuanli said:" start from Princess Hong''an. "His eyes fell on the floating tea in the teacup in front of him, and suddenly a trace of dark color flashed in his eyes:" Jiang Xinzhi was defeated, and Jiang Ruan was in an awkward position. Any mistake could lead to death. "He seems to think of something, and his expression is gradually relaxed:" if an is a crime, and he wants to marry King Jinying again, I''m afraid it''s wishful thinking. Empress Dowager Yide was very satisfied when she heard that Jiang Ruan was highly respected among the servants of King Jinying''s residence in the palace. When she chatted with aunt Yang, she said, "ah Shao has always been safe in doing things. I think it''s usually meaningful. Otherwise, how can the servants see the situation clearly?". " aunt Yang also followed with admiration. Suddenly she thought of something and shook her head:" I just don''t know what your majesty thinks. I heard that your majesty is still dissatisfied with the princess. " " I don''t know what kind of festivals I had in my last life. "Empress Dowager Yide said:" Ai Jia also knows what he means, but since a Shao asked AI Jia to come here, even if the emperor complained about AI Jia, the marriage AI Jia would also be given. However, a Shao''s temperament is bound to be well managed. I''m afraid that a Shao has figured out a way himself before he can tell the emperor clearly. " The Empress Dowager Yide had a good idea, but the next day, when the emperor asked governor Yao to come to talk about his family, governor Yao immediately changed his face. A few days ago, the emperor hinted that the Yao family''s daughter would marry King Jinying. Governor Yao still looked happy. On that day, he even shook his head, saying that his little girl was not talented enough to be worthy of King Jinying''s young hero, and even Miss Yao I''m afraid I can''t get better in a year or two because I''m sick in bed. I''ve made up all the excuses. Such an obvious rebuff and fear, the emperor naturally also saw, in the heart annoyed way must be Xiao Shaogan''s good thing. Who can scare a country''s Binhai governor into such a state except Xiao Shao. It''s still as neat as ever. Governor Yao''s attitude will not change in the future. The emperor was very angry. The Yao family''s gold was the most suitable one. Xiao Shao stirred the Yellow by himself. If he had any other ideas in the future, Xiao Shao would follow suit. As for the way Xiao Shao used to make the Yao family change their mind, the Yao family would not say. Mr. Yao, the governor of Binhai, wiped the sweat on his forehead. He watched the emperor''s face change again and again, and his heart became tight and tight. It is said that accompanying a tiger is like accompanying a tiger. He should have followed the tiger''s hair, but today he refutes the tiger''s idea, but he really can''t help it. As a matter of fact, the gold of the Yao family was the apple of his eye. It was also his pride. He felt that no man in the world was worthy of his daughter. After the emperor proposed to marry the Yao family and Jinying palace, governor Yao was immediately moved. First of all, Yao family and Jinying Palace are loyal to the emperor, and they are not factional. Now when the wind is chaotic, if they marry Jinying palace, even if the fifth prince or the eighth Prince takes the throne in the future, they dare not attack them easily. Second, governor Yao is also a man of vision. Naturally, we can see that Xiao Shao is not in the middle of the pool. Although what he is doing now is hidden in the dark, he will make a big splash one day. And the talent and strategy are all big brocade Korean have, and his daughter is a perfect match. When the emperor proposed such a good marriage, governor Yao was secretly happy. But the night before yesterday, someone put a letter in the study. Nothing else. It was all the secret things that governor Yao had done since he took office. No one in the official family has a secret, but this letter is ingenious because the events above are vague, intermittent, and just intercepting the most imaginative part. Originally, there was no big deal, but with the layout of the letter, it seemed that it would take human life. Governor Yao believed that if the letter flew to the emperor''s study, the emperor would protect his life for many years, and the Yao family would never want to have a foothold in the imperial court. It''s a wonderful planting, but it''s true. Accurately grasp the characteristics of the Yao family, governor Yao can only be slaughtered without backhand power. But there was only one request in the letter, which was to let Binhai governor give up the idea of marriage with Jinying palace. Governor Yao is not a fool. Who is the person who does it? I have a number in my mind. Think of here, on the one hand angry, but also helpless. Well, since people don''t like their own family and Miss Yao has to be wronged when she goes to the house, governor Yao has to make it clear to the emperor that he won''t marry Miss Yao to King Jinying. After all, if the in laws can find it again, if something really happens in the house, they will lose everything. A digressionA big wave of abuse begins to attack. Ruan Mei is going to be angry. Please move the small bench to see her ~ now www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 151 Even after many years, jingzhuyuan is clean. When Princess Yuanrong was 14 years old and hairpin, a piece of land opened up by the late emperor in the deep palace was renovated into a beautiful courtyard and presented to Princess Yuanrong as a gift of hairpin. But the garden is still there, but Si people are gone. Until Princess Yuanrong and other countries, the garden was not completely repaired. But the scenery is still very good - after the death of the first emperor, empress Yide has also been sent to tidy up the courtyard. However, although the garden is good, the Empress Dowager Yide has never set foot on it. Maybe she is afraid of seeing things and thinking of others, arousing guilt and guilt in her heart. Therefore, jingzhuyuan becomes a unique existence in the deep palace. It is clear that it will be renovated day by day, but it is also a desolate garden. But the desolation of jingzhuyuan was changed by the arrival of Jiang Ruan, who inherited many privileges of Yuanrong princess, including walking around jingzhuyuan. It has to be said that the first emperor was supposed to love Princess Yuanrong very much, and every scene in jingzhuyuan was carefully built. There is even a library and study, a small courtyard for people to rest. But there was still a distance between the palace of Princess and jingzhuyuan. Jiang Ruan never went to it in ordinary days. He just stepped on it once in a while. On this day, a palace maid came outside, carrying a small basket to jingzhuyuan. Look, it''s about going to jingzhuyuan. The basket in my hand is about picking petals. Recently, Jiang Ruan learned how to mix incense, and often let the maids in the palace of the princess into jingzhuyuan to eat some petals. Occasionally along the way, the little eunuch maids can help, but also get some benefits. In the middle of her walk, she was suddenly stopped: "stop!" The maid looked back, but she didn''t recognize it. After a long time, she realized that it was not someone else, but Princess Heyi. Princess Heyi came quickly, looked at the flower basket in the hand of the maid of honor, frowned and said, "where are you going?" "In the name of Princess Hong''an, I went into jingzhuyuan to collect petals." The little maid bowed her head. "Oh, jingzhuyuan." And Yi Princess look one meal, way: "so, you go." The palace maid looked at Princess Heyi in surprise. She didn''t expect that the princess who had never been arrogant and domineering was so easy to talk today. However, it was a good thing for her. She immediately picked up hualanchong and blessed Princess Heyi. Then she left. But the palace maid didn''t notice that Princess Heyi didn''t leave. Instead, she stood in the same place and watched the direction she left. She followed quietly all the way until she saw the palace maid turn a corridor and enter a manor. Her figure disappeared. Princess Heyi finished her dress. Today she is wearing a plain blue brocade robe. For her, who has always loved gold and gorgeous clothes, this has been very simple. There was no powder on his face. He was very different from ordinary people. At first glance, it was not easy to be recognized. She straightened her dress, with a strange smile on her face, and then walked towards the courtyard in the direction of the maid in waiting. The courtyard seems to be unguarded, and the result of the repair is as beautiful as a rumor. Princess Heyi can''t help but have a resentful expression. When she was a child, she overheard the palace people talking about such a jingzhuyuan. She once asked the emperor for it, but the emperor who had always loved her refused. Princess Heyi has a strong disposition. She never came to jingzhuyuan after she knew it couldn''t be touched. She only thought there was no such place in the palace. Who knows, although Jiang Ruan didn''t get the garden, empress Yide allowed her to come in and walk. For Princess Heyi, is it not humiliation. In the heart of Jiang Ruan''s hatred and deep layer, whenever she likes, see things, Jiang Ruan always want to grab. The garden is very big and full of scenery. I''ve never been to it before and I don''t know its scenery. Now the more beautiful it is, the more possessive it is. I just wish I could enter the garden. But I don''t know how there is no bodyguard inside, and I don''t know where the study is. After turning for a long time, until Princess Heyi was a little impatient, he suddenly saw a bamboo building in the distance around a huge camphor tree. This bamboo building looks brand-new, hidden in the trees. It''s indescribable elegant and elegant. It should be the legendary study. In this study, watching the shadow of trees whirling, drinking tea and reading books is a pleasant thing. Princess Heyi''s eyes were full of anger. She felt an impulse in her heart. She wanted to burn the bamboo building. However, when the envelope in the sleeve was touched, the anger on his face was precipitated and replaced by a smile. What was in the envelope was nothing else but evidence of Jiang Ruan''s treason. Although Shufei promised to give Jiang Ruan an a charge of treason, let her die without burial place, but now has not found the right time. Shufei can''t wait, but Princess Heyi can''t. You know, if you wait any longer, the emperor''s marriage will cure Jiang Ruan''s crime? I''m afraid it''s even harder to start with Xiao Shao at that time. The people around Princess Heyi are all given by Shufei. If you let the people around you do it, Shufei naturally knows. Now Shufei doesn''t allow her to start at random, so she can''t disturb Shufei. It''s just that Princess Heyi''s temperament has never been able to endure. This day, she can''t bear it any more, so she steals the "criminal evidence" from Shufei''s room, and wants to finish it by herself.The evidence of crime is nothing else. It''s the correspondence between Jiang Ruan and the people of Tianjin state. In the letter, Jiang Ruan was called cordially, and it was vaguely mentioned that Jiang Xinzhi was safe. There was even a seal of Tianjin minister on it. Now that Jiang Xinzhi was defeated, he was in a very dangerous situation. As long as the letter was found out, he was naturally guilty, and almost immediately became guilty of Jiang Xinzhi''s crime. Moreover, the crime was even worse. Jiang Xinzhi''s two brothers and sisters collaborated with the enemy to betray the country, and they were the culprits of the great Jin Dynasty. In this way, the people of the Dajin dynasty would put Jiang Ruan in prison. Even if Jiang Xinzhi didn''t die in the future, he would never survive in Dajin. The best punishment for Jiang Xinzhi is to be chased around like a lost dog. Isn''t Jiang Ruan very fond of her elder brother? She is going to destroy him. Princess Heyi thought so complacently that she had already inquired about it. The Princess Palace was like an iron bucket. There was no way to start, but jingzhuyuan was very easy to start. Jiang ruanping doesn''t often go in these days. These days he just sends his maids to pick some petals, which is very convenient for her. But now her people are afraid that they will disturb Shufei, so they can only do it by themselves, and Princess Heyi is not afraid. If things come to light, as long as she is not caught, she has nothing to do with her, isn''t she? Today, I followed the maid to jingzhuyuan. As long as no one put the criminal evidence in the study, and then I happened to let people know that Jiang Ruan had cooperated with the enemy, as long as I searched in the jingzhuyuan, the criminal evidence came first, how could Jiang Ruan deny it? Princess Heyi thought very well, but she didn''t expect that the bamboo building was so difficult to find. However, she was still a little hesitant. Why didn''t a eunuch in jingzhuyuan see it? Usually, there were at least some servants who were specially responsible for cleaning up. Now don''t say they were guards. No one who swept the yard saw them. All the way, I didn''t see any flowers. Didn''t Jiang ruanping Rili ask the palace maids to pick the petals? How could there be no flowers here? What did the palace maids with the flower basket come to do? You don''t come to pick leaves? Princess Heyi felt a little strange and suspected that she was on the wrong road. But just now that palace maiden really is to go here of not false, hesitation also but for a moment, and Yi Princess then make up one''s mind, is wrong again how? She was the princess of the grand Jin Dynasty. In addition to the emperor''s bedroom, there was no place in the palace where she did not dare to go. There is no guard in this place. It must not be a forbidden area in the deep palace. Today, I have entered it. If I don''t go up to find out, I will come here in vain? Princess Heyi has always been arrogant and refused to admit defeat. She never paid attention to this place. What''s more, if you want to kill Jiang Ruan wholeheartedly, where can you put these things in your heart? No matter how smart you are, you can''t figure out the pros and cons. She picked up her train and went to the bamboo building. The repair of the bamboo building is very exquisite. Princess Heyi walks up the steps of the bamboo building. The last thing she sees is the clean clothes of the two people in front of her, which is in sharp contrast to her bloody body. The last thing she heard was Xuan Li''s light inquiry: "how did she find here?" As long as Emma writes about killing people, she''s very eloquent. She doesn''t want to write about it at all www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 152 Under the bamboo building, the people under his command hid the body of Princess Heyi and cleaned up the blood on the ground. In the bamboo house, Xuan Li and Xuan Lang are sitting at the table. They don''t look as relaxed as before. "I just want to know how she knew about it." Xuanli stares at xuanlang road. Although this place is in the deep palace, its twists and turns and secrets are not visible to everyone. If you walk from other roads, you will meet the guard, and Princess Heyi can walk in all the way, you will not meet any guard. This can only show that the path she took was her own. And Princess Heyi can''t be her own. They''re afraid that something''s wrong with her. This place is very confidential. Xuanli and xuanlang usually meet here when they have something to discuss. So today they meet princess Heyi, and they both kill each other almost at the same time. Although this place looks like a deserted imperial concubine''s backyard, other people in the palace actually know that they have appeared here together, which will inevitably arouse people''s suspicion. Xuanlang was surprised: "eighth brother, you don''t doubt me, do you?" He didn''t seem to know how to explain it: "I swear I didn''t, how could I tell her such a thing?" "I didn''t say it was you." Xuan Li waved his hand: "however, what other people around you know about this place?" Xuan Lang shook his head: "no one knows this place except the guards given by Badi. I also feel very strange, and Yi suddenly found here, if it is unintentional to find, it is too much coincidence After a pause, Xuan Lang''s face flashed a trace of chagrin: "just now we should ask how she came here." It''s a pity that he lost control of his emotion just now. On impulse, he killed Princess Heyi. At the moment, he felt some regret and fear in his heart. But the bow didn''t turn back. Since people are dead, it''s too late to say anything. "There''s always something strange about it." Xuanli narrowed his eyes: "the sudden disappearance of Heyi will inevitably cause suspicion in the palace. There is only one way to prevent people from suspecting him." "What method?" Xuan Lang was stunned. "Bring disaster to the East." Xuanli said with a smile: "Princess Heyi was killed, but we can''t kill her. Anyone in this palace who has a grudge against her will kill her. If she can get rid of the thorn in her eye, she will die well. " Xuanlang''s eyes brighten. It''s true. It''s not safe to hide with Princess Yi in the palace. It''s not easy to transport the corpse out of the palace secretly. Up to now, we can only find a scapegoat. However, this scapegoat is not just a scapegoat. It''s better to kill two birds with one stone, not only throw out the hot potato, but also get rid of the serious trouble. Xuanlang thought, suddenly a cold figure floated in his heart. "I know," he said excitedly, "eighth brother, I have a good candidate." "Oh?" Xuanli''s eyes flashed: "tell me." "This way, I promise, can satisfy Badi better than finding a scapegoat. We can borrow Heyi to fulfill Badi''s wish." With a low smile, Xuan Lang grabbed a piece of paper in front of him and began to write. Tianzhu returned to the palace of the princess, put down the basket in her hand, and slowly picked a basket of petals. Then she poured out all the petals and put them in a wooden basin and began to wash them. "When is it? You''re still in the mood to do this here." Dew pulled the basin, grabbed her sleeve and went into the room: "girl, I''m waiting for your reply." Tianzhu shrugs. As a subordinate, he must satisfy the master''s instructions. In addition to leading the way, Jiang Ruan''s instructions were the same as looking for the petals. She couldn''t ignore one thing and lose the other. All the big and small things were the things that the master told her. In the room, Jiang Ruan is sorting the petals she picked earlier. Empress Yide is in a good mood recently. She points out that she should learn to mix a few bottles of spices. When she was in the palace in her previous life, she took Xuanli''s blessing to learn some, but it''s not difficult. Now it''s cheaper. "Girl, the road has arrived." Tianzhu said: "I saw Princess Heyi enter the garden with my own eyes. After waiting for an hour, I didn''t come out. Just like the girl told me, I went to jingzhuyuan and picked some petals to come back." Before Jiang Ruan told Lu Zhu to inquire about the recent news of Princess Heyi in Shufang palace. Once he knew that Princess Heyi had been out of Shufang palace early today, he immediately asked Tianzhu to dress up as a maid of honor, and carried a flower basket to meet princess Heyi in person. Then let Tianzhu "be followed", quietly to and Yi Princess pointed the way. She didn''t explain to the maidservants why she did it. Dewdrop didn''t understand the reason. She just vaguely felt that it was a very important thing. Only Tianzhu, who is a martial arts practitioner, was called to Wuzhong by Jiang Ruan. After giving her a map, she walked all the way to find out the ingeniousness of the map. The garden that Jiang Ruan asked her to lead Princess Heyi to was a secret place. The one that Jiang Ruan took her was the one that avoided all the guards. It''s very difficult to really enter such a garden. There are many forks, and there are many forks on the forks. It''s very difficult to really answer the destination. If you take the wrong one, you will be informed by the guard, which will alarm the owner. If a big man really gets the news, it''s just a garden, and there''s no other way.In fact, it''s a very courageous secret room. It''s so bold that it''s exposed to the public. The secret room is in the public garden, and basically no one can enter except the owner. Jiang Ruan obviously knew where the garden was, and even the road was the easiest one. She will and Yi princess lead here, the place can imagine the danger. If he was one of his own, he didn''t have to use this method. That is to say, Jiang Ruan''s method of killing people with a knife was extremely clever. Tianzhu didn''t understand how Jiang Ruan knew the secret room and passage. She felt that there were many secrets in her new master. She thought, this place, maybe even the people who are in charge of the dark places in the royal guards don''t know the complete way. Dew could not help but ask: "girl, why do you wait for an hour? An hour later, sister Tianzhu came back? " "One hour is enough." Jiang Ruan''s eyes still fell on the petals in front of her. After cleaning, the petals became more and more bright. She said, "it only takes a stick of incense to kill people. The rest of the time is just for cleaning." "Murder?" Dewdrop was surprised, then covered her mouth, secretly hated her gaffe, and asked in a low voice: "Princess Heyi Killed? " Jiang Ruan took a look at her and said, "with her temperament, she has not come out now. She must be dead and alive." This, she knew from the beginning, into the place of people, except for their own people, has never been able to retreat. Dewdrop looked at Jiang Ruan and Tianzhu, and suddenly realized, "girl is on purpose. She knew that Princess Heyi would die when she went in, so she let Tianzhu take her way?" "Yes." Jiang Ruan put each kind of petal into a small wooden box, turned his head and looked at her: "I have already calculated." Dewdrop didn''t know what she was feeling in her heart. For a moment, she felt that her girl was really terrible. Jiang Ruan received her faint fear eyes and just gave her a smile, which made dewdrop feel guilty. I thought I would come to Jiang Ruan every three to five with Princess Yi. Sometimes I want to kill Jiang Ruan. It''s better to start first, so as not to cause more trouble in the future. Dewdrop''s attitude was very good. She soon returned her unnatural axis and said to Jiang Ruan, "but how do you know that the princess will die when she goes to that place? What is that place? " Where? Jiang Ruan is slightly stunned, but his thoughts are floating to the distance. Xuanli is a person who thinks he is elegant and interesting. Even if he talks about some conspiracy, he must find a beautiful place. For example, the garden is something Xuanli is proud of. Just because it is bold and subtle, ordinary people can''t find her. Xuanli had taken her several times in her last life. When she thought about it, Xuanli was willing to work hard on a chess piece. She had no airs and was considerate and gentle. Then she showed her all her secret places, which made it difficult for her to trust her. That place is Xuanli''s secret place. Xuanli often meets xuanlang here, and Xuanli takes her several times in her own way. Xu thinks that she is a woman in the end, and her memory is not so outstanding, so she doesn''t pay much attention to it. However, she didn''t know that she grew up in Zhuangzi when she was a child, because she wanted to identify which mountain herbal medicine could sell money, right I''m very familiar with the location of the road. Even if I only walk once, I can remember it well, let alone several times. Since the rebirth of this life, those memories with blood feuds have become clearer. She has carefully recorded everything she can use, including Xuanli''s secret room in the palace. She had already drawn a map, and thought that one day she would use it. She didn''t want it to come so fast. She knew that Princess Heyi would think of some ways after she learned about Xiao Shao''s marriage. The Princess Palace had no way to start, but jingzhuyuan had a chance to take advantage of it. Let Tianzhu go to jingzhuyuan and take Princess Heyi to the secret room. Once Xuanli finds out, he will kill her. Even if Xuanli didn''t kill her, she and Princess Yi are arrogant and arrogant. Maybe they are still afraid of Xuanli, but they will speak ill of xuanlang. Xuanlang has been holding his breath for so many years. Seeing that the great cause is coming, he will feel arrogant. Moreover, the existence of Princess Heyi will always remind xuanlang of his past shame. Under such stimulation, Xuan Lang is bound to add fire. Even if Princess Heyi doesn''t want to die, it''s hard. It seems to be a simple matter. In fact, there are crises everywhere. If you are careless, you will lose everything. From Xuanli''s arrogance to Princess Heyi''s anger, to xuanlang''s gloom, we should consider the change of people''s heart at every step. If she hadn''t lived in the palace for so many years in her previous life and had a good grasp of these people''s minds, how could she have set up such a situation? Princess Heyi did not die in Xuanli''s hand, xuanlang''s hand, or her hand, but in the heart of the people. I''m afraid I didn''t realize that the last way to death was directed by an unknown maid in waiting, who was carefully arranged by her family. Jiang Ruan''s light drooping eyes, and the means of Princess Yi and princess Shufei, she had seen many years ago, but she didn''t make any progress in this life. Even with her eyes closed, she knew what they were doing.It''s just that if it''s anything else, it''s related to Jiang Xinzhi. It''s too light to let her be buried with her, not to mention a princess Heyi. Outside, Dewdrop looked at Tianzhu and asked, "do you want to tell Lord Xiao about this?" Xiao Shao is very concerned about Jiang Ruan''s affairs. Now Jiang Ruan himself has solved the problem of Princess Heyi. I don''t know if there will be any trouble in the future. It would be much more convenient if Xiao Shao was watching over her. Tianzhu shook his head: "girl told me not to say." "Then you won''t?" The way of dew. Although Tianzhu respectfully called Miss Jiang Ruan Yisheng, she was actually under Xiao Shao''s charge. Everything had to be reported to Xiao Shao. It was unexpected for dewdrop to talk like this. "The girl is my master. I only listen to her orders." Tianzhu looks the same. As early as when Jiang Ruan took the risk to cover Xiao Shao again, she really regarded Jiang Ruan as her master and no longer had other ideas. Dewdrop turned her eyes and was really happy for Jiang Ruan. Anyway, it was a good thing that Tianzhu was accepted by Jiang Ruan and was only loyal to her. Tianzhu don''t open your eyes, but you have some thoughts in your heart. More importantly, as a subordinate, in addition to protecting the master, he should also trust the master enough. Xiao Shao can''t take care of everything. Besides, the battle is just around the corner. Sooner or later, Jiang Ruan will face these swords and swords alone. Jinying palace doesn''t need a weak hostess. She must be strong enough to stand beside Xiao Shao. This is not necessarily a test. It depends on what Jiang Ruan did. In Chuang Tzu, thousands of miles away from the capital, there is a farm yard with three entrances. One of the last rooms is dirty, as if no one had come in for a long time. A thin woman with a basket of things in her hand hurried through the yard, kicking the door open when she passed the last room. There was a fishy and damp smell in the room. The woman lit the lamp and a crouching figure appeared inside. When the man saw the light, he seemed to be very afraid. He kept his hands behind his face and lowered his head for fear that the light would be reflected in front of his eyes. "Hide what hide," the woman did not have a good airway: "premature, eat." After that, he put the contents of the basket heavily on the table and collected the basket. Without thinking about it, he yelled: "I have to take care of you every day. What''s good about such a broken person? Silver is good. Originally, the daughter of the Chiang family still has three liang of silver in my yard every month. Although you have five liang of silver, you can''t do it I can''t carry it on my shoulders or pick flowers and grasses for me. I''m still at a loss! " When he heard the four words "the daughter of the Chiang family", the people on the ground seemed to tremble and suddenly looked up, showing a dirty face. It seems that there is only a thin layer of flesh and blood on the body, and the whole body is emitting a stench and dirt. I don''t know how long I haven''t bathed. Only a pair of eyes can still vaguely see the original style, it is Xia Yan. If someone passes by here and says that this person is Xia Yanding, some people don''t believe it. It''s just because this woman is dirty and looks like a beggar. There''s nothing in her imagination about the first talented woman in the capital, the gentle and virtuous lady Shangshu. As a result, Xia Yan struggled to the woman and said something vaguely. "Hum," the woman''s face is a flash of jealousy, funny look at Xia Yan, said sarcastically: "but now they are scenery, but also sealed the princess, think she had a pig and dog in my house, don''t want to have such a future now." That woman is no other than Chen Fang, the youngest daughter of Zhang Lan''s family. Since Wang Yushi came to Zhuangzi to rehabilitate Jiang Ruan, Chen Zhao was put into prison, and has not been released. In order to give Chen Zhao activities in prison, Zhang Lan sold all his property and land. The gambler''s husband was also killed for the money he owed, and Zhang Lan was paralyzed at home by the wind soon after. Chen Fang, a girl, married a widower in the east of the village. Widowers often beat and scold her, and she gradually became a fierce shrew in such an environment. Time flies by, as if everything is going backwards. Maybe Xia Yan didn''t think that the servants who once embarrassed Jiang Ruan are now in trouble. She didn''t expect that her life was worse than that of Jiang Ruan. Thirty years of Hedong and thirty years of Hexi. Xia Yan collapsed in the same place. She was sent to this Chuang Tzu by Chen Zhao in the name of recuperation. She thought that she was escaping from the heaven, but she didn''t think that this was the beginning of hell. At the beginning, she tried to threaten Chen Fang to be nice to her, but Chuang Tzu was very remote. How could she fight Chen Fang alone? In front of such a vulgar shrew, Xia Yan couldn''t use all her tricks. She was good at fighting in the back house, but she couldn''t beat a stupid woman in front of her. Chen Fang robbed her jewelry, forced her to work, gave her the worst food and lived in the worst house. All the tricks that had been done to Jiang Ruan had been done to her, even better. Xia Yan is so stunned, but Chen Fang looks at her impatiently. She says that this woman is very annoying, but the official says that she can''t die for the time being. But look at the official, this woman will die in the future, but sooner or later.Without waiting for Xia Yan to say anything more, Chen Fang turned out of the room and closed the door heavily. The room suddenly fell into a darkness again, Xia Yan opened his eyes, and suddenly a tear slowly overflowed from the corner of his eyes. On May Day, I went back to my hometown. It''s no fun to have no Internet in my hometown. I''m crying now. Who is watching the golden relationship like tea? The couple laughed to death ~ when they were teased www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 153 The next morning, early in the morning, Jiang Ruan was invited to Mufeng Pavilion by Princess Heyi. Angelica dahurica was still a little suspicious when she came to send the post. She didn''t know what Jiang Ruan had asked Tianzhu to do. She only said that Princess Heyi wanted to do something bad. She could not help but remind her: "girl, this is Princess Heyi. It must be because she is not drunk. Don''t fall into her trap." Forsythia also nodded and said: "now there are so many pairs of eyes in the palace are staring at the girl, absolutely can''t have an accident in this section of bone eye, it''s better for the maid to go back to this post and say that the girl is inconvenient?" "No need." Jiang Ruan smile: "you go to clean up my clothes." Forsythia and Angelica looked at each other and saw that Jiang Ruan seemed to have an idea, so they had to follow suit. But the dew came to her and said, "girl, isn''t Princess Heyi already Isn''t it true that she didn''t? " It''s impossible for the dead to send a post. There is no ghost in the world. Unless Princess Heyi is still alive, how can this post come out for no reason. "No way." Jiang Ruan Dao. Tianzhu had inquired about it yesterday. Princess Heyi came back to her bedroom last night. She didn''t even go to Shufang palace. Princess Heyi did such a big thing yesterday, but she didn''t mention anything. The maids in the Palace said that the performance of Princess Heyi was a little strange yesterday, and they didn''t seem to want to talk much. In this way, it is likely that the "Princess Heyi" who entered the bedroom is not really Princess Heyi. This post must have been sent by the "Princess Heyi". Of course, the person who really wants to invite her is not the fake "Princess Heyi", but the person behind it. The post has been sent to the Princess Palace, how she can''t go to the appointment, but also save a lot of trouble. She raised her eyebrows, reached out her hand and shook out a letter from her sleeve and handed it to Tianzhu: "it''s not convenient for you to show up. Find a chance to send this letter to the national teacher huijue." Tianzhu nods. After changing her clothes, Jiang Ruan asks Baizhi and dewdrop to follow her and go to Mufeng Pavilion. Although Mufeng pavilion has excellent scenery, it is very close to Lenggong. The concubines are afraid of bad luck and don''t often come here. The eunuchs have a lot of things to do every day. They don''t have the leisure to enjoy the beautiful scenery. If the masters are not here, they will not come here. But Princess Heyi likes this place very much. When Jiang Ruan arrived at the corridor of Mufeng Pavilion, he saw a figure lying on the table from a distance. The clothes should be exactly the same as Princess Heyi, and the two servant girls around him were her maids. Dew see this scene is frowned, heart and Yi Princess unexpectedly did not die? Difficult not true by Angelica said, is to think of what bad way to harm Jiang Ruan? Angelica is more careful than dew. The discovery at the tip of her eyes and the body that Princess Yi fell over are strange. It''s not clear what''s strange. It''s like a couple stuffed with cotton. The posture is rigid, and even the lines of the shoulders are very unnatural. Angelica dahurica left a heart, I do not know why there is a sense of anxiety. Can''t help but want to make a sound again to remind Jiang Ruan, but see Jiang Ruan eyes also don''t blink toward and Yi Princess walk. She left in no hurry. She didn''t seem to think it was a matter worthy of vigilance. Instead, she seemed to have come to an ordinary afternoon invitation for friends. When he came to the front, he lowered his head with the two maids beside Princess Yi and called, "Princess Hong''an is a thousand years old." Jiang Ruan light glance and Yi princess. At this time, he approached Fang and saw clearly. On the stone table, Princess Heyi buried her face on the table. She seemed to be asleep and couldn''t see her face clearly. The closer you go, you can smell the strong fragrance from Princess Heyi. It''s common for women in the palace to like to use powder balm, but the more expensive the balm is, the more light the taste is. The shallower the smell, the more elegant I feel. Princess Heyi is so strong that it''s almost the same as those famous actors in the brothel. Dewdrop first looked at Princess Heyi with some doubts, then widened her eyes as if she thought of something. She was afraid of being found by the two maids in court and quickly dropped her head. She was shocked. How could Princess Heyi use such a strong aroma? If she was normal, she would not understand it. However, after listening to Jiang Ruan''s words yesterday, it seemed that there was a breakthrough in her doubts. This aroma is too strong, instead of being used to decorate, it seems to be hiding something. What to hide? Must be to cover up the smell of blood, rotten gas! Dew heart jump, the dead and Yi Princess sitting in this place, there are people in her name under the post to Jiang Ruan, what purpose, is clearly set up for Jiang Ruan a bureau! "Girl," cried the dew in a hurry. Jiang Ruan turned to look at her. The clarity and calmness in her eyes made dewdrop feel a little stunned. Somehow, Dewdrop only felt that Jiang Ruan''s eyes had swept away her uneasiness. She slowly calmed down and thought that her girls were always scheming strategies. I''m afraid that today''s events had already been expected, so we might as well watch it change. Although Baizhi doesn''t understand what happened, she intuitively feels that the post of Princess Heyi is puzzling, but she always has to be calm. She just stares at Jiang Ruan and doesn''t think about other things. The two maids stood in the same place without saying a word. Jiang Ruan raised her eyebrows and said with a smile, "is Princess Heyi asleep?"One of the maids who waited on Princess Heyi nodded and said, "exactly, maidservants dare not disturb the princess at will." "How about I wake her up?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile. The two maids were stunned by this unpredictable tone. They didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan''s response was so straightforward, which saved them a lot. But as soon as I heard Jiang Ruan''s tone, I don''t know why, there was always a sense of uneasiness, as if someone was watching. They looked at each other and lowered their heads. Jiang Ruan slowly stretched out her hand and pressed it on Princess Heyi''s shoulder. As far as she could reach, it was really stiff. A smile rose from the corner of her lips and she suddenly lifted Princess Heyi back. With a bang, Princess Heyi fell down from the stone bench, rolled on the ground and lay on her back. At this time, you can see that there is a delicate dagger in the belly of Princess Heyi. The blood on the dagger is bright and covers the original trace. Princess Heyi''s eyes were wide open, her lips were pale, and she had been dead for a long time. Dewdrop was only surprised because she had psychological preparation before, but Angelica dahurica was so scared that she cried out. Princess Heyi''s eyes were right at Jiang Ruan, as if she had suffered great pain and disbelief before she died. Her eyes showed resentment and fear, but they were like ghosts who wanted to die. "Princess!" The two maids cried together. Their faces suddenly changed. One of them pointed to Jiang Ruan and said, "you killed the princess!" Jiang Ruan didn''t like it or get angry. He said, "Oh, how can I see it?" From just now to now, when she suddenly saw Princess Heyi''s body, there was no color change at all. If she was not thoughtful, she had already expected what would happen. Whatever it is, it''s terrible, but Jiang Ruan''s indifferent attitude makes people confused. The two maids were frightened, but they could only perform according to the previous script. One of them said angrily: "Princess Hong''an is so cruel. The two maidservants saw that Princess Hong''an and Princess Heyi had become princes. Princess Hong''an killed her in pain. She was in front of your majesty. Princess Hong''an was also a murderer!" "Did you see it with your own eyes?" Jiang Ruan gave a low smile: "you have two people, but I have two people here. What you saw with your own eyes was that I killed Heyi, my two servant girls. I''m afraid I saw something different." After the initial fear, Angelica dahurica also recognized the situation. When she heard the palace maid telling lies with her eyes open, she was very angry when she wanted to frame Jiang Ruan. At the moment, when Jiang Ruan said this, he immediately responded and said, "it''s just that the two sisters spoke strangely. When our girls came, the princess had already died." "It''s true." Dew bead way: "two elder sisters a mouth is no problem, our side three pairs of eyes also have no mistake." The palace maid didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan was still so calm at this moment, and even had the heart to fight with them. For a moment, she didn''t know what to say. Just at this moment, a voice came from the back of her body and said: "the princess really has the courage to know people, and she is a great enemy. She talks and laughs, which makes the palace admire her." Jiang Ruan turned around and saw a man coming from the corridor. He was dressed in brown as usual. Who was xuanlang, the fourth prince? Although we didn''t catch the people behind us, at least we didn''t get nothing. Jiang Ruan smile: "four highness." "Princess, there are not only two people now." Xuan Lang was very kind and gentle, with a little pleasure from the bottom of his heart: "our Palace also saw the process of the princess''s murder. Even if the words of the two maids were not enough, I don''t know if our palace''s words were right?" Dew and Angelica are staring at xuanlang, even if the palace is no longer favored prince, identity and status in this, if xuanlang really come out to testify, Jiang Ruan is completely out of the upper hand. Especially at the moment when Jiang Xinzhi''s whereabouts are unknown, many people in the imperial court are watching Jiang Ruan''s every move, hoping that she will make a mistake. If she is really accused of this crime, everyone will step on it. It will be very difficult for Jiang Ruan to stand up again. "Your Highness, let''s get to the point." Jiang Ruan sighed: "it''s really tiring to talk in circles like this." Xuan Lang nodded: "this is what I think. I believe that the princess was just impulsive, not intentionally. In fact, the eighth brother has been admiring the princess for a long time. Since the princess is the eighth brother''s sweetheart, our hall will not embarrass the princess too much. " Jiang Ruan did not speak. He just looked at Xuan Lang quietly and smiled. If she doesn''t answer Xuan Lang''s words, Xuan Lang seems a little embarrassed, but Xuan Lang is not really as fragile as it seems. In some things, Xuan Lang is more persistent than Jiang Dan, and he should not be ashamed. Even though he was ignored by Jiang Ruan, he continued: "although this matter has developed to the present situation, it is not lifeless. If there is anyone in the palace who can protect the princess, there is only eight younger brothers. If the princess can get eight younger brother''s protection, it''s not difficult to solve this matter perfectly. " "What''s the solution?" Jiang Ruan looked at his fingertips with an unchanged expression. Xuan Lang''s brow wrinkled in his eyes. After a pause, he said: "at least eight younger brother can think of a way to cover this matter, don''t let the princess be wronged." Jiang Ruan seemed to be a little impatient at last and asked, "I have only a general acquaintance with his eighth highness. How can I get his protection?""Don''t say that, princess." As soon as xuanlang was pleased, he immediately said, "the princess is the sweetheart of Badi, but now the deputy general Jiang''s whereabouts are unknown at the border. The days of the princess in the palace are more or less in dire straits. She makes mistakes carelessly and has countless pairs of eyes staring at her. If you want to really get the protection of Badi, you have to go to Badi''s house for a long time. " With these words, Xuan Lang could not help clenching his fist, and he was also a little nervous. Xuan Lang is very proud of his proposal to Xuan Li. He knew that Xuanli had a heart for Jiang Ruan, but he didn''t know why he was such a snake and scorpion to Xuanli. Recently, Xiao Shao asked the emperor to marry him, which was more like a thorn in Xuan Li''s heart. Xuan Lang had been separated from Xuan for so long, and he knew what Xuan Li thought. For example, now, if we can take advantage of this and let Jiang Ruan marry Xuanli, Xuanli will be more happy than finding a scapegoat to let Princess Heyi''s death have other names. If it is successful, Xuanli will surely make a contribution to him, and he will be able to gain more chips when a major event is completed in the future. However, Xuan Lang was able to anticipate other things, but he was slow to anticipate Jiang Ruan''s attitude. If we use ordinary methods, it will not work. We have to threaten the life of Princess Heyi and the health of Jiang Xinzhi. In xuanlang''s opinion, the reason why Jiang Ruan did not choose Xuanli was that he had a better choice of Xiaoshao. But when it comes to endangering her own interests, she has no other way. Women are all the same. No matter how powerful a woman is, at some point, she is good for nothing except showing weakness and begging for mercy. Just like the original Princess Heyi. Jiang Ruan lightly asked: "eight his highness layout such a play, is to force marriage? You really look up to me. " Angelica dahurica and dewdrop are not angry. They didn''t expect Xuanli to do such a dirty thing to Jiang Ruan for his own selfish desire. But the death of a princess is no small matter. "Don''t belittle yourself, princess." Xuanlang said with a smile, "in my heart, no one is more precious than the princess." Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned, which he often said in his previous life. At that time, when she was in the deep palace, she lived in darkness everyday, sometimes she felt inferior to Xuanli when she was considerate. Xuanli often said, "you don''t have to look down on yourself so much. In my heart, no one is more precious than you." Now the words came out of xuanlang''s mouth, and Jiang Ruan only felt ironic. In this life, Jiang Ruan did not look down on himself, but Xuanli looked up on his position in her heart. In her heart, Xuan Li is a bug maggot fly, how to see how disgusting? "His fourth highness is used to saying good things," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "But I don''t know if it''s someone else''s dog that has been pawned for a long time. He can only say good things." "You --" xuanlang''s face changed. He didn''t understand why Jiang Ruan had suddenly changed his face. This is really too harsh. Now he pokes at xuanlang''s weakness. If it wasn''t for Jiang Ruan''s identity, xuanlang would have started. Xu Shixuan Lang believes that today, with Xuanli, the future is bright, and some of them are arrogant. Otherwise, in the past, it would be perfunctory to hear Jiang Ruan say so just as a cowardly smile. Now, I don''t know if it''s because I''ve killed a princess Heyi. Once the dark side of human nature is aroused, it''s more difficult to take it back. Xuanlang iron green face, to Jiang Ruan way: "this hall is a good, but the princess malign words to each other, it is a pity." "You don''t have to be sorry," Jiang Ruan casually looked at the corpse on the ground. "Even if you want to say that I killed people, it doesn''t matter, but I won''t marry Xuanli." "What did you say?" Xuan Lang looked at her incredulously: "do you know what you mean by what you say?" "I''d like to hear about it." Jiang Ruan made a gesture of listening attentively, and the smile fell into xuanlang''s eyes, which was ironic. "It''s a big crime for you to kill Princess Heyi in full view of the public today. Princess Heyi is the favorite daughter of the emperor. You are only the princess who was canonized by the Shangshu mansion. How can the Emperor help you. Even the emperor''s grandmother can''t protect you this time. Deputy general Jiang has another accident at the border. At this time, you kill Princess Heyi. Do you know what the imperial court will say? " Xuan Lang''s voice was a bit threatening: "you and Jiang Xinzhi have already been rebellious. You want to trample on the dignity of the royal family and sell the land of the great Jin Dynasty! You can go to prison alive, but you can''t come out alive! " The dewdrop and Angelica dahurica changed their faces. Although they hated xuanlang shamelessly, they had to admit that xuanlang was right. Once Jiang Ruan is accused of murder and Princess Yi, it''s very difficult for him to get away from it completely. "Thank you, your highness." Jiang Ruan didn''t seem to hear Xuan Lang''s words at all. He only nodded his head and said, "it really opened my eyes." "For that matter, won''t you change your mind?" Xuanlang has changed from unbelievable to sarcastic, only saying that Jiang Ruan is a madman. In his view, the alternative is the huangquan road. Jiang Ruan Ning would not marry Xuan Li even if he was willing to die, but his head was broken. "Your Highness, you can do whatever you want. You can send it to prison or sue the emperor. In a word, I can''t marry Xuanli. " She said, "I''ve told you before. Why do you think I''ll change my mind?"After seeing Jiang Ruan for a long time, Xuan Lang finally said, "can you tell me something, why don''t you want to marry Ba Di? Do you have a holiday?" "Maybe it''s the enmity of a previous life." Jiang Ruan light way: "the important thing is, too disgusting." "Disgusting?" Xuan Lang stayed. "Yes. Disgusting. " This is the manuscript storage box. I want to know if the golden and jade marriage is going to be abused. Recently, the style of painting is so cruel_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 154 Congratulations on getting a monthly ticket. Xiao Shaofang came out of the palace. As soon as he got on his horse, he saw Jin Eryi fall down in front of him. His always cynical face was a bit serious: "no, master, Miss Jiang has been caught in prison." Xiao Shao''s eyes sank: "what''s the matter?" "The fourth Prince and several maids saw Miss Jiang kill Princess Heyi with their own eyes. Later, someone came. The evidence is conclusive. The lady is very angry. Now she is asking the emperor to be the master. The queen has no choice but to order the people of the Ministry of punishment to lock up Miss Jiang. " "When did it happen?" Xiao Shao asked with a frown. "At noon." Jinerdao. Xiao Shao was doing other things in the palace. It was not until he got out of the palace that he chased him up. It was three hours since Jiang Ruan was arrested. I don''t know what the situation is now. This time, she was more anxious than ever. Princess Heyi was the emperor''s favorite little daughter. Although she was a little bit stubborn, her father daughter''s love remained unchanged. Jiang Ruan killed Princess Heyi, which was enough to make the emperor angry and deal with Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao turned his horse around and said, "go to the Ministry of punishment." Before the whip was raised, another voice said, "master!" The brocade three hastily comes from the outside, swept one eye around, low voice way: "the day Zhu wants to see you one side." Tianzhu is Jiang Ruan ''. Xiao Shao thought for a moment, then said: "let her come to Yibao Pavilion." There are many outsiders with mixed eyes. After all, Tianzhu is Jiang Ruan''s servant girl. If she falls into the eyes of someone who has a heart, it''s hard to avoid making an issue of it. You can also get some information from Yibao Pavilion. Jinsan is ordered to leave. However, in the dark room of Yibao Pavilion, Xiao Shaoduan sat down and Tianzhu knelt down: "master." "What did she say?" Xiao Shao asked. "The girl said nothing." Tianzhu Road. Xiao Shao''s black eyes flashed a ray of strange light, pursed her lips and dropped her eyes. On one side, Jin Er and Jin San were surprised. They thought that Jiang Ruan had sent a letter to Tianzhu, but they didn''t say anything. Does Jiang Ruan have anything to take from Tianzhu to Xiao Shao? "The girl had expected what happened today." Tianzhu didn''t wait for Xiao Shao to ask, so he said to himself, "the girl arranged the death of Princess Heyi, but she didn''t kill her. There is another person who killed Princess Heyi. Today, someone slandered her. The girl has already had the arrangement. She asked her subordinates to give a letter to the national teacher huijue. She should have a back hand. The master doesn''t have to worry too much. " Xiao Shao thought for a while and said, "tell me all the things that happened these days." "The master wants to help the girl?" Tianzhu raised her head and asked. Xiao Shao looked at her and said, "yes." "No, master." Tianzhu said: "the girl has made up her mind about this matter. The master had better not interfere in it." Jin 2 and Jin 3 both frowned. For a royal guards, it''s taboo to meddle in the master''s decision. Tianzhu''s action is beyond the rules, and it can even be regarded as disrespect for Xiao Shao. Tianzhu was trained by Xiao Shao when she was a child. It''s needless to say that she is loyal. Today''s attitude surprised them as colleagues. "She''s from Jinying palace. I won''t stand by and let her be bullied by anyone." Xiao Shao light way, the tone has already taken a chill. "Back to the master," Tianzhu didn''t hear Xiao Shao''s tone. He hesitated for a short time, but he continued: "master, do you think the girl can''t solve such a problem? My subordinates should not say that it is imminent for my master to leave Beijing. My master can still protect the girl in the capital. But after my master leaves Beijing, is it hard for me to think that the hidden arrow will disappear? Even if the master protects the girl in King Jinying''s house, it may not be all right. Now the people staring at King Jinying''s house are like crucian carp across the river. How can the girl''s life be easy? " "Do you mean that I don''t even have the ability to protect her?" Xiao Shao narrowed his eyes. This time, he opened his mouth slowly, but his chill was heavier. Jin Er and Jin San are busy winking at Tianzhu. Xiao Shao is in a bad mood for this engraving. Is Tianzhu''s words bumping into the firearm by himself? Ignoring Jin Er and Jin San''s suggestion, Tian Zhu continued: "master, do you want to stand beside a lady who has no power to bind a chicken, and who depends on master''s protection? If that''s the case, King Jinying''s house is afraid that it can''t keep such a beautiful flower. What the king''s house needs is a woman standing in the wind and rain, not an embroidered pillow! " Jin two and Jin three open their mouths, but Jin three helplessly close their eyes. Although Tianzhu used to be loyal in the royal guards, he was actually stubborn. What he recognized would never change. Today, looking at his appearance, he was determined to make Xiao Shao angry. Now he was happy for a while, and he was not sure what punishment he would receive later. Is it difficult to stay with the young lady for too long and become unruly?"These days, my subordinates follow the girl. I can see clearly that the girl is by no means a delicate girl who needs protection. She is stronger than any woman I have ever seen. The master knows in his heart that the girl doesn''t like others to solve everything for her, especially When dealing with enemies, girls like to solve them by themselves. " Xiao Shao dropped his eyes and looked thoughtfully at his sleeve. Jiang Ruan has an almost crazy persistence in revenge. He has a deep understanding of this. He doesn''t like others to interfere in these things. He also knows that Tianzhu is not lying. "The girl has already made arrangements and plans. The person who suffers this time must not be the girl but the other party. If the master really likes the girl, she should not be the one who controls for her. The girl is not the one who wants to be controlled. If the girl wants to deal with Princess Heyi herself and the people behind her, the master should learn how to make her the future young lady of Jinying palace. " Tianzhu said: "my subordinates dare to guess the girl''s mind, implore the master not to interfere in this matter, and ask the master to punish." Xiao Shao looked at the man kneeling at the bottom and picked his eyebrows. After a long silence, he said, "get up." Jin 2 and Jin 3 were subdued for the third time today, but Xiao Shao didn''t even get angry because of Tianzhu''s overstepping. Moreover, compared with the bad mood before, Xiao Shao was much calmer now. Does the master like to be yelled at? After a pause, Tianzhu stood up, still with his head down, and heard Xiao Shao say, "give the waist tag back to Yefeng." "Master!" Tianzhu cried out. If the waist token of the royal guards is returned to Yefeng, it means that he will be removed from the royal guards and will never return to the royal guards. Jin two and Jin three also froze in the same place, originally thought Xiao Shao was not angry, the result was wrong, Xiao Shao not only angry, this secondary gas is also very big. Xiao Shao looked at the dejected and surprised Tianzhu and said, "your loyalty is no longer here. According to the Convention, you must hand over your waist token." Silent, he said: "from now on, you only have Jiang Ruan a master, take good care of her." Tianzhu was stunned and looked up at Xiao Shao, only to find that Xiao Shao''s expression was not angry, or even the usual indifference, but a kind of entrustment, another kind of trust and equal respect. He gave her the person he valued in his heart, which was not the Lord''s instruction to his subordinates, but an exchange of equal status, a kind of trust side by side. As soon as Tianzhu''s eyes were hot, she almost burst into tears. She has been a member of the royal guards since she was a child. Xiao Shao is the person she respects and her master. The royal guards gave her a second life. She thought that she would be loyal to the royal guards and shed the last drop of blood for them all her life. But she didn''t expect that Xiao Shao would take back her waist card one day. She left the royal guards and her most respected Master to protect the woman she liked. That woman also had a tough heart and a hard wrist like master. Therefore, although she was sad in her heart, she would not be sad for long. Because she''s worth it. She bowed her head, knelt down again, kowtowed three times to Xiao Shao respectfully, and tossed the ground with a voice: "thank you for your cultivation." Xiao Shao''s expression seemed to be slightly touched, and he said in a low voice, "thank you very much." Thank you for choosing to follow her. Naturally, the fact that Jiang Ruan was put in prison did not only spread to Xiao Shao, but also spread to Xuan Li, whose face was even worse than Xiao Shao''s. "Disgusting?" He chewed these two words low, and suddenly a silent anger came out of his chest. When he patted the table, the teapots on the table were so heavily shocked that they all fell to the ground and broke into countless pieces. The bodyguard atmosphere hidden in the room did not dare to say a word. Xuanli''s expression was too terrible at the moment. His royal highness, who has always been gentle, has no gentle smile on his face. The muscles on his cheek twitch slightly because of anger, showing some strange distortion. How dare she! How dare she do that! In this way, even if she was put into prison, she would not marry him, and she said "disgusting". Xuanli admitted that he had never done anything wrong to Jiang Ruan. There was only one reason why Jiang Ruan treated him so unkindly, that was Xiao Shao. Xuanli has never been invincible in the affairs of men and women, and has never met any rivals. To a woman, he is nothing but a fool. Jiang Ruan had nothing to do with him, but every time he saw her, he felt strange. It''s like this woman belongs to him. When Jiang Ruan chose Xiao Shao, or even was willing to do so for Xiao Shao, his possessiveness was all aroused, which reminded Xuanli of the past many years ago. At that time, Mr. Baqi had ten disciples on the mountain of Canaan. Xiao Shao was the third disciple of Mr. Baqi. He was the Third Elder martial brother. He was the eighth elder martial brother. He wanted to respect Xiao Shao. Xuanli has been intelligent since he was a child. Among the emperor''s sons, he has made outstanding achievements. At a young age, he had a good reputation in the court, and the people supported him. He was good everywhere. Those who are used to being the first hit a wall on Mount Canaan. Mr. Baqi didn''t restrict his disciples to choose what to study. When Xiao Shao joined the school, there was no accident in King Jinying''s house. He was light-hearted and had no special interest. Mr. Baqi taught him everything, which depended on his nature. However, after only a little teaching, Xiao Shao''s comprehension ability was amazing, and he also perfected everything. All the brothers in Canaan mountain admire Xiao Shao, but Xiao Shao is a very arrogant man. These vulgar things seem to be ignored.Xuanli has been unwilling to yield to others since he was a child, but his daily hard work is not equal to Xiao Shao''s glance. Young people are always competitive, and Xiao Shao is always indifferent to others. Over time, he finally makes Xuansheng dissatisfied. He didn''t understand what he had to work hard to get. Xiao Shao got it without any effort. Later, there was an accident in Jinying palace, and Xuanli was very happy. But when there was an accident in Jinying palace, Xiao Shao became famous as a bandit. The emperor thought highly of him. Xiao Shao could be outspoken in front of the emperor, and he didn''t even have to guess the emperor''s mind like him. Xiao Shao is in charge of 300000 royal guards. Xuanli is afraid of him, and he doesn''t dare to express what he means. For so many years, the peace he and Xiao Shaoping maintain on the surface seems to be broken by Jiang Ruan overnight. Xuanli found that his resentment and jealousy towards Xiao Shao had never changed for so many years. "What''s going on over there, Xiao Shao?" Take a deep breath, Xuan Li calmed his mood and asked. "Back to your highness, Lord Xiao didn''t do it." The bottom person returns a way. I''m afraid the whole capital will be spread by this time when such a big thing happened. Xiao Shao didn''t move. It seems that he didn''t think much about Jiang Ruan. Xuanli sneers in his heart. Xiao Shao''s eyes are above the top. When he was on Mount Canaan, he was very cold. Ordinary women are infatuated with him, but they don''t know that Xiao Shao himself is a heartless person. Jiang Ruan''s stupid woman, since she refused him for Xiao Shao''s sake, might as well let her see how ruthless Xiao Shao was. What''s more Xuanli suddenly smiles. I think all the civil and military officials have heard about Xiao Shao''s marriage invitation to the emperor. One moment, he is still asking the emperor to marry him. The next moment, his sweetheart is in prison, but he doesn''t care. Xiao Shao is a traitor in the courtiers'' heart, and his reputation is going to plummet. Maybe it will make empress Yide unhappy. Although empress Yide doesn''t care about the affairs of the court, it doesn''t mean she has no weight in the court. Sometimes, empress Yide''s attitude can even determine a minister''s future career. Xiao Shao would suffer so much because of this. Xuan Li thought about how he was not happy. In a short moment, his unhappiness was swept away. He said in a loud voice, "go and send someone to continue to stare at King Jinying''s house to see what happened to Xiao Shao." "Yes." His subordinates took the order to leave. Xuan leaned back to the seat, pulled the finger on his hands and began to laugh. It has been human nature since ancient times, especially in Shangshu Prefecture. Ruan Curie''s servants were all in a state of panic. As soon as the news of Jiang Ruan''s imprisonment came, those who had a keen mind had already turned against each other and abandoned the old master and turned to the new one. However, in just six months, Jiang Ruan had been sent to prison for the second time. It was the death of his husband before, but it had not been handed over to the Ministry of punishment. Moreover, there were many doubts at that time. Now the dead person has become Princess Heyi, which is related to the royal family. The case is directly submitted to the Ministry of punishment for trial. Most importantly, there is an important witness in this case, the fourth Prince Xuan Lang. If the murder is seen, it will be a crime if someone proves it. In particular, this was the prince of a country. Almost everyone thought that Jiang and Ruan would not be as lucky as last time, and that the prosperous future of Jiang Xin''s two brothers and sisters would come to an end. After all, the Chiang government still can''t accommodate them. In the courtyard, Hongying is lying on a soft chair with her stomach in the sun. The autumn afternoon is just right, not too hot or too cold. On the table are some exquisite cakes. The tea is all the tea that Jiang Quan specially ordered. The day of childbirth was coming, and the whole family respected Hongying very much. It was Jiang Dan sitting across the table. She twisted a piece of cake carefully and put it in her mouth. She took a bite and said with a smile, "this cake is well made." "The cook the master invited from outside." Red Ying Hun didn''t care and said, "the fourth lady will go to the palace in a few days. The cakes in this house are cheap. Don''t give up." "Aunt where words," Jiang Dan smile humility: "the palace is not as easy to live on the surface, see big sister is not in the palace accident." She looks dim down: "also hope to enter the palace to get big sister to take care of, don''t think of such things." "Things change." Red Ying sighed and looked at Jiang Dan: "but the fourth young lady is very lucky. She should be favored when she enters the Palace this time. The glory of Jiang''s family will depend on you in the future. I don''t think the eldest lady has the future of the fourth lady. " "Don''t tease me, aunt." Jiang Dan lowered his head, but a flash of light flashed in his eyes. He seemed to ask unintentionally: "but now the elder sister is in prison, what good way does the father think of to save her?" "Method, what good method can we have." Red Ying took the board in front of her and took a sip of it. Then she said, "it''s such a big thing. If you''re not careful, it will affect your family. The mistake made by the eldest Lady this time is really a big basket. Your father is already very angry. After discussing with your second brother for a long time, he has not come up with a solution. Now the lady in the palace is angry, and her majesty has lost Princess Heyi. The eldest lady is doomed this time. Even if your father asks for help, isn''t it worse? " Jiang Dan took the cake''s finger and changed a worried look: "the father''s meaning is to let go?""The master is also powerless." Hongying looked at her fingertips painted with kongdan: "the eldest lady is from Jiang''s family. She naturally knows when to make a sacrifice. She can''t ignore the names of the whole family for her sake." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 155 In the imperial library, the emperor''s face was deep, looking at the young Taifu in front of him: "I don''t know when Liu Taifu cared so much about Princess Hong''an?" "I''ll do my part. Besides, there are a lot of doubts about this matter. We might as well wait a little longer. The people of the Ministry of punishment will investigate for a while, and the trial will convince people all over the world." Liu Min is neither humble nor arrogant. This young man has never been a clique. Although he is a newly rich man, he has made great achievements in the court. "Do you think I am confused?" The emperor looked at the fold on the table with a grudge: "I just don''t understand why both of them were poisoned by Jiang Ruan. Isn''t it really a witch?" After leaving the imperial study, Liu Min went out of the palace and went all the way to the prison where the Ministry of punishment held the prisoners. When the prison head saw him, he was stunned, and then he got up in a hurry to welcome him: "I don''t know what''s the matter with Taifu?" "I''ve come to see someone." Liu Min frowned slightly. After several years in the officialdom, he was still not used to such flatterers. Even so, he took a silver ingot from his sleeve and handed it to the prison. The prison head was flattered to take it over. It was said that the court was clean and didn''t cause dust. The Taifu, who claimed to be clean and clean, was just like this. He still knew how to do things in the officialdom. Why should he show others a noble look. But even though he thought so in his heart, he still had to look very respectful and said: "it''s easy to say, Taifu, if you have something to say with the little one, as long as it''s convenient, the little one will do it with all his strength." After that, he asked, "which one does Master Taifu want to see?" "Princess Hong''an." Liu Min Dao. Jiang Ruan Guan is in the innermost part of the prison, where the death penalty is held. Although the sentence has not been decided yet, almost all people believe that she is doomed this time. If she killed a princess of a country, there is no reason for her to retreat. However, because of Xiao Shao or Zhao Guang''s management, at least she had a good time in prison. These prison guards didn''t embarrass her too much. When Liu Min came to the inside, he saw Jiang Ruan sitting on the ground against the wall. He didn''t know what he was thinking. Some of his family members were not in a panic. He was relieved, and then laughed at himself. He knew that she was not an ordinary woman, and that the scene of an ordinary woman crying and making a scene in prison would not have happened to her. "Princess." He cried. Jiang Ruan looked up and saw him. There was a flash of amazement in his eyes. Then he said with a smile, "Liu Taifu." Liu Min squats down in front of the prison and looks at her across the fence. Looking around the cell, though the conditions were simple, they were not harsh, which was quite different from what we saw in other cells all the way. Jiang Ruan''s clothes were in good condition and clean, and she didn''t suffer any pain. Someone should have done it for her. "Liu Taifu, what can I do for you?" Jiang Ruan saw that he just looked inside and said nothing. He asked. Liu Min looked at her: "I Come and see you. " After a pause, he said, "are you ok?" Even though he tried to cover it up, he inadvertently let out three points. Jiang Ruan himself was good at observing words and colors. He frowned slightly and then showed his face with a smile: "I''m fine. I''m sorry to trouble you too much." She is always more than polite, but with a distance of thousands of miles away, Liu Min heart slightly astringent, think of today''s matter, zhengse way: "I believe you, and Yi princess is not you kill." Liu Min thinks that although Jiang Ruan looks like a cool person, he is very kind in his private heart. Otherwise, he would not have helped when he saw Princess Heyi bullying the 13th prince. "Naturally, I didn''t kill her," Jiang Ruan looked at her. "I don''t have to kill her." Hearing Jiang Ruan''s words, Liu Min''s expression brightened a little. He said, "don''t worry, I will find a way to save you." Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised. Although he used to help Liu Min to pave the way for him one day in the future, Taifu''s behavior now runs counter to her original intention. Such sincere feelings are undoubtedly a kind of pressure on her. "Thank you, Liu Taifu." Jiang Ruan pondered for a moment: "but I have my own opinion on this matter. One day, it will come to light. Liu Taifu doesn''t have to worry too much about it." In Liu Min''s eyes, a look of disappointment swept by: "you are not making friends with me." Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to open his mouth, he said: "at the beginning, you helped me, and now I should repay you. I want to help you. You don''t have to say more. In the ancient language, the kindness of dripping water flows back to each other. When you gave me such a great kindness, my fate will be changed because of you. If I don''t repay you, who will I become?" After a long silence, Jiang Ruan Cai shook his head and said, "Liu Taifu is sincere and sincere. I''m willing to make friends with him sincerely. But at this time, I do have an idea. It''s not good for Taifu to help me rashly. If I''m in trouble in the future, I''ll ask Liu Taifu to do it again. At that time, Liu Taifu should not refuse." "It is impossible for me to refuse." Liu Min is in a hurry. Under the weak light, Jiang Ruan''s eyes were as bright as water, and his facial features were even more beautiful. He moved in his heart. He blurted out what he had wanted to say for a moment without checking: "would you like my protection?" Jiang Ruan looked at him in amazement.Liu Min Qingjun''s face seemed to be a little red. It was the first time that she said these words to a girl. There was a trace of lofty and arrogant in her eyes. It was all clumsy Shyness: "I, I''ve been in love with the princess for a long time. Now the princess is struggling in the court. It can be seen that there are many people in the court who want to frame the princess. If the princess goes on like this, it is impossible to prevent. If the princess could marry into another family at this time, there would be a layer of protection. Liu Min is not talented. Although he has no great achievements, he also wants to protect the princess for life. I will do my best to protect the princess from any injustice. " Jiang Ruan looked at him. She didn''t see the end of Liu Min''s last life. She thought that if Liu Min''s talent could not be used by Xuanli, she would die. However, in her last life, she saw that he had gone from depression to rise, and his fate was different. In the end, she gave this upright young man a chance to prosper, and he finally lived up to his lifelong ambition. However, there is no intersection of the two people in the last life, but this life has a chance to meet, she just want to use him, but inadvertently won the sincerity of others. "I..." Jiang Ruan Zheng wanted to open his mouth, but he only heard a familiar and cold voice in front of him, which seemed to be slightly displeased. "She doesn''t need your protection, because she''s mine." The familiar figure came out from the dark, and the pure black robe angle also gave birth to some golden magnificence in the dark. Xiao Shao went to the front of the prison door, glanced at Liu Min and Jiang Ruan, and handed in his basket from the small window: "the snacks made by the chef of the palace, and some clothes. It''s cold at night. Don''t be cold." He seemed to be a little unhappy, and his tone was hard. Because of such actions and things in his hand, every one of them was telling the meaning of her profound relationship with Jiang Ruan. Liu Min has just been shocked by Xiao Shao''s sentence "she is my person". At the moment, when we see his action again, his face suddenly changes. Jin San turned his eyes silently behind him. The master''s jealousy was too strong. Jin Si turned around and said that Liu Taifu had gone to the imperial study and the prison of the Ministry of punishment. Xiao Shao came all the time. This action was to force people to death. If she had been Liu Taifu, she would have beaten Xiao Shao. Of course, she couldn''t beat Xiao Shao, and Liu Min, a weak scholar, couldn''t beat Xiao Shao. Liu Taifu, a gentleman, really stood up and looked at Xiao Shao with a frown and said, "please take some responsibility when you talk to King Xiao." He looked quite indignant: "what does this have to do with the reputation of Princess Hong''an?" "Ah Ruan." Xiao Shao did not look at Liu Min, but at Jiang Ruan in the prison. He said in a soft voice that he had never seen before: "you can rest assured that the public trial will be held in three days." Some of Jiang Ruan''s eyes couldn''t turn straight. She was stunned for a moment before she came back to herself. However, she didn''t know that her act of being stunned was the default in Liu Min''s eyes. Liu Min turned pale when she thought that Xiao Shao and her mutual appellations had become so close. Seeing his face, Jiang Ruan moved in his heart, and then he gave Xiao Shao a smile: "well, I''m not afraid of you." Jin three sympathizes with looking at Liu Da Tai Fu, obviously Liu Da Tai Fu is very hurt by the two people''s blatant show love. If Xiao Shao''s words had given Liu Min a fatal blow just now, Jiang Ruan''s reply with a smiling face at the moment would have been to make up for it. Liu Min moved his lips, then squeezed out a few words from his mouth: "so, princess, Liu Min left first." After that, he left in a hurry without looking back, but the figure revealed some sadness. Jiang Ruan also stares at Liu Min''s back. Unexpectedly, Xiao Shao walks up to her and blocks her sight. Jiang Ruan looks up and Xiao Shao looks down at her and says, "don''t look. He''s gone." Jiang Ruan stares at him. Xiao Shao is more and more abnormal recently, just like a changed person. Sometimes she doubts whether this is the cold, calm and precocious young prince in the world. In her opinion, Xiao Shao''s behavior is obviously childish? She took a deep breath: "Xiao Shao, what are you doing here?" "If I don''t come, you will become Mrs. Taifu." Xiao Shao reminds a way. Jin San can''t help murmuring in the dark. What the young master says is that he is so worried that he should teach housekeeper Lin to have a look at it. Then he will understand what is the man in love in legend has no brain! "I won''t go to Taifu." Jiang Ruan said: "if you really marry him, his official career will come to an end." "You think about him everywhere. No wonder he misunderstood." Beauty Xiao is reluctant to give up. "You came uninvited today, didn''t you let him misunderstand you?" Jiang Ruan said, "he will not misunderstand again." Xiao Shao frowned. He was born beautiful and heroic. Under the light, his frown became more and more beautiful. In the end, he had two points of abstinence. His thin lips were tight. After all, Liu Min had a bad heart. It was not the first time Liu Min met Jiang Ruan. How could he be reconciled. Only Jiang Ruan said so, then he dropped his eyes and said faintly: "well, you don''t want to see him again." How can this man be so overbearing! Jiang Ruan was very angry. He picked up the things he had just handed in. If they were food and clothes, they were all fine. As a matter of fact, Xiao Shao has also sent people to do some work these days. His life in prison is not much worse than that in the mansion. He can''t help but recall that he was put in prison in the last life, but he was extremely capable of torture. He taught people how to torture.Can''t help but be distracted, Xiao Shao see her so, then stretched out his hand on her head to knock gently: "concentrate." Jiang Ruan is not used to such intimate action. Don''t start: "Tianzhu should tell you about it. I have already made an opinion. You don''t have to intervene." "I know." Xiao Shao said in a low voice: "you just let go and do it. I will do everything." The words were reassuring. Jiang Ruan bowed his head: "thank you very much." Xiao Shao said: "if you can ask me for help, in fact, I will be more happy." Tianzhu is right. Jiang Ruan is used to solving everything by himself and does not ask for help easily. It is to seek help, but also to use the attitude of business people, will not be in vain. In fact, this is her isolation from others, she put an end to all the goodwill and affection she may receive. If Xiao Shao looks at her thoughtfully, he can''t find Jiang Ruan''s secret, and Jiang Ruan won''t take the initiative to say it, but it''s very difficult for a person to close his heart and go in. Now that Jiang Ruan is his man, Xiao Shao hopes that Jiang Ruan doesn''t have the idea of fighting alone in anything. At least the Jinying palace has the ability to protect her. He is the only one who can protect Xiao Shao. "No," Jiang Ruan said, "the back house is a woman''s battlefield. Like my elder brother, he is invincible in the battlefield. Naturally, I have my own way to be invincible in this deep palace." Xiao Shao stretched out her hand, finally pressed her shoulder and said, "I''m always on your side." Wu Ming, the oldest Wuzuo in the palace, sighed deeply at the body of Princess Hong''an. Then he took off the cloth cover he was wearing and wiped the sweat on his forehead: "Lord Hui, Princess Heyi was stabbed in the abdomen and died of excessive blood loss. The time is right with his fourth highness." In charge of the Department of punishment, Mr. Ting Wei Luo looked down and thought for a while, and told the people around him: "you go to write the test results into the case, and the rest will go to the scene with me again." The emperor has given the death order, and the court will begin to hear it three days later. This time, the case of Princess Hong''an is not an ordinary case. It seems that the case of Princess Hong''an is just a homicide case seen by the royal family. In fact, it involves many forces. A wrong judgment caused the imbalance of power in the court, which is an endless disaster for him. Besides, in the case of Princess Hong''an, the emperor, Shufei and the fourth Prince were on one side, and the Empress Dowager Yide, Zhao Guang and Xiao Shao were on the other side. He couldn''t afford to offend them. When he thought of being in a dilemma in the middle, Lord Luo couldn''t help sighing and pondering. At the eighth Prince''s house, Xuan Li was playing with the white porcelain wine cup in his hand, gently shaking the wine in the cup, and said with a smile, "how is it going?" The people at the bottom hurriedly and respectfully came back to him: "Your Highness, everything has been done, and the work has been tested, no problem." Xuanli had been in the palace for many years, but he was not completely incompetent. Every place had more or less its own people. It''s not impossible for Princess Heyi''s corpse to move in it, even it''s easy to talk with him. As long as some cover up is used, no one will believe him. After the body examination, it will be material evidence, and with Xuan Lang as a witness, it will be easy to determine the charges. The most intolerable thing in the world is not to ask for the position he likes. He will get it one day. The man he likes is just a woman who can''t ask for it, so he abandons it and kills it. Since Xiao Shao wanted to rob her husband, he might as well destroy Jiang Ruan. But I don''t know what happened, Xuanli''s heart suddenly passed a little uneasiness, this feeling is very subtle, almost ignored by him, he calm down, trying to make himself ignore the strange feeling, slowly clenched the wine in his hand, took a sip. "I''m sorry, princess." It''s sad that Jinyuliangyuan has recently started to abuse the TV series. If the TV series are too abusive, the story will be sweet for a while, and beauty Xiao will be arrogant and coquettish again ~ it''s sad www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 156 Three days later. It was a beautiful day. Even in late autumn, it was also a rare good day. The lazy sunlight scattered on the charming petals of some big and undeveloped Persian chrysanthemums made them more colorful and beautiful. In Shufang palace, the beautiful women are all dressed in gorgeous clothes. The exotic customs of the past seem to be swept away in an instant, leaving only the murderous air of naked. The maid in waiting handed over the tea: "Niang Niang, after drinking tea, it''s time to go to the imperial court for a public trial." Shufei slowly took the tea from the maid of honor and took a sip. Today, she was also well dressed and became more and more beautiful and picturesque. Correspondingly, she was also aggressive. Her red dress undoubtedly made her more powerful. The death of Princess Heyi was a great blow to Shufei. For so many years, except for Princess Yi, Shufei never gave birth to a son in the palace, and the matter of seizing the right is no longer Xiaoxiang these years, relying on the emperor''s favor. Although the Emperor didn''t love her as much as Princess Chen at the beginning, it was because she gave birth to a daughter, and Princess Yi didn''t pose a threat to the country. The emperor was not wary of her. Although Princess Heyi is domineering on weekdays, it''s the meat that falls from her belly. She has been pampered for so many years, but she doesn''t know how to end up with a tragic death. Shufei is a very arrogant and impulsive person in her heart. When xuanlang confirms that Jiang Ruan killed Princess Heyi, she wants to rush out and tear Jiang Ruan to pieces. However, Jiang Ruan had already been locked up by the Ministry of punishment, and she was not easy to start. However, there is no one in the world that she can''t compete with. With her ingenuity and beauty, she is not a soft persimmon. Even Chen Guifei, who has been fighting with her all her life, is not at a disadvantage now. Jiang Ruan is nothing but the daughter of a small official. Killing Princess Heyi is a sin she can''t afford in her whole life. After Shufei calmed down, she was not in a hurry. This case involves a lot. She went to the emperor to cry, and the emperor also promised to make decisions for Princess Heyi. After so many years of marriage, the emperor''s mood could be controlled by Shufei. Naturally, it can be seen that the emperor was not happy with Jiang Ruan. Besides, with all the human and material evidence, Shufei didn''t even have to take care of herself, so she could let Jiang Ruan die without a burial place. It is precisely because the people involved in this case are all royal people, and even empress Yide intervened, and the emperor agreed to the pre imperial trial. Since the founding of the people''s Republic, there have been only one or two cases of pre imperial trial, which are also major events involving the former founding fathers of the people''s Republic. This is the first time that such a royal dispute has been involved in the pre imperial trial. She knew that besides Zhao Guang''s family and Empress Dowager Yide, Xiao Shao, Prince Fu, Liu Min and Gu Yi were also among those who pleaded for Jiang Ruan. When she thought of it, she would gnash her teeth. When I was in the palace with Princess Yi, because I was favored by the emperor, I made friends with a group of young ladies. Now I have died miserably with Princess Yi, but no one has come forward to speak for her. Those who used to make friends with each other have become turtles. To be sure, it may have been warned by others, but it can also be seen that Princess Yi is only a group of fair weather friends. On the contrary, Jiang Ruan is only the daughter of an official, and she is not a real Royal relative. So many people are rushing to protect her. She is really a fox at a young age! "Is king Jinying here, too?" Shufei put down her tea cup and asked in a cruel tone. "Back to empress, King Jinying has gone first." The maid returned. Shufei slowly clenches her fists. She doesn''t know how she and Princess Yi died, but she knows that everything is caused by Xiao Shao. Since Princess Heyi lost her life for Xiao Shao, Jiang Ruan, as Xiao Shao''s sweetheart, would have to pay for her life anyway. What about being powerful in the court? Xiao Shao may not be able to resist the order in full view of the public? When she saw the picture of her sweetheart''s tragic death, she felt a deep pleasure at the thought of Xiao Shao''s angry eyes and Jiang Ruan''s despair. Jiang Dan has entered the palace with his new girl and lives in the courtyard where the girls live together. The courtyard is a group of 28 girls, Yingyan, very busy. It''s not uncommon for an ordinary girl from a high-ranking family or a daughter from a small family to send her daughter to the palace in the hope of a prosperous future. But now these girls still don''t know the sinister and innocent appearance of the palace. They almost dazzled people''s eyes. Jiang Dan sat quietly in the front hall of the room, watching the lively and excited exchanges among the young girls, with a lively and shy smile on her face. It''s not easy for people to be defensive, so even if she can insert a few words, it doesn''t prevent the young girls from seeing her as their own soon. Among them, the commoner girl of the maid''s family said, "Hey, sisters, I don''t know if you''ve heard of it. Today is the day of the public trial of the case of Princess Hong''an, the daughter of Jiang''s family killing Princess Heyi." "Ah, that''s right. I think of it, but it''s not today." Another woman echoed: "it''s a pity we can''t go out here, but we can''t go to see what''s going on." I feel sorry to hear her voice. These women are young and curious. They are also full of interest in these things. They are disappointed for a while and are in great interest.Jiang Dan looked at everything in front of him with a smile, as if he had not heard the news. "It''s just a homicide case. There''s nothing to see." The father of the woman who was talking was working in the Ministry of punishment. He wanted to know something about it on weekdays. He nodded and said, "I heard my father say that there is almost nothing to try in this case with Princess Yi. He has also been tested, and there are four other witnesses like his highness. There is almost nothing to retract. What if Princess Hong''an is favored by the Empress Dowager? It is a great crime to kill the royal heir, and no one can protect him. " "Princess Hong''an is so brave that she dares to kill people." One person seemed to think of something and looked at Jiang Dan: "eh, isn''t she your direct elder sister? What is the matter with you? " Jiang Dan was slightly stunned, then shook his head and said: "this matter...". I don''t know. I''m just a common girl. How can I get involved in these things? " "Is she so fierce in the house on weekdays?" Someone asked curiously, "have you ever been beaten and scolded by her?" Jiang Dan shook his head, but his eyes flashed quickly, a trace of fear: "no, big sister has never hit me." The more she said that, the more suspicious her evasive eyes seemed. People looked at her timid appearance and almost turned pale when talking about Jiang Ruan. For a moment, what they chatter about is all about Jiang Ruan. Originally, they were both women, but they were envious. Over the years, Jiang Ruan has been born well, and his luck is even better. He has been sheltered by Empress Yide, and he has another brother, the God of war, who has already made people envious. Now when he falls into the water, these envious people will step on him mercilessly. In the humble corner of the room, there is still a person sitting quietly. She looks pretty, but her expression is a little weak, even a little disdainful. Listening to the people''s talk about Jiang Ruan, she looks a little disgusted. This man is no other than Dong Yinger. In the end, he still entered the palace. Now it seems that Dong Ying''er feels that the things that he originally rejected are not so difficult. There are so many beauties in the palace that the emperor needs some luck to remember her. Why should he say that she is favored. If the emperor never pays attention to her, it may not be a good thing to die safely in the palace. Jiang Ruan killed Princess Heyi. Dong Yinger had heard from her father before. She didn''t believe Jiang Ruan would kill Princess Heyi. It wasn''t because of anything else, just because she felt that even if Jiang Ruan wanted to kill someone, he would not be stupid enough to be in front of the fourth prince. Jing Zhaoyin is a smart man. When analyzing the pros and cons, Dong Yinger heard something about it, but it''s something she can''t reach. Now sitting here, listening to these people''s disparagement of Jiang Ruan and Jiang Dan''s hypocritical slander, Dong Ying''er only feels a great deal of pain in her stomach. If she is as usual, and according to her friendship with Jiang Ruan, she will come forward and make a theory. But now they just sit on one side and watch people''s comments coldly. What I remember is that when she was going to be sent to the palace, she cried and begged Jiang Ruan, but Jiang Ruan said what to do with her. Things in the world are changeable. Dong Ying''er has a little happiness in her heart. For example, Jiang Ruan is in prison and is slandered to kill Princess Hong''an. What does it have to do with her? However, the public trial in the palace still needs to hear how the facts in the palace change. The emperor, dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, looked up at all the civil and military officials who were watching the trial. He had a bearing of not being angry but being powerful. Today''s pre imperial public trial is not so much a demonstration of justice as a warning to others. These days, some forces in the imperial court can''t help but be ready to move. They are seen by the emperor. We need to beat up the same. Those who are still watching the wind and the wind are still waiting to see. Today the emperor will try to kill them by trying to find out what has the final say. Li Gonggong''s eyes, nose and heart, waving the dust, sat quietly on one side. On the contrary, Luo Tingwei stood aside and had already ordered people to bring the crime minister up. Then he heard someone outside shouting: "crime minister is coming --" JIANG Ruan, dressed in white prison clothes, was escorted in by a group of soldiers. But I don''t know if someone told me, or because she didn''t struggle, but had a good attitude. The soldiers didn''t coerce her, just followed on both sides. As she came to the Jinluan palace step by step, she felt like a lotus step by step, with a smile on her face and a calm look. It seemed that she did not come to participate in a life and death thrilling Pro imperial trial, or even with some leisure. In this way, it was like taking two boys out for a quick tour. The lady sitting at the side seat saw this, her eyes flashed slightly, her eyes crossed a trace of resentment, and she slowly squeezed the handkerchief in her sleeve. Jiang Ruan''s clothes were clean and his hair was not disordered. Even when he was like this, his style remained unchanged. The civil and military officials of the court once met her when she accompanied the Empress Dowager back to the palace, and knew that she was charming. Today, I haven''t seen her appear so abruptly in the Jinluan hall for many days. Even though she is in prison clothes, she looks more like a picture, as if she is charming. It seemed as if the girl''s beauty had increased by one point every day. This time, it seemed that she was a little more beautiful than the last time. For a moment, some younger officials in the court were crazy.Jiang Ruan walked slowly, but his eyes fell on the young man in black before the officials. Today, he is wearing a Black Embroidered golden Python''s court dress, which makes him more and more beautiful. Even among the crowd with many proud children, he is still the most eye-catching one. Notice Jiang Ruan''s eyes, Xiao Shao''s eyes flashed a smile, such a smile, more and more appear his beautiful and heroic face, with a bit of gentle romantic. This kind of eye interaction falls in the eyes of Liu Min who has been paying attention to Jiang Ruan''s every move, but it makes him feel strange if he has something to lose. The original worry about Jiang Ruan suddenly turned into a full of discomfort, slightly don''t look back, no longer look at this boring scene. Xuanli''s smile is gentle. He just stares at Jiang Ruan and smiles as if he is staring at a prey about to fall into a trap. He is full of ambition. Xuanlang stood beside Xuanli, his body slightly inside, as if he was avoiding something. In other people''s eyes, he just thought that the incompetent and cowardly fourth prince was afraid because he was a witness for the first time. Zhao Guang frowned tightly and looked at Jiang Ruan with great pain. This is the blood of his Zhao family, but now he is in prison, because he can''t do anything as a grandfather. Xiao Shao has already said hello to him, saying that this matter has its own arrangement. Although he is hot tempered, he knows that Xiao Shao is a man who does what he says, and his rash action may ruin Xiao Shao''s plan. But now, I haven''t seen any movement from Xiao Shao. Zhao Guang has already scolded Xiao Shao in his heart. He''s a little bit of a jerk in his heart. How could he be fooled by the Zhao family? This hairy boy is just a turtle with a shrunken head. He doesn''t have the courage to avenge Ruan''s injustice, but he retreats temporarily? Different from Zhao Guang, although empress dowager Yide was worried about Jiang Ruan in her heart, she didn''t show a point on her face. She still looked like an old well. But the ruby armor of her left hand is a little uneasy, slowly across the edge of the chair, which is her usual action. Once there is something uneasy in her heart, she will unconsciously pull. Jiang Ruan was a special presence in Empress Dowager Yide. At first, she was regarded as Princess Yuanrong. Later, she was a bit sincere in her three years'' relationship. Now, Jiang Ruan is Xiao Shao''s sweetheart. Xiao Shao is what kind of temperament, empress Yide is very clear, such a person is not emotional, just like his father, once emotional is to identify a person. Since Jiang Ruan was identified, she would not be allowed to fall into danger. It''s just that Xiao Shao is fierce, and it''s not easy for Empress Dowager Yide to intervene in this matter, because she knows that Xiao Shao must have done it in the dark, but she doesn''t know how fierce this method is? I only hope that Jiang Ruan''s calm nature can make him a leader. To be sure, it is impossible for Empress Dowager Yide to know that Jiang Ruan is ten thousand times hotter than Xiao Shao in some matters. "Princess Hong''an!" But Luo Tingwei opened his mouth under the emperor''s sign and said, "you killed Princess Heyi. There are both human and material evidences. His heart is to be punished. It''s a first-class crime to murder the Royal offspring. What else can you say?" After the case was handed over to the Ministry of punishment, it was tried by Dali temple. At that time, it was almost a crime, but Jiang Ruan refused to admit it anyway. Later, there was a saying that the imperial court tried the case personally, so it was delayed. "I didn''t kill Princess Heyi." Jiang Ruan Dao. She didn''t look a bit flustered. She was loud, as if her words were hard evidence. People always believe in what they have in front of them, that is, those who have always believed in Jiang Ruan''s murderer, but now they are slightly shaken - people are always very tolerant of beauty. "What a glib, what a beauty!" But Shufei sneered and said: "you are young, but you have a vicious heart. I don''t know how my Heyi has offended you and asked you to kill her like this! As Heyi''s mother, I have to seek justice for my son. Princess Hong''an, you have to pay for your life to kill someone! " As soon as she turned and looked at the emperor, there was a mist in her eyes: "Your Majesty, Heyi is your daughter. You want to give it to your concubine and give it to the dead Heyi!" The emperor looked down at Jiang Ruan, who was kneeling in the hall, and said, "Hong''an, you said that Heyi was not killed by you, so you have to show evidence. If you can''t show evidence, I can only admit that you have nothing to say!" By the end of the speech, the tone had intensified, almost mixed with some inexplicable threat, and the emperor was angry. All the officials were shocked. They knew that this was a sign of the emperor''s anger. They all bowed their heads and did not dare to speak, for fear that the anger would be transferred to them. The girl in the hall, however, had no change in her face, as if the fury of thunder was just the rain in spring, and the clouds had faded for a moment. Her eyes slightly swept over the officials, and she stayed for a short time in front of the Yellow monk beside the emperor. The monk was kind-hearted, holding a Zen bead in one hand. She received her eyes, slightly dropped her eyes, and was about to say Amitabha. "I can testify for her, and the death of Princess Yi has nothing to do with her!" A clear voice suddenly appeared in the hall. It was as sudden as thunder on their heads. Xiao Shao frowned slightly. The emperor''s eyes flashed. The lady sat up straight. The Empress Dowager Yide touched the ruby armor and stopped. But Jiang Ruan''s eyes widened, his body trembled, and he almost couldn''t believe it. A digressionGuess who this person is? www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 157 The startling words of the stone, like a stone thrown into the lake in the Jinluan hall, immediately aroused thousands of waves. Then he saw the eunuch from the palace behind him. She was upright and straight. She seemed to have a special mood in her eyes. Who was Xuan Pei? Everyone was surprised to see Xuan Pei. The thirteen prince was almost ignored in the court. If Xuan Lang was just incompetent, there was a virtuous imperial concubine to protect him, and he would not be bullied. Xuanpei, the 13th prince, was born only by a humble maiden in the palace. Now that his biological mother has passed away, no one is interested in him in the palace. If it is not possible to mention it, no one will remember that there is such a person in the palace. Xuan Pei may have dressed up for a while today and found a blue lotus robe. The blue lotus robe is solemn. Now Xuan Pei is just a * year old boy, and he still has a strange look on him. Although the brocade is the upper layer, I''m afraid it''s the same style as many years ago. At a glance, it can be seen that it doesn''t fit. But even so, the little figure walked with ease, not tall, but calm. In the eyes of the emperor Rao Shi, there was a flash of surprise. They all said that one person''s behavior was impressive. Xuanpei''s sudden appearance in the eyes of the public was not the inferior prince in the eyes of the public. On the contrary, he had a kind of demeanor. Even the public had a kind of illusion that in time, the prince would not be in the pool. Today, at a young age, he has become introverted and steady. Although the Tians have unique conditions, Xuanli was just like that. Xuanpei went to the Jinluan hall, and knelt down beside Jiang Ruan, saying: "father, my son can testify that Princess Hongan killed Princess Heyi!" Jiang Ruan looks at the young man in front of him in a daze. Looking closer, he is different from the bullied child on the previous side. Xuan Pei seems to be a different person. He has a calm and mature face, but it''s very strange. Xuanpei was timid, because of his mother, he was often bullied in the palace. She also entered the palace about this time in her previous life. At that time, she met Xuan Pei who was bullied. She comforted him at that time. Later, somehow, it spread to the emperor and gave him to her to raise. In her previous life, she and Xuan Pei lived together in the palace. Xuan Pei was the most sensible child she had ever seen. She was just a good child, but she could only be trapped in the deep palace like her. Xuan Pei didn''t even have the chance to show her talents in the court like other princes. Before Xuan Pei met her, he was abandoned by someone with ulterior motives in the deep palace. Although he was * years old, his mind was no different from that of a child of five or six years old. Now the child is not normal, where there is the obsession of previous life in his eyes, it is clear that it is pure and bright. Xuanpei was born well. Li Dong liked xuanpei in his last life because he was very beautiful. At the moment, the children were all excellent in appearance and color. Kneeling with Jiang Ruan, they made everyone in the Jinluan hall feel like they were in a trance. They just felt that they were 70% similar in appearance and behavior. When they thought about it, they thought more about it. Xuanlang and Xuanli''s eyes changed slightly, but xuanpei''s appearance was unexpected. Although xuanpei was not favored, he was also the prince in name. In Xuanli''s eyes, xuanpei was not even an ant, and few people even heard his name in the deep palace. Now young and abandoned from childhood, it''s not enough to be afraid. Xuanli was shocked to say that he would speak for Jiang Ruan. At the moment, xuanpei''s magnanimous behavior made Xuanli deeply uneasy. The emperor looked at Xuan Pei with a complicated look. He didn''t care about his son at all. He couldn''t remember how many princes had died over the years. There was no shortage of bones buried in the deep palace. Xu was punished by heaven. Among these sons, those who have some talent are either ambitious or incompetent. For example, the prince has a shallow mind. If he didn''t protect them secretly, he would have been the victim of others'' power struggle. Xuanpei''s mother, the emperor, is not clear, and in the deep palace, the son of humble birth to the emperor is dispensable, he did not care. When I first saw Xuan Pei today, I didn''t know what it was like. The young man was beautiful and beautiful. Because he had lived in the palace for a long time, his skin color was too white. But because he was young, he didn''t feel pale and haggard, but he was as moving as a crystal doll. He inherited the royal family''s inborn good bearing, and it''s a wonderful combination of such good bearing. Even if I didn''t come out to see people for so many years, I didn''t know how I had, but I didn''t let that kind of natural noble demeanor lose a share. What''s more, since he came in, he looked directly into the eyes of the emperor. His voice was respectful but not humble. His attitude was calm but not conceited. He was not like a * year-old child. It was almost like a 15-year-old boy. The emperor was surprised to find that he had neglected a possible excellent Prince for so many years. Xiao Shao frowned slightly. He could see clearly. Jiang Ruan''s eyes on Xuan Pei were unusual. Although he tried to hide it, he revealed one or two points. He had the royal guards in the palace. Naturally, he had heard about the situation of the thirteen princes. Why did a fool who had been abandoned suddenly change. A while ago, Jiang Ruan helped Xuan Pei. Later, the royal guards reported the situation. At that time, Xuan Pei was a cowardly prince who was bullied by the palace maids. Why did he act so well today? He was a different person. Look at the eunuch who just came with Xuan Pei. She behaved well and didn''t overstep. She clearly respected her master.I thought xuanpei''s appearance was arranged by Jiang Ruan, but now it seems that it is different. Jiang Ruan''s expression is obviously unknown. What does the thirteen Prince mean? Xiao Shao''s eyes faltered. He didn''t know if it was his illusion. He always felt that Xuan Pei''s behavior was almost the same as Jiang Ruan''s. The emperor pondered for a long time, then slowly said: "Oh, how do you want to testify?" "That day when the incident happened, my son was also in Mufeng Pavilion. I saw with my own eyes that Princess Heyi was dragged to the chair by two palace maids. At first, my son thought it was their joking. Later, Princess Hong''an came. Seeing her asking, my son fell down with Princess Heyi. At that time, the incident happened suddenly, and the children''s minister was perplexed, so he took advantage of no one''s attention and went back secretly. Later, I heard that Princess Hong''an had been put into prison. My son''s minister always thought something was wrong. Although he was afraid, he couldn''t watch Princess Hong''an being slandered. My son''s minister was cowardly. Now he came forward to testify. Please tell me! " As soon as the words came out, everyone took a breath. What did the thirteen Prince mean? He could testify at the scene, and the fourth Prince Xuan Lang also said that he had seen it with his own eyes. Xuan Pei''s words are obviously accusing Xuan Lang of lying! Xuanlang''s face changed a few times. Naturally, he knew it was serious. Since xuanpei had said this, he would have to go through the muddy water. Anyway, xuanpei''s words aroused the emperor''s suspicion. Who is Xuan Pei? Today, he is only a * year-old child. No matter how calm he is, his age is irrefutable. People will think that a child doesn''t have to lie, but he''s different. Without waiting for xuanlang to speak for herself, Shufei said impatiently, "do you know what you''re talking about? His fourth Highness has seen it with his own eyes. Aren''t you wronging him by saying so? " Shufei has already poisoned xuanpei in her heart. However, a lowly maid in court colludes with Jiang Ruan to exonerate him. In this case, we will pull the thirteen prince into the water and let him pay for what he has done! The Empress Dowager Yide looks at xuanpei in a puzzled way. When she saw xuanpei, she was also surprised and thought it was Xiao Shao''s arrangement. He also imagined when Xiao Shao had something to do with Xuan Pei. Later, he saw that Xuan Pei''s words were clear, not like the comments in the palace. He was a little comforted. She can trust Xiao Shao''s character. Since Xuan Pei is the one chosen by Xiao Shao, he will not be bad. Among these princes, one with some talent and no ambition is really rare. At that time, the Empress Dowager Yide glanced at Shufei and said, "it''s not clear yet, Shufei. I''m sorry to see that you''ve overstepped." Shufei doesn''t dare to offend empress dowager Yide. She is unwilling to silence, but she is thinking about how to pull xuanpei into the water. The emperor took a look at Xuan Pei. Although he didn''t like his excuse for Jiang Ruan, he still asked: "Oh, you know what Lao Si said is not the same as you." "Back to my father, I don''t know what the fourth brother said, but I see that the fourth brother was there when the maid of honor helped Princess Heyi to Mufeng Pavilion. Son Chen also heard four elder brothers later to Hong an Princess say of words Xuan Pei''s voice is clear and bright, different from that of an adult man. He has a penetrating and youthful spirit. When he listens to it, he makes people feel peaceful. He just feels that what he says seems to be convincing. Xuanlang clenched his fists and heard the emperor say, "what''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan takes a look at Xuan Pei. At this time, she can''t decide whether xuanpei was there or not. For her, xuanpei''s appearance today is too strange. It is also because Xuan Pei''s sudden appearance that the things she told huijue couldn''t continue. Xuanpei should not be here that day. What makes her more puzzled is why xuanpei is like a changed person in a short period of time, and what happened. "My son heard that the fourth elder brother said to Princess Hong''an, when the fourth elder brother was in front of the emperor''s grandmother and married, please don''t refuse, otherwise, Princess Hong''an would not escape the crime of beheading." Xuan Pei said in a loud voice. As soon as these words were uttered, the Jinluan hall was silent, and even the sound of a needle falling on the ground could be heard. Xuanlang''s face suddenly turned white. The emperor was holding a stream of anger. As he was about to speak, he heard the prince say again: "but there are many doubts in this case, so the minister also brought a person to help. With this person''s help, it''s not difficult to solve this case successfully." "Who?" The emperor asked in a deep voice. "Come on," the prince said in a high voice, "bring up the holy doctor Xia of Jinling --" then he saw the eunuch Xuansheng, who came slowly from the outside of the hall. He was dressed in a fresh blue cloth, about in his twenties, with a lovely baby face and a satchel around his waist. He knelt down to the emperor in the hall and said, "Cao min Xia Qing, meet your majesty." Xia Qing, the master of Jinling City, was again breathed. This man has been in the imperial Medical Department of the palace for generations. He was born in Xia Qing''s generation, but Xia Qing is a restless person. He doesn''t like the imperial doctors'' cost saving treatment methods, and is full of new ideas. But the masters of the imperial doctors in the palace are all noble people. If a person is accidentally killed, he will lose his head. How can he tolerate Xia Qing''s new and unheard of treatment methods.Xia Qing felt that the longer he stayed in the palace, the more bound he was. He said goodbye to his family and went on a journey. But he didn''t know that he later went to mount Canaan to learn from Mr. Baqi and became a disciple of Mr. Baqi. His medical skills were superb and he got the reputation of "Jinling holy hand". Now Xia Qing is young, but no one knows his name in the great Jin Dynasty. Nevertheless, when the Royal Medical Department invited him again, Xia Qing politely refused. This is his first visit to the palace since he became famous. No one thought that the prince would invite Xia Qing, and no one thought that Xia Qing had something to do with the prince. Now Xia Qing comes here, what do you want to do? The prince saw everyone''s dumbfounded appearance and said with a smile: "you don''t have to wonder. Our palace thinks that He Yi''s death is really strange. I''m afraid there''s something wrong with the corpse. It happens that Dr. Xia is our old friend. Our palace asked him to have a look at he Yi''s corpse." after a pause, he said slowly: "I don''t know. When I see it, I find something extraordinary." It''s a digression. suddenly, I feel that the crown prince has sprouted inexplicably, and the male n, the great doctor of Xia, is on the line ~ now www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 158 "What did you find?" The emperor looks unpredictable. The prince smiles again. He looks at Xia Qing and says, "doctor Xia, tell your father what you found." Xia Qing bows respectfully and says, "I''ll tell you the corpse of Cao min Guan and Princess Yi. I see that the corpse looks slightly ill, the spot is also a little strange, and the color is even more strange. The practitioners should be strict and careful, and there must be no mistake. Although the princess is golden and the grass people can see the corpse, it''s a breakthrough, but the affairs should not be overlooked. The practitioners especially taboo peeping into the middle, so the grass people have the courage to watch it carefully again. It doesn''t matter. I find that the princess''s lips are black and blue, she has small red spots, her limbs are not stiff, and her hair is also condensed into a piece.... " This man is a doctor''s maniac. A lot of people can''t understand what he is talking about. But Xia Qing still doesn''t feel it. He talks about the symptoms with relish and solemnity. Even the emperor''s face was filled with impatience. Finally, when Xia Qing finished talking about the suspicious points on Princess Yi, he said, "the grass people know that the princess has taken a kind of fresh muscle powder, which is colorless and tasteless. If you feed it to the population, you can keep the corpse in the state of just dying. The grass people smell the fragrance of the princess, and can''t stop it Princess Ding was used as "fresh muscle powder." "Nonsense!" Shufei couldn''t help but say: "what fresh muscle powder, Heyi is clearly killed by Jiang Ruan!" "Lady, don''t be impatient." Xia Qing, however, was still slow, and said seriously: "since the grass people knew there was something wrong, they used the method taught by master to remove the fresh muscle powder from the main body of Heyi county. After the princess removed the medicine that disturbed the sight of Luozuo, the corpse would no longer lie, showing the real time of death. The grass people have seen that the princess''s wound turns green. Judging from the time, it''s at least one day earlier than the time when he made his judgment. " When this remark came out, there was an uproar in the Jinluan hall. Xia Qing''s words meant that Princess Heyi had already died before Jiang Ruan went to Mufeng Pavilion. In this way, Jiang Ruan was not convicted of murder at all. On the contrary, what xuanpei and the prince said just now seems to be true. And, if you think about it further, xuanpei said that xuanlang and Princess Yi''s palace maids brought xuanlang and Princess Yi to Mufeng Pavilion. Why xuanlang and Princess Yi''s corpse are together? Isn''t it very possible that he killed them? This is just a joke to catch thieves. Xuanlang''s face has changed greatly. However, the appearance of the prince and xuanpei today is too sudden, which makes his brain a little muddled. In addition, Xia Qing, who suddenly appears, has completely disrupted his plans. Xuan Lang was originally a brainless man, but he relied on Xuan Li to act conveniently in the palace. But now Xuanli is estranged from him. Today, he must be planning to stand by. Xuanlang''s heart is in chaos, and he can''t think of any more ways. He has to say in vain: "no, you are lying. I saw Princess Heyi die in her hands with my own eyes. At that time, Princess Heyi was still well!" Shufei also has some doubts about Xia Qing''s words. She is not a miracle doctor. Naturally, she can''t see what''s wrong with the corpse of Princess Yi. At first, she thought it was done by Jiang Ruan. She wanted to kill Jiang Ruan. Unexpectedly, Xia Qing suddenly said this. If it is true as Xia Qing said, Princess Heyi died a day ago in Mufeng Pavilion. Who is the real killer? Although Shufei hated Jiang Ruan for the reason of Princess Heyi, she didn''t want to kill her daughter''s real murderer to get away with it, and she couldn''t accept being cheated in the drum. "Xia Qing, what you said is true!" he said "Nature is true." Xia Qing was so questioned. Although he was a little angry, he explained with a good temper: "although the grassroots people travel around, the hospital has been open in Jinling for so many years. No one has ever said that the hospital is not, let alone smash the signboard. The grass people have seen the princess''s corpse. Now the medicine is removed. If the empress doesn''t believe it, she can go to the imperial doctor to examine the corpse to see if what the grass people said is false. " No one knows the reputation of the master of Jinling in the great Jin Dynasty. What he said is good advice among the doctors in the Jin Dynasty. Who can doubt that his diagnosis is false? If you doubt it, you will be right with the medical ethics of the whole Dajin Dynasty. Xia Qing has a direct personality, and her character is praised by everyone. He said so, and no one doubted that there was something wrong. The prince also said: "father, my son has just asked the Royal Medical Department and the palace of Wuzuo to re-examine it. As the doctor Xia said, Heyi died before the day of Mufeng Pavilion." The emperor''s face moved, empress Yide''s hand in her sleeve gradually stretched out, slowly stroked the ruby armor, and said faintly: "old four, what else do you have to say?" "No, it''s not..." Xuanlang never thought that Xia Qing had such a skill and killed him by surprise. However, it was difficult for him to turn the tables again. The emperor''s eyes were full of deep thinking, which made xuanlang''s heart beat. He has been scheming for so long, pretending to be weak and harmless for so long, and seeing the great cause coming true, is it difficult for him to achieve it? Today, all his previous efforts will come to nothing? "Fourth younger brother, I know that you love Princess Hong''an, but you can''t use this kind of means that can''t be on the table." The prince said with a smile: "besides, now that the life and death of deputy general Jiang are uncertain in the front line, it''s really despicable for you to put Princess Hong''an in the position of being framed."It''s not to say that it''s OK. As soon as it''s mentioned, people immediately think of one of Jiang Xin''s events. Just now xuanpei said that xuanlang wanted to force her to marry by the death of Princess Heyi. Why do good people force her to marry? If it''s really for the sake of beauty, if they can''t get it, they will be destroyed. It''s too much to gain and lose to get a princess Heyi. If it is for Jiang Xinzhi''s military power, it is very likely. Although Jiang Xinzhi''s position is very awkward now, if he advances, he will make great contributions. If he withdraws, he can take over military power. In any case, it''s a good deal to marry Jiang Ruan. If Xuan Lang is playing this mind, everything will make sense. But when they understood it, they could not help sighing in their hearts. When they saw the incompetent fourth Royal Highness following the prince every day, they did not expect that there were such ambitions and plans, which should not be underestimated. Xuanlang looks at the prince resentfully, and he smiles back. Since Jiang Ruan''s warning, although the prince is a brainless man, he is not in a state of being slaughtered in the deep palace, especially those who hate betrayal and deception. He thinks that he treats xuanlang well, but the result of the investigation later is that xuanlang has a deep relationship with Xuanli. As soon as he thought that Xuan Lang was just acting like a brother, the prince felt like eating a fly. In the early years, there were some unexplained things, which also proved that Xuan Lang was behind the scenes. The prince has been angry with xuanlang for a long time. Now he has found an opportunity to fight against xuanlang. The so-called "grow what, get what result", but when Xuan Lang had been sincere to the prince, he would not have fallen into the situation of betrayal and separation. Then, the commander in chief, Mr. Gu, went into the palace and told him, "when I went back to the emperor, I found blood stains and broken clothes in the abandoned well in the palace. I identified that they were worn by the princess." If it was the man Jiang Ruan killed, xuanlang would have seen him at that time. How could he have time to take off Princess Heyi''s clothes and run to the abandoned well a few miles away? The prince shook his head and said, "fourth brother, it''s not the palace that said you killed your own sister for the sake of Princess Hong''an. It''s really hard to say. I know that you have a deep relationship with lady Shufei. When I was a child, I did something wrong. It was lady Shufei who spoke for you in front of my father. How sad it must be for you to kill Heyi like this. You see, she trusted you so much that she didn''t doubt you at all. " As soon as the words were finished, the expression on Shufei''s face suddenly changed, and xuanlang also froze in the same place. The prince''s words are true. Princess Chen is gentle on the surface but arrogant in fact. She usually goes far away from the other three concubines. The concubine was arrogant and had no children under her knees, which did not pose a threat. She was favored by the emperor for some time. Once upon a time, xuanlang also tried to please Shufei, hoping that she could say something nice to him in front of the emperor. Now the prince''s words, but all the spearheads are directed to the lady. It''s true that when Shufei loses Princess Heyi, she first attacks Jiang Ruan. However, she completely trusts xuanlang''s words. If xuanlang and Shufei are close, is there any inside story? Once the empress of the deep palace has ambition, she will be extremely terrible. Whether it is possible for her to die with Princess Yi is also known. She just wants to marry Jiang Ruan with xuanlang. What is the purpose? Naturally, it''s because Princess Shufei has no children. Princess Heyi is just a woman. If xuanlang has power in the future, she even thinks deeply that if she can sit in that position, Princess Shufei can have a share. The emperor''s heart was particularly sensitive to these things. Almost as soon as his voice fell, the emperor''s eyes were directly directed at Shufei. Although she was arrogant in the palace, she also knew the benefits. She hated the prince for dragging her into the water. She also said in a busy voice: "I didn''t expect that I trusted you so much, fourth prince, but you did harm to me and Yi, Emperor." she looked at the emperor, and two lines of tears fell from her beautiful face: "you should make decisions for your concubines!" This is the way to attack xuanlang. Only in this way, can we stop youyou and show that she and xuanlang have no conspiracy at all. At this point, Xuan Lang betrayed his relatives. The emperor was furious: "come on, take the fourth Prince away, send him to the Ministry of punishment, and try again the next day!" "No, father, it''s not me..." Xuan Lang had not had time to think of a good solution when he heard this sentence. He was in a panic and just begged for mercy. At this time, however, it was too late for him to say anything. Prince xuanpei and Xia Qing, as well as today''s Mr. Gu, almost told the truth about his lies. And Xuan Pei''s words of estrangement finally made Xuan Li stop talking at this time. Or Xuan li himself did not intend to help, after all, abandon the car to protect the coach is his consistent style. Empress Dowager Yide sighed deeply: "unworthy descendants, full of nonsense." Today, the scene on the main hall of the imperial court must be a joke. It''s a scandal related to the royal family. Xuan Lang''s doing these things is to discredit the royal family. The emperor''s face was almost trampled under his feet. Shufei was a little weak in her chair. She thought everything today was done by Jiang Ruan, but now it turns out that it was done by xuanlang. While she hated xuanlang, she was also deeply worried about her future. Princess Heyi is dead. She hasn''t been able to give birth to a man and a half women in the palace for so many years. Now that the new couple is about to enter the palace, what kind of favor does she have. Without the support of the latter part of his body, the emperor doubted her again. Chen Guifei was so spoiled by the emperor that she almost got half of the emperor''s heart. What about the sixth palace? He said that if he was beaten to the cold palace, he was beaten to the cold palace. How long can this ostentatious favor last?Perhaps she and Chen Guifei will soon meet in the cold palace. Shufei lips suddenly overflow a shallow smile, unspeakable bitterness. She took another deep look at Jiang Ruan. If she could not see someone helping him secretly, she would have lived in vain for so many years. Just a little daughter of the Chiang family, how to use so many people to help her? Look at what happened today. It''s not leaking. I can''t find any clues, but I have achieved my goal in the end. Her life is so good. A trial before the imperial court came to such a stage that it could be regarded as a sudden end. Among them, the undercurrent was turbulent, which was seen by all the officials. After that, it was bound to set off a storm in the court. Or there is a new team, or there is a betrayal, that is after the thing. After xuanlang was taken down, the emperor''s face was so gloomy that he could drip water. After he announced his departure, he was supported by Duke Li. Empress Dowager Yide thought about it and asked aunt yang to tell Jiang Ruan to go back later. Then she went back to the CI Ning palace. As the officials gradually retreated, Xiao Shao strode up to Jiang Ruan, looked at her, frowned and asked, "are you ok?" "Nothing." Jiang Ruan shook his head, but his eyes fell on Xuan Pei, who was looking at her smile. After a pause, she went to xuanpei, stood in front of him and said, "what have you done?" Xuanpei just gave her a smile. The child''s natural beauty, such a smile without any intention, only makes people feel dazzling, where there is just calm and calm. Trance people feel that this is just a childish child in the mother coquetry just. Mother? Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. He only felt that time had passed quickly, and he had returned to the deep palace of the last life. When the mother and the son were joking and fighting. Xuan Pei was so coquettish with her smile. "The princess once helped me out of the encirclement, and I would like to report the kindness of the dripping water to the Yongquan. Our palace just did a little bit to help the princess." Xuanpei is serious. He just looks at her and unconsciously shows some coquetry. Xiao Shao dropped his eyes and looked at Xuan Pei thoughtfully. He suddenly frowned and pulled Jiang Ruan behind him. He blocked Xuan Pei''s burning eyes and said, "it''s too much." Xuanpei was not satisfied with Xiao Shao''s action. He looked at him with hostility and said, "what''s the relationship between this and you?" "She''s mine. I''m in charge of her business." Xiao shaodao. Zhao Guangfang, who wanted to ask about Jiang Ruan, came over and heard this sentence. He almost fell over. He stepped forward a few steps and said, "what nonsense, Xiao family boy? You''ll ruin our Ruan girl''s reputation with such nonsense. Don''t blame me for being rude to you!" Xuan Pei blinked, looked at Zhao Guang and said sweetly, "General Zhao." Zhao Guang also looks at xuanpei suspiciously. He can see that xuanpei is deliberately trying to help Jiang Ruan. Moreover, the thirteen princes, who are almost invisible in this rumor, are by no means as simple as they seem. After all, Zhao Guang has been fighting in the court for so many years, and he has a great eye for people. He didn''t dare to despise xuanpei. Today he saved Jiang Ruan. It''s inevitable that xuanpei has his own plan. Zhao Guang said respectfully, "Your Highness." But in the heart is suspicious, this Xuan Pei how to see own Ruan wench''s eyes with the chick like? Lack of maternal love to find the empress dowager, looking for Jiang Ruan is nothing, Jiang Ruan is still a big girl. The prince followed him and took a look at Jiang Ruan and Xuan Pei. Then he said, "Congratulations, princess. You''ve escaped." "Thank you very much, your highness." Jiang Ruan responded with a smile. The prince said with a smile: "you''re welcome. If you want to thank me, I''ll thank my brother. My brother and I just take what we need. He''s very kind to you Then he left without looking back. This was a slight surprise to the public. Xiao Shao looked at Xia Qing, who was still standing on one side sorting out the medical box, and said, "Xia Wu." As soon as Xia Qing was shocked, he seemed to have just seen Xiao Shao. He trotted all the way to Xiao Shao and stood by him, shouting, "third brother." Both of them were apprentices in Mount Canaan. They studied under Mr. Baqi. They were also brothers in Tongmen. However, compared with Xiao Shao''s skill of Qihuang, Xia Qing actually studied medicine. He read all the medical books in Canaan mountain. The so-called "sincerity is soul" is a good inheritance. At the moment, the young man was excited, but Xiao Shao said coldly, "why did you enter the palace?" "The prince let me into the palace." Xia Qing said: "Your Highness said that as long as I enter the palace for autopsy, I will be given the" Shinan medical code "in the palace. Third brother, you don''t know. The master said that is a very rare medical record to record human bone pain. I had been looking for it for a long time, but I didn''t find it. Unexpectedly, in the palace, as soon as I heard the prince say this, I kept coming. You know... " As soon as Xia Qing talked about the medical books, he kept on talking, ignoring people''s amazing eyes. Xiao Shao interrupted him: "why does the prince want you to have an autopsy?" "I don''t know," Xia Qing said, "but third brother," he looked around: "I didn''t expect you to be here, or let''s ask Lao Qi to go out for a drink?" If we can say that he is the only one who has not been affected by the atmosphere just now. Xiao Shao took a look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan nodded slightly. Xiao Shao looked back and said, "good."There is no relationship between Xia Xiaoshen and Ruan Mei. Ang, he is someone else''s CP, so don''t worry ~ about it www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 159 In the elegant seat of Dongfeng Building, Xiao Shao, Mo Cong and Xia Qing sit together. Mo congxu just came from the outside. He just came in and sat down on the chair. He picked up the teapot on the table and poured himself a cup of tea. After drinking all the tea, he gasped for breath and said to Xiao Shao, "third brother, it''s all arranged. Xuanli is ready. There''s absolutely no problem this time. You''re just waiting to have a beautiful woman Xia Qing was very confused when she heard this, and asked, "what''s holding a beautiful woman back? Third brother has a sweetheart. Which girl is it? How come it has something to do with Xuanli again? " "You idiot." Mo Cong knocked him on the head: "I don''t care about the third brother''s life. You don''t know that the third brother is finally enlightened. It''s a pity that Luohua is merciless. The girl is cold. The third brother doesn''t try to increase his favor in front of the girl. However, the girl was born well, and the elder brother had some military power in his hands. Xuanli also had other people''s ideas. The third elder brother flushes the crown to be angry for the beauty, is making the trip to Xuan Li. " What Mo Cong said is a joke, but Xiao Shao just drinks tea and doesn''t say a word. He doesn''t pay any attention to what he said. Instead, he is slightly distracted, but he doesn''t know what he is thinking. When Xia Qing heard these words, she cried out: "what? Who is that? The third brother has been shut down. Don''t lie to me, seventh younger martial brother. " Who Xiao Shao is? When he was a teenager, he rode through the alleys of the capital. He must have been walking on fragrance all the way. The big girls and little wives who watched in the alleys threw their sachets on him for free. Of course, the final result is that Xiao Shao''s mount is always fragrant with flowers. Then came to learn from Mount Canaan, and countless drunken girls also clamored that they would go to mount Canaan to learn from their teachers. Naturally, it was impossible. At the foot of Mount Canaan, there was an array made by Mr. Baqi himself. Once they fell into the array, they were in danger. At that time, many ladies deliberately "intruded" into the array with Xiao Shao''s pity for jade, but Xiao Shao never ignored it. It''s a kind of trouble for them. The elder martial brother wants to wipe his ass for the trouble Xiao Shao brought. At that time, Xia Qing and Mo Cong were young, and the most important thing they did every day was to go fishing all over the mountains. It''s OK to fish people. The disappointed eyes of the people who are fishing at them are enough to become a nightmare for every disciple of Mount Canaan. It''s really hurting their self-esteem. As a matter of fact, there are many handsome young men among their martial brothers. Most of them are young and mature Xiao Shao, who has a kind of elegance and coldness engraved into the bone marrow. He stands out from the rest of them and has a unique charm. When they were still young, when they were searching for a beautiful girl, only Xiao Shao remained unchanged, with an extraordinary appearance. The rest of their martial brothers also secretly discussed it in private. They thought that Xiao Shao would become a monk in Shaolin Temple in the future. Who knows what Mo Cong said today surprised Xia Qing. He didn''t know what it was like in his heart. Most of all, he didn''t expect that the God like figure in his heart had finally stepped down from the altar and hit the wall. Rao Shi, a child faced young man with a pure nature, couldn''t help but have a little happiness. If it''s really Fengshui turn, heaven good reincarnation, don''t believe look up, heaven spared who. "Nuo, you''ve seen it today," Mo Cong said with a smile as soon as he saw Xia Qing''s expression. "It''s the master who escaped from the disaster because of your help in the autopsy today, Princess Hong''an. You see the person who was framed." "It''s her!" Xia Qing was stunned. Think of the girl in the Jinluan palace, who is beautiful and charming, but her calm expression makes Xia Qing feel a little scared. Xia Qing thought about it and said seriously, "the third brother likes beautiful and charming. I understand. I''ll write to the fourth brother later." Mo Cong rolled his eyes. The fact that Xiao Shao fell in love with a girl is now well known. I don''t know what Mr. Baqi looks like when he knows. He looked at Xiao Shao, put away his joking look and said seriously, "after the marriage, you will go to the border to fight against Tianjin?" "Yes." Xiao Shao dropped his eyes: "when you meet in Beijing, you must be careful." "Xuan Li is sure to do something in the back." Mo Cong pondered: "even if you have an arrangement, he has an advantage in Beijing. How do you allocate 300000 royal guards?" "100000 troops follow me. One hundred thousand is still the same, and one hundred thousand remains in Beijing. " Xiao Shao said: "Xirong is not at ease. I''m afraid he might be attacked in front and behind. Xuanli really has some news, so we must take this opportunity to do something. " After a pause, he said: "you are in Beijing, protect her for me." "She" naturally refers to Jiang Ruan. Mo Cong didn''t know what he felt in his heart, but said, "I know. You should be more careful "Xirong, Nanjiang, Tianjin and the traitors in the imperial court. This time, we can''t do it all at once. There will be more trouble in the future. I have written to recall Qi Si. You two will stay in Jingzhong. After I leave, there will be some big news in the court. Your assistance will be. He stayed in Xuanli for fishing, but if he was really crazy, he would kill him directly. " Xiao shaomei flashed a trace of anger: "when something goes wrong, I will bear it." Xia Qing a Leng: "what are you talking about, how can I not understand?" "Xia Wu, you also stay in the capital. When you enter the palace today, you will inevitably be watched by Xuanli. It''s not safe to go back to Jinling. There are at least people in the capital to protect you. I''ll give you the money. With you, you can take care of Jiang Ruan for me. " Xiao Shao looks at Xia Qingdao."Ah?" Xia Qing touched her nose: "I''m a miracle doctor, and I''m not a doctor in your house. How can I see a doctor specially for one person? Besides, why does the eighth Prince stare at me? I''ll do a autopsy, and I''ll be honest and upright..." Seeing that Xia Qing had to go on, Mo Cong said, "shut up. If you want to die, go back to Jinling now. The third brother is for your own good. If you die in the dark, don''t say that you don''t care about your brother." Xia Qing was a pure good doctor. When Mo Cong said this, he immediately kept silent. Nuo said, "I just say it casually. I just listen to my third brother." When Jiang Ruan was almost unable to argue the murder charge, he suddenly had a turning point. The appearance of the crown prince and the 13th Prince brought a turning point to the case, and the master of Jinling found out the mystery. In the end, the imperial court tried Jiang Ruan personally, and finally found out many doubtful points. Jiang Ruan was proved innocent, but xuanlang, the fourth prince, became the suspect of murder. A few days later, the emperor took his men to court again, but he didn''t know why. Xuan Lang voluntarily admitted his crime. After being investigated and dealt with by the Ministry of punishment, criminal evidence has indeed been found. There are both human and material evidence. How can Xuan Lang deny it? At that moment, she was sent to the prison. Everyone was wondering how much responsibility xuanlang would be sentenced for this crime. After all, Princess Heyi was favored by the emperor at the beginning, and Shufei would not let her daughter die in vain. She spared no effort to kill xuanlang. But before the verdict came down, Xuan Lang committed suicide in the prison. It''s because he took poison and killed himself. The prison is heavily guarded. It''s impossible for anyone to kill him. But it''s really suspicious that Xuan Lang died suddenly. However, no matter how suspected, people are dead, and no evidence can be found, they have to give up. In a rage, the emperor removed Xuan Lang from the Royal Jade Butterfly and demoted him to a common people. He could not enter the imperial mausoleum even if he died. The day after the news of xuanlang''s death, Xianfei hanged herself in the palace. This pair of mother and son both went to die, and immediately set off a great storm in the palace. The emperor hated Wu and Wu, but he didn''t have a good face for the suicide of Xianfei. He found a family member who asked Xianfei to collect the corpse. After all, he thought that Xianfei had been with him in the palace for so many years, and let her be buried with xuanlang. Xianfei''s death seems to have brought a huge blow to Shufei, just because Princess Heyi is dead. Now only Shufei and Defei are left who used to be the four concubines in the palace. Defei and Xuanhua are able to get close to her, but Shufei is childless. What''s more, xuanpei''s words made the emperor have a bad heart for Shufei. Shufei clearly felt that in recent days, the emperor had intentionally or unintentionally started to alienate her. If it goes on like this, it''s not far from the day when she falls out of favor. Princess Shufei is an interesting person. Since she doesn''t think there is any place to miss in the palace, sooner or later she will be like Princess Chen, so she asks herself to become a monk and pray for Princess Heyi. The Emperor didn''t say anything. The next day, Shufei moved out of the palace and went to a temple outside the palace to start the Qingxiu, vowing not to enter the palace for life. Empress Dowager Yide felt her heart and gave her name Qinghong. The former imperial court and the latter imperial court are always closely related. The fall of the fourth Prince has kept the balance in the latter imperial court for several decades, and once it is disrupted. Now the four imperial concubines and the other three imperial concubines are vacant, leaving only one German imperial concubine. The empress turned into a hot spot for a while, and the imperial concubine became more and more careful, making it almost impossible for people to find fault. But even so, the balance in the palace always had to be maintained, and the emperor had already started to choose the right person from the new batch of beautiful ladies. The girls know that the opportunity is rare, and they all try their best to win the eye of the emperor. They just hope that they can firmly grasp this opportunity and make it prosperous. The time they spend dressing up every day is long enough. On this day, the girls got together again to talk about what happened with Princess Yi. The young lady of Wang Shilang''s family is 16 years old. She is pretty and plays the lute well. While eating snacks, he said: "in recent days, the palace has become more and more condensed. The eunuchs and maids are all holding a face and looking at the strange and frightening people." She usually has a lively temperament. The atmosphere in the palace is tense these days, which makes her listless. One side of the woman patted her hand, handed a cup of tea, said: "sister Wang, don''t say that, be careful to be heard." She lowered her voice: "I''ve heard that the emperor is in a bad mood these days. He''s always angry. That''s why everyone is cautious." Miss Wang looked at the woman opposite and sighed: "I know it, but we are so old that we are put into this palace. It''s really suffocating." The woman on the other side was wearing a small yellow dress and a narrow skirt, which made her look more and more like a willow. It was no one else but Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan said with a smile: "we are much luckier than those people. At least there''s a life left. For example, how about your fourth Royal Highness being a son of the heavenly family a few days ago? In the end, I can''t save my life. The wealth of this day''s family is in danger. " Miss Wang immediately showed a look of fear, patted her chest and said, "I feel chilly as soon as I think about it. You say that the four princes are your own sons. If they don''t, they will be gone. We can''t compare with the four princes'' status. If we make a little mistake, we will not die. In a word, I don''t dare to seek the wealth of this day''s family. " Jiang Dan patted her hand and comforted her, but a smile flashed from his eyes. Wang''s servant is not a big or small figure in the court. Although he doesn''t look very impressive, his wife''s home is Zuowei''s, and Miss Wang has a rich family. What''s more, she is beautiful in appearance and good at playing the lute. If she is really lucky, it''s hard to be spoiled. She is a strong opponent in this palace.Unfortunately, there was a flash of light in Jiang Dan''s eyes. Although he had the unique conditions, he was a fool. You can believe what you say. As long as you gently provoke, you will believe her words. The more sinister impression she has left in the palace, the more nervous Miss Wang will be in front of the emperor in the future. The emperor will never like a woman who is afraid of himself. Such a woman is the most appetizing to men. How can miss wang be favored in the palace when she makes the emperor unhappy. Jiang Dan''s heart was full of twists and turns, but the more gentle he was smiling on his face. The outspoken Miss Wang took her by the hand and said, "good sister, you are still very kind. In this palace, you are the only one who treats me sincerely." As she said this, Miss Li, another one of the girls, came in and sat down at the table. She was indignant and said, "Hey, have you ever heard of that? The Empress Dowager married King Jinying. " "King Jin Ying?" Miss Li''s words immediately surrounded all the beauties around her and looked at her one after another and asked, "but that bandit, Xiao Shao, King Jinying?" Although the words in her mouth are "disorderly officials and thieves", there is a touch of spring on the face of these beautiful girls. It seems that as long as the name is mentioned, it is enough to make them fascinated. This is natural. This beautiful, elegant and lonely young man is the dream of many daughters in Dajin. Even if a woman becomes an emperor in the palace, she will always keep a fantasy about the beautiful dream of her girlhood. "Exactly." Miss Li said, "do you know who the Empress Dowager pointed out to him?" The crowd shook their heads. Miss Wang said, "the king of Jinying is very elegant. The person who the Empress Dowager married must be a fairy. I guess, but Miss Yao from the Binhai governor''s house?" Miss Yao has a good life experience, good appearance, good conduct and good ability. If anyone in the grand Jin Dynasty is worthy of Xiao Shao, I''m afraid she is the only immortal. Miss Li shook her head and said: "no, the person the Empress Dowager gave her marriage to King Jinying is the daughter of the Chiang family. Today''s Princess Hong''an, Jiang Ruan!" When this remark came out, everyone was in a daze. Even Dong Ying''er, who is sitting on the embroidery far away, can''t help shaking his hand. At that moment, a red blood bead as big as a grain of rice emerges from his index finger. She slowly put her index finger to her mouth and sucked the blood away. Eyes are unconsciously floating to the speaker. Jiang Dan frowned, but his tone was three tentatively: "this How could my elder sister be suddenly pointed out to King Jinying? " "Who knows." Miss Li looked at Jiang Dan with displeasure. Xu vented his anger to Jiang Dan and said, "although it''s a princess, it''s only the Empress Dowager''s invitation. It''s not the real gold branch and jade leaf. Besides, it''s only a better appearance. But for those who are too coquettish, they are not dignified and virtuous, and I don''t know what the Empress Dowager thinks. Instead, she chose Miss Jiang instead of Miss Yao. " Jiang Dan''s eyes turned, and he recognized the unhappiness in Miss Li''s words. In fact, it''s not only Miss Li who is unhappy, but I''m afraid that all of you here are more or less dissatisfied with Jiang Ruan. People always feel that they can not get people, others should not get, even if they get, much better than their own conditions to become. But among you, some of you are not inferior to Jiang Ruan in status and family background, and others are not inferior to Jiang Ruan in terms of musical instruments, chess, calligraphy and painting, but you have not become the princess of Jin Ying. How can jealousy be less sour? You should know that Jinying''s house is the proper master of Jinying''s house. Although Jinying''s name is disorderly minister and thief in recent years, he is actually protected by the royal family, and his glory, status and power are immeasurable. The wealth and fame that King Jinying''s mansion represents is a layer of gold plated on people. Who is not jealous? What''s more, Xiao Shao was born well. A beautiful husband, a wealthy family, without her father-in-law and mother-in-law, has its own, distinguished, huge and exquisite style, which is what all women dream of. How can Jiang Ruan be the mistress of Jinying palace? "Jin Ying Wang is such a handsome person. The elder sister likes it, but How could the Empress Dowager marry suddenly? " Jiang Dan timidly asked: "I''ve never heard big sister mention it before." As soon as the words came out, everyone''s eyes were filled with deep thinking. Jiang Ruan did not know how to please empress Yide. Empress Yide personally asked the emperor to make her Princess Hong''an. It is not impossible for Jiang Ruan to ask empress dowager Yide to marry Xiao Shao. The more people think about it, the more likely it is. They think that Jiang Ruan must have taken a fancy to Xiao Shao''s talents and the wealth of King Jinying''s house. Then they take the initiative to mention it to empress Yide. Empress Yide only then refers to marriage. It''s just a pity that Xiao Shao, such a peerless talent, has to be matched with such a woman with empty appearance. "It''s shameless." Miss Li said angrily, "there are such shameless people in the world." "It''s a pity," said Miss Wang. "I just don''t know what Lord Xiao thought of this marriage." "If you have any idea, all the good cabbages will be arched by pigs. It''s a tragedy in the world." Another woman lamented. Jiang Dan lowered his head and closed his fists in his sleeves, but he clenched them secretly. There was a trace of darkness in his eyes. the wedding bird www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 160 On this day, the gate of Chiang''s mansion was really very busy. The crowd of onlookers almost blocked the road at the entrance of Shangshu mansion. Just because the Royal will, to give marriage Hongan princess. Princess Hong''an''s reputation in Beijing is well-known to everyone. Her beauty has won the favor of the Empress Dowager. But I don''t know if it''s the envy of beauty, who has been framed and put into prison for many times. There are those who feel sorry for her situation, and those who feel down in the well and clap their hands and applaud her, who are in the limelight for a moment. At the moment, people inside and outside the hall of Jiang''s mansion knelt all over the ground. It was Jiang Quan and Jiang Ruan who knelt down. With a long voice, the Duke of the Palace said in a sharp voice: "according to the emperor''s system, the Empress Dowager''s empress dowager''s order, I have chosen Prince Jinying to give her shoulder Yu and double eyes Hualing. Jiang, the daughter of the Minister of the Ministry of war, is dignified, virtuous, filial, kind and kind. Her virtue is matched by the emperor''s virtue and the court Wei. After finishing speaking, my father-in-law squinted at the man kneeling on the ground and said, "Princess Hong''an, take the order." Jiang Ruan a little meal, just smile to come forward to take the imperial edict, Angelica dahurica rushed forward to hand over a heavy brocade bag, said with a smile: "father-in-law hard." "You are welcome, princess." The father-in-law weighed the brocade bag in his hand and laughed with satisfaction. His tone was also very cordial: "this time, we have come to touch the joy of the princess." He looked at Jiang Quan, who had a stiff face on one side, and raised his eyebrows. It had long been rumored that Jiang Shangshu was very strict with his daughter, but now it seems true. The Empress Dowager Yide was determined to defend Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan would be the daughter of King Jinying''s house in the future, and she was also a powerful figure in the great Jin Dynasty. The father-in-law wanted to please him, so he also wanted to take the opportunity to beat Jiang Quan. He said in a sharp voice, "why, this is a good thing. Why is Mr. Jiang not very happy?" Surprised, Jiang Quan said with a forced smile, "I''m so happy that I don''t know what to say. The little girl''s aptitude is dull. She is really up to the Jinying palace. She is blessed with the protection of the Empress Dowager. " My father-in-law said with a smile: "Mr. Jiang said well, isn''t it the Empress Dowager''s protection now. The Empress Dowager said that she will enter Jinying''s mansion in the future. As long as Lord Xiao doesn''t treat the princess well, the Empress Dowager will come out for the princess. The Empress Dowager treats the princess as her granddaughter. If anyone dares to bully the princess, she must give him some color to see. " What he said made Chiang Kai Shek''s face blue and purple again, which clearly meant to be heard by him. The beating in the words really made people feel depressed. But the eunuchs in this palace are not very impressive. They are the people around the emperor and the Empress Dowager. They can''t be offended easily. They have to buy their face. So I had to swallow the sultry in my heart and laugh with him for a while. It was so easy to get rid of his father-in-law that Jiang Quan looked at Jiang Ruan and said with a sneer, "you are really capable!" "My father flatters me. This is the blessing of the Empress Dowager." Jiang Ruan''s head was down and he was smiling. Jiang Quan, who looked like that, was depressed. He just wanted to kick Jiang Ruan out of the door. Then he snorted again, turned around and walked away. After Jiang Quan left, forsythia frowned and said, "girl, this Yizhi..." People are unprepared for this edict, but they can''t resist it now. Forsythia sighed in her heart. She was in the official family and couldn''t help her marriage. Even if the king of Jinying looked good, her own girls didn''t reject him. However, her direct marriage didn''t pay attention to Jiang Ruan''s meaning. For example, at this moment, Jiang Ruan didn''t have a trace of joy. Angelica dahurica also feel some sad, some worried look at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan shook his head: "sort it out, I will go to Jinying palace." Xiao Shao''s action is so fast, but even so, there are still some things to ask. At the eighth Prince''s house, Xuanli swept all the things on the table to the ground. There was a "crackling" sound. The exquisite porcelain fell to pieces on the ground. The sharp white pieces splashed up and scratched the palms of the people standing on one side. Xuanli sat down on the chair and took a deep breath. Then he said slowly, "it''s like this. It''s his idea to fight the Empress Dowager." Xiao Shao, who had been rumored in the palace to marry the emperor before, thought it was Xiao Shao''s will. Judging from his later deeds, the Emperor didn''t agree with Jiang Ruan becoming Princess Jinying. Now the Empress Dowager so suddenly Yizhi came, Xuanli suddenly realized. Xiao Shao had never thought of marrying the emperor. The person he was looking for was empress dowager Yide. The rumors that came out before were just to blur people''s eyes. He also let Xuan Li make trouble, and even agreed to Xuan Lang''s bad forced marriage strategy. Finally, Xuan Lang died. He lost an easy-to-use chess piece in the palace, and almost got himself involved. "Xiao Shao, I really underestimate him." Xuanli squints at Xiaoshao. Although he still has his usual gentle smile on his lips, his eyes are ferocious. He gnashes his teeth and wants to kill Xiaoshao. The most annoying thing for a proud man like him is to be played with by others. Now he is led by Xiao Shao''s nose all the way. How can he be reconciled? The young man sitting at the bottom of his head was also ugly. His left finger was suddenly missing. It was no one else. It was Jiang Chao, the second young master of the Jiang family. Xuanli was so angry that he felt better. Jiang Ruan''s two brothers and sisters are his eyesore. Now the Empress Dowager Yizhi, Jiang Ruan is on the tree of Jinying palace, and it will be more difficult to deal with her in the future."Did you clean up what you were asked to do last time?" Xuanli turns to Jiang Chao. "If you go back to your highness," Jiang Chao replied hastily, "everything has been arranged. Now everything in the palace has been put down. There will be no more trouble." "Xuan Lang has no brain. He is also to blame for his death." Xuan Li casually looked at the broken porcelain pieces in front of him: "we have to change people in the palace." Although Xuan Lang was incompetent in the palace, he was a good way to deliver news. Now that Xuan Lang is dead, it''s hard for the palace to put in more people, so we have to start from the people in the palace. "Your Highness, do you want to start from the prince? Now it seems that my subordinates think that the thirteen princes look smart, maybe they can use it. " Jiang Chao said. On that day, xuanpei''s deeds were in the eyes of everyone. They all said that the thirteen prince was a wise man, but he didn''t show mountains and water. The Diao Nu who used to serve the thirteen princes were respectful to him now. The emperor began to pay attention to him and occasionally asked people to send him something. However, no matter how clever Prince 13 was, the low status of his biological mother meant that he would never be qualified to compete with Xuanli for that position. This kind of person has no threat and is smart. It''s very suitable for making chess pieces. "Smart? Too smart is not a good thing. " Xuanli shook his head slowly: "I''m afraid he''s Xiao Shao''s man." "You mean..." Jiang Chao was stunned. "I''m afraid that Xiao Shao taught him how to make a comeback for a young boy, and the prince thought it was the same. I don''t understand why Xiao Shao didn''t do it himself. Just Xuan Pei, I don''t want to use him. " Xuanli road. There''s another reason he didn''t say. I don''t know why. Seeing Xuan Pei always makes him feel uncomfortable. As if there were some strange emotions in his heart, he was very reluctant to see Xuan Pei. "I can''t find the thirteen princes. According to your highness, who should I find?" Jiang Chao asked tentatively. "Aren''t the new batch of pretty girls in the palace?" Xuanli looked at his fingertips: "there are always people who want to climb up. You can find a chance to have a good choice." Jiang Chao was shocked, then dropped his head and replied respectfully, "yes." After hearing the news of Jiang Ruan''s marriage, there was obviously more than one person who was in a bad mood. At this moment, Liu Min, standing in the garden pavilion in the East Palace, was looking at the koi swimming around in the pond with a gloomy look, and his mind had already gone to the clouds. Empress Dowager Yizhi, Royal grace magnanimous, a word doomed him no longer possible. Thinking that Jiang Ruan would be crowned Xiao from now on, Liu Min''s heart surged with a sour emotion. He is a complete nerd, self conceited. He never knew what it was like in the first 20 years, but later he understood what he was thinking. However, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao have a lot to do with each other. They are so close that with the Empress Dowager''s order, she Happy, too. Liu Min turned back and saw the prince''s smiling face: "Liu Taifu, what do you want to be so distracted?" Liu Min shook his head: "Your Highness." The Prince did not care to sit down on one side and looked at him: "you are sad for Princess Hong''an." Liu Min was surprised that the reputation of a woman''s boudoir could not be violated at will. Just as he wanted to deny it, he heard the prince say: "you don''t have to deny it, Liu Taifu. This is not as good as you, but this is not as good as you." He looked at Liu Min with one hand and said curiously, "in fact, I think it''s very strange. Princess Hong''an, to put it bluntly, just looks better. Why do you all follow the magic. Even if Xiao Shao is the Iceman, Taifu, people who don''t understand the customs will be sad for him. It''s really an eye opener for our palace. " Liu Min moved his lips, but he didn''t know how to refute the prince''s words. The prince''s words are right after all. Now he is depressed, and he has no heart to fight with the prince here. What he wanted to say, he finally put up with it and said to the prince, "no matter what, a few days ago, his royal highness spoke out for Princess Hong''an. I thank him for his help." "Forget it, this palace is not just for you." The prince waved his hand. Although Liu Min had asked him to do something for Jiang Ruan before, the prince was never a meddler. He was even happy to watch the fun. If Xuan Pei didn''t appear later, he would not have been in this muddy water. Xuanpei told him on the same day whether he wanted to take revenge on xuanlang, the fourth prince who betrayed him. The prince was very angry with xuanlang''s betrayal, and he was worried that he couldn''t find the best chance to punish him. As soon as he heard Xuan Lang''s words, he was a little moved. Xuan Lang tried to talk about the benefits that the crown prince could get after that, but he succeeded in arousing the crown prince''s playfulness. Now he and Xuan Pei hit it off and performed such a good play. The prince is still a little strange. How can Xuan Pei, a quiet prince in the palace, come up with so many ideas. That laoshizi Jinling master Xia Qing can''t be invited by everyone, but xuanpei says that as long as there is any medical skill in the palace, Xia Qing will promise to enter the palace. After that, it is not surprising that the crown prince could not understand how xuanpei expected things like a God. Now, I am afraid it is all due to Xiao Shao. Xuanpei is just a child. It''s a little early to play scheming at this age. I think it''s Xiao shaophen who ordered him to do so carefully.Although Liu Min thanks him, in fact, the prince does not help because of Liu min. Now seeing Liu Min''s uneasy appearance, the prince felt a little sympathy. Although Liu Min is usually very strict and disgusting, he is just a straight hearted Taifu. Seeing that he is so depressed for women, and at least he has had the friendship between teachers and apprentices, the prince patted Liu Min on the shoulder: "Taifu, you don''t have to be too sad. There are thousands of women in the world. Why do you want to take that cup of wine? Soon she will be someone else''s wife. Taifu is familiar with etiquette. It''s better for us to find some lovely people for you. Although she is not as beautiful as Princess Hong''an, she won''t let people down. " Liu Min, with a stiff body, stood up and said: "Your Highness is kind, but I don''t mean it. Weichen has something else to do, so I''ll leave. " Then he gave a salute and left as if he had escaped. The prince spit out the tea dregs in his mouth and said: "boring." Besides, the Jinying palace is different from the gloomy situation in other places. It is almost a happy way to prepare for the new year. Since the death of the old Jinying Wang and his wife, the Jinying palace has been cold and quiet all the year round. It is rare for the whole palace to be happy. Today, as soon as the empress Yide''s edict came down, the whole family rushed to tell us that the royal guards, which were distributed in all parts of the great Jin Dynasty, had received the letters from flying pigeons and began to collect money to buy wedding gifts for their master and young lady. Housekeeper Lin happily wiped the mirror with cloth and put it on his face. He pulled the brocade and said, "do you think it''s better to make this wedding invitation into gold stamping or silk embroidery?" After thinking about it, he shook his head: "it''s better to make a sandalwood stick with beads on it. The last time I brought back a batch of glazed beads from Persia, they were very rich and festive Jin Si rolled his eyes: "Lao Lin, can you make a wedding invitation so exquisite? If the old lady still sees that you are such a black sheep, she will regret how she made you a housekeeper "What do you know about this little girl?" housekeeper Lin hated that others questioned his ability most. He immediately straightened his chest and said with pride: "this wedding invitation, if you don''t do it well, you will lose the face of the palace. What does our master do? It''s a big deal to get a wife. At the beginning, many people said that our master would never marry a wife in his life. We just wanted to beat those people in the face. It''s about making this marriage beautiful and physical. What''s more, you think the money of this wedding invitation is a black sheep. Xiao Si, Lao Lin, I tell you, the bride price decided by the young master is a black sheep! " Jin Si''s eyes brightened as soon as he heard it. Before she could speak, he heard a whizzing thought in the tree. Jin San flew down and looked at housekeeper Lin and asked, "how much is the bride price?" "Guess what?" Housekeeper Lin didn''t say anything, but told the two men to eat. "Seven seven forty-nine?" Jin four guess. Brocade four temperament is exactly like a man, to these dowry betrothal gifts of matter is not very clear, casually said a number. "Bah, where are the beggars?" Jin San shook his head and said, "well, the more dowry there is, the more beautiful it is. I guess it''s 9981." Although Jin San is more like a woman than Jin Si, what he does on weekdays is the royal guards. These things that ordinary daughters care about are still less. Housekeeper Lin looked at them: "I didn''t expect that in your eyes, King Jinying''s house is so shabby. What''s the matter. It''s a hundred and sixty-eight! " "One hundred sixty-eight?" Jin three Jin four Qi called out the voice. Jin San frowned: "how much is that?" "I''ll tell you more clearly. There''s more than one hundred and sixty-eight dowry to buy all the properties of the three Shangshu houses." Lin Guanjia said: "but it''s just a bride''s gift. I think it''s just a bride''s gift. When the young lady comes in, the whole Jinying palace will be hers. Ah, the master is too old to stay. He only cares about his daughter-in-law and ignores us servants. " Speaking of the end, steward Lin''s tone was already sad. The betrothal gifts of the three ministers'' offices are really rich. The three brocades and four brocades look at each other, and they are surprised by each other''s eyes. Jin three swallowed saliva, way: "so many betrothal gifts, the master didn''t expect to give all the book house, plain Cheap Book House?" Housekeeper Lin shook his head: "stupid, how can all the betrothal gifts be sent to Shangshu''s house? Of course, all the betrothal gifts are in the hands of the young lady. Don''t worry about it. The young master is ready. " "Young master is too manly." Jin San blinked: "if I were a woman, I would marry him." "Aren''t you a woman?" Housekeeper Lin said contemptuously, "but the little Lord doesn''t like you. You are not as good-looking as the little lady." The Chamberlain of Xiang Lin still quarrels with Jin San and Jin Si, but he doesn''t know that Jiang Ruan has entered Jinying palace from the gate. The servants of King Jinying''s mansion didn''t even inform housekeeper Lin. they all warmly welcomed the future young master, the introduction of the guide and the introduction of the guide. All the way, they met the servants and treated her respectfully. Each salute made the "young lady" shout louder than anything, which made Lu Zhu smile with her mouth covered. The person to be informed took Jiang Ruan to Xiao Shao''s study, and the next people voluntarily stepped back. Dewdrop and Tianzhu also closed the door and left their time alone for the two people who received the wedding edict."Xiao Shao, what do you want to do?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao''s action is so fast that she is caught off guard. Now she is tied to the boat of Jinying palace. Xiao Shao turned around. Today, instead of wearing the usual black clothes, he was wearing a dark red Bijia Yuanbao collar embroidered white Python robe. It seems to be a bit more gentle than tomorrow. It''s more and more beautiful. A pair of star eyes are bright and bright. You''ll drown in a few more eyes. He looked at Jiang Ruan deeply and said, "aren''t you happy?" "Now people all over the capital are saying that I''ve arched your good cabbage. Do you think I can be happy?" It was the first time that Jiang and Ruan had such obvious feelings towards him. Xiao Shao''s eyes flashed a smile: "well, I let you arch." Such a gentle attitude makes people hardly know what to say. Jiang Ruan glared at him for a moment: "are you very proud now?" "I''m very happy." Xiao Shao approached her and whispered. He was born tall. When he came so close, Jiang Ruan only said to his chest. From a distance, it seemed that he wanted to hold her in his arms. In his tone, he was doting and gentle, and his voice was inexplicably magnetic: "princess." Jiang Ruan stepped back to keep his distance. This person regardless of the time and place of the use of male beauty in the end want to do, born well is to take advantage, I have to say that this move is really very effective. Xiao Shao smile so shallow, tone with some inexplicable bewitching, immediately is romantic like jade, with the former Cold elegant is different. "Why are you so anxious to get married?" Jiang Ruan frowned: "are you leaving?" Xiao Shao looked down at her and said, "yes, I will start in ten days. Before that, I must decide you so as not to make trouble." It''s a bit puzzling to say what''s settled, but Jiang Ruan doesn''t care about it now, so he says, "ten days later?" "Time is pressing. Many people in the court are eyeing you. The Empress Dowager orders that when I leave, you will live in Jinying palace. After the class teacher returned to the court, he got married. " Xiao shaoshen said in a deep voice: "King Jinying''s residence can keep you safe. Marriage is an expedient measure. Don''t worry. I''ll always help you. After marriage, I will not force you Speaking of this, Xiao Shao''s handsome face was a little red, but his look was as calm as ever. Jiang Ruan was more relaxed than he was, so he looked at him and said, "OK." With Xiao Shao''s arrogant disposition, she is not a national beauty. Xiao Shao is not strong enough. Jiang ruanshi was very relieved about this. When he figured it out, he felt that his relationship with Xiao Shao was not so awkward. It would be nice to be a helpful friend or boss. She looked at her thoughtfully, pursed her lips, and suddenly said, "but when you enter Jinying palace, it''s Xiao Shao''s woman. If you make trouble, you don''t have to pay attention to it. Just fight it out." After a pause, he said, "Liu Min, Xuan Pei and Gu Yi, you don''t have to pay attention to them." Jiang Ruan was stunned, speechless, and seemed to feel a little hot on his face. Xiao Shao, who seems to be indifferent, always has a way to embarrass their relationship. There is no bad comment on the happy ending! Yuanfangdang is crying in the toilet. Today''s Chapter fully expresses my resentment for abstinence_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 161 The Empress Dowager Yizhi came suddenly, like a thunderbolt. People related to this matter began to guess what the Empress Dowager was doing. If you think about it further, you think it''s because Xiao Shao is more and more generous now, and the royal dignity is inviolable. It may be a good thing for the Empress Dowager Yide to give Jiang Ruan to him, but it''s a hot potato for Xiao Shao, who already carries the name of "disorderly subjects and thieves". Some people say that this is a royal warning to King Jinying. They think it''s the Empress Dowager who is paving the way for King Jinying. You should know that if Jiang Xin doesn''t have anything to do at the front line, and the class teacher returns to the court, the relationship between them will be closer, and the great Jin court will be an irresistible force. However, the Royal mind is not so easy to guess, the meaning is difficult to predict. On the contrary, the eldest girl and daughter-in-law of the great Jin Dynasty were the most pure minded. They all felt sorry that Xiao Shao, a handsome man, finally married a daughter of Shangshu mansion. When the news reached Shangshu mansion, Hongying was talking to Jiang Susu. Recently, Jiang Su Su''s eyes became more and more beautiful, and there was a little bit of flattery in her beauty. Different from the charm of Jiang Ruan''s facial features, Jiang Su Su Su''s charm is irresistible, just like a young woman who has been moistened. Even the fifth aunt Hongying, who was born in a brothel, couldn''t help being slightly absent-minded when she looked at Jiang Su Su''s face. "Aunt?" When Jiang Su Su saw Hongying''s infatuation, a trace of disdain flashed in her eyes. Instead, she burst into a smile, just like a white lotus with dew in the early morning in the mountains. The flowers and bones were trembling and itching. Now it''s all men and women. Red Ying was called by her so that she came back to herself. She couldn''t help feeling a little surprised. I don''t know what to do when I think of the second lady in my family staying in the yard every day. Now that Jiang Chao''s official position is getting higher and higher, she has regained the trust of Jiang Quan, and it''s hard for her to embarrass Jiang Su Su any more. What''s more, Jiang Quan also explained that Hong Ying and Jiang Su Su were still at peace after all. But today, for the first time, Jiang Su Su came to sit in her yard. At this time, Hong Ying also found that the scars on Jiang Su Su''s face had no trace, but it was more amorous than before. Jiang Quan himself had a good skin, and all the sons and daughters of the Jiang family inherited the good looks of the Jiang family. The three daughters of the Jiang family, Jiang Ruan Mingyan moving, Jiang Su Su pure and beautiful to the bone, although Jiang danrong color slightly inferior, better in fresh and clever. But all the time, from the perspective of Hongying, men say that they like a woman who doesn''t eat fireworks like Jiang Susu, but in fact, they always like bright colors in their hearts. Therefore, Jiang Ruan''s appearance is the most flattering, but it is also easy to become vulgar. Now it seems that Jiang Su Su is still a pair of powder did not wipe the appearance, but inexplicably a bit seductive look. Even she couldn''t help being attracted in the past, although Hongying didn''t understand. But she also put away her contempt for Jiang Su Su. With such a beautiful style, and some means of style, Jiang Su Su can easily get everything she wants in the future as long as she makes good use of her body. Thinking of this, Hongying began to laugh: "now I''m stunned to see that the more beautiful the two girls are. Let the two girls laugh. " "Aunt, what do you mean?" Jiang Su Su chuckled. She used to look like a fairy, but now she has added a bit of amorous feelings. As soon as she raised her hand and bowed her head, her eyes fell on her involuntarily. She said: "I only heard that when my aunt came to the mansion, my father took good care of her, and my aunt was born with a beautiful country. Many people in Beijing came to the mansion to watch. Now, many years have passed. My aunt is still so young, even pregnant with a little brother. Her demeanor is even better than that of those years. It''s really heartbreaking. No wonder my father loves me so much. " Hearing this, Hongying was extremely helpful. She could not help caressing her belly with one hand. In fact, there are no children there, but now as long as she says there are children here, that is to say there are children. Now she is the only one in Jiang''s family. She has firmly grasped Jiang''s power and believes her words. On the day of labor, when the child is ready, he will be the son of the family in the future. There was a genuine smile on her face, and when she looked at Jiang Su Su, she was a little satisfied. These two young ladies look at now is a wise, at the beginning of Xia Yan means she also learned, now Xia Yan down, Jiang Su Su this is not rush up to please. Hongying felt a sense of glory. "The second young lady exalted me. I''m just a concubine''s room. I can''t stand the word" elegant appearance ". It''s the second lady, "Hongying said meaningfully." I can''t pick out the second one who looks so beautiful when I look at the whole capital. In the future, I think I will be able to marry into a good family. At that time, if I am well-dressed and well fed and held in the palm of my hand, I will have unlimited glory and grace. " "My aunt is joking," Jiang Su Su sighed and said with a gloomy face, "today, my mother is seriously ill, my father is busy with the affairs of the government every day, my aunt is pregnant, and my grandparents are not good at meddling in Su Su Su''s affairs. Who else in this house remembers Su Su... " She wiped the tears from the corner of her eyes, and her voice was low: "besides, Su Su is not as lucky as her elder sister. If the Empress Dowager points out that she can marry a fairy like person like King Xiao, king of Jinying." In her heart, red Ying could not eat grapes. She was jealous and poured sour water. But now, when she was in front of her, she could not help comforting her. She immediately said with a smile, "miss two, don''t belittle yourself. The first lady is just good luck. To put it mildly, which one is worse than the second lady? If it''s not for marriage, you may not be able to enter the gate of King Jinying''s residence with the condition of the second lady. "This is a little too much. The gate of King Jinying''s mansion is not easy to enter. As early as before, the Minister of the court disclosed that the emperor wanted to point out the money of the Yao family, the governor of Binhai, to Xiao Shao. What kind of person is Miss Yao? She is more than a princess. Xiao Shao was so valued by the emperor that she was the daughter of a little secretary. How could she make the emperor see her. This time, if Jiang Ruan had not been empress dowager Yide''s marriage, it would not have been her turn. Jiang Su Su sneered in her heart, but her tone became more and more low: "thank you, aunt. Su Su knows that her status is low, and she is far from her elder sister. I have never dreamt of marrying into Jinying''s palace as a princess. It''s just Speaking of this, her voice was slightly choked, her eyes were red, and she looked at him with a look of hypocrisy. She said: "it''s just a long time ago, Su Su regarded King Jinying as her sweetheart. She just wanted to look at him from a distance. Unexpectedly, now this dream can''t be allowed to go on." Hongying was surprised. She never expected that Jiang Susu would tell this secret in her face. Hongying thinks that Jiang Su Su''s relationship is not close enough to share her daughter''s family''s thoughts, and Jiang Su Su is not a person who trusts others at will. There must be some reason for this. Instead of relaxing, Hongying became alert and said with a smile: "are you serious, miss two? Don''t make fun of your reputation. " "Does my aunt not believe me?" Jiang Su Su sighed. With such a frown, her eyes seem to be foggy, which makes people feel like seeing flowers in the fog. When she wants to see clearly, she falls into the deep pool. The pale lips are plump and small. It''s clearly the action of speaking. You can also see the dry tongue. Hongying tried her best to suppress her restlessness. She only heard Jiang Su Su say, "if you don''t believe me, it''s OK. As early as three years ago, on the day of linglongfang Lantern Festival, after Lord Xiao relieved Su Su, I threw myself on him. I thought I couldn''t be his wife, so it''s better to look at it from a distance. I didn''t expect him to be my brother-in-law. " The more she listened, the more outrageous she felt. She began to worry about it. Then she asked, "since the second young lady knows that your fate is over now, you''d better rest assured earlier. Choosing another son-in-law is not necessarily another good marriage." Jiang Su Su took a sad look at Hongying. It was like a bright light. He felt as if he saw a beautiful snake twisting slowly. He couldn''t move his eyes. "Su Su tried to forget him from his heart, but later found that he could not do it at all. Now I''m looking for my aunt. It''s because Su Su is desperate that I come out with such a bad plan. I just hope my aunt can save Su Su''s life for her poor sake. " In her heart, Hong Ying secretly scolds Jiang Su Su for her cunning and makes a circle. In the end, she doesn''t ask for help. But Hongying also wants to hear what Jiang Su Su''s idea is. If it''s not worth the loss, she will never go through the muddy water. If there''s any way in it, it''s not impossible to follow the flow of human feelings. Thinking of this, Hongying slowed down and said softly, "the second young lady said that, but she broke my body. I don''t know how the second young lady wants me to help you?" "I wish my aunt would help me." Jiang Su Su laughed: "I am infatuated with Lord Xiao, but now my sister must be the right wife. Su Su has never dreamed of competing with her sister, as long as she can have a place beside him. It doesn''t matter to be a concubine. " "To be a concubine?" Red Ying lost her voice and exclaimed. The legitimate daughter of shangshufu was a concubine. She would laugh when she said it. Jiang Su Su''s love for Xiao Shao is so deep that he can tolerate even being a concubine. But even if she could tolerate it, Jiang Quan would not allow it. "My good lady, it''s not that I won''t help you." Hongying sighed: "it''s really difficult for the second lady to ask. The master loves the second young lady very much. How can he be willing to let you be a concubine and look at people''s faces? What''s the position of the whole Shangshu mansion? Although this is beyond the limit, I still want to say, second lady, you can''t have such an idea if you take the Jiang family in mind. " At the end of the speech, Jiang Su Su burst into tears: "Auntie, if there is a little way, why is Su Su so? No one is born to be a concubine. What''s more, Su Su grew up in the mansion. Naturally, she knew that she was too shy to talk about it. However, Su Su really believes that Wang Ye is the only one. If she can''t marry him, she can''t marry anyone else in the future. " She looked at Hongying, her eyes shining: "besides, didn''t my aunt also say that? Although Su Su is not as beautiful as her elder sister, she is not good for nothing, and may not be able to win the favor of Lord Xiao in the future. If the Lord is happy and promotes Su Su, Su Su and her eldest sister are all from the government. It''s a good story for her to work together as a husband. " She reached out to hold Hongying''s hand, and her voice was full of pleading: "I beg my aunt to help Su Su. If Su Su Su is lucky to be favored by the king in the future, she will surely remember my aunt''s kindness today." Red Ying''s eyes flashed. She shouldn''t have been involved in this matter. But what Jiang Su Su said just now was that she was a little moved. Once upon a time, she really just wanted to live safely in her family. When Xia Yan was there, she was cautious, for fear that she would be caught. Although she had been favored by Jiang Quan for so many years, she was also careful. Now Xia Yan is not in the house. The second aunt is dead. The eldest aunt is not afraid. She is the only one in the house. Once people taste the taste of power, it is not so easy to let go. Although Jiang Ruan had helped her, Jiang Quan and Jiang Ruan were enemies. If she wants to hold her position firmly in the mansion, she can''t get involved with Jiang Ruan any more.Besides, Jiang Ruan had a deep heart and could not be mastered by her. Now Hongying is used to giving orders to others. How can she be willing to be inferior in front of Jiang Ruan. What''s more, Jiang Ruan knew her secret. It was like an untimely disaster hidden in Hongying''s heart, which made her unable to sleep peacefully every night. If we can send Jiang Susu to Jinying palace and have a good relationship with Jiang Susu, we may be able to restrain Jiang Ruan from one or two points, at least let Jiang Ruan dare not act rashly against her. Red Ying looks at the woman opposite. Jiang Su Su Su is dressed in white, but there is a kind of coquettish. She seems to be a fox. She almost shakes people''s eyes. This is different from the beauty of appearance, it is a kind of Customs carved into the bones. Rao Shi Hongying had been in the brothel for so many years. Seeing Jiang Su Su''s present style, she couldn''t help saying "hello" in her heart. If Jiang Su Su had been born many years earlier, I''m afraid the red card of brothel would have been replaced. Such a woman, there is no reason why men will not love. Even if Xiao Shao was a stone man, he would be moved when he faced such a beautiful girl. After all, men were just animals following instinct. The two young ladies had such powerful means that it was not very difficult to grasp the cold hearted young prince in the palm of their hand. Jiang Ruan, on the other hand, although his appearance is bright and gorgeous, he is too cold-blooded. Men all like warm fragrant nephrite, and women should show weakness. Jiang Ruan is so strong that he can''t compare with Jiang Su Su''s tears. The more she looked at Hongying, the more she felt that if Jiang Susu and Jiang Ruan entered Jinying palace together, in the end, Jiang Ruan would be neglected and Jiang Susu would be favored. Now that Jiang Su Su''s mother is gone, if she wants to live well in the mansion, she must rely on her. Now it seems that Jiang Su Su is also a wise man, much better than Jiang Ruan. I have an idea in my heart, but this is not a white help. Is Hongying: "this...". The second young lady was infatuated. I came from her daughter''s house and understood her mind. But it''s easy to see, but it''s not easy to sit up. If you mess it up, the master will punish you. The second young lady is the first lady in the mansion. Of course, it''s nothing. But I''m just an aunt, which makes the master unhappy. Maybe I''ll sweep my body out of the house. There''s nothing else, but I''m still pregnant with a child. I don''t want to be punished as soon as the child is born and become a child without fame. " The hint in this remark was almost naked. Jiang Su Su was not a fool. He immediately said, "my aunt is not more worried. I hope she can help me with this. After the event, in order to repay my aunt''s kindness, Su Su would also personally intercede with her father and grandparents, open a ancestral temple, and ask her father to promote my aunt to a flat wife. " Xia Yan can''t abandon his wife before he dies, but it''s almost like she''s covering up the sky in this house to promote Hongying to Ping''s wife. This is what Hongying wants. Xia Yan is afraid of a false name. Jiang Quan will not trust a woman who has lost her virginity. Hong Ying smiles with satisfaction, then pats Jiang Su Su''s hand: "the second young lady really has a heart, but the second young lady just said, I don''t know how to ask my concubine to help?" Jiang Su Su lowered her head and stood up. In a soft voice, she said, "this Please have a look at it. Later, Su Su will go to discuss it with her. " After that, she asked her servant girl to deliver a letter. She looked at Jiang Su Su and laughed: "naturally, it''s good. If I don''t have a good body, I won''t give it away. " "I''ll take care of the baby. Su Su, let''s leave first. " Then Jiang Su Su nodded to Hongying and walked out of the courtyard. When he walked out of Hongying yard, Jiang Su Su stopped at the entrance of the garden, looked at the gate, and slowly spilled a sneer. However, a humble woman still wants to fly to the branch to be a Phoenix. If she wants to be the wife of Jiang Fu, it depends on whether she has that qualification. As for Jiang Ruan, a trace of resentment flashed in Jiang Su Su Su''s eyes. He was just a rude woman raised by Chuang Tzu. How could he marry into the Royal Palace of Jin Ying? If Xiao Shao was not a fool, he would not let her choose Jiang Ruan. Jiang Su Su gently stroked her cheek. Now her flattery has been perfected, and all men in the world will bow down to her. She wants to fight with Jiang Ruan. She wants to fight for everything Jiang Ruan values and owns, even her husband. She will always be the winner. It''s been a long time since Xiaobaihua was released. Xiaobaihua''s Bento has been hot for 233333 years www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 162 The marriage edict given by Empress Yide is valuable. Even if Xiao Shao was about to go to war, the marriage was settled first. Now, Jiang Ruan is not allowed to go to court before his filial piety. In name, he is always Xiao Shao''s person. Ordinary people can''t see the intricacies of the relationships. They only secretly envy the good fortune of Shangshu mansion, and a daughter born can marry into Jinying mansion. Although King Jinying''s reputation is not good, the common people don''t know about it. In fact, the so-called disorderly officials and thieves, Lord Xiao, is a sweet cake of the imperial court. Xiao Shao is the first one who has been in power since he was young. The three daughters of the scholar Jiang Shang are beautiful and beautiful. Although the eldest daughter had been raised in Chuang Tzu since she was a child, she couldn''t hold on to others. She was outstanding. Later, she didn''t know what good fortune she took and became a princess. Now she is also considered a high married man. Shangshu mansion must have risen with the tide. With Jiang Ruan''s Zhuyu in front, people can''t help thinking about Jiang Su Su Su''s future destination. To tell you the truth, Jiang Su Su has been known as a beautiful woman in the capital since he was born. If Xia Yan hadn''t had an accident, he would have broken the threshold of marriage promotion. It''s just that there is a mother who is not in a good mood, and Jiang Su Su Su has been implicated. Serious people don''t look up to her, there are those who covet her beauty, and Jiang Quan doesn''t look up to her family. As soon as she came and went, she also delayed her marriage. In any case, the Empress Dowager''s Yizhi, even though Jiang Quan''s heart was not happy, always had to be happy. Not only that, but also have to do so that people can not find a fault, empress Yide''s people stare, where to allow him to do anything. Fortunately, there is a jieyujiao flower in this house. Hongying accepted Jiang Ruan''s marriage all the time. She helped her to do everything inside and outside. Besides, with the help of her aunt, there was no shortage of etiquette. Therefore, Jiang Quan is very satisfied with Hongying, because Hongying is still pregnant with the blood and bone of the Jiang family, and is considerate to Hongying. Hongying was really considerate of Jiang Ruan. Since the Empress Dowager''s edict, Xiao Shao has never visited Jiang''s house. In terms of etiquette, it was not right, but Xiao Shao had no parents, so it was impossible for her parents to do it for her. I went there in person, but with Xiao Shao''s temperament, I found it quite impossible. If Xiao Shao really did not come, he would not dare to say anything wrong to him. When Hongying mentioned this, she tidied up Jiang Quan''s collar and said, "anyway, Lord Xiao will come to our house. I thought, no matter whether King Xiao comes or not, the etiquette is always comprehensive. If you don''t send him the next post, ask him to come to the mansion. How about the marriage of the eldest lady? " At the thought of this marriage, Jiang Quan felt that his brain was full of pain. He could not be offended by this marriage. At the moment, he also replied rigidly, "you can do it by yourself." "This should have been done by my wife," hung Ying lowered her head. "Now that my wife is recovering from illness in Chuang Tzu, it''s not easy to get into trouble. I only hope that Lord Xiao will not despise my humble background and think that I have insulted him. " "What low?" As soon as Xia Yan was mentioned, Jiang Quan thought of those bad things, and his mood was even worse. At the moment, the tone was not very happy and said, "now you are the hostess in the mansion. Xiao Shao wants to marry my daughter, but Jiang Ruan still has a Jiang character. He has to abide by the rules of our Jiang family. Post you go down, he does not come, it does not matter, after all, it is said that the people who do not know etiquette is him. Even if he goes to the empress dowager, he is also the one who is in fault. " "Don''t be angry, master." Hongying gently advised: "I don''t think Lord Xiao is the one who doesn''t know the etiquette. I''m going to arrange it now. After a few days, if Lord Xiao is willing to come, I hope I can serve you well. After all, the eldest lady''s marriage can''t be neglected, and the Empress Dowager has to look at it in person. " "It''s just a trifle. Don''t worry about it." Jiang Ruan frowned, as if he didn''t want to hear about him. Instead, he told Hongying, "you have leisure. Don''t worry about Su Su''s marriage. Seeing that Su Su''s age is getting married, now all the social activities in the house are for you. If you want to know more about the young people of the right age in Beijing, you have to choose a good marriage for Su Su. " "Yes, sir." There was a smile on Hongying''s face, but she said in her heart that she was afraid that Jiang Quan''s thought would be in vain. Jiang Su Su is not a fuel-efficient lamp, and the young talents don''t need to think about it. Now, Jiang Su Su is determined to climb onto his brother-in-law''s bed. But now it''s convenient for her. When Jiang Fu''s invitation was handed to Xiao Shao, housekeeper Lin paid special attention to Xiao Shao''s face. See Xiao Shao didn''t show any movement, can''t help but remind: "little Lord, this post is to accept or not to accept?" "What''s the difference?" Xiao Shao sat down at the table, in front of which lay a map of the territory outside the city of the state of Jin, with many marks. It''s urgent to go on an expedition. It''s a complicated operation and I''m afraid of change. Everything should be prepared. "Oh, my Lord, it''s quite different." Housekeeper Lin said anxiously: "although the Empress Dowager''s will comes down, the young lady is destined to be the mistress of our house. However, this kind of ostentation can''t be ignored. If the wife is still there, it''s time to go to Shangshu mansion to see her daughter-in-law and talk to her in laws. It''s just that we can''t find such a person in our house now. Young Lord, you''d better go in person. " Seeing that Xiao Shao raised his eyes and looked at him, housekeeper Lin said more and more: "if you go, what does it mean? It means that the little Lord values the little lady. The young lady is now in the Shangshu mansion. Others will look up at her and dare not bully him easily. Young master, the old slave said, this woman wants to coax you. Does the young master think that the young lady is not warm enough for you? That''s what you are not. Men, always take the initiative. Young master, you are going to support young lady this time. The young lady must be moved to see you like this. Now, young Lord, you should take the opportunity to say something to please others. Are you afraid that the young lady will not give up on you? "Steward Lin''s words can not be said that Xiao Shao''s heart went. He frowned and looked thoughtfully at the map in front of him, but he seemed to be thinking about something else. After a long silence, he nodded and said, "reply. Three days later, Xiao Shao will visit." "Good --" housekeeper Lin said a beautiful thing. He was very pleased to see that his young master was so clever. He only said a few words to teach, so he went out to find a good post. "Take the initiative?" He lowered his head and said to himself. His eyelashes drew an intoxicating arc, but his eyes seemed to bend and smile. Jiang Ruan didn''t know about the exchange of worship notes between Shangshu mansion and Jinying mansion. It''s a rare leisure in Jiang''s house these days. I don''t know if Jiang Quan had specially ordered her, but people seemed to have completely ignored the news of her engagement with Xiao Shao. He neither came forward to congratulate her nor to greet her, as if to deliberately neglect her. Angelica dahurica and forsythia often mention this matter, since nest a stomach gas. After all, Jiang Ruan is also the daughter of the Jiang family. It''s a shame that Jiang Quan should have done this. As she combed Jiang Ruan''s hair, forsythia said, "I heard that the second lady has been running to the fifth aunt''s yard every day these days. She has been sitting all afternoon. I don''t know when she and I got such a friendship. That five aunt also really is to cross a river to tear down a bridge, now unexpectedly turn over a face not to recognize a person. The Empress Dowager Yizhi came down for so long, but she didn''t come to ask. I don''t know what to do with the dowry and the marriage. " The wedding ceremony was originally taken care of by the mother. If Zhao Mei were alive, he would have been busy sticking his chest to his back. Hongying is quite free, and she has nothing to do with it up to now. You can''t let your daughter, who is about to get married, ask about these things by herself. "What''s wrong with her? She can say that she''s just a concubine. It''s not her turn to get involved in the marriage of her daughter. It''s not wrong to say that." Jiang Ruan Dan said, "what''s the matter? The Empress Dowager will not stand by. She saw this point, so she didn''t care about it Anyway, the Empress Dowager Yide is in charge, and Hongying is not willing to do the thankless things. Now the power of the family is in Hongying''s hands. If Hongying really wants to give her money as a dowry, Hongying doesn''t want to. After tasting the taste of power, how can she let go easily? Hongying is used to the feeling of being superior in the government. How can she be happy when she is faced with a girl of higher rank? "In a word, the five aunts were not kind, and they didn''t think that if it had not been for Miss''s help, she would have been able to live in the mansion, not to mention living like this. I really think I''m pregnant with... " "Forsythia," Jiang Ruan interrupted, "you said too much." Forsythia a Leng, self-knowledge aphasia, busy way: "is maidservant said wrong." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "nothing, don''t be heard. You go to the palace and pick out a few pieces of materials. When you go back and embroider some bags with Angelica dahurica, there are so many people in the palace these days that you can''t neglect them. " Since she gave her wedding edict, the Empress Dowager Yide sent some things every so often, but they were all jewelry materials. I think her daughter''s family is going to get married, and all these things can be used. Only Jiang Ruan himself didn''t care about these things. If it wasn''t mentioned by Angelica dahurica from time to time, he was afraid that he would throw them directly into the box. Forsythia vomits its tongue and goes to pick the cloth. At the same time, the dew, who was doing embroidery, blinked and asked, "when is the girl going to start embroidering wedding clothes?" "Wedding dress?" Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. "Of course, it''s the wedding dress," the dew looked at her with a smile: "don''t you want to embroider the wedding dress before you get married? Is the wedding date to get next year, now you can also start to embroider wedding clothes? Although Lord Xiao may have someone send it, doesn''t his daughter''s family like to embroider their own wedding clothes? Lord Xiao and the girl are both born so well. As long as they think of wearing happy clothes, they feel that they can shake the eyes of people in the whole capital. " What she said was charming, but it made Jiang Ruan fall into meditation. When she was sent to the palace in her previous life, she had no chance to become a bride. It''s not that I didn''t want to look like a phoenix when I was a girl, but I didn''t wait for that moment in my previous life. She had never thought of the happiness of ordinary people. In this life, if Xiao Shao didn''t get this Yizhi, she didn''t think about what it would be like to get married. If it is to marry someone else, maybe she can treat each other coldly, only the object becomes Xiao Shao, but in her heart, she is a little strange. The wedding dress is embroidered for the beloved. What position Xiao Shao is in her heart now, Jiang Ruan himself has never thought about. Most of them are beyond friendship, and most of them are just a little bit short of their lovers. Just a little bit, but across her deep knot, I do not know this life has not untied the time. On this thought, I feel a little guilty for Xiao Shao. "Let''s talk about it in our spare time." She shook her head, but a little absent-minded. Dew see her absence, and no longer ask, obediently continue to work up. Xiao Shaoguo really came to Jiang''s house in three days. Only he and housekeeper Lin, Xiao Shao, were dressed in a black jacquard sheath, and the collar was embroidered with thin blue bamboo leaf lace. The cuff wristband is still hooked with a dark gold unicorn, which is extremely powerful. When I enter the mansion, I look indifferent, and my eyes are like cold stars. I dare not look at them directly. I just feel that I have a chilly air on my body. I am domineering and introverted, but I am low and open in the dark.The maid who led the way blushed, but she did not dare to look up at the young man''s handsome facial features. From the beginning to the end, she led the way with her head down and without saying a word. All the way forward, in the end, all the maidservants and wombs who passed by looked at him a little distracted. Housekeeper Lin is naturally very proud. He straightens up his body and is very proud. When I got to the main hall, I could see that Hongying and her aunt were already waiting. With the help of her maidservant, Hongying saluted Xiao Shao, with a kind smile on her face: "I''ve seen you before. Now that my wife is not in the house, my humble concubine is helping me to take care of the internal affairs. I hope the king will not abandon my concubine. " Xiao Shao faintly "eh", then sat down on the seat prepared for him. Housekeeper Lin stood aside, and before Xiao Shao could speak, he already said with a smile, "you''re welcome to my fifth aunt. I''m a member of the young lady''s family. The master doesn''t have so many rules. He''s free. " Housekeeper Lin is so kind that every word he says is not so kind. It''s said that there are no rules. In fact, the spectrum is bigger than anything. The eldest aunt stood on one side and said nothing, but the servant girls around saw that the situation was wrong. The master servant of Jinying palace was not good at it. She was afraid that she had come to support the eldest lady specially. She lowered her head a little deeper, just to avoid attracting people''s attention. The smile on Hongying''s face froze. After all, she was born in the middle of the city. She wanted to be good at dealing with people. But in a short time, she regained her kind and natural smile: "that would be great. The eldest lady is the daughter of our family. The master is very distressed. Now I''m very happy to see that the LORD loves the young lady so much. " Xiao Shao didn''t answer, and housekeeper Lin said, "madam, it''s very polite. Since the Empress Dowager has made an order, the young lady is the mistress of our family. She must be loved by the mistress. Today, in addition to talking about this, the master also ordered the old slave to send the bride price list. After waiting for the young lady to pass by, the dowry will be sent to the young lady together with the dowry. The Empress Dowager has seen this. " Then he took out a gold silk printed gift list from his sleeve and handed it to Hongying. At first, Hongying was glad to hear what housekeeper Lin said. When she heard the second half of his sentence, her face turned blue again. When I opened the bride price list, my face turned red, white and red. It was wonderful. A moment later, she closed the gift list, took a deep breath, and said with a smile: "if the Lord really loves the young lady, this gift list is not rich. Seeing this, I am really happy for the young lady." She said so, but her hands used a fierce force, almost to break the list. As a matter of fact, Hongying was born in a brothel. Where is the brothel? It''s a gold selling cave. She has never seen any black sheep. There are so many things about spending a lot of money to be a pretty girl, so she doesn''t treat things like gold, silver and jewels like her second aunt. But now she saw the wedding gift list from Jinying palace, but she couldn''t help taking a breath. Rare treasure, rare animal, house, shop, gold and silver note. Countless riches and jewels, just a small wedding gift list, can let people see the tip of the iceberg of Jinying palace. Rao Shi Hongying is also well-informed. At the moment, he can''t help but be shocked by the wealth and respect. He is secretly jealous of Jiang Ruan. What''s more, it''s a hot job. It''s rich and noble. It''s flying before you get it. Xiao Shao''s words made it very clear that the betrothal gift was to be taught to Jiang Ruan, and the Empress Dowager Yide was also clear. That means she doesn''t even have a chance to step in. Originally, she wanted to take advantage of Jiang Ruan''s betrothal gifts, but now she wants to watch the wealth slip away from her hands. You should know that this betrothal gift alone is worth several ministers'' offices. How can she be reconciled? The more unwilling she was, the more determined she was to send Jiang Su Su to Jinying palace. Jiang Ruan is not easy to master, but Jiang Susu can tell who is in charge of Jiang Fu. If you hold on to Jiang Susu and wait for him to enter King Jinying''s residence, will this wealth flow into Shangshu''s residence continuously? At that time, the days of Shangshu''s residence will be more and more moistening. Hongying made up her mind, and her smile became more and more eager. Housekeeper Lin frowned and looked at the deformed gift list that Hongying held. She said, "be careful, aunt. This gift list is only for the Empress Dowager. I''m afraid it will be very troublesome if it''s damaged." "I''m not careful." Hongying smiles awkwardly. I don''t know where the young lady is. She should come out to meet the Lord Hongying said with a smile: "the eldest lady is coming out, but her daughter''s family is always shy. I''m afraid she''s dressing up now. I''ve just sent someone to tell you. The eldest lady will go to the tea house in the garden. Lin Lang, you can take the king first. You young people always have something to say. Besides, the Empress Dowager Fang will marry you. It''s better to get familiar with it earlier. " Her words are shrewd and magnanimous, which is quite different from those pedantic families. But Xiao Shao didn''t move, still looking at her indifferently. In the face of such an expressionless person, no matter how eloquent you are, there is always some weakness in your heart. Steward Lin seemed to speak for Xiao Shao today. He immediately laughed again and said, "that''s the best. Please lead the way quickly." Nowadays, the royal family of Jinying takes Xiao Shao''s marriage as a top priority. The master''s ability to chase his daughter-in-law is not enough, so he naturally has to do something for his subordinates. Housekeeper Lin is always eager to give Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan the chance to be alone. Housekeeper Lin is very satisfied with Hongying''s insight."Housekeeper Lin is misunderstood," Hongying said with a smile. "I still have some wedding affairs to discuss with housekeeper Lin. it seems that the prince has given the marriage to housekeeper Lin to take care of. I still want to discuss with housekeeper Lin. If housekeeper Lin doesn''t dislike it, please stay here and say to me She looked at Xiao Shao and said with a smile, "as for the eldest lady and the Lord, it''s more convenient for them to talk." If he didn''t know that all the people in Jiang''s house were elites, housekeeper Lin would have praised him as a knowledgeable and reasonable beauty. It''s best for these two people to be alone. When Lin was young, he followed the old king Jin Ying and learned to be a dandy. He didn''t pay attention to secular legislation at all. In his eyes, all the men and women in that family were just like clouds. What''s more, now that empress Yide''s decree has been issued, Jiang Ruan is the young lady. What''s there to avoid between the young lady and the young master? Men and women need to be alone when they are together. If they are alone more than once, they will be able to get a spark. Maybe they can get pregnant. "That''s not bad, master. You see --" housekeeper Lin asked Xiao Shao, his eyes full of expectation. Xiao Shao did not live up to the expectations of housekeeper Lin, nodded faintly: "good." Red Ying then smile of more sincerity some: "Lin Lang, still don''t quick take Wang Ye to pass." Lin Lang went to Xiao Shaofu and said, "please come with me, Lord." Xiao Shao followed Lin Lang all the way through the courtyard and flower terrace of Jiang''s house, and then walked around the long corridor to a garden teahouse. The tea house is located in the jungle, hidden under the secluded trees, with a quiet environment. If you are tired here, go in and have a rest. It''s also an excellent place to enjoy some tea and have a rest. It should have been a very delicate place repaired in Jiang''s house. It covers a large area. From a distance, you would think that it was the courtyard where the daughter lived. All the way, Lin Lang didn''t speak, just led the way, so she ignored Xiao Shao''s eyes. He looks calm, but he has looked at this place quietly. It''s not the first time that Xiao Shao has been in Jiang''s mansion. He has been here several times before, and he has almost found out the details of 7778. What''s more, Jin Er and Jin San were staring at the map of Jiang''s mansion. He had seen it, and naturally knew it was a teahouse. On the contrary, although the environment is quiet, few people have been drinking tea here since Xia Yan left because it is too far away from the courtyards of the women''s families. But Hongying arranged for him to meet Jiang Ruan at this place. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 163 Red Ying took Xiao Shao to the front and back of the door and said with a smile, "this is the teahouse. I''ll go to prepare some tea and refreshments. The king will go in first and have a rest. Soon the eldest lady will come." Xiao Shao didn''t say anything. Hongying gave a salute and walked away. Before leaving, he took another look at the carved door and left with his skirt. After Hongying left, Xiao Shao thought for a long time and then reached out to open the door. When Fang opened the door, he could smell a faint sweet smell in the room. The fragrance was very light and not strong. Fang just felt that it was the fragrance of a girl. Light light, but there is a light sweet, straight teach people in the heart of a layer of unexplained heat. Not like incense, but like body fragrance. Xiao Shao picked eyebrows and sat down at the table. In front of the table is a delicate sapphire wine pot with two or three jade cups on it. There is a plate of crystal clear purple grapes, all full and round, like crystal beads. The reception here is so considerate. Why do you need to prepare some tea and snacks? Not only that, the room is divided into two parts by an emerald screen. The screen is huge and the emerald is green. Four beautiful pictures are engraved on it. Women, dancing, poetry and painting are all vivid. Behind the invisible screen came the sound of water waves. The voice was very small. If it had not been for Xiao Shao''s internal power, he would not have been able to hear it. Now it seems that something has aroused a burst of shallow spray, which falls gently, bringing out a little beautiful crisp sound, and teaching people endless reverie. Xiao Shao was not moved. He only looked down at a white jade whistle on his fingertip. He didn''t know what he was thinking. He was still, and time passed quietly in the room. He did not see Jiang Ruan''s arrival. But just then, the water behind the screen suddenly became bigger, and there was a rustling sound. Xiao Shao''s eyes moved, and then a slender figure disappeared from behind the screen. That''s a beautiful woman. It was a plain white dress, and there was not too much decoration on it. There was only a broad blue belt wrapped around the waist of the broad robe, which made it more attractive. Every move with a fox of the gas, but can not help people are not attracted by her. The body is still carrying the water drops after bathing. The crystal clear water drops across the sharp chin slowly roll into the chest, and then are covered by the robe, which makes people itch. Looking up again, it is clearly a beautiful and refined face. With delicate facial features and full eyebrows, she looks like a pure fairy in the heaven. She was born with no idea what fireworks are. But with such a fairy''s face, she is as charming as a brothel woman. It''s a fatal temptation for every man. It''s Jiang Su Su. When Jiang Su Su saw Xiao Shao, he was surprised and began to look a little frightened. Then he forced himself to be calm and said, "Lord Xiao." Xiao Shao just glanced at her, then dropped his eyes, did not look at her, did not speak. Jiang Su Su''s body was stiff. Since practicing flattery, men''s eyes had never been on her, and they had never been ignored so much. They were not reconciled. With a little smile, she sat down on the chair beside Xiao Shao. Between her every move, a familiar sweet fragrance came out, which coincided with the fragrance in the room. It was really her taste. Jiang Su Su turned to look at the man in the seat. The young man was dressed in black, but in the subtle words on his sleeves, he was even more expensive. She has a beautiful face, but she doesn''t show any femininity. Thin lips star eyes, look cold, has a kind of carved into the bone marrow of the general elegance. This is a beautiful but heroic young man without the aura of King Jinying''s mansion. This pair of leather bags and bearing is enough to make women moved. For example, at the moment, Jiang Su Su Su was jealous of how Jiang Ruan had such good luck to marry the young man in front of him. "I''m just bathing. I don''t want anyone to come in suddenly. It''s Lord Xiao." Jiang Su Su''s voice with a hook, tickling the heart: "that''s the case, if you don''t drink a cup with the Lord." He was a lonely man and a few girls. He was drunk in the teahouse. After bathing, he only wore a big robe. What''s more, this man is a gorgeous beauty, and he takes the initiative in every move. It''s really hard for the men in the world to see the scene. Xiao Shao is still speechless, the cool color between eyebrows has never collected a point. Seeing this, Jiang Su Su got up and went to him, reached out and poured a glass of wine in front of Xiao Shao. The enchanting spirit squatted down, almost to Xiao Shao''s knees. When she looked at Xiao Shao like this, her watery eyes were filled with indescribable charm. It''s the same as the sweet fragrance on her body. I just feel that it makes people see a soft and boneless little white flower fluttering in the deep valley. I can''t help but want to pick it. I want to tear up that flower and see how it is abused. Seeing that Xiao Shao didn''t move, Jiang Su Su approached him again. His lips crossed Xiao Shao''s ears as if they were not moving. He said softly, "my lord --" he exhaled like a orchid. As soon as Xiao shaomei''s eyes were fixed, he didn''t wait for Jiang Su Su to do anything else. He saw a slight movement in the corner of his robe, and he didn''t know when his wrist guard was moving. The white jade cup on the table fell and hit Jiang Su Su Su''s abdomen. A small jade cup seemed to be a vicious concealed weapon. With a plop, Jiang Su Su Su flew out and hit the jade screen in the room. If a kite was broken, he would lie on the ground and spit out a mouthful of blood."I don''t know how to live or die!" Xiao Shao''s angry voice rang out. Jiang Su Su was shocked by the sudden movement in the room. She got up with difficulty. Xiao Shao only used about three points of strength, but she was almost overwhelmed. What surprised her even more was that Xiao Shao had been indifferent to her so far. There is no man in the world who can resist her charm. Even the most pure hearted monk will be attracted by her charms. Not to mention that Xiao Shao is a young man, but all young men, see how she can not be moved. In particular, today, she specially groomed and appeared in front of Xiao Shao in a man''s most irresistible manner. She thinks that everything is perfect, but she just misses Xiao Shao''s plan. She knew that Xiao Shaosheng didn''t like women, but those were all rumors. If he didn''t like women, how could he marry Jiang Ruan like the emperor. Although Jiang Ruan was born with a good appearance, which one can match her in amorous feelings and temptations? But don''t want to Xiao Shaofei, but didn''t be charmed by her, on the contrary also to her under so heavy hand! "Xiao Wang Ye," Jiang Su Su vomited a mouthful of blood. The bloodstain left on her cherry red lips made the whole person have a different kind of temptation. She said, "it''s so sad for Susu that Lord Xiao doesn''t show any pity for jade." Xiao Shao looks at her coldly. "Since Lord Xiao looked at my body today, did he think he could get out of the gate so easily?" Jiang Su Su raised her lips and said, "brother-in-law, you look at my body. I''m your man. Today, I wanted to be gentle with my brother-in-law, but I didn''t expect him to be so unkind. I had to wait until I went out and let him lose a few cents. " "That''s bullshit." Before the words were heard, a man''s voice rang out in the room. A man dressed as a bodyguard jumped out of the crossbeam. If he didn''t want to think about it, he had to say to Jiang Su Su: "I''ve seen your body too. Aren''t you also my person? I''m afraid all the dark guards here are looking at you. Who would you like to give them to? " Then he pretended to scratch his head in distress: "but the brothers are more interested in good women. We can''t afford to be so bold and unrestrained as miss." This person is no other than Jin Er. He followed Xiao Shao to ambush in the house early, just to see what the Jiang family wanted to do. Later, seeing Jiang Su Su seduce Xiao Shao, he was extremely contemptuous. If it''s a brothel girl, it''s OK. Jiang Susu is also the daughter of Shangshu mansion. At the beginning, the beautiful woman of virtue and talent passed down from the whole capital could not even compare with the daughter of ordinary people. Ordinary daughter''s family still knows the etiquette, righteousness, honesty and disgrace, but Jiang Su Su Su doesn''t even want face. But for all that, Jin Er didn''t look at Jiang Su Su''s body any more. Jiang Su Su is a beauty, and she has practiced flattery, but she is able to attract all men''s eyes. Especially that pair of eyes, very easy to be captured by her mind, do not know when to fall in the beauty trap of Jiang Su Su. But what Jiang Su Su didn''t know was that Xiao Shao had taken over the royal guards since he was a child, and his self-control was much better than others. There have been a lot of temptations over the years, and the enchantress has not been seen before. Jiang Su Su''s skill is really not in Xiao Shao''s eyes, let alone moved. Jiang Su Su''s blood almost came out again. I didn''t expect that there was a person hidden in the room. Listening to the tone of this person, she was not the only one in the room. Thinking of being seen by such a group of bodyguards for no reason today, Jiang Su Su was depressed. At this point, there is only one fight. Men and women live in the same room. Although women''s reputation is damaged, men are easily shirked responsibility. Jiang Susu was about to shout, calling the people who were preparing outside to come in. Can square a mouth, the brocade of the nearby two quickly ordered her dumb acupoint, ascend time a little voice also couldn''t send out. "Master, what should this woman do?" Jin Er asked. Xiao Shao frowned and said, "kill me." Jiang Su Su''s face suddenly turned white. Xiao Shao said that killing people was as simple as cutting vegetables. However, she could not move her whole body at the moment, and there was a trace of fear in her eyes. Jin Er shrugged his shoulders and was about to mention Jiang Su Su when the door was pushed open. When Jiang Ruan stepped into the door of the house, he saw Jiang Su Su at a glance, and then said, "what''s the matter?" Xiao Shao thought for a moment, then said: "she seduced me, I hurt her." Jiang Su Su''s face was wonderful. At this moment, she realized that the man had not been attracted to her from the beginning to the end. If I had heard Xiao Shao''s words as early as a few years ago, I''m afraid she would have killed herself in the well. Today, although not as strong as that year, but also deeply felt an insult. It''s like she''s trying to do everything in front of people, but others think it''s just a joke. After listening to Xiao Shao''s words, Jiang Ruan looked up at Jiang Su Su. She had no displeasure in her face. Jiang Su Su''s heart was tight. When Zhao Mei was there, she never paid attention to Jiang Ruan. She knew that Jiang Quan was the last person in charge of Jiang''s family. Jiang Quan didn''t like Zhao Mei, and he didn''t treat Jiang Ruan''s brothers and sisters as well as Jiang Li. Jiang Ruan was just a cowardly and stupid man. But I don''t know when, no, it should be from three years ago when she returned to the government, Jiang Susu began to understand Jiang Ruan.It seems that it was from then on that Jiang and Ruan would never again put their joys and sorrows on their faces. She smiles when she''s happy, when she''s angry, when she''s framed, when she''s in jail. For example, at the moment, she still looks at Jiang Su Su with a smile. Clearly is extremely peaceful, but that up in the eyes, in the end is showing a trace of ridicule and superior disdain. It was the slightest disdain that stabbed Jiang Su Su''s eyes. She wanted to denounce and scold, but she couldn''t say anything. Jiang Ruan looked back at Xiao Shao and said, "my aunt asked me to come and see you. I came to see this play. How come you haven''t been seduced? It''s hard to sing the play. " Xiao Shao was a little surprised. He was smart and immediately figured out the key point. It turned out that Hongying had this idea. If she had changed to another man today, she would have been flattered by Jiang Su Su. It''s really ridiculous that she would have been on this trip. Just as Jiang Ruan pushed the door, she would have seen this scene. It is unbearable for a woman to see her sister and future husband like this. However, the Empress Dowager''s Yizhi can not be changed. If she is more interested, it is possible to find short-sightedness. If you want to cover up the past for another reason, it will be a good thing for you to get married. If the temperament is softer, Leng is to endure. But in the end, she is the legitimate daughter of a government. She can''t be ruined by others for nothing. She wants to let the other party pay for a claim. It''s always against the rules for a girl to be a concubine. It''s not difficult to be a concubine at that time. It''s also a good story for a sister to work with her husband. But either way, it was a huge blow to the young lady. Whether they are dead or alive, they will be affected by it all their lives and will not be happy all their lives. It''s just a matter of time before you lose your husband''s favor. Today''s affairs look simple, but in fact they are closely linked. In the end, the sinister intentions are really tongue tied. Hongying and Jiang Susu really put a lot of effort into this, but they did not expect the man''s bad nature, but they did not expect that Xiao Shao was born with indifference and cruelty, nor did they expect that Jiang Ruan was so calm and relative, and even had no idea of misunderstanding. Xiao Shao also saw Jiang Ruan''s calmness, and he was even slightly disappointed. If you really care about his mind, you should show one or two care at the moment. The calmer she was, the more she showed that she didn''t take it to heart. Xiao Shao thought so in his heart, but he was wrong about Jiang Ruan''s mind. When Jiang Ruan looked at the residual wine in the room, the sweet smell in the air, and at Jiang Su Su Su''s disheveled and moving appearance, his anger rose slowly. It was at this time that she suddenly remembered the scene when Xuanli finally put her in the prison. Jiang Su Su once met her in the prison and told her the sweet past with Xuanli. At that time, Jiang Su Su Su''s words were like a bolt from the blue to her. She knew that it was just an elaborate fraud at the last moment. Xuanli and Jiang Susu had a secret life. At that time, she didn''t understand why Xuanli was the only one in her heart, but she still did something intimate with Jiang Su Su that she had never done before. I think at the beginning, Chiang Su Su made such a flattery in front of Xuanli, just like today, which made Xuanli treat her differently. In the past and this life, Jiang Su Su never died with her. In the past life, she admired Xuanli, so Jiang Su snatched Xuanli. Now the Empress Dowager married her and Xiao Shao, and Jiang Su snatched Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan was not happy in his heart, and his eyes became deep when he looked at Jiang Su Su Su. "What''s your plan?" Xiao Shao asked: "killed?" Although Xiao Shao was named a disorderly minister and a thief, he was also very considerate, but he didn''t care about the intrigue and jealousy in the back house. He acted cruelly but simply, and even more with the unique way of the royal guards. He was simple and rude, and killed. Jiang Susu just didn''t know Xiao Shao. Maybe Xiao Shao only appeared in the rumors. All kinds of opinions about him are hearsay. Jiang Susu also regarded him as a man like other men, but he didn''t know that Xiao Shao was very proud in his heart. He was calculated today, and he would not obediently obey the manipulation of Jiang Fu. It is most likely that the man who killed Jiang Fu in a fit of anger went away. In the end, even if the emperor really had to take him, it was just a matter of picking up heavily and falling lightly. "Why?" Jiang Ruan said gently: "sisters, you don''t have to kill them all. But, "she looked at Jiang Su Su, who was waiting for her with hatred, and said with a smile," since the second younger sister is so afraid that she can''t get married, she doesn''t even bother to come and make a decision from you. I, as a direct elder sister, have to do a good job. " Xiao Shao looked at her and said thoughtfully, "what do you want?" "The second younger sister is beautiful and beautiful, and she should be seen by more people." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "there are so many young men in Jiang''s family. It should be gratifying to marry such a beautiful woman as Er Mei." Her eyes flash a trace of tiredness, even if it''s just a short moment, also caught by Xiao Shaomin''s sense. He noticed that Jiang Ruan''s mood must have changed in a moment, though he didn''t know why, which prompted her to make the decision.However, Jiang Ruan''s words, he has always been unconditional agreement, then nodded: "good." Jiang Su Su stared at Jiang Ruan in disbelief. She did not expect that Jiang Ruan''s courage was so great. Maybe a few times ago, Jiang Ruan Ming Ming had a way to kill her, but in the end, he didn''t act, which made Jiang Su Su think that Jiang Ruan must have a taboo. Jiang Ruan loves Jiang Su Su so much. What''s the matter with Jiang Su Su? If there is any connection with Jiang Ruan, Jiang Quan will make it hard for Jiang Ruan. But now that Jiang Ruan was talking like this, he was going to tear his face, leaving no room at all. Jiang Ruan came up to her and looked down at her, her eyes as flat as water. She has never forgotten the hatred of her previous life. Jiang Su Su originally intended to make her have nothing, and finally slowly collapsed. But now it seems that he has done too much. Now that Xia Yan has been defeated, Jiang Chao''s future as an official in the imperial examination has also been ruined, and she has a bad reputation. Compared with the colorful life of her previous life, she looks like a beautiful fairy. The original obsession is really superfluous now. Jiang Su Su is used to pretending to be a fairy all the time, just because he wants a higher status. What kind of taste is it that such a person with a higher heart ends up in a humble position and has to rely on others every day to live. This is not necessarily a painful torture and punishment for Jiang Su Su. Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes. She couldn''t spend all her time on a bug who was destined to admire her. She also had Jiang Xinzhi, Zhao family and Xuan Pei. Any disaster that may remain will be eradicated. It''s no good for her to stay one more day, and many things should be speeded up, but Jiang Su Su has been comfortable for a long time. She light way: "that trouble my husband will be two younger sister to think of a way to throw out, remember, throw the place more lively the better." With a smile on her lips, she is as bright and moving as a red fox: "such a beautiful color should be appreciated by thousands of people." Xiao Shao was shocked by the natural "husband" in Jiang Ruan''s mouth. I don''t know whether he was surprised or frightened, but there was a faint sense of pleasure on his face. Silence a moment just way: "Brocade two." Jin Er scratched his head and stood up and said, "OK, master, how about throwing it to the gate of Jiang''s mansion? It''s too far away. I''m really tired. " "That''s good." Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "it''s hard for you." "If you don''t work hard, I''ll forgive you." Brocade two also followed to smile, one hand then mention Jiang Su Su to fly out. Dark Wei''s martial arts are not inferior. Besides, there are already people outside to take care of her. Those little ladies who are waiting to watch the good play have already been put down. Otherwise, they would not have come out yet. After Jin Er left, Xiao Shaocai looked up at Jiang Ruan and suddenly asked, "you are not happy." "I''m not as happy as you are." Jiang Ruan looks unchanged, smile is still mild, but somehow, Leng is let people see the feeling of displeasure, or a touch of anger. She said: "gorgeous beauty to seduce, I think not everyone can meet, husband good luck." Xiao Shao Leng Leng, drooping eyes to think for a while, suddenly recalled a very light smile. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 164 If Xiao Shao looked at her thoughtfully, Jiang Ruan was really angry. This discovery raised a faint satisfaction in his heart. Even the cold expression that had not been put away since Jiang Su Su Su appeared disappeared, leaving only a little smile. Looking at his smile, Jiang Ruan felt more and more irritated, with a little disgust for himself. Since her rebirth, Xu has been taught a lesson from her previous life. She doesn''t put too much expectation into anything. However, once something is identified, there will be a strong desire for possession. Now she has accepted to be the master mother of Jinying palace. No matter whether she is affectionate or ruthless with Xiao Shao, in her private heart, Xiao Shao is her. Jiang Su Su touched her things, which naturally made her unhappy. But the originator didn''t have any self-consciousness. He was innocent with a beautiful face. The more angry she was, the more lovely she was in Xiao Shao''s eyes. Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak, she dragged her to his side and pressed her on his leg. "You..." Jiang Ruan was furious. It''s not the first time that Xiao Shao did it. She was treated by Xiao Shao in Jinying palace. But at that time, Xiao Shao could be ignored because he was drunk and delirious. Now this day, although there is an engagement, this move is too sudden. "Don''t move." Xiao Shao pressed her back, his action was gentle, but his strength was amazing. He didn''t allow people to resist. The next sentence is to let Jiang Ruan cold eye on him, the relative plan is no longer. He said, "my husband, it''s natural." Jiang Ruan turned his eyes in his heart, only to hear Xiao Shao say: "it''s better to seduce a beautiful woman." This man had been talking coldly all day. He didn''t want to talk in a way. Jiang Ruan looked at him incredulously, but he was confused. I thought he was joking, but he was so serious that I couldn''t understand him. However, Xiao Shao such a move down, just that idea is not happy, but disappeared. If it''s true that a good life is to take advantage of it, Jiang Ruan says in his heart that he is beautiful and seductive. For a moment, he only thinks about his own affairs, but does not care about Xiao Shao''s expression. It also ignores Xiao Shao''s happiness in her eyes. I don''t know how long it took until Xiao Shao looked slightly moved and patted her head: "someone''s coming." In private, they couldn''t be controlled by others, but Jiang Ruan didn''t come out of the cabinet after all, and the etiquette should be strictly observed. Moreover, in such a place of right and wrong as Chiang''s house, if one is not careful, rumors will spread that it is not good for Chiang and Ruan. As soon as Xiao Shao reminded him, Jiang Ruan stood up and took the tea on the table in order to pour it to Xiao Shao. Just listen to someone knock on the door: "Miss?" Hearing the voice, it was Hongying. I think Hongying also found that there had been no movement, and the person who read the notice didn''t come back to reply. She was afraid that she was suspicious, so she came to see it in person. This time card is just right. If it wasn''t for another plan, it would be the way of Hongying now. Jiang Ruan smile: "come in." Hongying pushed the door slightly, and her heart suddenly jumped up. How could Jiang Ruan be so calm? Why was he so quiet inside? He didn''t even hear the slightest displeasure. The boy and his wife who were responsible for guarding the door were also missing. The more frightened she was, the more she dared not push the door easily. She could not help regretting why she agreed to Jiang Su Su''s request so hastily. Xiao Shao is not an ordinary person. If she wants to revenge, she has no way at all. After all, the door was pushed open. Hongying took a deep breath and looked inside. Then she saw a clean and tidy school. Jiang Ruan stood beside Xiao Shao and was pouring tea for him. Everything didn''t look wrong. Hongying looks at the two people. Jiang Ruan is still insipid and can''t see any emotion. With a faint smile on her lips, she can''t understand her heart as always. Xiao Shao is the same, just as indifferent, there is no special look. But even so, can Hongying still feel the light pleasure in the room? Pleasure? Here in the end what happened, red Ying looked around, did not find the figure of Jiang Su Su. What''s going on? Hongying was surprised at first, then calmed down slowly, and even felt a little lucky in her heart. Looking at Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao, who are not unhappy at all, I don''t think Jiang Susu can succeed. Hongying was a little disappointed, but at the same time, she felt that she could not be trusted. According to Jiang Su Su''s plan, she should not fail. Jiang Su Su has such charm, even without any special means can make men crazy for her, how, Xiao Shao is an exception, did not fall for her? On second thought, Hong Ying was relieved. When she just pushed the door, she regretted that she rashly agreed to Jiang Su Su''s request. After all, Xiao Shao was an important official of the imperial court, and he had more power than Jiang Quan. If you really want to find out that you have conspired with Jiang Su Su to plot against him, you will inevitably not get angry and retaliate. It''s too risky to go against such a person. Now Jiang Su Su has run away from her. It''s not related to her anyway. She said with a smile, "I''ll come and see what else the Lord and the first lady need. I''ll go and make you ready. It''s the first time that Wang Ye has entered our house. In the future, the relationship between the two families will be close, so we can''t neglect him. "Jiang Ruan glanced at her gently. Her curly eyelashes suddenly flashed and she said with a smile, "my aunt really has a heart, but I really need to tidy up the room." Red tassel a Leng, blankly ask a way: "big young lady can have what command?" Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan speechless, his eyes full of doting, obviously also ready to listen to the young lady''s nonsense. Jiang Ruan plucked his hair, his expression was sincere, and he could not see any trace of forgery: "the tea house selected by my aunt has beautiful scenery, and the place is also very good. Maybe it''s too long since no one came to clean it up. There are mice inside to eat it. " "Mouse?" Hongying was a little nervous when she saw Jiang Ruan open her mouth, but she laughed when she heard her words: "how can there be mice? Maybe elder sister and younger sister are wrong. I''ve been specially cleaned before." Moreover, in order to achieve his goal, Jiang Su Su has already arranged the tea house inside and outside. How can such a beautiful place tolerate rats to disturb it? "If you don''t believe me, go and see it." Jiang Ruan pointed to the emerald screen in the room, and his smile added a little more meaning: "just now, the mouse suddenly came out and scared me, and Lord Xiao killed the mouse. That''s the stain. " As soon as Hong Ying looked in the direction that Jiang Ruan pointed to, she saw that there was a pool of blood under the jade screen. The blood might have been splashed out. Some of it was splashed on the jade screen. It was very clear, which made people jump. At first, Hongying was puzzled. Just as she was about to say a few words, an idea suddenly flashed in her mind. She turned pale and stepped back. She fixed her eyes on the bloodstain, then turned to look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan nodded to her with a smile and said in a soft voice, "aunt, can you see clearly?" Just at this time, he heard someone outside shouting: "no, no, there''s something wrong with the second lady!" Just a few hundred meters away from the gate of Chiang''s mansion, it was already surrounded by people. The inside three floors and the outside three floors were full of ordinary people. Among these ordinary people, men''s eyes were particularly fanatical. "What a beautiful girl! I can''t help looking at her "It''s really a fairy''s face, and it''s like the body of a child. I''ve been walking around the beam for nine days!" "Whose girl is this? Why are you lying here?" Some kind-hearted people asked. "You see, the whole body looks like the daughter of a good family. Hey, brother, I don''t think I''ve ever seen anything like this before. We''ve seen a lot of such scenes in the capital. Most of the women who follow the men are not serious. They are cleaned up by the main room. I don''t mean to show her some color. But ah, this woman is so energetic. It''s unbearable just to look at her. I don''t know which childe has such good fortune. It''s the most difficult for her to accept beauty''s kindness! " "I bah, what kind of look and what kind of woman are you? Isn''t this Miss Jiang of Shangshu mansion? Why do I look so familiar with the famous talented women in the capital? I''m sure you''re right. What''s the matter? " The people surrounded by people in the middle of the crowd were all dressed in plain white dresses. Their clothes were looming, sketching the lines that make people reverie. The long black hair was wet and clinging to the body after bathing, which made the thin clothes more transparent, almost showing the beautiful scenery under the robes. The woman lowered her head, still can see a delicate and beautiful face, but now I don''t know whether it is angry or shy, the bright face is a little red, but it is more exciting. The light sweet fragrance on her body is dense in the air, like a good aphrodisiac, which makes her eyes look like wolves. There are several men are ready to move on her. Jiang Su Su almost broke a silver tooth. When the bodyguard left her here, he didn''t know where to point her acupoints. Now he was so soft that he couldn''t make any effort. He just let these humble people watch and accept these men''s disgusting eyes. As soon as Jiang Su Su thought of this, she would like to gouge out all the eyes of the people who were looking at her. Of course, what she hated most was the maker of all this, Jiang Ruan. She couldn''t say anything, she could only hear the unpleasant words of the people around her. "Don''t bully me. I don''t know much about it. The Shangshu mansion is also an official. How can a clean and clean young lady make such a dissolute appearance? Besides, you can see that this woman is full of amorous feelings. What''s the taste that a serious young lady can make? Even if she knows something about love, she''s a beauty." A middle-aged man with a big stomach finally couldn''t help shaking a fan to come forward and squat down in front of Jiang Su Su. He pinched Jiang Su Su''s chin to make her look up. As soon as he looked up, he could see Chiang Su Su''s face clearly. He immediately took another breath and praised his good looks. The middle-aged man was obviously very satisfied. After walking up and down Jiang Su Su''s body, he said, "yes, she''s a wonderful person. I don''t know which building this girl is from? Go back with the master and be a concubine of 17 rooms. I will love you very much, master The man, dressed in gold and silver, was rough and crude, and his words were very obscene. At first sight, he was the master who suddenly became rich. Usually, someone treats Jiang Su Su like this, but she has already been scolded by her. Now, facing such a disgusting face, she can''t even open her mouth.When the middle-aged man saw that Jiang Su Su was silent, he took her as a yes and patted her face with his fat hand: "beauty, I''ll go home with you." However, this is not the only one who has lust in the crowd. At that time, someone said in a voice: "this girl is clearly my first choice. What are you fighting for?" It was a very rich looking official young man. "What''s the noise? I''ve also taken a fancy to this woman. I have to tell you that everyone comes first and comes later." This beauty is always attractive, not to mention such a beautiful natural beauty, some want to take the beauty home for their own, and some want to dress up the beauty well and give it to the boss for a successful official. If such a beautiful woman gets the eye of the superior and gives it away as a gift, she must have a lot of face. Different from men, the women''s eyes on Jiang Su Su were full of contempt: "Tut, now this fox is more and more amazing. It''s so shameless on the streets." "It''s true," the woman said one after another. "It''s really immoral. This brothel woman is shameless. Where can an ordinary family do such things?" It turned out that Jiang Su Su was the dust woman in the fireworks land. Jiang Su Su only hated that he could not speak at the moment and he was weak all over, otherwise he would have to wring the tongues of these long tongued women with scissors. All her life, she thought she was a fairy from Jiutian yaochi. She always looked like she didn''t eat fireworks. In the capital, all kinds of praise added a luster to her mystery. When did it come to such a state of embarrassment? It seems that all the disguises of the whole body have been taken away. It''s really humiliating to be naked in the eyes of all kinds of people! The only proof of her charm may be the men who fight for her. Even now, these men are still fascinated by her beauty. It''s just The men who are fighting for her now are all ordinary people, either businessmen who stink of copper, or squires who suddenly become rich. They are thousands of miles away from the former handsome boys. Even the most humble one among those who admired her in the past is much better than everyone here. There is a sharp contrast between the past and the present. Jiang Su Su is about to collapse. More and more people stopped when the fight broke out. Just at this moment, there was only one voice: "there it is!" When Jiang Su Su looked up, he saw that the crowd was divided into two sides. Several people came in from outside. At the front were some servants, and the woman behind was red Ying. At first sight of Hongying, Jiang Susu was angry and anxious. Hongying hurried forward and ordered her servants to help Jiang Susu go without saying a word. They knew it was a scandal, and they didn''t dare to do anything else to show their identity. They just wanted to calm down. It''s just that Hongying thinks like this, but the people around her quit. The men who were fighting for Jiang Su Su stopped and stood in front of her and said, "what are you doing? How dare you move the person I like? " Hongying held back her anger and laughed at the man: "to tell you the truth, this is my niece who is far away from me. Because something happened, I want to take her back now. Please stay away from me." If it''s just someone else, because he is a rough and ignorant businessman, he immediately laughed and said, "little lady, don''t bully the master. What the woman said about her distant niece, it was clear that she was the girl from the brothel. Master, I''m not that unreasonable person. Young lady, you can offer me a price. I''ll give you all the money. The little beauty looks like it. I''ll take her back to be my seventeen aunt. " Hongying''s face was a little red when she heard that he was so unreasonable that she couldn''t be reasonable. However, she must not let him take Jiang Su Su away today. If Jiang Susu is taken away, some people who know him will say that there is no place for Jiang''s family in the capital. As for Jiang Quan, knowing that his second daughter, whom he loved most, had such an accident, he was bound to put all the blame on her. What good fruit would she have. But Hongying has forgotten that even if Jiang Su Su has not been taken away, there is no impermeable wall in the world, and paper can never cover the fire. This will eventually spread. At present, it has not been pierced, because people can''t connect this fragrant and gorgeous woman from the second fairy lady of Shangshu mansion. But the capital is so big that there are always a few people I know. Jiang Su Su''s reputation has been ruined after such an accident at the gate of lishushu mansion today. What''s the good end of her life? For a woman, it''s better to die in this life. How can Jiang Quan give up when he knows about it? Hongying reluctantly smiles: "this official, she is not a woman from a brothel. She is a girl from a serious family. I''m afraid she can''t do what the official wants." "What a serious woman." The rich businessman was also a little displeased: "don''t you have eyes? What on earth do you want to do with this refusal? Come on, take my seventeen aunts back. " This man is not reasonable at all, so he plans to rob people back directly. Just looking at the red tassel with a smile: "little lady, don''t be disrespectful.""You --" Hongying had never met such a rascal. She was in a hurry and said, "dare you! Do you know who she is? " "Who is it?" That man skin smile meat don''t smile a way: "isn''t is what gold Branch Jade Leaf don''t become?" Hong Ying choked and did not dare to name Jiang Su Su. At this time, he saw a bodyguard dressed up from afar and said in a high voice: "aunt, the princess asked her subordinates to help find the whereabouts of the second young lady. What''s the news?" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 165 As soon as her brain exploded, she felt dark and nearly fainted. There''s only one thought in my heart. It''s over. I''m afraid today''s event will not end well. The bodyguard rushed into front of the crowd and pushed her to Hongying''s side. When he saw that Jiang Su Su''s room collapsed to the ground, he was shocked and said, "it''s here. Who made the second young lady look like this? Are you tired of living? The princess will not let go of the culprit when she knows The people around were originally in the spirit of watching, but they were suddenly interrupted. Seeing that the bodyguard was always a princess, the bodyguard didn''t look like an ordinary person, so he began to mutter in his heart. Even the rich merchant was shocked by the appearance of the bodyguard. He hesitated for a moment and then asked, "brother, who is the princess you are talking about? What is the identity of the lady on the ground? " Hongying hurriedly said, "don''t worry about it. In a word, she is from our family. Now you have to take her away." But the crowd did not know who was shouting: "Oh, just now, this master is not going to carry this young lady back to the house to be the seventeen aunt? Why don''t you do it now? " On hearing this, the bodyguard, without waiting for Hongying to speak again, gave a loud drink: "bold! How dare you insult miss. Open your eyes and see clearly that this is the second young lady of Jiang family in the capital, the younger sister of Princess Hong''an in the dynasty! " When this remark came out, there was an uproar all around. Jiang Su Su almost put his fingernails into his palm, his lips trembled, and his whole body fell into the ice. This man is good at singing and reading. It is obvious that Jiang Ruan deliberately made her do this, in order to open up her identity in public and embarrass her. This is more painful than killing her, because today, her reputation has no place to hide, and her life has been ruined! Red Ying''s face turned white. She just wanted to rub the bodyguard and throw it into the sky. Looking at people''s eyes, Hongying wanted to find a crack to get in. What''s more, there was a sudden fear in her heart that Jiang Su Su had done such a big thing under her care. Among the three daughters of Jiang''s family, only Jiang Susu was deeply loved by Jiang Quan. If such a baby''s daughter makes such a big joke, even if she is angry, Jiang Quan will kill her! It''s all about Jiang Ruan. Hongying can''t help but resent Jiang Ruan''s ruthlessness. She not only humiliates Jiang Su Su, but also destroys Jiang Su Su''s reputation, and even makes Jiang Su Su never rise to be a man again. This was a great blow to Chiang Kai Shek''s government and Chiang Kai Shek''s power. Chiang Ruan was so indifferent to brotherhood. However, Hongying has forgotten that when she conspired with Jiang Su Su to calculate Jiang Ruan, how could she ever consider the slightest bit of brotherhood? The so-called harm to others will harm themselves, so it is not to blame. The crowd around the theater had been talking about it for a long time. Even the rich businessman who had been shouting for Jiang Su Su to go back to be his seventeen aunt also shut up and looked up and down at Jiang Su Su Su. People couldn''t believe it in their eyes. Someone in the crowd said, "I just said that this young lady looks 90% like the second young lady of Jiang''s mansion, because you don''t believe it." "Who would have thought of that?" someone replied, "but is it true that Miss Jiang ER in the rumor is not a fairy like person? How could she fall into such a situation and be harmed?" "What has been harmed? Look at her style. The smell of her body makes her blood gush. Which decent girl would be like this. I think Miss Jiang Er has already had a charm." "You''re right. Ah, you look like a fairy. You don''t look like a serious girl. No wonder you''re regarded as the red card of the brothel of Chu." There was so much discussion about it that it almost made her feel ashamed and angry. However, what people say is right. The eyes of common people are most poisonous. Since Jiang Su Su practiced the art of enchantment, she has a lot of charm. Even if she is pure and beautiful, she can''t cover up her beauty. This charm is different from Jiang Ruan''s charm, which is a kind of temptation for you to pick. Ordinary men are well-informed and can naturally distinguish the meaning. What''s more, which girl will have such a graceful appearance, not to mention the indistinct scenery she wears today. Jin two Chong mixed in the crowd, leading people to gossip Jin three make a wink, almost proud up. He just so loud, because the emergency of a roar, this should hear around should not hear now is all heard. Jin San also raised his voice and said unintentionally, "ah, since she is the second lady of Shangshu mansion, now she is also seen by these people. Should you also be responsible? She is a pure and honest lady. How can she be taken advantage of by others?" At the end of the speech, there was another discussion. Jiang Su Su and Hong Ying were numb. Some of the onlookers came back to their senses and exclaimed, "it''s true that the young lady is looked at by me. Xiaosheng is willing to take responsibility and marry her home to be his wife!" This words say of high sounding, again see that person, is only a street side small hun appearance. It was clear to everyone that Jiang Su Su was not alone when she was seen in public. Anyone with a bit of fame would not marry her to be a good wife for others. But the gangsters in the market are not the same. Shangshufu is also an official after all. Jiang Susu is also born well. It would be a good thing if he could get married to shangshufu. With this in mind, more and more people are willing to be "responsible". In the dispute, Qi and Qi all want to go up to Chiang Kai Shek''s house to propose marriage.Red Ying can''t resist, but the crowd is more and more. Jin Er says in a high voice: "what nonsense?" looking at the servants, he says: "Why are you still in a daze? Hurry to help the second lady back to the house. I''ll talk about these trifles later! " He didn''t say what he said. He said half and left half. On the contrary, he added confidence to those gangsters. From their point of view, when such scandals happened to a wealthy family, the young lady could not live. She either killed herself or went to a temple to get her hair cut. It''s just that Jiang Shangshu''s love for his second daughter is well known in the whole capital. Jiang Quan certainly can''t bear a good daughter to commit suicide or lead a hard life in Qingxiu. If this big family doesn''t marry Jiang Su Su, it''s their turn. Thinking of this, those gangsters were even more excited, and they even had the scene of being the son-in-law of Chiang Kai Shek in red robes. Because of the identity of Shangshu mansion and Princess Jiang Ruan Hong''an, these people are afraid to be Yongqiang. When Jin Er orders his family to help Jiang Susu into the carriage and go back to the mansion, they are all ambitious people who are willing to "take charge of" Jiang Susu''s innocence. Although they can''t be Yongqiang, what they are good at is to grind people and play tricks It''s not easy to make a living by means. Those who did not intend to be responsible but had already watched the excitement stood far away, holding their arms and talking, thinking that Chiang''s government would set off a storm in the capital. When Jiang Quanfang went down to court, he learned the news of Jiang Su Su''s accident. All the way back to his house, his mind was blank. As soon as he entered Hongying yard, he saw Jiang Su Su sitting on the bed sobbing. Hongying was also in a state of mind. Hearing his footsteps, they looked back at the same time. Jiang Su Su took a look at Jiang Quan and cried out, "Dad!" I couldn''t help it any more, and tears rolled down. If, as usual, Jiang Su Su cried like this, Jiang Quan would be distressed. But today''s affair is not trivial. Before, Xia Yan was shameless and had an affair with others. Now it happened again to Jiang Su Su. It''s like throwing a handful of salt on Jiang Quan''s most taboo affair, which immediately reminds him of some bad things. At that time, the pity in Jiang Quan''s heart disappeared. He walked up to Jiang Su Su in a few steps. Without saying a word, he raised his hand and slapped him. Jiang Su Su was slapped by Jiang Quan. He was so big that he had never done anything to her. Even if it happened today, although she realized that it was a matter of great importance, she also thought that as long as she cried, Jiang Quan would solve it for her. However, Jiang Quan slapped her without saying a word. Rao Shi, no matter how stupid Jiang Su Su was, when he saw that Jiang Quan''s attitude was wrong, he was flustered. Knowing that something was wrong, he cried again: "Dad!" After Jiang Quan slapped her, he regretted it. Jiang Su Su was his daughter whom he had nurtured in his hand. Let alone beat her, he had never said anything serious since he was a child. Even if Xia Yan did such filthy things, he treated Jiang Su Su the same as before. He looked at Jiang Su Su''s face covered with tears. His heart softened and his anger subsided a little. He said coldly, "what''s the matter? You have lost all the faces of the Jiang family! " That''s true. It''s only a few years since Shangshu mansion was established as a family of Qingliu. And all kinds of deeds happened to Xia Yan''s mother and son. It''s so easy that after Xia Yan came out, he stopped for a while and was exposed again. Now the whole capital is making a joke about it. In a few hours since the beginning, today''s story has spread all over the capital. When he thought about it, Jiang Quan was filled with depression. Jiang Su Su''s heart leaped. The only way out was to put everything above Jiang Ruan. Then he lowered his head and said angrily, "Dad, my daughter has been harmed like this! Father, you want to avenge your daughter At the moment, Hongying understood it, and then said: "it''s true that the second lady is innocent. She fell into such a situation today because she was framed. The second young lady''s life is really bitter. She''s so good that she suffered such a disaster in vain. " Jiang Quan didn''t know that there was another one. When he heard that Jiang Su Su and Hong Ying were singing in unison, he said angrily, "who has the courage to act in Shangshu mansion? How dare you calculate my daughter of the Chiang family? " Jiang Su Su was his daughter like pearl and treasure. He was very angry just now. Now when he heard that he had been framed, it seemed that all his anger suddenly had a vent. Now Jiang Quan just wanted to find out the person who framed Jiang Su Su. "Yes Big sister... " Jiang Su Su extremely difficult to spit out a few words, it seems to be unbearable to cover his face and sob: "it is the big sister who sent me there, and the king of Jin Ying, who is also supporting the big sister." Jiang Su Su put all the blame on Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao, but she didn''t know that Hong Ying changed her face and scolded a fool. In a word, although Jiang Su Su was a little clever, he was just a little bit of a stunt. Compared with Xia Yan, she is far behind. It was Xia Yan who protected her so well that she didn''t have to worry about anything else when she was growing up. Jiang Su Su really had no brain and could only cheat people with the appearance of a fairy. Just like her current reasons, they were full of flaws and were not very clever.Jiang Quan listened to Jiang Su Su''s words wholeheartedly, but his face sank when he finished. He looked at the daughter as if he didn''t know her. Jiang Susu waited for Jiang Quan to go to Jiang Ruan''s trouble. He suddenly found something wrong. Jiang Quan''s eyes made her afraid. He whispered: "Dad, how do you look at me like this?" "Evil girl," Jiang Quan''s voice trembled. Looking at Jiang Su Su''s obviously stunned expression, he said coldly, "you said King Jinying and Jiang Ruan jointly killed you. One of them is a princess, and the other is a prince. Why do you have to frame you. But you, what''s the matter with this dress? " Jiang Su Su shrank back and said, "Dad, you''re helping an outsider. I''m your daughter!" "I don''t have a slutty daughter like you!" Jiang Quanxu was so angry that he roared. Even Hongying was surprised when she listened to such unpleasant words. Jiang Quan''s devotion to this daughter is his favorite, but now he scolds her like this. Obviously, he is deeply disappointed with Jiang Su Su. "Help you," Jiang Quan''s face was gloomy and terrifying: "what''s your idea? I''ve got such a wonderful daughter in Jiang''s mansion, and I''m trying to climb up to King Jinying''s bed! You can see clearly who king Jinying is. If you want to die, I, Jiang Fu, can''t afford to lose this man, can''t afford to lose this life! " Jiang Quan has been immersed in officialdom for many years, so it''s not stupid. Jiang Su Su''s words are full of holes. Although Xiao Shao is cold and fierce, he is not the one who takes the initiative to recruit trouble. Such a person has pride in his heart. If he doesn''t annoy him, he won''t do it easily. Jiang Su Su must have been annoyed by something. Looking at his clothes and what happened later, Jiang Quan knew something about his daughter, and then he could guess why? At this moment, Jiang Quan could not tell whether he was more disappointed or angry. He was angry that Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan were so ruthless. He also hated that Jiang Su Su Su was reckless and offended Xiao Shao without considering the consequences. Who is king Jinying? He is the one who even the emperor dares to refute. He has no good fruit to eat. What disappointed Jiang Quan even more was Jiang Su Su''s action. If Jiang Quan had anything to be proud of in his life, Jiang Su Su should be regarded as one. He has always been proud of his daughter. Chiang Su Su is pure and beautiful, and his fame has spread far and wide. If it wasn''t for Xia Yan''s business, today''s famous families in Beijing would be chasing each other. In Jiang Quan''s mind, Jiang Su Su was worthy of any man, and only the highest status could set off the extraordinary of his daughter. But now this daughter is as humble as other brothel women, and even wants to climb other people''s bed by any means. Jiang Quan has a feeling of sadness and anger in his heart. At first, he took a chance, thinking that if the eighth prince had taken a fancy to Jiang Su Su, he would have a good future for Jiang Su Su Bo in the future. But now this matter, eight Prince there is bound to be no play. Jiang Su Su had never seen Jiang Quan like this before, and he felt a trace of fear in his heart. She hugged Jiang Quan''s legs and cried out, "Dad, Su Su knew that she was wrong. Su Su also lost her mind for a moment. She saw that her elder sister married so well, but she had such a reputation. She didn''t know what kind of family she would marry in the future. Thinking that King Jinying valued his elder sister, Su Su was willing to be a concubine. He should have been well protected by his elder sister. But I didn''t expect to be like this. Dad, Su Su is wrong. Dad, don''t ignore Su Su. " Jiang Quan closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Jiang Su Su''s words were in his heart. Think of Xia Yan since the accident, the daughter will be locked in the yard all day, never come out, think of her a boudoir girl, to pay for her mother''s immorality. Every day, I was worried about whether I could marry into a good family or not, and even made a legitimate daughter want to be a concubine. Jiang Quan felt a little guilty again. In the end, it was his father. Once the balance in his heart turns to Jiang Su Su Su, when he looks at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Quan is not good at all. In the end, what he has in his heart is the blood of Jiang Fu, but Jiang Ruan doesn''t care about brotherhood at all. Don''t pay attention to his father at all. Do you really think there is someone to support him? Jiang Quan snorted: "it''s all right. I''ll think of another way to deal with it. You won''t go out these days. What about Jiang Ruan? Call her to me Hong Ying and Jiang Su Su Su are at the same time loose and bring disaster to the East. Although Jiang Ruan has a good calculation, he can''t stand it. Jiang Quan''s heart is biased. As long as Jiang Quan doesn''t die, it''s Jiang Quan who is in charge of his family. Naturally, if Jiang Ruan wants to call him a father, he can''t get any good in his family. Just at this time, a strange bodyguard came in and hugged Jiang Quan: "go back to master Jiang, my master says that the young lady is not well. Take the young lady back to the palace and let little doctor Xia see a doctor." When Jiang Quan heard this, he felt even more confident. Jiang Ruan''s move is obviously a drastic one. He can''t ask Jinying palace for someone, but Jiang Ruan''s move is too insidious. If it''s Jiang Ruan''s servant girl, Jiang Quan can vent his anger, but this man is Xiao Shao''s subordinate. He can''t fight or scold. Jiang Quan can only look at his face. The bodyguard scratched her head and suddenly looked at Hongying. Hongying was numb at that sight. The next moment, she heard the voice of the bodyguard with concern: "by the way, the young lady also said that the aunt in the mansion had been running around all day with her body. She was really tired. She asked the prince to take the post and invite the imperial doctor in the palace. She wanted to come here after a while Take a good look at your aunt, so as not to bump into your little brother. "As soon as Hongying''s body was stiff, her face turned pale. She subconsciously wanted to refuse, but when she said it, she could stop. If she refused at this moment, she would be guilty. With Xia Yan''s experience, Jiang Quan would be more alert to these things. Once there was any clue, he would have to find out. But if you stay where you are, after that. It''s another bloodbath. Her body began to shake uncontrollably. If something went wrong with Jiang Quan, who was already in a bad mood, what would happen to her? Now it''s hard to ride a tiger. Red Ying has two pillows in her belly, and suddenly she weighs more than a thousand pounds. When the bodyguard finished his reply, he punched Jiang Quan and backed down. Although Jiang Quan was very unhappy with Jiang Ruan, the imperial doctor was not available to everyone. Today, Hong Ying was really afraid of hurting her baby. If she had a imperial doctor to see her, she would be much safer. He didn''t think about what Xiao Shao would do in the imperial medicine. On the one hand, Xiao Shao didn''t need to be a human being. On the other hand, Hongying was just pregnant. If there was any problem, he could go to another doctor to see him. It was not so easy to cheat. Jiang Quan was relaxed, but he didn''t notice Hongying''s stiff face. Just at this time, suddenly heard outside and rushed to a boy, said: "master, not good!" "What''s the matter?" Today''s events have already left Chiang Kai Shek in a state of anxiety. He has a feeling that he can''t cope with them. When he hears these words, he shouts impatiently. The young man was startled and looked at Jiang Quan timidly. Then he whispered: "there are a lot of people outside. They are all beating gongs and drums. They also raise their betrothal gifts and send out wedding candy outside the door. They say that after seeing the body of the second young lady, they are willing to serve the second young lady''s husband In the future, he and Jiang''s family will be in laws. " "What --" before Jiang Quan answered, Jiang Su Su screamed. But at the moment, in the carriage that followed Xiao Shao back to the house, Dewdrop asked: "girl, is it too cheap for the second lady and the fifth aunt? The master will certainly try to protect them. Isn''t it a waste of work, girl "No Jiang Ruan looked at the snacks and tea set on the small table in the carriage. Xiao Shao had everything in the carriage, which was very considerate and comfortable. Even snacks are made according to her favorite taste. "The second younger sister, who was only willing to marry into a high school and enjoy power, lost her qualification from then on. She is about to become the kind of person she despises the most. There is no one in the world who can never be a master. It is more painful for her to be a master than to kill her. " Jiang Ruan said faintly, "as for Hongying, do you really think Jiang Quan will let her go?" On the surface, Jiang Quan was noble, but in fact, he was not tolerant. Hong Ying''s daring to deceive Jiang Quan on her offspring was a great taboo of Jiang Quan. Hongying''s fate will not be very good. Everyone has to pay for his greed. It''s just that the price of Hongying is higher. "There''s no escape." She said. It''s a digression. it''s better to get married when 700000 words to 800000 words? www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 166 There is no airtight wall in the world. What''s more, miss you, who was seen naked in public, quickly swam around the streets of Beijing on the day of rumors. However, the leakage of the house happened to be accompanied by rain at night. It was not enough news. Heaven seemed to think that Jiang''s house was not troublesome enough, and another piece of gossip was released at the same time. In King Jinying''s mansion, Jiang Ruan Zheng is sitting at a table drinking tea. The best Guzhu purple bamboo shoots are served with exquisite Peony Tea bean paste. It''s just sweet and won''t upset people. The cooks in King Jinying''s residence are all first-class. They are simple and exquisite. Even the imperial dining room in the palace can''t produce such good things. The servants in the house told Lu Zhu that old Jin Ying Wang was a man who paid attention to living. These cooks were carefully collected from outside. But since the old Jin Ying Wang couple left, Xiao Shao is cold-blooded and simple in eating. These cooks have no place for heroes all the time. It''s so easy for them to come to a young lady. Naturally, they try their best to please her. They just hope that they can join Jiang Ruan and have more opportunities to show their cooking skills in the future. Although this reason makes people laugh, Dewdrop''s heart is gradually relieved. It''s only because these people all tell the news that the servants of King Jinying''s mansion really take Jiang Ruan as their young lady. Otherwise, why do they spend such a lot of time. Nowadays, the most worrying thing for several servant girls is that Jiang Ruan Ruan''s Jinying palace is also a high marriage. Xiao Shao has no idea, but he can''t stand the slave''s big bullying. Now I see that the servants are respectful to Chiang and Ruan, and then I see King Jinying''s house and Xiao Shao, and I can''t pick out any bad things from the beginning to the end. Jiang Ruan Zheng was drinking tea when he saw Forsythia coming in from outside and said with a smile, "girl." Jiang Ruan answered, and forsythia put the newly picked flowers into the painted gold phoenix color bottle. Although the embroidery of Jinying palace is magnificent, maybe Xiao Shao''s temperament is too cold, and he always feels that there is no ornament, so he looks a little bleak. It was Xiao Shao who was nothing. Jiang Ruan was going to live in Jinying palace in the future. Forsythia thought about how to add some color. After all, men and women have different minds. Even if you pick a few flowers and put them in a vase, it''s a bit popular, isn''t it? "Girl," Forsythia side flower side way: "maidservant today outside can hear a big event, girl guess what?" Although she tried her best to keep calm, her face was a little excited, and her eyes were full of laughter. Jiang Ruan glanced at her and said, "what happened to Hongying?" "The girl is really divine," Forsythia stayed for a while, ran to Jiang Ruan, blinked and said, "isn''t it? Today, as soon as a servant went out, he heard it. The streets and alleys were talking about it, saying that the master had kicked aunt Hong into miscarriage! " "Miscarriage?" Jiang Ruan''s face flashed. "It''s a long story." Red Ying sat down on a small bench on one side and was very interested in talking about it. Her posture caught up with the storyteller in the restaurant. She said: "it''s said that yesterday, five aunts were running around all day. The master asked the imperial doctor in the palace to look at her. At first, she was well, but when the imperial doctor was coming, the fifth aunt suddenly said that she was very ill and wanted to have a quick sleep. The master, also a shrewd man, immediately felt that something was wrong, so he began to argue with his fifth aunt. Who knows -- "Forsythia sold a pass. She wanted to hang Jiang Ruan''s curiosity, but when she looked up, she saw that Jiang Ruan''s expression had not fluctuated. It seemed that she had already expected this. She angrily touched her nose and continued:" who knows, two cotton balls fell out of her belly Come on, big pillow When Forsythia talked about it, she was very proud and said, "at that time, the master found that he had been cheated, so he kicked him heavily, and then --" Forsythia coughed twice: "the most important place is coming. My fifth aunt screamed and said in a sad voice [you have no conscience, how can you treat me like this? The master said, "Ying''er, I treat you sincerely, but you are with me! I - broke my heart! "stop, stop --" Jiang Ruan stroked her forehead. What Lianqiao said was the same as the script. What she didn''t know was that she had seen it with her own eyes. After that, all the people in Jinying palace would be able to listen to the ready-made storytelling without paying any money. "You don''t have to say that," she said It was a pity that Forsythia didn''t give full play to her talent as a storyteller, but she said honestly: "then the master kicked her, and the fifth aunt became very popular. Just when the doctor arrived, she had a look. The master''s kick was so good that she didn''t kick the child in the fifth aunt''s stomach. It''s a real child. It''s not march. " Jiang Ruan pondered for half a moment, then said: "so it is." It turned out that when she saw the doctor coming that day, no matter how calm she was, Hongying was also a little flustered. When she was flustered, she was easy to be silly. As usual, Hongying was a smart person and would never make such a mistake. I''m afraid I was nervous yesterday, so I made up such a bad excuse. Although Jiang Quan dotes on Hongying, it doesn''t mean that he is a fool to be deceived by others. In addition, after Xia Yan''s death, Jiang Quan is already sensitive to the issue of his offspring. As soon as he suspected Hongying, he was aggressive. In the dispute, Hongying revealed her feelings. How could Jiang Quan not be angry. He was fooled by his own women one after another. How can Jiang Quan swallow this tone? No matter how much he dotes on Hongying, Hongying is unforgivable in his eyes.Who knows, Hongying didn''t know when she was really pregnant. I think she had a fluke mind before. She used some tiger and wolf medicine when she was pseudo pregnant. The tiger and wolf medicine only worked at this time. Hongying was really pregnant, but she was kicked out by Jiang Quan. The Taiyi, who was treating Hongying, didn''t have a door on his mouth. Maybe he thought that the Jiang family''s affairs were really worth talking about. He turned back and told his colleagues. There are so many imperial doctors in the palace. Some of them are related to noble people, and some of them are from poor families. However, in a short period of time, the news that Jiang Quan kicked his concubine''s family to have a miscarriage, from xungui''s family to the poor people, was heard by everyone. It really moved the capital. Jiang Ruan''s eyes drooped. At this time, Xia Yandou had no power to fight against Hongying in her last life, not to mention her offspring. If she didn''t have other greed in this life, she might have a good life. Now her hope for the rest of her life has also been destroyed. Jiang Quan will never be merciful to a woman who makes him a joke. The end of Hongying can be imagined. However, the most painful thing at present should be Jiang Quan. Jiang Chao and he have already had a slight estrangement. The offspring of the Jiang family are not prosperous. Jiang Quan attaches so much importance to the children in Hongying''s belly, and now he dies at his own hands. For people like Jiang Quan, it is undoubtedly a huge blow. Forsythia then said: "girl, listen again. The fifth aunt is like this. The second lady is still busy. Since yesterday afternoon, many people have gathered around the gate of the mansion and asked to marry the second young lady. They said that the second young lady was responsible for her body. In any case, these people couldn''t get rid of them. They went to find bodyguards to save them. They were lying in front of the door crying and wiping the floor, saying that Jiang''s house was careless about people''s lives. The master was very angry in his heart, so he made an apology in front of everyone and said that he would send the second young lady to the temple to be his aunt. After hearing this, the second young lady fainted and quarreled with the master, but the master was determined. Today, the master has sent the second young lady to the temple a hundred miles away. It is said that she wants to have her hair cut and become an aunt. " "It''s really cheap for her to be an aunt." Forsythia angrily said: "it''s really necessary for her to marry those talents. However, the master has always loved the second young lady, which undoubtedly ruined her life. It''s amazing. " "How?" Jiang Ruan light way. Forsythia heard something strange in her voice, raised her eyes, but was surprised by the cool color in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, only listening to Jiang Ruan''s way: "he tried his best to pave the way for the second sister." Isn''t it? If Jiang Su Su really married one of these street gangsters, his life would be ruined. But if she twisted her hair and went to the temple to be her sister-in-law, it would save the face of the Jiang family and find a step for Jiang Susu so that her face would not be trampled all the time. Away from the Secularity of the capital, Jiang Su Su would gradually fade out of people''s sight until there was an opportunity for Jiang Su Su to return to Beijing again. When Jiang Susu could return to Beijing again was the end of the battle, when the former emperor died, the new emperor ascended the throne, and Xuanlida was completed. At that time, Jiang Quanxu was awarded a reward. With fame and power as guarantee, who cares about Jiang Su Su''s past? Jiang Quan made a good move. He paved the way for his daughter step by step in the past and this life to ensure her safety. Jiang Su Su once said in her previous life that she could not tolerate sand in her eyes. But I don''t know that Jiang Su Su is also a grain of sand in her eyes. In this life, she is cruel and merciless, and she can''t see the picture of other people''s father''s kindness and filial piety. She doesn''t want to succeed in Jiang Quan''s chess game. "Forsythia, you go out and tell Jin Er," Jiang Ruan drooped his eyes: "I want to ask him to help do something." The secret guard in the mansion, Jiner and Jinsan, could not be too far away from Jiang Ruan. Forsythia answered and asked, "what do you want to tell Jiner?" Forsythia has been looking for Jiner for a long time, but she has met another person dressed as a bodyguard from a distance. She is familiar with this life, but she can''t remember where she lived. She is always under Xiao Shao''s hands. Then he came forward and asked, "this, where is Jin Er?" The man turned around, his sword eyebrows were bright, and he was handsome. He stared at Forsythia for a long time without moving. Forsythia was a little strange. As soon as he got up, Liu Mei said: "what are you looking at?" "You were talking in it just now." The man''s way, although there is nothing wrong with his look, there is three points of ridicule in his words. Forsythia was stunned and then said angrily, "it''s none of your business! You''re eavesdropping. I''ll tell you later that the Lord knows. I don''t want to fix you! " This man is no other than Yefeng. In recent years, he has been neglected by Xiao Shao, collecting information in Yibao Pavilion. The days are boring, but the master didn''t speak and can''t come out by himself. These days, Xiao Shao called him back for the first time, as if he was about to go out, and asked him to do something. Just now he heard Forsythia talking to Jiang Ruan about things in Jiang''s house. He was very surprised that which servant girl was so clever. If she had such a living treasure around her when she was carrying out the task, she would not be aware of it at all. At the moment, when Forsythia talks about Jiang Ruan, her brow twitches. Last time, it was not because she made a mistake. Xiao Shao ignored Jiang Ruan for several years. Now Jiang Ruan has a higher status and is about to become the young lady of Jinying palace. If she is annoyed, no, it is because she annoys the maid beside her. I''m afraid that Xiao Shao will not forgive him for protecting his wife. Then he said, "it''s mine, not mine. What do you want to do with Jin Er?""The young lady wants him to do something." Forsythia temperament frank, but not haggard, night Maple since has apologized, she also does not need to have been holding on. "He''s on a mission. He''s not in the house right now." Yefeng road. Forsythia frowned: "when can he go back to the house?" "Tomorrow night." Night Maple way: "how, have important matter?" "Tomorrow night will be a little late..." Forsythia bit bit lip, look a little anxious: "how can you go out at this time?" Night Maple curious: "what I do is the same." "You?" Forsythia squinted at him and shook his head: "I can''t believe it." With such a squint, the bottom of her eyes would exude some of the girl''s charm. Jiang Ruan''s several servant girls are quite outstanding. Angelica dahurica is dignified, forsythia is pungent, dewdrop is clever, and Tianzhu is cold. Each has its own special flavor. Among these people, Forsythia suspense and dew are the most popular among men. To Jinying palace is not long, Xiao Shao''s subordinates are more than forsythia and dew courteous. The women in Yefeng''s daily life are either as cold as those in the royal guards or as rouge powder in the brothel. It''s rare to see a woman who is so straightforward and shrewd. Every move is true. At present, because of her slight sullen lips, her almond eyes and peach cheeks turned red, which made her face even more pink. Suddenly, she moved in her heart. Without waiting for Forsythia to speak, she was a bit of a teenager''s competitive heart. She grasped Forsythia''s wrist: "can''t you believe it? But I want you to believe it After that, he grabbed forsythia and flew out of the yard, ignoring the panicked scream of forsythia. On the roof, brocade three spit out chew in the mouth of a grass, only a word: "silly." Brocade four curled to curl a mouth, patted to pat her sleeve: "go, work!" However, from Yunding mountain, there are many wild grasses and trees. All the way is a muddy path, and the carriages are splashing with muddy water from time to time. Now it''s getting dark. It''s still a little far away from the destination. There''s no place to stay anywhere. There''s no one who can stay for a few miles. This carriage is destined to sleep in the wilderness tonight. Even so, the carriage was magnificent in layout. At least it was very comfortable in appearance. The driver of the carriage was also experienced, and the bumpy road along the way was kept to a minimum, which was very considerate. The leader''s guard said, "let''s have a rest here." In the carriage, Jiang Su Su Su had a pale face and a look of indifference. Seeing this, a dragonfly on one side said in a soft voice, "girl, it''s getting late. Let''s have a rest with some soup." Since butterfly was sold to the kiln by Jiang Su Su because of Ziheche, Jiang Su Su has never brought up the second-class servant girl. The first-class servant girl is still missing a position, and has always been a dragonfly around. Dragonfly is also Jiang Su Su''s confidant. She is also very loyal to Jiang Su Su, and usually helps to give some advice, but she did not expect that Jiang Su Su Su would fall into such a situation now. She is a servant girl. Naturally, she wants to share the joys and sorrows with the young lady, even if she is going to be an aunt in the family temple. However, dragonflies also understand that Jiang Quan''s love for Jiang Su Su for so many years is not fake, and now it''s only an expedient to be an aunt in the temple. After all, Jiang Su Su''s reputation has been ruined, so it''s useless to stay in the capital. When these rumors gradually subside in the future, we can find another chance to take Jiang Su Su back to the government, and everything can be done again. The dragonfly once advised Jiang Susu, but Jiang Susu couldn''t listen. Last night, Jiang Quan took medicine in what Jiang Susu ate. Today, Jiang Susu woke up early in the morning and was in the carriage. He was tired and beat and scolded her. At first, he was on the verge of collapse. Later, he didn''t know what he thought. He gradually calmed down, but he looked cold. Dragonfly also didn''t think much, just thought about Jiang Su Su, about to understand, understand the benefits, in short, she no longer noisy. Jiang Susu took a look at the soup offered by the dragonfly and said, "I know. Let the guards stay away. I don''t want to stay with these servants." After thinking about it, the dragonfly got out of the carriage and told the guards to stay away. After all, there would not be much danger outside. If there was anything, the guards would have time. When the dragonfly returned to the carriage, Jiang Su Su had finished the soup in the bowl and said to her, "it''s a little rough. You can have some too." Dragonfly was flattered and looked at Jiang Su Su. Although she was Jiang Su Su Su''s confidant, Jiang Su Su Su was generous to her, but Jiang Su Su Su was born superior, not to mention a servant. The dragonfly was very surprised to talk peacefully with him. "Don''t look at me like this," Jiang Su Su said, lowering his head. "Now I''m just a sister-in-law in the temple. I''m no longer an official lady. You are no different from me in identity." Dragonfly heard Jiang Su Su say so, only said that she was still angry about it, then said: "girl, don''t say so, now it''s just a temporary hardship, the girl is always the lady of Shangshu mansion, the maid is always the maid of the girl."Jiang Su Su smile: "you said very well, drink some soup, today you also accompany me hard." She said this several times, but Dragonfly couldn''t refuse. She picked up the bowl and drank the soup. When she finished, she saw Jiang Su Su staring at her without blinking. The dragonfly was staring at by Jiang Su Su, and her back was chilly. She said in a low voice, "what can I do for you, girl?" Jiang Su Su sighed: "Dragonfly, do you think I''m beautiful?" "The girl is so beautiful that there is no one like her in the whole capital." Said the dragonfly. This is not flattery. Jiang Su Su was born with beauty. After practicing flattery, she became more gorgeous. "I''m so beautiful. How can I be an aunt?" Jiang Su Su suddenly asked. "Girl..." The dragonfly was stunned. "I''m not going to be an aunt," Jiang Su Su Su said with a strange smile. "If I''m so beautiful, I can naturally find a shelter and get the highest position. How can my appearance be wasted?" Dragonfly was disturbed by Jiang Su Su''s strange look. When she wanted to speak, she suddenly felt dizzy and fell on the little girl in the carriage: "girl. You. Did you take the medicine? " "I''m not going to be an aunt." Jiang Su Su said with a smile. When the dragonfly understood what she wanted to do, she tried her best to say, "no, it''s not good --" the voice stopped suddenly. She stared at Jiang Su Su in disbelief. The dagger in Jiang Su Su Su''s hand was bleeding. She pulled hard, and the Dragonfly fell down. Her mouth open, like a stranded fish, can only helplessly issued a rustling voice, but not a sentence. Jiang Su Su didn''t even look at her: "I miss sparing your life for the sake of serving me for so many years. I don''t appreciate it! What a dog in the way. " Then he began to take off Jiang Su Su''s clothes. The bodyguard outside heard the news from a distance and wanted to come and ask. Then he heard Jiang Su Su say in a high voice: "go, throw these out!" Then, in the dim moonlight, the dragonfly came out with a tray. When the guards saw this, they went back to the original place and joked and drank. They never looked at this side again. Jiang Su Su ran for a long time. She was relieved when she saw the entrance of the woods ahead. Disgusted, she took off her dress stained with dragonfly blood and threw it on the ground, holding the letter in her sleeve. Today, she woke up and did not know who had nailed a letter in the carriage. The envelope only said that it was yearning for her for a long time, not willing to see her sent to the temple, willing to be her shelter and arrange her under the wings. The letter paper has a faint taste of peach blossom ink. It should be written by a wealthy family. Looking at the handwriting, it is also romantic. Although Jiang Su Su didn''t know who this person was, he was supposed to be the son of a noble family. He was one of those who thought about her before. In the past, Jiang Su Su was just dismissive, but now even Jiang Quan is going to give up her. This person is like a straw. She firmly believes that she can grasp this person''s heart by her beauty, and naturally climb up step by step with her wrist in the future, which is better than being an aunt. This person also attached the Mongolian medicine, she just used this method. The man asked her to wait in the woods, but did not know when she would come. At the moment, the moon was dark and the wind was high. It was just a little gloomy. Jiang Su Su couldn''t help being afraid. When he was in a panic, he heard a sound of walking behind his back. Jiang Su Su was so happy that he turned around and said, "but do you want to save Su Su''s son?" The man''s steps stopped. At this moment, the moonlight came down, and Jiang Su Su''s body was stiff. Just because she could see clearly, the visitor was just a middle-aged man. There was a terrible scar from his forehead to the corner of his eye. When she saw her, the corner of his mouth hummed, and suddenly he burst out laughing. Xiaobaihua''s life of domestic violence has begun www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 167 As soon as Jiang Su Su saw it, he felt cold. He stepped back two steps and said, "who are you?" But the man said with a smile, "where''s the little lady? She''ll meet her lover in the wilderness in the middle of the night. But your little lover didn''t come to the appointment tonight. If you are sad for nothing, why don''t you come to comfort you? " Jiang Su Su was startled and realized that he was not the one who sent the letter. Looking at this man''s cloth clothes, he was vicious again, and his legs trembled. But he said, "what do you want? Do you know who I am? My father is a senior official in the capital. Now, before my bodyguard comes, go away quickly. " The man spat, but he didn''t move at all. He only said with a smile: "what I see in scar Li has never been flying, a senior official in the capital? Can a senior official in Beijing raise such a shameless young lady? You''re bluffing me. I don''t know. Little lady, even if you say you are princess laoshizi today, I will do the same for you! " When Jiang Su Su saw that the man did not get in so much oil and salt, he was so flustered that he turned his head and ran out, calling for help in a loud voice But she had been running for a long time to get rid of the guards in the wilderness. She was so far away that her voice only drifted away in the wilderness outside the woods. Then, a strong force behind her dragged her back, Jiang Su Su was suddenly dragged from behind, slapped in the face. This man is not Jiang Quan. Naturally, he won''t be pitiful. With a heavy slap, Jiang Su Su almost fainted, and the corner of his lip overflowed with blood. The man looked her up and down, and suddenly said with a smile, "I''m still strong and beautiful. Well, I''ve earned it today! I''ll take you back to the mountain, and I''ll be married tonight! " Then, regardless of Jiang Su Su''s weak struggle, he put her on his shoulder and went to the woods. After the man left with Jiang Su Su, a man appeared in the forest. Under the moonlight, his eyebrows were clear, and it was Yefeng. He whistled, knowing that what Jiang Ruan had told him was done. Today''s letter was only handed over by Jiang Ruan to Jiang Susu. As for the wilderness and woods, which are the only places for bandits to go back to their nest at night, Yefeng, as a royal guard, knows it, but he doesn''t know how a boudoir of Jiang Ruan knows it. However, he still had some admiration for Jiang Ruan''s foresight. Xu Shi and Jiang Su Su are both daughters of Jiang''s family. She is also familiar with Jiang Su Su''s temperament. She knows that once she sees the letter, she will run away and try not to be an aunt. Night Maple heart sigh, Jiang Ruan this method is also really insidious home. She gave Jiang Su Su a hope, and then Jiang Su Su watched with her own eyes that hope was shattered in front of her eyes, and the collapse could be imagined. Jiang Ruan didn''t ask people to take Jiang Su Su away directly. He just led him a little and made a series of coincidences. Even if Jiang Quan finally traced it, what he found out was that Jiang Su Su escaped from the carriage by himself. As for the end of Jiang Su Su, she was responsible for it. When Jiang Su Su thought about it in the future, her intestines were blue. What kind of family is that mountain bandit? He''s rude, and he can''t be compassionate. When Jiang Su Su entered the mountain bandit''s nest, he met a group of tigers and wolves. Those mountain bandits are always generous to women. Jiang Su Su is arrogant and will not serve the man tenderly, which angers the end of the man. Yefeng sighs for Jiang Su Su when she thinks about it. There are many ways to torture people in the world. It''s rare to completely destroy them in spirit. Jiang Su Su is determined to climb up a high family and live a noble life, but once he enters the mountain bandit''s nest, he will never come out easily. He lives a humble life day by day. Isn''t it more painful than beating her and killing her? Yefeng stands in the cold wind, and can''t help fighting a cold war. She thinks that the young lady in the future is really powerful, and her skill of killing people without blood is home. In the future, you must be careful not to provoke her. Not to mention that the young master is in charge of the young lady, the young lady alone can also kill all the people in Jinying palace. Stand for a while, night Maple just think of what general, quickly fly away. In a hidden cave a few miles away, the young woman was sitting there glaring at him. Seeing him coming back, he was relieved. The first question he asked was, "is it done?" Night Maple surprised to see a forsythia, originally thought Forsythia first sentence must be to scold him, don''t want to first concern or task. Night Maple hit a ring finger: "from is proper." At night, the wild wind was strong. Forsythia only wore a thin green dress, and sneezed involuntarily. Night Maple see, the heart is born a layer of shallow guilt. Say today is also his impulse, directly abducted Forsythia out, forsythia can''t go back to the house, and afraid of delay Jiang Ruan''s things, but can only give the letter to him, Yefeng in order to prove that he really has the ability to do such small things, Leng is ignoring Forsythia''s protest will also bring forsythia. Forsythia is still rubbing her nose, but she feels suddenly warm. Looking up, Yefeng takes off her robe and puts it on her. She says, "well, it''s all my fault today. It''s hurting you." Forsythia don''t cross a face to, small voice scolded a bad luck, but the face quietly red. Night Maple see, also some embarrassed, the atmosphere in the cave suddenly become a little strange. Night Maple light cough a way: "go, return to mansion." When they got back to King Jinying''s house, forsythia Fang came to the yard and saw the dewdrop coming up in a hurry. He looked her up and down and said, "where have you been? Why are you back now? "Angelica dahurica see the yard outside the night maple, if thoughtful and then look at forsythia, whispered: "first go back to the house to say it." When she got back to her room, forsythia told Jiang Ruan what happened today. At last, she said, "girl, it''s all my own business. Please punish me." "I don''t blame you." Jiang Ruan said: "it''s the same with Yefeng. It''s Xiaoshao''s people." Forsythia hesitated for a moment, and then said: "the night guard also wants to help the maidservant. Please don''t blame him. Today''s matter is good or bad..." "I don''t blame him." Jiang Ruan is a little funny: "since it''s done, it''s nothing. Let''s have a rest early." Dewdrop looked at Forsythia with a smile and said, "sister Forsythia is really interested in the night guard. How can she excuse the night guard both inside and outside? Can''t it be heartache? " "You dead hoof, you dare to talk nonsense in front of the girl. I won''t tear your mouth." Forsythia is not a meek, immediately and pungent way back: "I don''t know who day and day with that brocade two talk and laugh affinity of tight, today also see you embroider the PA son, that PA son but want to embroider to brocade two?" "You..." Dewdrop is shy and anxious. They are making a scene to beat her. They are making a lot of noise in the room. Maybe it''s going well today, and Jiang Ruan''s lips are overflowing with a smile. The night is like ink. Deep in the mountains and forests, there is a village. At the moment, there are still some voices in it, accompanied by some noisy noise and vulgar voice of swearing. A group of shirtless men squatted at the door and sat down, with some wine bottles scattered on the ground. In the smoke of wine, a man said: "I heard that today a scar Li brought a girl back? That girl is not bad? " All of them were middle-aged. They had some scars on their swords and swords. They looked fierce and evil. They were full of sweat and wine. Some prisoners were disgusted. "No, I don''t know what fortune I took. It looks like a big yellow girl. " Another humanitarian: "plain cheap him!" "What yellow flower girl," a big fat man wiped the sweat on his forehead, "I heard that she was a lover when she was bumped into by scar Li. I''ve decided with someone for my whole life. Where can I go? " He showed an obscene smile: "it''s just to let him have a taste first. When he''s had enough fun, we''ll have a share!" When others listen to it, they all show a tacit smile. This is a mountain bandit''s nest located in a deep mountain. All the people living in this village are like these mountain bandits. Not even the old people and children have ever had one. Of course, there are also some women who have been abducted from outside. These women have no status here. They can be transferred as an object and even serve many men at one time. Therefore, the life span of women here will not be too long - no one can stand such inhuman torture. The men here have to come down the mountain from time to time to bring some new women up, which is not surprising. However, such as today''s appearance and temperament are quite high-quality women are rare, people are envious of scar Li Yan, together also said some painless sour words. In a dilapidated house in the village, after the thought-provoking sound passed, "pa", someone lit the oil lamp in the house with a fire fold, and the optical fiber inside suddenly lit up. The dirty wooden bed was covered with a slightly smelly blanket, which was now covered with stains, and a woman was lying on her back. The woman''s eyes were wide open, and her beautiful face was covered with red marks and palmprint. It was obvious that she had been greatly abused. As for the whole body is not a good piece of meat, the traces of blue and purple look people tremble. At the moment, her body was put into an unbearable posture, but she didn''t move. She had been tossed without any strength. Scar Li sat up and looked at Jiang Su Su as he put on his clothes. When his eyes fell on Jiang Su Su Su''s white neck, he couldn''t help but look around and gave her a hard kiss. Jiang Su Su seemed to finally react. He didn''t turn his head and spat hard at scar Li. Scar Li was so angry that he slapped him in the face. This rough man was so powerful that he only hit Jiang Su Su on the head, and his sweating hair was all wet on his cheek. There was a salty smell on the lips. "Bitch, don''t toast or drink!" Scar Li stretched out his hand and pinched Jiang Su Su''s chin: "such a beautiful face, I still want to keep some more happy days!" "Wishful thinking." Jiang Su Su sneered. Even at this time, her attitude had never softened. She only wanted to peel scar Li''s skin and eat scar Li''s meat: "my father will not let you go if he finds me!" The hatred in Jiang Su Su''s eyes immediately angered scar Li. Without saying a word, he slapped him in the face: "still dreaming! There are fewer women here than you! I don''t think you''re sober, little lady. You gave me your body today. Even if your father, who is a senior official, finds you in the future, can he accommodate you? Rich people are most selfish, but I see it more. In the end, it''s just pretending not to know you. You dare to take Joe in front of me. It seems you don''t have a long memory! " After that, without looking at Jiang Su Su, he took the clothes on the table and went out.Jiang Su Su was lying on the bed alone, two lines of tears flowing down silently. She didn''t know why things were like this. The young man who came to save her didn''t appear, but she was taken back to the bandit''s nest by the mountain bandits. Just now that scene, as long as a recollection in the brain, Jiang Su Su could not help shivering. Scar Li is a devil. He''s very hard at work, and he''s taking over her body. Jiang Su Su painfully closed his eyes and grabbed his quilt. Now that he is alive, there is no hope to escape. It''s better to be an aunt in a temple to become such a person''s forbidden man. And scar Li just words also really stabbed her heart. It''s true that once such things happen to the daughter of a wealthy family, if she is taken away by mountain bandits, she will be destroyed all her life. Even if she finally takes someone back, most of them are given a pill. That woman can also extricate herself, and her family doesn''t have to be laughed at, which saves her reputation. If it''s her, if it''s her Jiang Su Su''s heart trembled. What would Jiang Quan do? He probably didn''t have the courage to recognize her. Turn around and leave as a stranger. If it had been a few years ago, Jiang Su Su would have believed that Jiang Quan would have been desperate to save her. But after Xia Yan''s affair and Jiang Quan''s letting her be her sister-in-law, Jiang Su Su felt estranged from Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan was so selfish that he only cared about the reputation of Jiang Fu. Would he really do anything for her? Thinking about these things in his head, he heard that the gate was kicked by someone before the pain was relieved. Jiang Su Su thought it was scar Li who came back, and his body trembled. Turn to see, but found that it is a few strange shirtless man, stride toward her, eyes flashing means unknown light. "You What do you want to do? " Jiang Su Su was startled and asked, shaking his lips. The man at the head said with a smile: "little lady, don''t be afraid. Brother scar said that you don''t know the rules. He specially asked some brothers to teach you the rules. Don''t be afraid. We are very gentle." "No. No... " Jiang Su Su wanted to escape, but he was already tossed by scar Li. He didn''t have any strength. Where there was any extra energy, he was immediately knocked down. There are marriage opportunities everywhere. For example, in a corner of the palace where the thirteen princes live, Xuan Pei stands with his hands down and looks coldly at the maids kneeling below. The eunuchs and maids in the palace around were all in the atmosphere, and they did not dare to make a sound. They hung their heads motionless. The palace maid kneeling on the ground was still pleading: "thirteen, your highness, I''m just confused for a while, and I don''t dare any more in the future. I beg your highness to spare my life, because I''ve been waiting on your Highness for so many years." The two palace maids were standing on both sides with lanterns. The night was heavy. The face of the young child standing in the middle was darkened by the light of the lanterns. It was more and more like a child who scattered money in the words. But under the beautiful and sweet appearance, there was no wave in a pair of eyes. The maid in waiting looked up at the child. She was immediately surprised by the cold and secluded eyes. She felt like a devil climbing out of hell and asking for the life of the murderer. Xuan Pei looked at her slowly: "is that right? Because of this, the servant who has served me for many years has such filthy heart. If we forgive you, we will not be able to make rules in the future. My father is the most disciplined man The maid in waiting looked at xuanpei in disbelief. She didn''t know whether xuanpei was really stupid or pretended to be stupid. If it is stupid, how can she pull out her Eyeliner? If she plays dumb, Xuan knows she is the one over there. How dare she punish her? Having been with the incompetent Prince for so many years, she always thought that she could hold the prince firmly in her hand, and she often beat and scolded her as a child. Do not want to do not know from when, the child seems to have changed a person, no longer cowardly hide behind people, but frightening. It seems that on that day, Chiang Ruan relieved xuanpei in front of Princess Heyi, and xuanpei began to change slowly. The palace maid didn''t understand why such a small matter could change Xuan Pei. In other words, Xuan Pei had been pretending before. That was just a introduction. Now he has decided to tear off his mask and show his true face? She raised her head and looked at xuanpei seriously again. However, she was surprised to find that she could not connect the young man in front of her with the child in her memory. The child in front of him has not yet grown up, but he has a faint imperial spirit. His eyes are as transparent as glass, but he can''t see the bottom. Always with a bright smile on his face, even if he was reprimanded. Joy and anger are not in the form of color. Has the child been so quiet? Xuanpei noticed her eyes and said with a smile: "so, it''s not that the temple won''t forgive you, it''s really powerless." After that, he lightly turned around, and the auspicious beast embroidered on the corner of the robe opened its teeth and clawed, and crossed a dark awn at night. His voice came with the wind in the moonlight, with childish cruelty. "Dead with a stick." The palace maid suddenly understood and screamed, "Your Highness, don''t - No." then, her mouth was blocked and she struggled to sob. Several stout women drove the palace maid away. All of them were silent. They watched the young royal highness turn around and sit back on the chair at the door. The eunuchs and maids in this courtyard are mixed up. Few of them have ever bullied Xuan Pei. Now they are looking at the eyes, nose and heart, and dare not say a word more. Seeing xuanpei''s methods, they were afraid of other thoughts.The maid of honor was originally the Xuan maid''s maid of honor, who had been a slave to bully for so many years. But behind her, there was a backstage. This was also a line of eye. It was only that she had been unknown to the public of the thirteen princes, and felt that there was no future, so she acted recklessly. Xuanpei''s behavior has been a little unusual since he testified for Jiang Ruan last time. The maid in waiting is still so arrogant that she doesn''t want xuanpei to be the first one to cut her off and kill her. It''s not that people didn''t think about it before. They just thought that the 13th prince was a child under ten years old. He was careful and tender hearted. What''s more, although the maid of honor bullied the master, she was able to talk and coax xuanpei into being happy. It''s hard to avoid that she would not read it and invite him. Who knew that the little master was so decisive that he made a decision without thinking at all. For a moment, the people in the courtyard could not help thinking about it again. Some were happy about it, and some were surprised and yelled in their heart. Xuan Pei glanced at the people in the courtyard with a smile. They were shocked by his aggressive manner. They didn''t know why. Xuanpei slowly said: "one of the staff is dead. You can take the place of the maid of honor." He pointed to a maid in waiting in the crowd, who had just been assigned to xuanpei courtyard two days ago. She was also a third-class maid. Suddenly, she was promoted to first-class maid. Yingying immediately bowed down and said, "thank you for your grace, maid Mingyue." The second-class maids in the courtyard were looking at the gap to express themselves, but they were run away by a new comer. They were unhappy and wanted to run for a few words. But he couldn''t help fighting a cold war against the smiling expression of Shang xuanpei. Thinking that this little master can''t be fooled at will in the past, he can only restrain his anger and resist himself. Xuanpei waved his hand and looked at Mingyue: "you come in with this hall, and the others step down." The next people look at each other, a few maids stare at the moon before they leave. Xuanpei turned and went into the room. He sat down at the desk in the room. Mingyue closed the door and went in. He stood in front of xuanpei. Xuanpei looked up at Mingyue and said, "King Jinying sent you here?" The moon nods. Xuan Pei frowned: "mind your own business." He frowned a little childish at his age, more like a child with a bad temper. Mingyue thought, "it''s Princess Hong''an who says that his highness is short of someone who knows Kung Fu, so the master sent his maidservant." "It''s her!" Xuan Pei sat up straight. He was small now. When he was sitting in a big chair, he was funny. But he was in such a good mood that he said, "I knew that King Jinying could not be so kind-hearted. She''s kind-hearted and thoughtful. " Xiao Shao is a meddler, and Jiang Ruan is kind and considerate. The difference is too big. Mingyue forced herself to smile and said, "your highness and the princess are predestined to each other. Their manners are 70% similar." On hearing this, Xuan Pei was even more happy. He narrowed his eyes, laughed and said, "that''s natural. She''s me..." Words suddenly pause, he then said: "I help the witness." Xiaobaihua is a city college student who has been abducted and sold to a mountain village to be his daughter-in-law! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 168 Jiang Su Su''s disappearance for no reason has been revealed. The more than ten bodyguards who went with them didn''t realize that it was wrong until dawn broke in the east the next day. After a few calls, no one answered. Only then did they find that there was only one dead servant girl in the carriage, and where was the lady. When the more than a dozen bodyguards went back to the minister''s house in panic and reported the matter to Jiang Quan, Jiang Quan almost fainted. However, the bodyguard made it clear that Jiang Su Su Su had killed her and pretended to be her. He could not blame others. The people sent by Jiang Quan also confirmed that this was the case. Jiang Quan could not say anything except scolding the evil girl. It''s just that the lady of tangtangyifu escapes and her whereabouts are unknown. It''s not clear what to say. The dozen bodyguards can''t stay alive. Jiang Quan orders that these people be dealt with. Xu is these bodyguards know their grievances and don''t know what means they used to poke this matter out before they die. For a moment, the whole capital knows that Jiang Quan has lost his second lady. Since these days, the whole Shangshu mansion has been on the cusp of the storm, walking in the streets and alleys. What people talk about everywhere has something to do with the Jiang family. Jiang Quan is so mad that it''s hard for people to stop him. But Jiang Ruan is taken back to Jinying Palace by Xiao Shao. Otherwise, he will go to the palace to accompany empress Yide. In a word, it''s a drastic move, and Jiang Quan has nothing to do. In this way, Jiang Quan will double the anger in the heart of the vent in the small production of Hongying body. Hongying was already weak. Jiang Quan punched and kicked her every day, intending to torture her to death. Knowing that she had no way to live, Hongying swallowed gold and died one night. An aunt lost her favor again and died. Without even having a coffin prepared for her, Jiang Quan let her mother-in-law roll a broken mat and throw it to the mass grave. A generation of beautiful women died, but I can''t say whether it was a sigh or something. So there was no concubine in such a big Chiang''s mansion, except for his aunt, who lived in a simple place. Jiang Quan was hit hard by this, and often stood in the courtyard in a trance. In the past, Yingyan''s soft voice was in sharp contrast to the present coldness and desolation, which made it more and more obvious that the whole Jiang mansion had gradually collapsed. The people who sent to search for Jiang Su Su were slow to find them. What worried Jiang Chao more than Jiang Quan was Jiang Chao. Jiang Chao and Jiang Su Su were brothers and sisters of the same mother. Jiang Su Su had been loved since childhood. Naturally, Jiang Chao also loved her. Although he was angry that Jiang Su Su was so impulsive, he still asked Xuanli for help and sent a group of people to search for Jiang Su Su''s whereabouts. Now he is also useful to Xuanli. Xuanli has been able to be a noble corporal since he came here, and he has made every effort to help him. Xuanli''s people are really more useful than the servants of Jiang''s house. At least the people sent by Jiang Quan have not heard about their whereabouts. Xuanli''s men have already told Jiang Chao: "huigongzi, you have found the whereabouts of Miss Jiang er." At that time, Jiang Chao was practicing calligraphy in his study. No matter how calm he was, his handwriting was crooked. Smell speech immediately hand a shake, a big drop of ink fell on the white rice paper, dense out of the big flower of ink. He looked up and said eagerly, "where is she?" "This..." The bodyguard was in a bit of a dilemma. He didn''t look at him and spoke. A bad feeling suddenly rose in Jiang Chao''s heart. He couldn''t care about anything else. He grabbed his collar and yelled, "what''s going on?" "Return to childe." The bodyguard was startled by Jiang Chao''s appearance and did not dare to hide it any more. He said: "the spy came to report that the second young lady was captured by bandits. Now. It''s been days. " "Pa" sound, Jiang Chao can no longer hold the pen in his hand, good white jade wolf hair fell on the ground, issued a clear sound, in the quiet room is particularly clear. The bodyguard felt that the atmosphere around him was frightful and motionless. He bowed his head and did not dare to look at Jiang Chao''s expression. The terrible silence did not know how long it took to hear Jiang Chao''s gnashing voice: "prepare the horse." "Young master?" The bodyguard was stunned and couldn''t help looking at Jiang Chao. Seeing that pair of eyes which were slightly gloomy, there was deep hatred and madness in them at the moment, which almost made people have no doubt that he would destroy everything in the next moment. That kind of terrible eyes, but the expression is very calm, calm to a twisted point. He said, "come on, follow me to save miss two." The sunlight in the mountains seems to be covered by the dense shade of trees, only a few stars shine down. The dilapidated village is like an abandoned bead embedded in the mountain. It has been worn and blackened, but it still stubbornly stays in place. The door creaked open. A woman came out of it. The woman was wearing a man''s coarse linen garment, whose legs were too long to be pulled in half, revealing a pair of white legs. However, the white legs were covered with spots of blue and purple. It''s the same with arms and neck - the clothes are too big to fit even if they are smaller. Her appearance is very beautiful. She looks a bit like a fairy, but she looks old because of too much haggard. Her eyes are also dark blue, which greatly reduces her beauty. She has fair skin and slim figure. If she was dressed in beautiful clothes and dressed up a little, she would be gorgeous. Unfortunately, now this woman is just a haggard looking peasant woman. With a basket in her hand, she walked out of the door, squatted down by a stream not far from the village, took out clothes full of wine smell from the basket, and began to wash them slowly. She washed very slowly. Her green and white hands were worn by such activities. Her hands were red and swollen because they were deep into the cold river. It was obvious that she was not used to doing these things before. Even so, she was still rubbing them slowly. This woman is no other than Jiang Su Su.Around her, there are many women like her who wash their clothes by the river. All of them are in ragged clothes. Some of them are beautiful and some of them are mediocre. But everyone''s expression is the same, showing a kind of numbness like ashes. They seem to have been used to this kind of life. The sun rose from the East without any warmth. Jiang Su Su washed her eyes very carefully. Her eyes were numb and submissive without the scorn and irony of the first few days. These days, she lived in hell. The women in this village are all men''s accessories and tools to vent their anger. On weekdays, they have to do laundry, cook and mend their clothes. If there is anything wrong with it, it''s kicking and punching. Mountain bandits will never show mercy on jade. No matter whether you are a lady or a girl, if you don''t satisfy them, they will fight each other. Every woman here has been beaten. This is not the most painful thing. The most painful thing is that once it''s night, you have to serve several men at the same time, which is worse than the woman in the brothel. If the brothel women get a red card, they will probably carry some. But here, women have no dignity. In the evening, these wild animals only vent their animal language. Women''s life here is not long, and no one can accept such a long time of tossing. It''s not that I didn''t want to run away, but people here have their own way of dealing with women who run away. They catch them and beat them, then they lock them up and repeat their nightmares at night. In a few days, however, there was no good place for Jiang Su Su. In this group of women, she looks the best, the skin is the most delicate, and is new, almost every man is full of interest in her. Therefore, her life is particularly painful. In such a place, those so-called flattery skills are useless. Flattery skills are very useful for dealing with the princes and grandsons. But in this barren mountain, besides arousing more men''s animal desire, it is useless. Just because these bandits and bandits didn''t know how to pity and cherish jade at all, there was only tyranny and plunder in their bones. Therefore, in a short time, Chiang Su Su was almost a new man. After washing her clothes, she had to go back to the house to pick up firewood and make a fire to cook. She didn''t want to be in the middle of the walk, so she heard a lot of hoofs coming. The leader stopped the horse in front of her, turned over and called, "sister!" Jiang Su Su looked up a little sluggishly. It seemed that he had been looking for a long time before he could see the people in front of him clearly. He was stunned and called out: "brother." Jiang Chao looked at Jiang Su Su in disbelief. Jiang Su Su had always been spotless and beautiful in his heart. He never had a trace of dust on his body. Who is this dirty, gaunt, smelly woman now? Is it still his sister in the capital? Jiang Su Su looked at Jiang Chao and blinked. Suddenly his eyes turned red and two lines of tears rolled down. He could not think of anything else. He hugged Jiang Chao tightly and cried, "brother, why are you here now?" Jiang Chao''s nose was immediately filled with a disgusting odor when he was so hugged by Jiang Su Su. The two brothers and sisters had always lived a good life in Chiang''s mansion. They looked down on the poor from the bottom of their hearts and thought they were superior. When Jiang Chao saw that Jiang Su Su was so embarrassed, he was surprised. With such a hug, he subconsciously pushed Jiang Su Su away, but he was stunned. Looking at the red mark on Jiang Su Su''s neck, his eyes were straight. The spy who came back, Jiang Su Su was taken captive to the mountain bandit''s nest for several days. He must not be perfect anymore. But it''s different to think about it in your heart and see it with your own eyes. Seeing the marks on Jiang Su Su''s body, the last fluke in Jiang Chao''s heart also disappeared. There was a blank in his mind, some of which could not be heard. Jiang Su Su didn''t realize it. When she saw Jiang Chao, she gradually came out from the numbness and sadness of the past few days. She had endless hatred in her heart, and her voice became sharp and twisted: "brother, you want to avenge me and kill all the bandits here! These mountain bandits are not human. They beat me. Brother, kill them, kill them all Jiang Su Su cried and laughed, her voice was on the verge of collapse, but the resentment in her words was not reduced at all. Jiang Chao is her elder brother. He must avenge her. All these dirty smelly men will turn into corpses. As soon as he thought of this, Jiang Su Su''s heart was full of joy. She said, "and those women, who have seen me, can''t keep any of them!" She just wanted to vent the pain in her heart these days, but she didn''t pay attention to Jiang Chao''s expression. Jiang Chao stares at the red mark on Jiang Su Su''s neck, his eyes are straight, and his eyes are in a trance. Jiang Su Su has now become like this. Even if he takes him back, he will not be innocent. Originally, this beautiful girl was very likely to pave the way for his official career, the prosperity of the Chiang family, and even become the mother of the country in the prime of life. But now the abacus is destroyed, Jiang Su Su''s reputation is no longer, and her innocence is no longer there. It''s impossible for her to get married by virtue of her beauty. If today''s story is spread, Jiang Su Su will become the plaything of mountain bandits, and her daughter''s innocence will be occupied by a group of Wuhe people. It will make Jiang''s family unable to lift up. In that case, Jiang Su Su''s existence is a Martian who doesn''t know when it will cause a fire, and its retention is a hidden danger. What''s more, Jiang Chao''s eyes are dark. Now that he is under Xuanli''s command, Xuanli has gradually improved. Xuanli also begins to use him. He was instructed by his colleagues because of Xia Yan''s affair. If there is another Jiang Su Su Su, it will be very difficult for him to make progress in his official career in the future. Those colleagues who fight openly and secretly with him will not miss this opportunity. No, maybe they''re on the move now. The news of Jiang Su Su''s loss has spread in the capital. If he can find Jiang Su Su, others will.He can''t let Jiang Su Su Su''s existence become his stumbling block. Jiang Chao''s eyes changed a few times, and it seemed that he finally made a decision. He looked at Jiang Su Su, who was in his arms. He reached out and stroked her dirty hair. He gently comforted her and said, "OK, I''ll kill them for you. My second brother will take revenge on you. None of these women, as well as the bandits, can escape. I''ll let them all go to see the king of hell. " Jiang Susu held on to Jiang Chao''s clothes and said, "there''s that bitch Jiang Ruan. If she hadn''t calculated on me, how could I be here? Brother, I''ve come to this stage because of that bitch. And Xiao Shao, the two of them have jointly harmed me. If they don''t revenge me, I swear not to be a human being! " "OK," Jiang Chao''s voice gently dripped water. He patted Jiang Su Su Su''s shoulder lovingly, as if he were really a kind elder brother. He comforted: "Jiang Ruan, Jiang Chao, general''s house and King Jinying''s house will not let go of any of them. My brother will take revenge for you. If these people hurt you, I want them to be buried with you! " Jiang Su Su nestled in Jiang Chao''s arms, feeling very happy, but also ignored Jiang Chao''s strange eyes. She asked, "brother, when shall we go back to the government?" "Back home?" Jiang Chao apologized and said, "sister, you can''t go back to the government." "What?" Before Jiang Su Su understood it, she felt cold in her chest. She looked down and saw that her chest had pierced into the tip of a snow-white sword. The hilt of the sword at the other end was in Jiang Chao''s hand. When Jiang Chao drew the sword back, Jiang Su Su spat out a mouthful of blood and fell down. All this happened so fast that she couldn''t even ask why. She just looked at Jiang Chao with wide eyes and unwilling. Jiang Su Su didn''t expect to die. She tried every means to save the soldiers, but finally died in her own brother''s hands. "I''m sorry, Su Su," said Jiang Chao, not daring to look at Jiang Su Su''s corpse. "I can''t let you get in my way. Besides, it''s also an early relief for you. " He sighed: "don''t be afraid, mother will come down with you soon, you won''t feel lonely. As for the things I promised you and the revenge I took for you, I won''t leave any behind. " At night, in Chuang Tzu, hundreds of miles away from the capital, a figure sits quietly in a dilapidated and dark house. The oil lamp has been dried up for a long time. It is obvious that no one has come here to add oil to the oil lamp for a long time. There was a smell of dying rot in the room. The woman is already very old, the white hair on her temples is stuck together by oil and dirt, and is in a mess behind her head. It seems that he has not been clean for a long time. His whole body seems to be covered with armor. Only his big eyes can vaguely see his former glory, but it''s just the past. Xia Yan didn''t know how long he had been here. Day after day, no one talked to her. He lived in this place every day. There were no fresh fruits and vegetables, only rancid food, dirty quilts and damp roofs. She is sometimes insane and sometimes sober. Most of her time is insane, but now she is sober. Today she didn''t know why, but she felt a little uneasy. A kind of inexplicable depression blocked in my heart, as if something big happened. In vain, she stretched out her hands covered with black mud nails and scratched on the ground. But I heard the door creak and open. Xia Yan suddenly raised his head, then looked at a man with a fire fold in his hand, and gently closed the door. She hadn''t seen the light for a long time. For a moment, she was dazzled by the light and couldn''t see the appearance of her predecessors. The man put the origami aside and sat down. The light slowly settled, and Xia Yan began to adapt to the temporary light. Only heard a familiar voice: "mother." When Xia Yan was shocked, his eyes burst into tears. She lived in this place day after day, being bullied and beaten, as if forgotten by everyone. I didn''t think my son would appear in front of her now. She opened her mouth, but her voice was dry because she hadn''t spoken for a long time. When Jiang Chao saw Xia Yan''s appearance, he seemed to be extremely shocked. Then, a trace of anger appeared in his eyes: "they should treat you like this!" Before Xia Yan came to Jiang Chao, Chen Fang said that the noble man would kill her sooner or later, but he was disgusted with Jiang Chao. Looking at Jiang Chao like this now, he is not angry at all. She thought, after all, Jiang Chao is her son, and she is still facing her. It''s all the Diao Nu who make their own decisions. After all, Jiang Chao recognized his mother. But Xia Yan didn''t think about it. If he really cared about his mother, how could he have never asked for such a long time. No matter how busy Jiang Chao was on weekdays, it would be good to send a boy over to have a look at the situation. Just as Jiang Ruan was sent to Chuang Tzu to be bullied at the beginning, it was Jiang Chao''s attitude towards Xia Yan that made these people dare to behave like this. Jiang Chao is not so stupid, naturally know that Xia Yan was sent to Chuang Tzu is likely to be bullied, but he was indifferent, this person''s inner selfishness has reached the extreme. Although Xia Yan is vicious, she is a competent mother. All she does is to pave the way for Jiang Chao''s two brothers and sisters. Unfortunately, the two brothers and sisters look after themselves the same way and don''t care about their mother. Jiang Chao took a look at Xia Yan and suddenly said, "mother, my sister is dead." Xia Yan a Leng, shocked looking at Jiang Chao.However, Jiang Chao continued: "she was intrigued by others and angered her father. Her father wanted to send her to An''an Li to be her aunt. She refused. She escaped at night and was caught in a mountain bandit''s den. She was insulted and killed herself." He said calm word by word, but every word poked a knife in Xia Yan''s heart. Xia Yan uttered a scream from his throat, but he couldn''t speak any more. Only two lines of tears kept falling down. "Why do you Didn''t protect her? " She asked with difficulty. "I protect her?" Jiang Chao sneered: "how can I protect her? As the mother of my sister and I, shouldn''t my mother protect us? Do you know how my sister fell into someone else''s trap? My sister wants to seduce Jinying Wang zigan as a concubine! Does mother know why her sister''s daughter is willing to be a concubine? Because mother''s reputation is bad, so far no one has proposed to his sister! Jiang Ruan, the bitch, has been married by the Empress Dowager to King Jinying. But the younger sister has to be ignored because of the corruption of her mother''s virtue. Her mother is responsible for her death now! " Xia Yan is shocked all over and looks at Jiang Chao in disbelief. At the beginning, she was calculated. Even if others suspected her virtue, Jiang Chao was her own son. How could he say such a thing! But she didn''t know that Jiang Chao couldn''t lift his head in front of his colleagues because of his reputation being destroyed, which always became the handle for others to slander him. Today, Jiang Chao accused Jiang Su Su of dying because of her. In fact, he was venting his resentment! He complained about Xia Yan! "No It''s not me. " Xia Yandao. Jiang Chao shook his head: "it doesn''t matter, mother, but I promised my sister that I would avenge her. Now the king of Jin Ying and Jiang Ruan are higher than me. Only when I am successful in my official career can I avenge my sister." He looked at Xia Yan, his eyes flashed a strange light: "and mother, as long as you are in one day, I will have a reason to be criticized, and I will never be able to get an honest promotion." Xia Yan had a long time to understand the meaning of Jiang Chao''s words. She looked at her son as if she didn''t know him: "you...". You want me to die? " "Since my mother loves my brother and sister so much, I also want to fulfill my sister''s long cherished wish. Now I really can''t think of any other way." Jiang Chao''s voice was low, but he didn''t feel guilty: "my mother is a smart man. I don''t want that bitch Jiang Ruan to climb on my son." "Son of a bitch..." Xia Yan gasped: "roll!" Jiang Chao shook his head: "my son came here this time just because blood is thicker than water. I want to make my mother more comfortable. My mother is so ungrateful and my son has to give up. It''s just Some things, the process is not important, the result is important, isn''t it? " "Are you going to kill me?" Xia Yan stares big eyes. "No, I''m sure my mother will understand, won''t she?" He slowly smile, showing white teeth, but no longer before the clear attitude, like crazy wild animals under the lights. He said: "the beams in this room are high enough. Mother, she will exchange her life for a reputation of innocence. Does mother know how to be the most cost-effective?" He walked out of the door. As a digression, Xiao Baihua''s death makes her mother die Jiang Chao also began to die. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 169 It''s getting colder and colder. It rained all night, and the air was fresh the next day. Angelica pushed open the window, the branches in front of the window still have the rain beads left by yesterday''s night rain, crystal clear, hit xuan''er, fall to the bottom of the soil. The house was filled with the fragrance of the soil after the rain. Jiang Ruan combed and ate early. When he let go to the window, the dew hurried into the room, put the Rose Crisp tea on the table, blinked and looked at Jiang Ruan. Suddenly, he whispered, "girl, the eldest lady is gone." Jiang Ruan let out a "grace" and sat down on the chair by the window. The Rose Crisp brought back by the dew looks very delicious. It emits a little pink. In the morning sun, it looks more and more moist and lovely. She slowly twist up a piece, white fingertips with dim sum, then show a little unique charming. Dewdrop continued: "the second lady is gone, and the fifth aunt is gone." Three people died in succession, but Jiang Ruan''s expression did not change at all, as if he had expected the end. It seems that the eyes also flash a trace of boredom, but this look is too short, no one noticed. "The spies under the Lord saw it with their own eyes," Lu Zhu said anxiously. "It was the second young master who took the men to find the second young lady, but somehow killed the second young lady. After returning to the house, she told the Lord that the second young lady had been taken away by mountain bandits and killed herself. As for the fifth aunt, she died by herself. " Dewdrop thought: "the eldest lady is a little strange. It is said that the second young master went to visit his wife in Chuang Tzu last night. In the middle of the night, he was found that a white silk had committed suicide. But for the time being, the master won''t let us know. I don''t know why Jiang Ruan said faintly: "it''s not surprising that there are three people dead when they come to the mansion. The red tassel is nothing but an aunt. The sudden death of Jiang Fu''s second daughter and his wife will inevitably lead to speculation. Now Jiang Fu has been rumored in Beijing. My father is so cautious that he will not add fuel to the fire at this time. " Dew suddenly realized: "so it is. But why did the eldest lady commit suicide? And the second young master, in order to get rid of the second young lady, killed her. It''s too much. " There was a trace of irony in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, and his tone was chilling: "he didn''t do it to let Jiang Su Su get rid of him as soon as possible. He just didn''t want Jiang Su Su to become a stumbling block in his official career. If Jiang Su Su lives for a day, he may become the evidence that he is criticized by others in the future. My second brother wants to climb up, and of course he will destroy the evidence himself. " The dew took a cool breath. She didn''t expect so much. Because no matter how Jiang Chao and his sister treat Jiang Ruan, they always stand on the United Front, and their feelings are not fake. Who knows, it is really terrible that Jiang Chao can abandon his sister for his own selfish desire. Although dewdrop was born in the market and had a wider knowledge than Angelica dahurica and forsythia, she was originally kind-hearted. She couldn''t think of these dark things. She always held the view that human nature was originally good. Jiang Ruan is different. To a certain extent, she is extremely suspicious of human nature. She firmly believes that human nature is evil. Things that are hard to be considered by others come to her naturally. She continued: "as for the death of my wife, it was only provoked by my second brother. The second elder brother is also broken now, he is so regardless of the back road, obviously want to let go. I''m afraid it''s going to be a big deal soon. " Lu Zhu was shocked when she heard Jiang Ruan''s words and said, "are they going to deal with the girl?" "I''m afraid they don''t move." Jiang Ruan smile, but the smile in the eyes of dew is a little chilly, she said: "I also want to see, this one, who is the winner." Dewdrop didn''t speak. A moment later, she suddenly thought of something and said, "girl, listen to Jin Er. In ten days, Lord Xiao will go to war." Jiang Ruan slightly meal, eyes down, ten days, so fast? Xiao Shao is reading a book in his study. The military situation from the frontier is full of crises. Just looking at it makes people feel the tension of the situation. Jiang Xinzhi''s whereabouts are unknown, Guan Lianghan is injured again, and the morale of the army is low. For some reason, piantianjin''s team has changed its tactics many times, and hit unexpectedly. If it goes on like this, all the remaining troops will be destroyed. On his left hand side is a map of marching array. Even if he is thousands of miles away, he has to control the whole situation. All the people in the world know the king of Jinying as a young hero. He is in charge of 300000 royal guards, but no one has ever seen his wisdom in strategizing. It will take more than a month to come and go from the capital to the border. Now we can only write down the defense methods for the time being, send them to the border, hold on for the time being, and kill the enemy when he comes to the battlefield. There was no sound in the room, and all the royal guards retreated. He had not closed his eyes all night and studied the enemy''s movements carefully. Up to now, he had nothing to eat. The door was suddenly pushed open. Xiao Shao frowned. He smelled the aroma of food at the tip of his nose, but he was stunned when he saw the visitor. Jiang Ruan came by himself with snacks and porridge. These days, although she lives in Jinying palace, they abide by the etiquette and never do anything beyond it. What''s more, Xiao Shaoping never sees the end of the day. He runs outside in the daytime. When he comes back at night, he also studies military tactics. They seldom meet each other. Jiang Ruan was even more cold-blooded. He lived a comfortable life in King Jinying''s mansion, but he didn''t want to go out of the courtyard.Don''t want to now Jiang Ruan personally came, Xiao Shaowei Zheng between, Jiang Ruan has come to him, dim sum and porridge down, said: "the kitchen made sweet scented osmanthus cake and chicken porridge, not too sweet, I tasted, taste very good." She did all this very naturally, as if she had done it thousands of times. Xiao Shao took a look at her and did not move. "You didn''t eat all day." Jiang Ruan said, "do you want to starve to death in your own house?" Jiang ruanping always treats people gently, and always maintains a smile on her face, which makes her facial features vivid and bright. However, when you look at it carefully, the smile did not reach the bottom of your eyes, as if it was just an excellent mask, which made you feel faint alienation. But her emotional leakage is very rare, except for close people, even in the face of Jiang Xin, she is mostly comforting expression, never had any special unhappy expression. In her heart, she is a person with distinct love and hate, but both love and hate are hidden under the expression of smile. This makes her smile a little intriguing. The same smile means different things. For example, at the moment, she is clearly smiling, but the anger and unhappiness in her eyes are finally seen by someone. Xiao Shao "Oh", silently took the spoon in Jiang Ruan''s hand, slowly scooped a mouthful of porridge and tasted it. On weekdays, he didn''t think he had any special food, but today, for some reason, he felt very delicious. Xiao Shao was in a good mood and soon finished his porridge. That is to say, we have eaten up all the cakes that we don''t usually eat. Jiang Ruan was very satisfied with Xiao Shao''s knowledge and interest. He sat down opposite him and said, "I heard you are going to fight soon?" She asked so stiffly, but Xiao Shao didn''t feel anything wrong, and replied, "well." "You. Be careful. " Jiang Ruan thought about it, but he still asked. After all, she will marry the man in front of her. No matter how he is, it seems that Xiao Shao has been helping her unconditionally. This life she no longer easily believe people, Xiao Shao is an exception. She paused and said, "I will guard Jinying palace for you." Xiao Shao was shocked by her words again and couldn''t help looking up at her. Xiao Shao knew what kind of person Jiang Ruan was. When he met her for the first time, Xiao Shao could see clearly that the girl was calm, resolute, ruthless and full of hostility. She seemed to have many secrets and sealed her heart stubbornly in a corner. It seems like a heartless person, but in fact it is not. She risked her life for Jiang Xinzhi and alienated herself in order to save the Zhao family. Even Xuan Pei, who was only once in the palace, would help. In fact, she is a very short guard, but she can protect too few people. What she said today is actually a promise. This is a promise to him. She is saying that Jinying palace will become a part of her responsibility from now on. I will guard it for you The girl in front of her has bright eyes and teeth. She was born with picturesque eyes, which is different from Jiang Su Su''s pure beauty. Her facial features are not beautiful all her life. Now she has gradually shed her childishness, showing a certain degree of peerless elegance. That pair of Yingrun water eyes like mountain streams and clear springs, at the end of the eye, if there is a hook, it will become an excellent beautiful color. And shallow smile up, it seems that the sky''s sunset are reflected in her eyes. Xiao Shao admitted that he had seen countless beauties in his life. At this moment, he could not help but admit that the girl in front of him could really bear the four words of "evil girl". If she wants to be here, she will seduce her and meet the emperor who loves beauty. I''m afraid that she will overturn the country. "You don''t have to do this." Xiao Shao looked at her and said, "Jinying palace will protect you. If you can''t, you don''t have to worry about it." Jiang Ruan is a protector of his short comings, and Xiao Shao is even more. At the beginning, there was no leader of 300000 royal guards. Xiao Shao was still young, so the emperor did not dare to hand over the power to him easily. The royal guards have become a hot potato. At that time, everyone said that such an elite man was only loyal to King Jinying''s residence. It was too difficult to accept them. People speculated that the emperor regretted dismissing them most. With all these rumors, the life of the royal guards has become extremely difficult. Once upon a time, the Army soldiers who were oppressed by them fell into the well one after another. At that time, Xiao Shao stood up and kept the royal guards on the condition that he went deep into southern Xinjiang and planned to kill the leader of Southern Xinjiang. He can overturn a palace for a small dark guard in the royal guards, and he can also fight for the death of one of his subordinates. Xiao Shao''s short guard is well known. Therefore, the royal guards respect him, love him and are willing to go through fire and water for him. With Xiao Shao''s temperament, now Jiang Ruan is his future wife. He naturally puts Jiang Ruan under his protection. He didn''t want Jiang Ruan to be hurt for some empty things. He was very surprised that she could make this promise. "No, Xiao Shao." But Jiang Ruan refused: "this is not a dispensable palace. It''s Jinying palace. It''s where your father and mother live. It''s the credit and pride of the old king Jinying and the dignity of the Xiao family. Even if the dynasty falls, it can''t be trampled on. " She said softly, "I won''t let it be trampled on." As soon as Xiao Shao was shocked, he felt a complex emotion which was difficult to explain. King Jinying''s mansion. When people talk about King Jinying''s mansion, King Jinying will only think about the rebellion of the old king Jinying. If a bad person does a thousand bad things, he will be a good person only if he does one good thing. If a good person does a thousand good things and one bad thing, all the good things in the past will be wiped out. For so many years, he guarded the Xiao family and the royal guards. The world was afraid of his power, but did not respect him. People are always forgetful. They forget who took the royal guards who were called thieves to fight with foreigners and maintain the balance of the dynasty in the past years. The great contributions made by our ancestors are becoming more and more prosperous in the flowers, but the people who are in charge of the battle are gradually disappearing.And she said that the credit and pride of the old king Jinying was the dignity of the Xiao family. Even if this dynasty falls, it cannot be trampled on. At this moment, the shock in his heart was beyond words, and his action was faster than reason. He took Jiang Ruan''s hand and pulled her into his arms. Jiang Ruan is slightly stunned. She has been held by Xiao Shao in her arms. She lies on Xiao Shao''s chest, feeling that Xiao Shao''s chin is resting on her head. The young man''s voice was a little deep, with a slight sigh, and said, "thank you." Jiang Ruan''s heart moved, thought about it, hesitated for a moment, and held out her hand to his waist. She said, "don''t thank me. Since I will marry here, this is my responsibility." Xiao Shao slowly released his hand. Jiang Ruan broke away from him. Before he got up, he was pinched by Xiao Shao. She is a Leng, lift an eye to look toward Xiao Shao. But found that the other side is also staring at her. This young man is beautiful and has a rare courage. However, there is always a faint sense of indifference, which gives people a sense of alienation. However, when the eyebrows and eyes soften down, the whole person takes a third of the warm and gorgeous, his eyelashes are long and straight, and when they fall down, they draw a beautiful arc. And the most moving is a pair of black eyes, if you sprinkle the broken diamond star sky, the dark night suddenly forced out endless bright, almost to shake people''s eyes. At this moment, holding Jiang Ruan''s chin, he leaned forward slightly and raised his thin lips slightly. Suddenly, there was endless romance. He felt that this cold day in late autumn suddenly had a compelling spring. The young man with picturesque features is peerless, but he leans slowly in a firm and irresistible posture. Jiang Ruan was a little stunned. He felt a little stiff and wanted to avoid it. When he looked at the black star eyes, he didn''t move. This young man seems to be indifferent, but in fact he is affectionate. The face is cold, but the heart is hot. He is strong, so he lives his life without fear. She was too far away from him in her previous life and so close in this life. He does not put pressure on her, like a drop of water, a cloud, step by step around her, into her life. She had tried to resist, but found nothing to do. She''s tough, but she''s not vulnerable. In this life, he quietly helped her, and refused a mutually beneficial way of cooperation, he It''s not just a person to be used. Jiang Ruan slowly closed her eyes, she did not refuse. Kiss fell on her lips, dragonfly bit water, and then quickly retreat - he is a gentleman in the end. Jiang Ruan slowly opened her eyes, she saw a little joy in the eyes of the youth, and how can not hide the feelings. That layer of shallow love let her heart slowly up a layer of ripples, and then like a short knife slowly in her heart. He is such a good person, he is so sincere, not hypocritical feelings. But why is it this world. If she had changed her previous life, she would still be a simple girl who was almost stupid and had endless hope for love. When she faced Xiao Shao, she could love her heart and soul and repay her sincere love. But God is always wrong, Xiao Shao happened to meet, is this life this cold-blooded merciless, bent on revenge and will not love her. In her heart, she suddenly gave birth to a little bit of self abandonment and despair. Xiao Shao noticed her look, slightly stunned, he once again raised her chin, forcing her to face himself. "What''s the matter with you?" He asked, frowning. Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile: "Xiao Shao, do you regret asking the Empress Dowager to marry you?" "No regrets." Xiao Shao looks at him, Rao is no matter how calm he is in his daily life. Facing the girl he loves, he is always like all the little boys who are just in love. He couldn''t figure out the woman''s complicated mind, and he didn''t try to guess it before, so he didn''t understand why Jiang Ruan was suddenly depressed? His fiancee has always had a great way to hide her emotions. For example, at this moment, he clearly felt Jiang Ruan''s depression and disgust, but in a moment, she returned to her former smile and calm appearance. All of a sudden, Jiang Ruan put his hand around his neck and drew him close to himself, holding him tightly. Xiao Shao was slightly stunned by Jiang Ruan''s sudden initiative. After a moment''s hesitation, he reached out and patted her on the back, as if to appease a frightened animal. Jiang Ruan put his head on his shoulder. He couldn''t see Jiang Ruan''s expression. Naturally, he couldn''t know what his fiancee had decided at this moment. This person is too good, Jiang Ruan closed his eyes, so good that people can''t bear to hurt. Since he said he would not regret it, he would never regret it in his life. She is willing to put down the knot and try to try, no matter affectionate or merciless, naturally, she will not let him regret. All right, welfare before the war! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 170 Ten days later, Xiao Shao led 100000 royal guards to Tianjin. There are also general Zhao and the three sons of the Zhao family. However, the Zhao family''s army went to Xirong. Recently, Xirong people have been in trouble at the border, so it''s hard to avoid other thoughts. The emperor''s mind is elusive. The emperor''s intention of sending the Zhao family out at this time is not known. Now there are only Zhao Yi, Zhao Yulong and Zhao Feizhou in the Zhao family. They can''t make waves, but their influence is weak. If someone drops stones on the Zhao family at this time, the Zhao family will be worried. However, no one dares to disobey the emperor''s will. The Zhao family is loyal and courageous, and there is no reason to refuse. On that day, he left the city with the royal guards led by Xiao Shao. The king of Jin Ying is in charge of the battle, but there is a fiancee to be married in the room. According to the custom of the great Jin Dynasty, unmarried women can live in the future husband''s house when their husband goes to war. The Empress Dowager pitied Princess Hong''an and gave her a special permission to live in Jinying palace. And Hongan princess''s family Shangshu house, and suffered several accidents. First, Jiang Shangshu injured his aunt by mistake. Finally, she hurt her body and left soon. Later, the lost second young lady was found. She had been kidnapped by mountain bandits. The second young lady killed herself to protect her innocence. Although Jiang Su Su Su''s reputation was not very good when he was alive, death can forgive everything, and people are always very tolerant of beauty. The most shocking thing was that the first lady of the Jiang family fell ill for a long time and finally died. The first lady Xia''s family did not wait three months for another distant cousin, Jiang Fu, to welcome a new lady. Originally, people thought that after the death of doctor Jiang, the last point of contact between the Jiang family and the Xia family was broken. They never thought that the Xia family had personally sent a new lady over. The marriage between the Xia family and the Jiang family was maintained, and many onlookers suddenly fell for nothing. However, although the relationship between Xia Yan and Jiang''s family did not break, Jiang Shangshu was criticized by the world. In particular, the imperial censor''s impeachment decision flew all the way to the emperor''s desk, accusing him of marrying a new man before his bones were dead. It was not the practice of a sentimental person. For so many years, the Chiang family has been standing in the imperial court and has a reputation for honesty among the people. Now, it has been a little bit corrupted. Now, Chiang''s practice of marrying a new wife has lost even his last bit of good reputation. From then on, when people talk about Shangshu mansion, they are no longer the honest and clean family, but just a faint minister who is restless in his inner house. These changes are infiltrating into the environment bit by bit. Look, it doesn''t attract people''s attention. Even the owner''s family doesn''t seem to realize this. However, the dike of thousands of miles was destroyed in the ant nest. All the seemingly casual little things will eventually lead to a series of events. Now, it''s just the beginning. If there is anything to be happy about in the capital, it is that the former structure of the harem has now been completely disrupted, the position of the three imperial concubines is vacant, and a new group of beautiful girls are gradually promoted. A few of them are hot now. These three people are Wang lian''er, the first young lady of the Hanlin family, mu Xirou, the common daughter of Yingwu Marquis''s family, and Jiang Dan, the fourth young lady of the Jiang family. When the emperor''s foundation was not stable, the women he trusted were related to the power and status behind him, representing the power of a certain family. When the emperor has become great and nothing can shake his country and status, he will no longer trust those women with prominent family background. On the contrary, the emperor will choose those women who have no foundation or background as his favorite, because they are weak and helpless, and can''t lift any storm. Only by relying on the emperor''s favor can they survive in the palace. Since ancient times, emperors have been suspicious. Only such a woman is completely harmless and will not have a different mind. These people are either empty airs and no real power in their families, or they are just little common women, and they are not valued by their families. So for the emperor, it is the kind of people who have no threat. And these three people really stand out among many beautiful girls. Wang lian''er is the most poetic, is the emperor''s Jieyu flower, gentle and graceful character, like the south of the Yangtze River in the rain with an umbrella and the beautiful woman, and the original Princess Chen is somewhat similar. Mu Xirou looks the best, just like the orchid blooming in the valley. She is a little too cold tempered, and she is just as indifferent to the emperor. But it was this cool and light appearance that made the emperor interested most. He was now a famous cold beauty in the palace. Among the three, Jiang Dan''s appearance is the least outstanding, and his temperament is not like a gentle explanation. It was a bit of a coincidence that she met the emperor. At night, she prayed to the moon in front of the moon in the courtyard. Every word she prayed for the safety and prosperity of her family, but her words were simple. The emperor was used to seeing all kinds of beauties, but now he seldom saw such a simple and innocent woman. He concealed her identity and talked with her all night. He felt that the woman was more and more bright. The next day, he taught people to send her the imperial edict of promotion. Now these three people all jump from the little pretty girl to become four grade beauties, which is really a step up to heaven for the common girl. At present, Wang lian''er is the most favorite. The emperor''s last interest is mu Xirou. After Jiang Dan was promoted, she was not summoned by the emperor, but she didn''t feel discouraged at all. She was still very happy. All the servants in Jiang Dan''s palace were anxious, hoping that their master would be favored. They urged her to think of a way to see the emperor again, so as not to be spoiled. But Jiang Dan only did not know what to do, and was still busy with his own affairs every day. He lived a leisurely life. All the palace people were worried.On this day, Jiang Dan was enjoying the flowers in the garden of the palace. Maybe she was tired of watching them, so she went to the pavilion and sat down to have a rest. She seemed to feel a little tired. Suddenly she got excited, so she asked her servants to pick up some fallen flowers here and save them. Then she saw if she could collect some dew in the morning and brew Baihua wine by herself. Xu felt that he couldn''t do it by himself, so he just stood up with his skirt and got into the palace. She looked for joy, but did not find that at the other end of the garden, someone was standing far away, staring at her movements. Jiang Chao lowered his head and said to Xuanli standing in front of him, "Your Highness, do you really think it''s her?" He hesitated: "if your highness doesn''t choose another person, Jiang Dan is. It''s too risky to use her. " Xuan Li narrowed his eyes slightly and said slowly, "Oh? What do you think of her when you say adventure? " Jiang Chao thought about it, as if he was trying to recall things related to Jiang Dan, but he had a weak relationship with the four younger sisters, and could not think of anything. A moment later, he shook his head and said, "my fourth sister, who was born of a concubine''s family, has been raised by my wife since childhood, and she is very cowardly. On weekdays, even if she speaks loudly in the house, she will be scared. It''s really useless. " After a pause, he said: "and it''s not very smart. How can your highness choose her to be our man?" Xuanli shook his head: "Jiang Chao, do you know why you have been with me for so long, and why you still can''t reach a better position repeatedly, and why you can''t firmly grasp every opportunity I give you? "Anti religion gives others the first chance?" Jiang Chao''s heart was awe inspiring, and he said, "I beg your Highness''s advice!" "You are cruel enough, and you have means to do things. Unfortunately, you are too conceited." Xuanli shook his head: "you never seriously observe the people around you, so that you underestimate them. For example, now you look down on Jiang Dan. " "Your Highness, I don''t understand." Jiang Chao said: "even if my fourth sister becomes a beauty in the palace, it''s just that my father and herself are lucky. But she has no ambition. Doesn''t your highness say that people who have no ambition can''t be of great use? My fourth sister, who had the emperor''s will to be promoted, didn''t know how to fight for it. She wasted a good time, so that now among the three beauties, Wang lianer and mu Xirou are more favored than her. " Xuanli shook his head: "this is your mistake. You can only see that Jiang Shangshu sent Jiang Dan to the palace, but you can''t see how much power Jiang Dan played in it? Do you think that the encounter between Jiang Dan and his father was just a coincidence, just like what others have said, because Jiang Dan was lucky? " Jiang Chao didn''t speak. He didn''t doubt it, but Jiang Dan was so useless in his heart that he couldn''t doubt her at all. With Jiang Dan''s temperament and skill, how can he calculate the king of a country? "You see, that''s what you''re not." Xuanli sighed: "I think Jiang Shangshu is very good at raising his daughter. The eldest and fourth ladies of the Jiang family are one in a million." He looked at Jiang Chao with a smile but not a smile: "you, the fourth sister, are a poisonous snake. I''m afraid you know how to endure and Hibernate better than you. You see -- "he nodded to Jiang Dan. Jiang Chao followed his eyes and saw that Jiang Dan was laughing with all the maids in the palace. He looked at the beauty''s airs in the palace. Without airs, he moved in his heart and saw a bright yellow figure slowly coming behind Jiang Dan. It''s the emperor. Today, the Emperor just passed by the garden at random, but he heard a woman''s laughter from a long distance. The sound was as clear as a silver bell, and it seemed that he could be infected by the happiness. His heart read a move, then specially Rao a circle to come over, want to see which one. This one sees then some stupefied Leng, sees a woman to stand in the palace maid, one hand is carrying the flower basket, one hand is also holding the complete Begonia which just fell from the branch, on the face is taking the shallow smile, a pair of eyes all smile into the curved moon, bright, lovely very. She wore a peach embroidered jacket and skirt with a green coat on it. It was bright and attractive, and had a unique charm of youth. Her appearance can only be regarded as charming, but every move seems to have a unique charming, which is natural and full of vitality. Even among the ladies in waiting, she can be noticed at a glance. The emperor stepped forward and said, "what''s your name?" The woman seemed to be startled. She turned around and blushed at the sight of the emperor. She must have been laughing for a long time, and some bright sweat was oozing from her forehead. She really looked very lovely. She lowered her head, seemed to be a little flustered and flustered. After a pause, she said: "my concubine. I call Jiang Dan "It''s you -" the emperor recognized her face when she spoke: "you were the one who talked with me all night that night." The emperor has many talents every day. He has seen so many beauties in his daily life. There are so many beauties who are excellent in both color and art. Which one of the 72 concubines in the palace is not the best. Therefore, it is difficult for anyone to leave traces in his heart. That night, the simple girl was just a glimpse in the emperor''s mind. When he promoted her rank, he forgot about her. Today, when he met her, he was surprised again. It was very difficult for the emperor not to pay attention to Jiang Dan. If the previous time was just a preview, today''s Jiang Dan has left a unique impression among the emperors. This impression is quite different from that of Wang Meiren and Mu Meiren. The emperor, who is used to understanding Yuhua and Bingmei, will begin to be fresh in this beautiful life.He said with a smile, "get up and walk with me." In the distance, Xuan Li raised his eyebrows: "see? That''s what your fourth sister did Jiang Chao couldn''t believe staring at Jiang Dan, who was walking side by side with the emperor in the distance. At that moment, her smile was so cute that even he could not help but be shocked. This four younger sisters can only have one kind of expression in the mansion, that is panic and timidity. But just now he wanted to see confused, almost think that and he usually see Jiang Dan is not a person. "She''s not fighting for it, she''s brewing it." Xuanli said with a smile: "she is good at dormancy. She won''t do everything she can''t do. You see, this beauty Jiang will soon be in favor. " "But," Jiang Chao restrained his shock and asked, "how can she cooperate with us?" "She has ambition in her eyes," Xuan Li said. "People who have ambition are not timid. Jiang Chao, when you are free, you can walk around with your fourth sister. She will be moved because she wants to be in a higher position. And we also need someone who can speak to our father. " When imperial concubine Chen was there, he was not at a disadvantage. Because as long as Princess Chen blows the pillow wind, the emperor will feel pity for him. But now the imperial concubine has lost her power. It is impossible for the empress and the virtuous concubine to say good things for him. The emperor''s attitude towards him is becoming more and more distant. Xuanli, who has always been calm, already has a sense of anxiety in his heart. "Yes, your highness." Jiang Chao lowered his head: "the king of Jin Ying and Zhao Guang have already set out for more than two months. Now they should have arrived at the battlefield. The spies in front reported yesterday that the war situation has been under control. If it goes on like this... " He didn''t go on. The more smooth the battle ahead, the more unfavorable it would be for them. They can''t give the great merit of this day to King Jinying. Xiao Shao has now almost made it clear that he will not stand on their side. Such people can not be used, only destroyed. "Don''t worry," Xuanli said faintly, "they can''t win this battle. They will lose it. What should they do?" He flashed some murderous air in his eyes and stroked his sleeve: "inform Xia Cheng, you can do it." "Your Highness?" Jiang Chao was surprised: "so fast?" "Long night, many dreams." Xuan Li sneers. In Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan Zheng sits in Xiao Shao''s study and reads a book. After living in Jinying palace for two months, the servants here changed their ways to make her comfortable. Maybe she was too comfortable to live here, and almost unconsciously got used to the life here. In the past two months, she went back to her house to criticize Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su for filial piety and wearing hemp. She also met Xia Wei, the new wife of Jiang''s house, a smiling beauty. But now she doesn''t live in Jiang''s house, and these things have nothing to do with her. Xiao Shao''s study is like a treasure. There are all kinds of books. The place where Jiang Ruan stayed for the longest time was Xiao Shao''s study. She read Xiao Shao''s handwriting, and the more she read it, the more strangled she was. Some suspicious things began to appear. But she did not continue to guess, everyone has their own secret, Xiao Shao also has. Now she is more concerned about the war in Tianjin. At this time in her previous life, she was in the midst of a fierce battle in the palace. She did not pay too much attention to the war in the state of Tianjin. In the letter to Jiang Xinzhi, she can recall all the things that can help Jiang Xinzhi. For the rest, she is really powerless. However, one thing we can be sure of now is that Xuanli will definitely do it at this time. Now the Zhao family is weak, and Xiao Shao is not in Beijing. With Xuanli''s disposition to take advantage of others'' danger, he will not let go of this good time. The pattern of the imperial court is very sensitive. A small move will lead to earth shaking changes. Xuanli will do, she can probably guess one or two. Thinking about it, he heard the guard outside saying: "ah, fourth young master, young lady is inside." A slightly low male voice said, "nothing''s wrong, I''ll go in and have a look." The door creaked and was pushed open. Jiang Ruan looked at the people quietly. Suddenly, Ben was also curious about the young lady. As soon as he opened the door, he saw a young girl sitting in front of the desk, looking at her quietly against the light. Her face was a little unreal by the sunlight, only a pair of eyes were clear and wise, seemed to contain some kind of mockery of reality, and looked at him calmly and indifferently. By that pair of eyes see of some can''t resist, the visitor touched nose, cough a way: "three elder sister-in-law?"? I''m Qi Si. My third brother asked me to come. " Jiang Ruan''s eyes flashed and he also looked at the people on the other side. This is also a young man in his twenties. He was dressed in a purple embroidered lotus robe. He was also pretty, but I don''t know why he had a beard on his chin. It''s like a beautiful young man who has been destroyed by others. It''s a bit abrupt. However, he had a gentle smile and long eyes, which meant peach blossom eyes. But he didn''t look frivolous in his eyes. He was a decent man. This is Qi Feng, Xiao Shao''s brother in the same school. He ranked fourth and learned the imperial power in Mount Canaan. It''s a pity that this skill is well learned, but it can''t be easily realized. Over the years, he has been secretly helping hold Xiao Shao to assist the royal guards. Now Xiao Shao recalled him to Beijing, but it was an accident. Qi Si looked at Jiang Ruan seriously, and suddenly said with a smile: "the third sister-in-law is really beautiful. Originally, I thought it was too much a fuss for the third brother to call Xia Wu and me back to Beijing to protect the third sister-in-law. Now it seems that it is the blessing of the fourth brother." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 171 In the capital, a little butterfly can only flap a little invisible wind when it swings its wings. No one knows whether the wind will turn into an irresistible storm tens of thousands of miles away. At the moment, however, it seems that the subtle changes in the capital have not spread to the battlefield thousands of miles away. This is a vast desert, where there is little grass. Therefore, there are not many cattle and sheep grazing here. At a glance, it was just a tent set up by the marching army. The tents were covered with thick felt jars to keep people from freezing at night. In the innermost part of these tents with unique array, there is a tent which is very strange. This tent is very gorgeous. There are even thick tassels on the top, but there are ten bodyguards on the outside. The clothes of these people are slightly different from those of Dajin, and they look very exotic. A girl in a green dress went in with a basket in her hand. The guard outside let her go. The girl lowered her head all the way into the tent, put the basket on the table in silence, and brought out the food plate by plate. After all the arrangements, she whispered: "deputy general Jiang, maidservant jin''er, is a new girl. It''s time for you to eat." The man sitting on the chair in the tent raised his head and showed a handsome face. He looked a little pale, with green stubble on his chin, but he didn''t look embarrassed. On the contrary, he had a different natural and unrestrained manner. He heard the girl''s voice slightly a Leng, for a long time just way: "you can speak Mandarin, you are the person of big brocade capital?" The girl lowered her head and said in a low voice: "the maidservant is from the capital of Dajin Dynasty. They were captured by the people of Southern Xinjiang. Those people wanted to find someone to serve the master, so they sent the maidservant over." Jiang Xinzhi slowly set his eyes on the girl. The girl is not very old. She is sixteen or seventeen years old. Her skin is delicate. Her eyes are big and flexible. There is only an obvious burn scar on her left cheek, which suddenly destroys the beauty of the whole face and makes her face look terrible. It was because of this face that she was sent here to serve him as a prisoner. Otherwise, she would have been replaced by a beautiful girl. I''m afraid there would have been no bones left by the soldiers here. Jiang Xinzhi narrowed his eyes: "you are from Beijing. How can you be captured here?" Jin''er was stunned for a moment, and then said: "the maidservant is the girl in the army laundry room following the great Jin Dynasty. A few days ago, she went out with several sisters at night, and happened to meet a pair of scattered soldiers, so she caught the maidservants back." There is no flaw in this. There are a group of female dependents in the army, which are used for daily use, sewing and cleaning. These women usually live in other places. Naturally, Jiang Xinzhi could not see them one by one. It''s not impossible to meet scattered soldiers at night. Just listening to the girl''s words, Jiang Xinzhi always felt that something was wrong. He couldn''t say it. He could only frown slowly. It''s been several months since he was caught here, and he doesn''t know what happened outside. These people hold him, but they treat him courteously. They entice each other with high rank and wealth. Every day, they scatter their tendons in his tea restaurant, making him unable to exert all his strength, but they don''t kill him. He doesn''t know what these people want to do, but every day he is thinking about how to escape. He said, "since you were caught here a few days ago, you should also know what the war is like outside." His captors cut him off from the outside world, and he had no way to know what the current situation was like. I don''t know how the army of the Jin Dynasty is now. When he was captured, Guan Lianghan was also hit by an arrow, which hurt him deeply. I don''t think it can be cured overnight. The army can not be without generals for a day, and the war is in danger. "General Guan is seriously injured, so he can''t lead his troops to the battle any more." Jin''er said in a low voice: "now Dajin is losing, and the state of Tian Jin is pressing forward step by step. However, there is no need to worry about Jiang''s deputy general. I heard from the leader that day that the imperial court had sent reinforcements and that King Jinying and his 100000 royal guards were coming. " Jiang Xinben was deeply browed. When he heard the last sentence, he was stunned: "King Jinying?" He frowned slowly. Since even Xiao Shao had been sent, he could see how tense the war situation was. Xiao Shao was a hidden power in the great Jin Dynasty. It seemed that he was born to fight against a certain power. He was always hidden in the dark. The emperor''s forbearance to Xiao Shao may not be due to some reasons. Jiang Xinzhi was not a fool, and he could guess some points in the days when he fought with Guan Lianghan. However, as a hidden power of the great Jin Dynasty, it now appears in the public''s eyes, and even has to be brought into the battlefield. On the same day, there was a fierce battle in the state of Jin. What happened? He thought hard, but he saw jin''er peeping at him without blinking. On his eyes, jin''er is like a thief who has been caught. She blushes and lowers her head. She doesn''t look at him any more. Jiang Xinzhi''s keen discovery is that although the girl was born with poor appearance, she was also dressed in very ordinary clothes, and she said that she was a slave. But that way of doing things is not a servant who is used to serving others. On the contrary, even with a bit of nobility. Some people don''t have to pretend to be noble, especially those who are raised in high families. From small to large, their behavior is influenced by the family, and they naturally show noble spirit. The girl in front of her was not a slave, but a young lady. Compared with the young lady, she was a little less arrogant, like a simple and natural ordinary woman. But It is abnormal for ordinary women to appear in the enemy camp.Jiang Xinzhi then slowly said: "since you are here to serve me, I will tell you that since you came here, there were three girls who served me, and they all died." Jin son a Leng, don''t understand of see toward him. Jiang Xinzhi watched her look closely and continued to say slowly: "because they were all spies sent by these people, trying to cheat me and get information from me. But I found out. I tried to expose them. When their mission failed, they were dragged out and killed by those people. Their death is also very miserable. For example, before you came here, I just cleaned up a corpse in my account. " His voice contains a kind of deep repression, and a kind of sharpness of the sword tip. The golden light suddenly appears from the rolling clouds, breaking through the air, with the force that people have no ability to resist, and people have to tell the truth. He said: "Jiner girl, do you want to stay with me?" Jin''er was startled by his sudden words, but for a moment, she said with a smile: "I''m just here to serve Jiang''s deputy general, so I want to stay with him. If it''s all right, deputy general Jiang should have something to eat first. " Jiang Xinzhi is slightly stunned. When he looks at shangjin''er''s eyes, he finds that they seem to be familiar with each other. However, they are crystal clear. If they are not true, they are too deep. What he said just now is not true, but it is not true. Some of the servant girls are spies sent by the local government. Some of them are real Dajin people. They are even willing to save him from prison for his personal danger. Unfortunately, they all died in the end. Just say, outside the account then straight from walk into a person, saw Jin son one eye, but also didn''t ask her to back down, clear is to see her to do nothing. As soon as the man saw Jiang Xinzhi frowning, he began to laugh: "deputy general Jiang doesn''t look very happy today. Why do you think it''s boring here?" The man was wearing a gray robe all over his body. He wrapped his whole body tightly, revealing only a clean and thin chin, and the thin lip shape also looked very beautiful. Listen to the voice is a young man, voice with a bit of gorgeous charm, but I do not know why. He said, "deputy general Jiang, haven''t you thought about it yet?" "Don''t worry about me, sir." Jiang Xinzhi said with a smile, "I don''t have what you want." The man in grey came close to Jiang Xinzhi slowly, but his voice was full of a smile. If there was a gorgeous tail string on the string, with some itchy radians, it was inexplicably frightening, for fear that the high voice would break the string at the next moment. The man in grey said: "deputy general Jiang, why do you cover up at this time? I just want to know who gave you your letter? " "That letter" refers to the letter Jiang ruansai sent to him three years ago when they parted. In the letter, he recorded in detail some tactics that Tianjin would adopt, some surprise attacks, and even the victories and defeats that would take place in the next few years during the war with Tianjin. This letter has been of great help to Jiang Xinzhi. In the past three years, he has been studying this letter from time to time. Depending on this letter, he has broken the enemy''s sneak attacks again and again and won battles again and again. However, there is a spy in the army, and the spy is Guan Lianghan''s closest subordinate. The news is too sudden. What''s more important is that the spy knows the secret of the letter, and secretly exchanges information with these people. This time, he is calculated by the other party, one side is personal safety, and the other side is 100000 troops. He has no choice but to give in, and Jiang Xinzhi has to be captured, Guan Lianghan was seriously injured. The contents of this letter are enough to drive the enemy crazy. A month ago, they tried some terrible ways to torture Jiang Xinzhi, but Jiang Xinzhi didn''t let go. Later, they changed their mind and offered him a good life. They promised him a high official position, but Jiang Xinzhi still didn''t let go. Jiang Xinzhi is a hard and soft person. These people must have been familiar with Jiang Xinzhi''s temper in the past few months. But they still chose this method. There must be some other purpose. Jiang Xinzhi can''t think of it for the moment. But for one thing, he can''t name Jiang Ruan. Sometimes Jiang Xinzhi himself doubted how Jiang Ruan knew what might happen in the future. It seems that since Jiang Ruan was taken back from Zhuangzi three years ago, he had some strange feelings. In front of him, Jiang Ruan was just a girl with a certain indifference and perhaps some intelligence. But with the power of foretelling, looking at and appreciating the content, he recalled the past, such as the incident of BoChang reservoir, which was really puzzling. But anyway, Jiang Ruan is a demon or a ghost. It''s all his sister. He will never do anything to hurt her. Once these people know that the letter was written by Jiang Ruan, they will try to catch Jiang Ruan. Guan Lianghan still has a traitor around him. There may not be no ambush in the capital. He wants to protect Jiang Ruan. "I''ve said that many times." Jiang Xinzhi stretched out his index finger to support his head, with a look of obstinacy: "it was just picked up on the road, maybe it was the will of heaven. You must ask. You may as well ask heaven. Maybe God thinks that you are going to be exhausted, so he has come down to help me. In this case, for the sake of being honest with me these days, I would also like to point out that you might as well comply with the destiny, and everyone will be happy, won''t you? "He is such a calm and introverted person, but now he is serious nonsense, also put on a pair of slovenly appearance, but this appearance not only does not make people feel tired, but also makes people feel very interesting, want to unconsciously close. Jin''er hung her head and covered her lips with a smile. The man in grey was not angry. Instead, he stood with a negative hand, nodded and said, "I agree with you that the destiny belongs to you, but the destiny is not written by heaven. Even if God gave a warning to Dajin Dynasty, the warning prophecy finally fell into our hands. What kind of destiny is this Jiang Xinzhi was silent for a long time before he said, "you are not from Tianjin, you are from southern Xinjiang." These people never talked about the Tianjin state. The soldiers stationed here on weekdays were not soldiers fighting in Tianjin state. At first, Jiang Xinzhi thought it was a group of secret troops cultivated by Tianjin state, but later found that it was not so. On the contrary, it made people think of the rumored Southern Xinjiang state. When the former Emperor was alive, southern Xinjiang invaded the Central Plains and almost took the whole Central Plains as his own. Later, the former Emperor''s relatives conquered the southern Xinjiang and the southern Xinjiang was subjugated. The remaining evils of Southern Xinjiang were expelled to settle in the desolate land on the edge of the great Jin Dynasty. Since he was born, Jiang Xinzhi has lived in the capital, and he has never had a chance to see the remaining evils of Southern Xinjiang. Now, he has a faint suspicion in his heart. The man in grey, however, chuckled and raised his clean chin slightly, drawing a strange arc: "yes, we are from southern Xinjiang. So what? People in this world will eventually become people in southern Xinjiang. This world, in the end, will be ours. " Jiang Xinzhi shook his head: "if you want to dream, I will not hinder you, but I have already answered your question. Now, if you have nothing to do, you can go out. I want to have a rest. " The man in grey was not annoyed by Jiang Xinzhi''s words, but with a faint smile, turned out of the tent. On the contrary, jin''er was watching the man in grey nervously. After getting out of Jiang Xinzhi''s tent, the man in grey went straight to another tent in the opposite direction. This tent didn''t look gorgeous, and it couldn''t even compare with Jiang Xinzhi''s bright color. It was all snow white. When he walked in, he found that the tent was sewn with large pieces of snow fox skin. The snow white on the top didn''t contain any impurities, and it looked like snow for thousands of years The top of the mountain, far away contains a kind of cool and strange beauty. There was no bodyguard in the middle and outside of the tent, so the man in grey stopped at the door and went in. There is a circle of Amethyst curtain hanging in the tent. The best crystal is crystal clear and shining with bright snow-white brilliance. It almost shakes the eyes of the flower people. The candlelight in the tent is reflected by the crystal stones, and it is even more beautiful as if it were a magnificent paradise. In the curtain, a figure appeared. It seemed that he was dressed in red. He sat upright in front of the lyre and did not stir it. The man in grey went to the curtain and bowed down slowly. His behavior revealed a kind of full respect. "Saint." People in grey. "How''s it going?" After a while, a charming female voice came from behind the curtain. The sound is very beautiful, like the first drop of blood from the ice stream in the first moment of the spring sunshine, with thousands of years of laziness and amorous feelings, and a kind of innocence that does not understand the world. People almost drown when they listen to one sentence, and can''t help but lift the bright curtain to see how gorgeous the people inside are. "Yuanchuan is incompetent. Please punish her." People in grey. In front of this woman, the man in grey lowered his noble chin, as if he were a devout believer, crawling at the foot of his faith. Loyal and modest, he said, "he never said the owner of the letter." "Nothing." The man behind the curtain said lazily, almost like haitangchun''s awakened beauty, who just stretched her waist and showed her cat like charm: "if it was so easy to recruit, he would not be the God of war in the great Jin Dynasty." "Holy daughter, what should we do now? Or kill Jiang Xinzhi? " Asked the man in grey. "No, I want to keep him, the God of war in the great Jin Dynasty. Such a heavy chip is a gift I gave him." The woman''s voice suddenly leaped out of a little uncontrollable joy, and a layer of sweet mist was immediately filled in her charming and crisp voice, which made people not really look like it. The man in grey was slightly stunned. He seemed to want to say something, but he didn''t say anything at last. He just bowed his head respectfully and was as humble and obedient as ever. "He must be very happy to see this gift I gave him." The sound in the curtain is still going on. It seems that the laziness just now awakes at this moment. It sounds like a child who is not familiar with the world. He is innocent and pure. He is greeting the person he likes. "Yuanchuan, he''s coming." The woman seems to be laughing. "I''ve been waiting for him so long that I can finally see him again." She said. Let elder brother brush his sense of existence and guess who jin''er is ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 172 As the days went by, the good news came from people far away at the border. After the royal guards led by Xiao Shao arrived at Heiguan cliff, they redeployed their troops, changed the military array, and resisted the siege of the state of Tianjin. Before the Tianjin Kingdom took advantage of the victory and pursued after the enemy, they didn''t want the reinforcements to arrive now. They suffered a big loss, but they didn''t continue to attack for a while, and the two armies formed a confrontation situation. This is a good opportunity for the soldiers of the Dajin Dynasty to fight for some rest time. When the Xirong people on the other side learned that Zhao Guang was leading the Zhao family army, they also heard that they had converged and retreated to the border area, and had peace for the time being. On this day, Lin Zixiang and Wen Feifei boarded the gate of Jinying palace to visit Jiang Ruan. Housekeeper Lin was naturally happy again. When the old king and his wife were alive, Princess Jinying was kind-hearted and made friends with many official wives. There were endless visitors. There are different people''s carriages in front of the house every day, which seems lively, but it is also the embodiment of the host''s family''s flexible fate. After the old king and his wife went, Xiao Shao was cold-blooded. Except for a few maidservants, there were probably no more females in King Jinying''s house. After many years of silence, I don''t want to see Jiang Ruan''s poor appearance, but he has a good personal affinity. As soon as he came in, a good friend came to visit him. Wen Feifei and Lin Zixiang are also famous official ladies in Beijing. Naturally, housekeeper Lin ordered the whole family to give him a good reception. After Wen Feifei and Lin Zixiang met Jiang Ruan, Wen Feifei wiped the sweat on her forehead and said, "sister Ruan, the servants of Jinying Palace are really obedient to you. If the servants in my house are half sensible here, I will thank God." Wen Feifei is now a relative, and she is also married to a military general, but her new daughter-in-law will always encounter some bad things. Wen Feifei''s character is so careless that she can''t help her servants. At the sight of the order of King Jinying''s residence and his respect for Jiang Ruan, he naturally became envious. "She''s very smart. She has a lot of means to discipline people, but you can''t learn." Lin Zixiang did not hesitate to interrupt her, as always straightforward: "besides, the beauty of her life, Jinying King protection, you only know how to practice martial arts every day, how can your husband protect you." Wen Feifei looks up at the sky and pretends not to hear Lin Zixiang''s words. Lin Zixiang turned to Jiang Ruan again and said, "I thought that this marriage had ignored your intention. I was afraid that you would be wronged. Now it seems that you are happy with it. In a word, King Jinying is not in the house. You live a comfortable life alone, so as not to be embarrassed. " Jiang Ruan smile, noncommittal. If we say that Lin Zixiang''s temperament is really a wonderful flower among the noble women. She is quick to talk and doesn''t understand the world. Others don''t know whether she is stupid or smart, but she is a real transparent person. Her straightforward personality is the same as that of Lin Changshi. People all say that Lin Changshi''s brilliant literary minister brought up such a shocking daughter who didn''t follow the three cardinal guides and five constant principles. However, Jiang Ruan thinks that Lin Changshi is the real man of great wisdom, and the daughter he raised is much more precious than those ladies in the capital. Only such precious, ordinary people naturally can not appreciate. This is the reason why Lin Zixiang hasn''t married yet. Lin Zixiang''s appearance is beautiful and her family background is good. But her eyes are too arrogant. Some matchmakers come to talk to her, but she doesn''t think it''s worth mentioning. Lin Changshi respects her and refuses them. As soon as she came and went, the daughter of Lin Chang''s family was very picky, and her reputation spread, and then gradually no one asked her to marry again. Lin Zixiang is 18 years old now, which is an old girl in the Dajin Dynasty. Many people talk about it, but the Lin family don''t realize it. Lin Zixiang looked at Jiang Ruan and Wen Feifei, and said, "really, it''s not a good thing to get married. A person who was originally true is now a commonplace all day long. One is already cunning, but now he is even more tactful. When one enters the palace, he even turns his temper. He is surprisingly cold all day. There is another, "Lin Zixiang''s eyes flashed a trace of anger:" simply people are gone, do not know what to do! " She reproached everyone, but Zhao Jin was the last one who disappeared. Zhao Jin disappeared a few months ago, but at the beginning, Mrs. Zhao and Mr. Zhao kept it from the public. Later, Xu sent out bodyguards, but they couldn''t find them. When they had no way, they found Zhao Jin''s handkerchiefs to ask for information. Only a few of them knew that something had happened. Zhao Jin''s last letter only said that she wanted to find someone, and she would come back after finding someone. Mrs. Zhao was very anxious. According to Zhao Jin''s maid, Zhao Jin was a little strange in those days. She didn''t know what was the reason. She was in a trance every day, but she was not sad. Mrs. Zhao also came from a girl like flowers. She immediately thought about Zhao Jin. She was afraid that she had a sweetheart. This time, she might have gone to find her sweetheart. While scolding which family has abducted her daughter like this, she also scolds Zhao Jin for not knowing how to be ashamed. How dare she do such a stupid thing? You should know that when she is hired, she will be a wife and when she runs away, she will be a concubine. Even if she runs away with others, she won''t be able to lift her head in her whole life. The people sent out by the Zhao family still have no information. Lin Zixiang is annoyed when he thinks about it. In her opinion, friends should treat each other with sincerity. Zhao Jin had never told her about such a big thing before. She really didn''t regard her as a friend in her heart. Of course, Lin Zixiang is even more angry that Zhao Jin did such a thing just for a man.Lin Zixiang thinks that all the men in the world are the same except her father. They are arrogant and arrogant. They look up to the sky and don''t know what loyalty is. They are self righteous. They really don''t deserve a good woman. Looking at her indignation, Jiang Ruan shook his head with a smile and said, "it''s no use worrying now. You''d better wait and see what happens. As for other things, we are ordinary people, and we just struggle to live every day. Getting married is just submissive to reality, but it''s good to try our best to live a better life after getting married. " She smiles: "as you just said, I have a good time. It''s even more comfortable than being in Shangshu mansion. " "Exactly." Wen Feifei was afraid that Lin Zixiang would teach again. She immediately echoed Jiang Ruan''s words and said, "I''m married. Now what''s the use of saying that? Although I don''t live better than sister Ruan, I feel more comfortable than when I was a girl. At least I don''t have to face a bunch of jealous sisters at home. " After thinking about it, Lin Zixiang sighed: "you don''t care about it. Why should I worry about it?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "I haven''t been in the Palace during this period. Sister Ying''er..." "She seems to be a different person now," Wen Feifei said. "I went to the palace to see her a few days ago and brought her some trinkets. Although she was smiling, she felt very alienated. In short, now I feel that I don''t understand her." "I don''t compete for favors, but I don''t know what to do when I enter the palace." Lin Zixiang also replied coldly, "it''s more and more similar to those women in the palace. I can''t see any difference." After Dong Ying''er entered the palace, because of Jing Zhaoyin, she was not completely left out. She was lucky enough to be promoted to Baolin. She is soft and gentle, and she also learns how to survive in the palace where people eat and don''t spit bones. However, she seems to be in a lack of interest, as if she is not interested in anything. Jiang Ruan smile: "the palace is not so easy to stay, if it is as simple as before, it is impossible to live for a long time." The words, Lin Zixiang and Wen Feifei two faces at the same time a change. After a long time, Lin Zixiang said: "what you see is transparent. If you had the chance to enter the palace draft at the beginning Lin Zixiang didn''t say the last word, but she believed that Jiang Ruan also knew what she wanted to say. Several people said some more words. When it was getting late in the afternoon, Lin Zixiang and Dong Yinger got up to say goodbye. Just as they went out of the door, Wen Feifei suddenly felt dizzy and was about to fall. Lin Zixiang was about to get on the carriage. He was startled. Before he moved, he saw a blue figure flash by and helped Wen Feifei up. It was a young man in a blue cloth gown, but he didn''t hurry to let go of Wen Feifei, instead, he held her hand firmly. When Lin Zixiang saw this, he burst into a rage and said, "where did you come from? I still don''t let go of your hand!" Lin Zixiang''s voice was very high, and all the people around him looked at him. The man was startled by Lin Zixiang''s question. Seeing the people around him, he turned red and said, "girl, you misunderstood me. I just..." "Let go of your hand!" When Lin Zixiang saw that he didn''t let go, he immediately went forward and pushed him away. He helped Wen Feifei. Wen Feifei was just a little sleepy and didn''t know what happened. He just said, "Ah Xiang, I''m ok." The young man was almost pushed down by Lin Zixiang, and his face was flushed. When people around him saw this, they pointed at him. He said: "girl, you really misunderstand me. I''m Xia Qing, the master of Jinling. I''m a doctor. I just want to see what happened to this lady." Lin Zixiang looked at him. The man was pretty. He was dressed in fresh clothes and a bag around his waist. It was nice to look at the bag. Now he was flushed, and he didn''t know whether he was angry or ashamed. His tone was sincere. Just the hand of Jinling? Every doctor who claims to be a "master" in medical skills is an old man with white beard. The doctor depends on his experience. The older he is, the more experienced he is. This man looks only in his early twenties at best. How can he be called a "master"? The apprentices in the medical school are similar. Lin Zixiang hated people who were pretentious and self righteous most in his life. He immediately said coldly, "your little body, I''m going to fall down with a little push, but I don''t know if there is any hidden disease in my body. The master of Jinling can''t even cure his own hidden disease. I think he is just a person who deceives the world and steals fame. " After that, he can''t bear each other''s eyes any more. He helps Wen Feifei get on the carriage and goes away. Xia Qingleng stood in the same place, ate a mouthful of smoke and dust raised by the carriage, and the onlookers around gradually dispersed. He was still in a daze. He has lived for such a long time, where he has received all the respect and praise from others. Even the young girl''s family knows that his reputation also favors him. But now I don''t know how to touch a prickly head, so I scolded him. Rao Shi is always a good-natured young man. She is also a bit gnashing her teeth at the moment. She Did she even say that he had a hidden disease? A girl''s family, where come such shocking words! Wu Zishen, the great doctor of Xia, was shocked. He forgot what he had just wanted to tell Lin Zixiang. He shook his head and looked at the gate of Jinying palace in front of him. Then he felt an unbearable resentment. If Xiao Shao didn''t want him to stay in the capital and become Jiang Ruan''s private doctor, how could he be accused of this in front of so many people. The more I think about it, the more angry I am. Xia Qing throws her sleeve and turns around. In Xiahou mansion, Xia Jun dusts off his sleeve and walks out of Yuanzi. Fang walked out of the yard and saw that Xia Jiaojiao was fighting for something from a servant girl. She said in a loud voice, "what do you do with such a good bracelet, you inferior girl? Don''t give it to me yet But the servant girl was not willing to show her weakness, and said: "Miss, this is what the old man gave to the servant girl. If the young lady needs it, she can ask for it like the old lady. The old lady''s things, the servant girl doesn''t dare to give them to others at will. Besides, Miss Jin Zhiyu, what kind of good things do you have? Why do you need to have the same understanding with your maidservant? " The servant girl''s glib obviously angered Xia Jiaojiao. When Xia''s family slapped her in the past: "it''s time to talk back! Who on earth is the master The servant girl turned to escape Xia Jiaojiao''s slap and said, "Miss, don''t embarrass the servant girl. It''s not good if the old lady''s mother can see her and punish her." Smell speech Xia Jiao Jiao is more urgent anger: "still dare to threaten me!" The yard is very noisy. As soon as the servant girl raises her eyes, she sees Xia Jun standing not far away and shouts: "I''ve seen the second young master!" Hearing Xia Jun''s name, Xia Jiaojiao was surprised and immediately stopped her action. Seeing Xia Jun standing not far away, she flashed a trace of fear in her eyes and whispered: "second brother." Xia Jun looks at Xia Jiaojiao coldly. Since the affair between Shen Rou and Xia Tiancai has been exposed, the Xia family has become the laughing stock of the whole capital. Unfortunately, Shen Rou''s mother''s family can''t give up easily. Although she is not dead, Shen Rou''s status in the Xia family has plummeted. Xia Jiaojiao has become a disgrace left by the adultery between Xia''s younger brother-in-law and his sister-in-law. Mrs. Xia once called her to the ancestral hall and wanted to drink a cup of poisonous wine. However, she didn''t know where she got the news in the middle of the trip. She saved Xia Jiaojiao from Mrs. Xia. It''s a pity that although Xia Jiaojiao saved her life, she can''t go back to her former days. Wherever she goes, she is a disgrace to the Xia family and will be talked about. Xia Cheng imprisons her in the house and does not allow her to go out of the house. No one wants to marry her anymore. Not only that, Shen Rou can''t keep her, but Xia Yi hates him. Xia Cheng and his wife are cold hearted to her. Xia Jiaojiao''s life in the house is very difficult, and she doesn''t even look like a young lady. As a result, it was reduced to the point of robbing the same maid for jewelry. Xia Xia Yi has resigned from his official post now. He spends a lot of time outside every day. He is no longer as calm and introverted as he used to be. Maybe he feels that it is a big blow for his brother to put on a certain green hat for him. In a word, he is now in a state of collapse and looks like mud. Yu Ya picked up Shen Rou, but she didn''t live as happily as she imagined. Summer just because of this matter to her displeasure all put on the surface, act more and more wantonly, simply no longer her yard overnight. Xia Cheng and his wife hate her for poking the scandal out. Regardless of Xia''s face, they treat her coldly, and Yu Ya''s temperament becomes more and more gloomy. Among these people, the most comfortable one is Xia Jun. At the beginning, Xia Jun lost his chance to become an official because of the ancestral temple incident. At the beginning, he was very depressed for some time, but now it seems that he is no better. Every day, he coldly looks at the ridiculous chickens flying and dogs jumping in Xia Fu, as if he were an outsider. Xia Jiaojiao was originally afraid of the second younger brother. Now she is no more afraid of Xia Jun than before. He is also a variety of junior high school to do low, Xia Jun smile, carefree from her side, after Xia Jiaojiao side, sleeve a shake, throw down a piece of broken silver. This is a very insulting action. It''s the only action that people do to beggars. However, Xia Jiaojiao was not angry. Instead, she immediately laughed. She bent down to pick up the silver and said, "thank you, second brother." After Xia Jun left the mansion, he went to a tavern on the street and went in. The tavern manager seemed to know him very well. He welcomed him into a small room inside, where a man was sitting at the moment. The man, dressed in blue, was sitting in front of the window and drinking from himself. The shopkeeper retreated. The man turned to see Xia Jun and said with a smile, "cousin." This is Jiang Chao. Xia Jun also laughed, went to Jiang Chao to sit down, and then poured a small glass of wine to his lips, sniffed, said: "wine is good wine, cousin will enjoy so much, I feel ashamed." "It''s just something to talk about, and it can''t be put on the table. If you have a chance in the future, you can enjoy endless wine. It''s much better than that." Xia Jun smell speech, drink the wine in the cup: "cousin said so, but what good?" "Naturally, there is a good thing," Jiang Chao said slowly, "and it''s a great good thing." "Oh?" Xia Jun seems to be interested: "how? My cousin works under his eighth highness, and he has been promoted this time? " "That''s not true," Jiang Chao said faintly. "There are more joyful things than promotion. That is, cousin, you and I have a chance to get rid of our common enemies. " The two brothers of Jiang Xia are going to die together. Why do I want to laugh. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 173 Xia Jun''s eye color sank, and a trace of emotion flashed in his eyes. The emotion was fleeting, but for a moment, he laughed faintly and said: "cousin, what does this mean?" "My cousin and I have half the blood of the Xia family, so we should be honest. You don''t have to play dumb riddles, cousin. Now you are in such a field that you can''t become an official. You can only work for your eighth highness in the dark outside, but you can''t get the official position and honor you deserve. Who do you owe all this to Jiang Chao said with a smile: "you and I have a clear mind." Xia Jun looks at Jiang Chao with a smile. He is different from Jiang Chao. Although Jiang Chao works under Xuanli, now he seems to have a high official career. At best, Xia Yan protected him too well, but his brain is not enough. Moreover, Jiang Chao inherited Jiang Quan''s character of cowardice and wavering, and he always pretended to be smart. For example, at this moment, Xia Jun clearly knows that Jiang Chao intentionally said it to him, but he just kept silent. "It''s my honor to work for your highness eight. I dare not complain. As for my cousin''s promotion, it''s my cousin''s fortune. I can''t blame others for my bad fortune." Xia jundao. Jiang Chao took a deep look at Xia Jun when he heard the speech. Xia Jun was unfathomable. At the beginning, he was forbidden to be an official, but Xia Jun became Xuanli''s aide. Xuanli, now that Jiang Chao has figured out some of his habits, never uses people who have no skills. Xia Jun''s identity is special, but he can make Xuanli look at him with new eyes. He must have great ability. Jiang Chao is narrow-minded. Although he has many taboos about Xia Jun, now the situation is different, so he has to conspire with Xia Jun. "To tell you the truth, cousin, this time it was meant by his highness eight." Knowing that he would not be able to get any benefits from such Taiji, Jiang Chao simply pointed out what he said. He said: "his highness eight told me to do it, but I think it can be done further, but I need my cousin''s help." Xia Jun slowly reaches out his hand and pours a glass of wine for himself. The wine makes waves and sends out a little bit of attractive mellow fragrance. Xia Jun holds the wine cup, but he is not in a hurry to drink it. Instead, he narrows his eyes slightly, as if he is smelling the slight aroma of the wine. Slowly, he said, "Oh? So, cousin, what''s good for me if I do this? How far can it go? " He is not in a hurry to ask what it is or how to do it. The first thing he asks is the result, which shows that Xia Jun is a person who does not care about using any means. He only asks for a satisfactory result for anything. Jiang Chao lowered his voice, but a chill flashed on his face: "what''s the result? It depends on how much money your cousin has. " "How about the chips of the whole Xia family?" Xia Jun smiles. Jiang Chao was stunned and looked at the person in front of him carefully. Xia Jun had a pretty face, but his eyes were a little gloomy. Suddenly, there was a little light in his eyes. It was like a dying hungry wolf in the wilderness suddenly found a prey, with a kind of crazy excitement. Jiang Chao reluctantly restrained his astonishment, saying that his cousin was indeed a madman. On his face, he said solemnly: "well, I promise my cousin that once this matter is over, there will be no more general''s house, no royal guards, no more Jiang and Ruan are brothers and sisters. " He said: "at that time, Princess Hong''an sent it to her cousin in person. She could do whatever she wanted." This chip. It''s really tempting. Xia Jun''s eyes rose slightly. When he didn''t look at people, they seemed to be separated by a thin layer of fog, cold and quiet. When he looked at people, he took a little sarcasm. He seemed to laugh at each other''s ignorance and childishness. Some people were maddening. In the first half of his life, he was rich in clothes and food. He wanted to get wind and rain. As long as he wanted something, he couldn''t get it. But this kind of balance was broken by Jiang Ruan, she only used a small trick, let his colorful life collapse. He didn''t have much obsession with being an official, but Jiang Ruan challenged his dignity. In his opinion, if he takes a fancy to Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan should be obedient. However, this is not a obedient domestic cat, but a terrible female leopard. It''s just a little bright claw that makes people taste her power. But no matter how fierce the leopard is, it''s just a prey. Over the years, he watched Jiang Ruan change from a daughter who was raised on Chuang Tzu to the eldest daughter who was afraid of everyone in Jiang''s house, from a rich official family to a princess who was trusted by the Empress Dowager. He watched her defeat Jiang Li and Jiang Su Su Su, and Xia Yan. Even Xia Jiao Jiao Jiao''s affairs must have her part in it. He had never seen such a woman, but he was interested in her. Such a woman, deep-seated, strong and tough, with beautiful appearance and rotten heart, is really to his taste. But If she dares to refuse him, she will pay the price she deserves. Jiang Chao''s proposal is too attractive. There was a sigh in his eyes. It would be good if Jiang Ruan was willing to cling to him. Unfortunately, he knew what kind of person Jiang Ruan was. Jiang Ruan would not lower her noble head like anyone else, so he had to cut off that beautiful head. He said: "my cousin''s proposal is really interesting..." Jiang Chao stares at him tightly. Slowly, he hears the remaining words of Xia Jun: "you can have a try." Jiang Chao was relieved. Xia Jun looked at the glass carelessly and said, "I don''t know what cousin wants to do?" It must not be an ordinary thing to catch up the royal guards and the general''s residence. Now the Zhao family and the royal guards are far away from the border, so they must start from the battlefield.A strange smile suddenly appeared on Jiang Chao''s face: "before the troops move, the grain and grass will go first. Even if the royal guards and Zhao Jiajun have great abilities, they can''t bear to run out of ammunition and food. " Let''s not mention the war in Xirong, but the royal guards'' morale has been greatly increased and several lost lands have been recovered. Guan Lianghan''s injury has gradually stabilized, and the morale of the soldiers in the great Jin Dynasty has gradually stabilized. On the contrary, Tianjin kingdom is a brave place that changed before. Even good weapons and tactics can not save the situation of failure. They were surprised to find that Xiao Shao, the king of Jinying, who was known as the "bandit" in the great Jin Dynasty, was also able to command good tactics. His military chips are different from those of Guan Lianghan and Jiang Xinzhi. It''s a totally different style of acting. It''s cold, cruel and absolute. The royal guards he brought out are almost like iron men who can''t be killed. Their bravery is just like the lone wolf on the grassland. No, even the lone wolf on the grassland can''t match them. They are unstoppable. In front of such a team, the soldiers of the state of Tianjin were terrified, and then they were defeated. Xiao Shao, who was not a war, won many victories. Since his arrival, the war in the state of Jin on the same day was not like a war, but more like a unilateral massacre. However, even so, the war between Tianjin and Dajin could not be settled overnight. At that time, in order to catch up with the journey, the soldiers tried their best to go to battle light, and the grain and grass were also brought according to the rules of close combat. The place where Tianjin was at war with was located in the desolate desert. There were no herdsmen, cattle and sheep around, so there was a lack of food. The way of supporting war by war is only suitable for predatory war, which is not allowed in time. According to the rules of the great Jin Dynasty, the people of the post station in the capital were responsible for transporting the grain and grass together, and the leader of the logistics army, Lord Zhang, was responsible for transporting the grain and grass. Zhang Ji has been the leader of the logistics force for many years, and the journey and road consumption are the shortest. Because before the war, almost all the grain and grass had been consumed, and now the National Treasury could not allocate too much surplus grain. Now all the grain collected was grain collected from people everywhere. In a short period of time, this batch of grain and grass would be quickly transported to the border of Tianjin Kingdom, which was one of the few reserves left in the great Jin Dynasty. Xiao Shao had to win the war before all the food and grass were used up, otherwise, he would be exhausted and defeated. In Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan puts down his book and looks at the young man in purple. He is sitting opposite Jiang Ruan and looks at her with a smile. He slowly shakes a folding fan in his hand. If he ignores the mustache, he will be a handsome young man. Unfortunately, because of that moustache, this natural and unrestrained action seems a bit funny. Qi Feng lives in a big courtyard separated from Jinying palace, which Xiao Shao arranged for him. He lives with Xia Qing. If it wasn''t for Jiang Ruan who was in Jinying palace and was afraid of causing rumors, Xiao Shao would let them live in Jinying palace directly. Now although Qifeng and Xiaqing don''t live in Jinying palace, they are just separated by a wall, but they are very similar. "Third sister-in-law," Qi Feng said, shaking his fan, "specially asked the fourth younger brother to come here. What can I do for you?" Qi Feng is a very romantic figure, but there is a doubt in his eyes. He lived in baizhanglou all the year round. He was cold-hearted to the imperial court. He was usually hidden in the dark. He didn''t know much about the back house on the palace of Dajin Dynasty, so he didn''t know much about Jiang Ruan. On the way to the capital this time, I learned something about Jiang Ruan''s past and present from others. For Jiang Ruan''s evaluation, Guan Lianghan is resourceful, Mo Cong is ruthless, as for Xiao Shao, the one who can let Xiao Shao love so much must not be ordinary people. Qi Feng doesn''t underestimate Jiang Ruan, but he thinks that no matter how smart he is, he is a woman. Women are always a little fanciful and affectionate. But since he came to the capital to meet Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan hasn''t shown any yearning for Xiao Shao. Qi Feng finds it interesting in his heart. It seems that Luo Hua is purposeful and ruthless, and Xiao Shao is now playing hard. Looking at the young man in front of him, Jiang Ruan also slowly showed a smile. She didn''t know what kind of person Qi Si was. However, since Xiao Shao said that Qi Si had learned the power of the imperial court, it would be better for him to come forward with some things. She said slowly, "I''m going to ask Mr. Qi to help me today." "Help?" Qi Feng looks at Jiang Ruan and finds that her expression doesn''t seem to be joking. She thinks for a moment, but she doesn''t answer rashly: "third sister-in-law, I''m not a doctor. If you want to save people''s lives, you should find Xia Wu." He hasn''t found out Jiang Ruan''s temperament yet. Different from Xiao Shao, Xiao Shao believes Jiang Ruan because he likes him. But Qi Feng and Jiang Ruan don''t have a deep friendship now. He is always wary of Jiang Ruan. If Jiang Ruan wants to do anything harmful to Xiao Shao and Jinying''s palace while Xiao Shao is away, Qi Feng will never stand by, even if he tries his best to stop him. "If one person''s life, Mr. Xia can really save it, but now it''s tens of thousands of lives. How can Mr. Xia save it?" Jiang Ruan light way. Qi Feng slowly frowned, and then put away his funny look. He said, "what does third sister-in-law mean? Fourth brother really doesn''t understand." "Mr. Qi is a smart man. Why talk to me around the corner?" Jiang Ruan''s words were not polite, even direct: "childe Qi and Xiao Shao are brothers of the same family, so they naturally have deep friendship. Now some people want to calculate Xiao Shao. I don''t think that with the friendship between Prince Qi and Xiao Shao, I will stand by. Can you give him a hand with emotion and reason? ""What happened to Xiao San?" Qi Feng doesn''t believe it in his eyes. These days, he hasn''t received any news about the accident of the royal guards Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan''s words are really suspicious. If something happened to Xiao Shao, he must be the first to know. "Nothing''s wrong with him now, but if it goes on like this, it will happen soon." Jiang Ruan''s voice is deep. She looks directly at Qi Feng. In her beautiful eyes, she suddenly jumps into a trace of irony. The irony is fleeting. The dark light disappears and turns into bright eyes as bright as glass. When she looks around, it''s all amorous feelings. She said: "I think before you came here, you have heard about me. I have a grudge against Jiang Chao and Xiahou''s house. I let Jiang Chao lose a finger and let Xia Jun become an official again. " Qi Feng originally took advantage of the situation to smile, but he found that there was something wrong with this expression at the moment. He did collect Jiang Ruan''s information before he came. But he did not know the significance of Jiang Ruan''s talking about these things. After a pause, he said, "so what? What''s the relationship with third brother? Can they do anything treacherous for revenge? " "No," Jiang Ruan stares at Qi Feng tightly. Qi Feng is shocked by her eyes. Jiang Ruan continues: "what I want to say is that the hatred of Jiang Chao and Xia family to me is only superficial. Jiang Chao and Xia family are working for Xuanli, the eighth prince, and Xiao Shao has become Xuanli''s eyesore. Xiao Shao is not willing to cooperate with Xuanli. For those who refuse to cooperate and have forces beyond his control, Xuanli has only one choice, that is to kill. " When Jiang Ruan talked about these secrets, he was very calm all the time. It seemed that what he was talking about was not a matter of killing his wife, but how nice the weather is today. Qi Feng''s expression was a little stiff. He heard Jiang Ruan''s cold and calm voice coming from the opposite: "so, on the surface, it''s Jiang Chao and Xia family who want to deal with me. In fact, it''s Xuanli who wants to deal with Xiao Shao, or Xuanli who wants to deal with the royal guards. Do you understand what I say? " "You..." Jiang Ruan''s words were too straightforward. Qi Feng didn''t know how to answer them. He suddenly felt that Jiang Ruan was really suitable for Xiao Shao. On the surface, Jiang Ruan was very quiet and conservative, but there was an offensive force hidden in her dark. He saw strength and tenacity in her eyes. "Xuanli, I know very well that he will make good use of every opportunity, especially in this aspect. Now that Xiao Shao is leaving Beijing, there are only a few Zhao Yi left in the general''s mansion. It''s the best time. Xuanli will try to find something. " She looked at the book in front of her: "I asked Xiao Shao to spy on Jiang Chao. Jiang Chao met Xia Jun a few days ago." "They formed an alliance?" Qi Feng asked: "the Xia family is not better than before. How dare they act rashly?" "The Xia family naturally dare not, but Xia Jun is a madman." Jiang Ruan gave a cold smile: "these days, Zhang Ji, the logistics officer, seems to be very diligent and generous. He even bought three big houses and five shops in the east of the city. There are many more banknotes in Sihai bank. Mr. Qi, do you think it''s strange? " "Zhang Ji..." Qi Feng looked very cool. He learned the power of the imperial court. Naturally, he knew very well about the court ministers. Zhang Ji was an old man in the army. He was upright and full of talent. He had never made any mistakes in transporting food and grass for so many years. Jiang Ruan''s words were obviously suspecting Zhang Ji. On the one hand, he was surprised, on the other hand, he couldn''t believe it: "Mr. Zhang is a good official. When the water is clear, there is no fish. The silver is not necessarily related to Xuanli. The army, the horse and the grain are important matters. Lord Zhang can''t ruin his future. If you know what happened, your majesty will not spare him first. " "He is really a good official, but he has a poor son." Jiang Ruan said coldly. "His three sons are all good young talents. How can we say that they are useless?" Qi Feng frowned. "Zhang Ji has a beloved outer room. The outer room gives birth to a son who spends all day outside. Zhang Ji''s wife is the daughter of Mu Yang Hou. She is a powerful man. Zhang Ji doesn''t dare to tell his wife about having a son outside, but she can''t stand the son spending money like water. The houses and shops on the east side of the city, even the silver, were for his son. I think Mr. Qi also knows about Mr. Zhang''s love for his son. " Qi Feng naturally knows that Zhang Ji is afraid, but he doesn''t know when Zhang Ji has an illegitimate son outside. What''s more, I don''t know where Jiang Ruan knew these things. Zhang Ji loves his three sons. He feels guilty for a child born in an outside room. He may love them even more. But. Qi Feng said: "but it''s too risky. For a little money, I''ll lose my future and gamble on the life of my family. Smart people won''t do that." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "indeed, it''s just for a little money. He really doesn''t need to be like this. But what if it can make a great success? He doesn''t have to be affected by the face of Wu Mu Hou in Mrs. Zhang''s family any more. He can welcome the grandiose son born in his beloved outer room into the mansion, and even seek a future for the illegitimate son. Do you think this chip is big enough Qi Feng was stunned. Jiang Ruan said coldly: "who doesn''t want to gamble on the wealth of the heaven? Besides, if the gambling wins, once the heaven changes, the emperor is not the emperor, and the court is not the court. Who will investigate the crime of bullying the king?" Slowly, word by word, she said, "it''s only the losers who bear the blame. However, it is not known who will win. He doesn''t dare to gamble. "- - - - - - - - - - one pot at one end ~ another pot at the other end www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 174 Qi Feng took a cool breath. What Jiang Ruan said shocked him, but what was more shocking was that the tone and expression of her words had a kind of unspeakable ruthlessness and hostility. He suddenly found that the word "poisonous woman" mentioned by Mo Cong was not enough to describe Jiang Ruan. She was cruel enough, and more importantly, she was brave enough. Ordinary daughter home where dare to say these rebellious words, but she just said, and said so naturally. It''s the truth that the imperial court has always been fighting against the invaders, but no one dare to say that. After a long silence, he said: "even if he really dares to do this, there are many people in Beijing. What''s wrong with the food and grass? If he doesn''t wait for someone to stop him from going out of the city and find out what happened, Zhang Ji will come to no good end. The eighth Prince is not a fool. How can he expose the target so easily to others? " Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "Xuanli is the most suspicious person. Naturally, he would not use such a bad method. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with the passive hand and foot of grain and grass, at least on the road within dozens of miles from the city. Moreover, he will certainly do a play, which is bound to be very wonderful. The ultimate goal is to get your Majesty''s trust. " "You..." Qi Feng narrowed his eyes slightly: "it seems that he knows the eighth Prince very well." Jiang Ruan''s words naturally have a kind of familiarity with Xuanli, which makes Qi Feng feel strange. But how can a lady get to know Xuanli? Even when she is a princess in the palace, her understanding of people''s character and what they will do next can only be grasped by people who are close to each other day and night. Qi Feng had a conjecture in his mind. Could it be that Jiang Ruan was interested in Xuanli? Only when he was interested in a person, would he always pay attention to what he did and thought, and understand each other''s every move. But when Qi Feng looked at Jiang Ruan seriously, he shook his head in his heart. Jiang Ruan''s eyes are calm and her smile is gentle, but she lacks affection. Seeing what she does and what she says, she doesn''t like Xuanli intentionally, which makes Qi Feng more confused. "If you know yourself and your enemy, you can win a hundred battles." Jiang Ruan looked into Qi Feng''s puzzled eyes and said with a smile, "sooner or later, King Jinying''s mansion will face the eighth prince. Since they are all in a state of immortality, they should make preparations early, otherwise they will be treated as a fool and end up dead." She spoke softly, but Qi Feng was stunned to hear the gnashing of teeth. However, each other''s face is beautiful, eyes are gentle, as if just now is his illusion. "Even if Xuanli wanted to win the throne, the great cause of the world would not be so easy." Qi Feng said with a proud smile: "in this world, he also has people who dare not provoke. Whether the third sister-in-law is too worried, I promise, he doesn''t have the courage to attack Jinying palace. " Jiang Ruan''s smile gradually cooled down. Although Qi Feng had learned the power of the imperial court, he might be able to use the struggle to achieve his own goal, but Qi Feng also had one weakness, that is, he was not good at guessing people''s minds. Qi Feng''s point of view is to predict Xuanli''s actions as a politician and a fighting prince. But Xuanli''s behavior will not be a prince of solid steps. Jiang Ruan regarded Xuanli as a selfish, cunning and tolerant man. The man used everything he could, including timing. She has been with this man for so many years, and her understanding of him is deep into the bone marrow. Qi Feng is not as good as her. "Well, is Mr. Qi willing to help me?" Jiang Ruan light way. Qi Feng was stunned, and he suddenly realized that in the short words Jiang Ruan had just said, he had actually wavered. Jiang Ruan''s words really made him suffer a great impact. He unconsciously agreed with Jiang Ruan''s words. He frowned: "my third brother and I are both prosperous, and I am duty bound to do something about my third brother. Third sister-in-law, "he said slowly," we can''t make a fuss about this. Let the dark guard continue to watch Zhang Ji, and then find someone to guard Xia''s and Jiang''s house. Let''s have a long-term plan. At least, we have to find a perfect way to stop it. " "Why stop it?" Jiang Ruan asked lightly. Qi Feng a Zheng, don''t understand of see toward her: "this words how to understand?" "There is a kind of hardship in the world, which is that you can''t share with others when you succeed, and you can''t talk with others when you are wronged. Since Xia Jun and Jiang Chao are going to do it in the dark, I will make them dumb and eat Coptis chinensis. Mr. Qi is used to being open and aboveboard, but I think sometimes it''s more convenient to act in the dark. This time, I want them to pay the price! " Surprised by the cool color burst out in those beautiful eyes, Qi Feng couldn''t help being in the same place. However, he felt that the charming girl who was born in the first place had launched a fierce attack, and there was a kind of compelling color blooming in an instant. He had never met such a woman before. He could not help sighing and said, "well, what does the third sister-in-law think we should do?" Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile: "I know that Prince Qi also has a status in the imperial court. The eighth Prince is going to sing a big play next. This play needs Prince Qi to arrange people to call for it. Only in this way can it be fun." "He even told you that?" Qi Feng was stunned again, and then said with a bitter smile: "well, you are the young lady of Jinying palace. It''s OK to tell you. Please take care of her in the future. This time, please give me more advice. " Jiang Ruan nodded gently, and there was a trace of coldness in his eyes. In the palace.In the imperial garden, the queen is having tea with several beauties. The Yingyan in the courtyard are all graceful and graceful, but they are the queen in the main position. Even if they are in gorgeous clothes, they can''t hide their old appearance. The crown prince is becoming more and more unpopular. Although the emperor did not explicitly give the order to abolish the crown prince, now the crown prince is not as involved as the eighth Prince and the fifth prince, which is enough to change the minds of those who are still waiting. In the past, there were still some neutral people, but now they secretly took refuge in the "85" faction and the "85" faction. As for the prince, there are few people left. At least the people in the court know that the future Prince of the great Jin Dynasty is not the prince. Now it depends on which of the eight princes and the five princes is more capable. One of the people sitting next to the queen was Wang lian''er, and the other was Jiang Dan. Wang lian''er is dressed in pink silk and gauze, which makes her fair skin look like goat''s milk. She looks beautiful, but there is a kind of tenderness and elegance that can enter the bone marrow, and a faint smell of books. The young lady of the Hanlin family is a talented woman worthy of the name. Now the jieyujiaohua around the emperor is very popular. Jiang Dan is dressed in a green dress. As far as her appearance is concerned, she is not as good as Wang lian''er. She is not as gentle and generous as Wang lian''er, but she has a fresh and lively feeling. Compared with Wang lian''er, Jiang Dan is quite comfortable in the palace now, and even the queen can''t get rid of her. She has a kind of innocence in her actions. She is not good at the servants in the palace, and she won''t take the initiative to compete for favor. So compared with Wang lian''er, the whole palace loved her. Now she often follows the emperor and occasionally says something to make him laugh, which the emperor also attaches great importance to. Mu Xirou didn''t come today. She was always arrogant and indifferent, and never disdained to associate with the imperial concubine. The virtuous imperial concubine is even more. Since the defeat of imperial concubine Chen and imperial concubine Shu, she has been in the palace all day. It was because the fight between the fifth Prince and the eighth prince became more and more fierce that she had to retreat bravely and not be arrogant. The rest are some new beauties of lower rank, some of whom are lively and beautiful, but now only three of them are most favored. The Queen''s face was pale and tired, and said, "it''s getting colder and colder." It''s really getting colder and colder. At the beginning of winter, the daily limelight is bigger. Wang lian''er said with a smile, "exactly. But it''s still warm in the capital. It''s said that there are paper snowflakes in Tianjin. I think it should be very cold. " The queen took a look at Wang lian''er. Wang lian''er''s words revealed that the emperor should be very fond of her. Otherwise, how could he even tell Wang lian''er about the border affairs. Even though she was indifferent to the color, she said, "it''s really hard for the soldiers to be cold outside." "What the empress said," Jiang Dan said with a smile, "is that the mountains and rivers of the great Jin Dynasty depend on these soldiers. Your majesty is blessed. There will be a victory in Tianjin. When the soldiers return, there will be boundless scenery. However, when I think of the hard work of the officers and soldiers, I feel very ashamed of my concubine''s extravagance. My concubine is willing to donate some silver jewelry for some food and materials, and transport them to the border with me. I will do my best. " Hearing Jiang Dan''s words, the queen was a little surprised. Then she looked at her with admiration. As the mother of a country, the queen always hopes that the grand Jin Dynasty will be prosperous no matter what she thinks about the court. Naturally, I also hope that the battle of the state of Jin on the same day can be played well. But we all know that this is not an easy thing. Now that there is a shortage of food and grass, Jiang Dan takes the initiative to donate some materials. This is really not easy. As a beauty in the palace, Jiang Dan naturally can''t donate much. But once it''s spread, the beauties in the palace follow suit one after another, and the important officials in the imperial court follow suit one after another. All in all, it''s a lot of material. What''s more, Jiang Dan instinctively mentioned it in front of the emperor, but he mentioned it in front of the queen, which showed that she didn''t want to compete for favor. In this way, the queen was more relieved. So the Queen''s expression to Jiang Dan was more gentle: "it''s rare that you have a heart. I will mention it to your majesty." Naturally, this is to praise Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan laughed: "thank you, madam. I can''t do anything. I can only do something." The beauties around her turn to Jiang Dan with jealousy or admiration. Wang lian''er''s face changes a little. After a moment, she returns to normal and smiles as if nothing happened. After the empress told the crowd to disperse, Jiang Dan went back to his courtyard. Wan''er, the maid beside him, sent a letter and whispered: "girl, a letter has come." Jiang Dan went back to the room and asked the maids to go down before he opened the letter. When he saw the contents of the letter, he was stunned at first, and then read it at a glance. After putting down the letter, he thought for a long time and suddenly began to laugh slowly. The logistics troops set out about three days later. Because Jiang Dan offered to donate materials, the beauties in the palace were unwilling to give away their jewelry. Even the women''s family members in the palace knew so much that they could not escape the custom as ministers. The whole court paid out a sum of money more or less, which together was a large sum. Nowadays, the war consumes a lot of money from the state treasury, as well as grain and grass. This is a temporary delay in the urgent need for the scarcity of grain and grass. The emperor Longxin was very happy, but he was more and more fond of Jiang Dan.Zhang Ji is busy raising food and grass and planning routes every day. This war of the same day in the state of Jin should not be underestimated, and everything should be safe. When it was time for the third Japan to leave, a message came out of the palace, that is, Zhang Ji, the leader of the logistics force, abused his power and withheld all the general''s salaries, which was more than half of the total. The news came out inexplicably, but it shocked all the people. If the matter of withholding military pay is confirmed, ten heads are not enough for Zhang Jijian. But this matter is not trivial, the emperor immediately ordered to send someone to stop Zhang Ji, quickly recruit Zhang Ji back to Beijing. At that time, Zhang Jizheng was just out of the city with his army and the food and provisions. Unexpectedly, on the way, he was taken down by the emperor''s guards. This matter immediately spread to the whole government and the public, and almost everyone was in danger. In a short time, the emperor summoned his courtiers to investigate their views on this matter. Xuan Li straightened his collar, and his expression was as leisurely as ever, even like a spring breeze. Jiang Chao bowed his head to one side and asked respectfully, "Your Highness, everything has been done. Enough news has been sent out to attract people. Once this matter comes out, it can not only make your highness more confident in your highness, but also suppress your highness five." "It''s just the beginning," Xuanli said. Although he was in a happy mood, he didn''t show a complacent look. No matter what time he was, he kept calm and forbearance. "Your Highness is wise," Jiang Chaodao suddenly seemed to think of something. He looked at Xuanli and said, "it''s thanks to Jiang Meiren''s news this time. It seems that this cooperation is good, and it''s much more convenient to have her in the future." The news is spread by Jiang Dan. There are many women in the harem, so it''s easy to gossip. In addition, there is another force behind everyone. It seems that the harem is more complicated and easier to use than the previous dynasty. As long as you give a little guidance, you can naturally achieve the desired effect. Jiang Dan is smart, helpless and clean. No one will doubt her. Jiang Chao sighed: "my subordinates thought she was timid, but now they don''t think so. Your Highness has the foresight to expect that she will cooperate with us. " Xuanli shook his head: "don''t underestimate women. Women are very cunning. As long as they know how to use their body and beauty, they can easily do many things that men can''t do. Jiang Dan is not a coward. Her ambition is higher than the sky. As for her willingness to cooperate with us, she agreed so readily. On the one hand, she understood that we had to rely on our strength in the palace. On the other hand, "Xuan Li''s eyes darkened:" she has a grudge against Jiang Ruan. " "Revenge?" Jiang Chao was puzzled: "she never did anything to Jiang Ruan in the mansion. It was Jiang Ruan''s mother who raised her at the beginning. Where is the feud? " Xuan Li sneered, but did not answer. There are some things that Jiang Chao may not know, but he may not be able to find out. How did Zhao Mei die? Xia Yan was careful when he entered the mansion, but he used Jiang Dan''s hand. Xuanli was surprised when he got the news. After all, Jiang Dan was just a child, but he didn''t hesitate to attack his own mother. However, it can be seen from this that Jiang Dan was cruel and easy to disguise when he was very young. It would be a pity if such an excellent chess piece could not be used by him. I''m afraid that Jiang Dan doesn''t have hatred. If Jiang Dan poisons Zhao Mei, he may not be a big help in the future. But we have to think carefully about where this should be used. Jiang Chao is brave but not resourceful. He doesn''t intend to tell Jiang Chao about it first. When Jiang Chao met the emperor, all the civil and military officials were divided into two groups. One group insisted that Zhang Ji had exacted his military pay, while the other firmly believed that Zhang Ji had been wronged. Everyone knows that Zhang Ming, the eldest son of Zhang Ji, was once a close friend with Xuanli, so when Xuanli came in, everyone''s eyes turned to Xuanli. Either filled with righteous indignation or gloating, when he arrived at Xuanli, he was only resisted by a gentle expression, as if nothing important in the world could shake his composure. Xuanhua looks at Xuanli coldly, with a sneer on his lips. It happened that a courtier was bowing himself to argue: "Your Majesty, there is no one in Zhang Jimu. Just for his own greed, he ignored the life and death of tens of thousands of officers and men, and even forgot the favor of the great Jin Dynasty. It''s a terrible crime indeed!" "What Wang Xiang said is not true. Lord Zhang has been in charge of the logistics force for many years. How could he make such mistakes? He must have been provoked by someone with a heart. I don''t believe it." Another minister said. "Provocation? Mr. Zhang has been an official for so many years. If he can be provoked by anyone, he just listens to some slander. " Another voice said with some deep meaning: "it''s said that Mr. Zhang''s three sons are getting bigger now..." In the words, the spearhead is aimed at Xuanli intentionally or unintentionally. It''s strange to say this. Indeed, Zhang Ji has a good reputation and money now. If someone really promised him something that would make him make such a big mistake, the promise would be very rich. What is the most desirable promise in the world? Nature is the promise of the emperor. And the relationship between Zhang Ji''s son and Xuan Li makes people have to think about whether there is anything fishy in it. The emperor looked down at all the courtiers, but it was just a matter of Zhang Ji. The faction of the court was so clear that he didn''t know that he was no longer the emperor in the world. Is he really old? If he had made any mistake, he would not hesitate. Without waiting for his order, the master would be changed immediately!Li Gonggong noticed the emperor''s face and sighed. The competition among the princes became more and more fierce. He could not even hide it. But who knows the emperor''s mind, but that man Ah, there is another doubt in Li Gonggong''s heart. Why is Zhang Ji''s case so abnormal today? Generally speaking, before the matter is settled, these courtiers should sit and watch the development of the situation. They should not be so anxious to express their opinions. Instead, they should wait until Zhang Ji''s criminal evidence is proved to be true or wronged before they start to speak one after another. It''s so strange today. Naturally, they don''t know that the reason why these courtiers expressed their attitude early is that they have been prompted for a long time. Everyone thinks that the information they get is accurate. Today''s argument is just because they are sure that the side they stand on will be good. Xuan Hua''s face flashed a little complacency, Xuan Li saw it in his eyes, only to find it funny. Xuanhua was too anxious. For so many years, Xuanhua was safe and sound in the palace with the guidance of the virtuous imperial concubine, and even reached the present position. However, his impatient temperament did not change at all. If as usual, this will certainly give rise to the emperor''s mind. But since ancient times, the emperor was suspicious. Now, the more unfavorable the situation is to Xuanli, the emperor will trust Xuanli more. Naturally, if something really happened to Zhang Jiruo, Xuanli was the first one to doubt who could tempt him. The more inferior Xuanli was, the heavier the public''s criticism was, and the more hesitant the emperor would be. Because Xuanli seems too isolated, people always sympathize with the weak, so does the emperor, which is human nature. But. Xuanli''s eyes also flashed a doubt, whether today''s thing is too smooth. Smooth let his heart also gave birth to a strange feeling, as if it should not be like this. At the beginning, Jiang Dan was asked to release the news, but some of the people who spoke today were not in the plan. To be sure, these people did promote his plan, and even made it more smooth. But it was too smooth, which really made people suspicious. "Lao Ba, what do you think of this?" The emperor finally asked, looking at Xuanli''s eyes like a sharp sword, as if as long as Xuanli said a wrong word, there would be blood splashing on the spot. "Justice lies in the heart of the people," Xuan Li said faintly, "I believe that my father has made a decision in his heart. My children''s ministers believe in my father, and they also believe in my father''s ministers. They will only know when the people who report back will present the investigation results." He had already made clear his position and believed that Zhang Ji was innocent, but he used the words of believing in the emperor''s officials, which was very important. The emperor''s face gradually eased down, and Xuanli''s was more reassuring. Xuanhua saw in the eyes, the lip angle a Yang, but is dying struggle, today, is Xuanli''s death! Just at this time, the chief soldier who was outside to investigate the army''s pay had come back to report. He walked in, knelt down and said, "my Lord, I have been ordered to investigate. There is no shortage of the army''s pay, and all of them are safe." As soon as Xuanhua''s smile froze, he heard Zhang Ji''s angry voice: "Your Majesty, I''m wronged --" < br www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 175 I saw Zhang Ji stagger out of the crowd of guards. His clothes were crumpled and his hair was a little messy in the pushing. Now his face was red, and he seemed to be greatly insulted. As soon as he came in, he knelt down and kowtowed to the Emperor: "Your Majesty, I''m wronged!" Zhang Ji has been an official in the imperial court for so many years, which is quite important. It is rare for him to look so embarrassed. Even the emperor could not beat and scold him easily, otherwise it would cold the hearts of all the courtiers. He said, "Aiqing is flat." Zhang Ji raised his head and didn''t rush to stand up. He just raised his head and looked angrily, as if he was going to faint in the next second. After a while, he said, "I have never done anything disrespectful in my life. Now someone insists on throwing dirty water on me, which has ruined my reputation. My intention is extremely dangerous. Please make your decision for me!" With a long sigh, the emperor turned his eyes to Xuanhua. Xuanhua opened his mouth slightly. It seemed that he had not yet recovered from the sudden change. Suddenly aware of the emperor''s eyes, he raised his head. Suddenly, he was shocked by the ice in the eyes of the emperor. He stood in the same place like falling into the ice cellar and did not dare to move. Zhang Ji was proved to be innocent, and there was no shortage of military pay at all. Naturally, someone wanted to wrongly Zhang Ji. Zhang Ji has been an official all his life. He has a heavy weight in the court. If he is a bit of a brain, he will not attack him. Then, he is going to attack the people behind him again. If Zhang Ji is framed, Xuanli is the first one to be suspected. Now, the fifth Prince Xuanhua is the one who sees Xuanli as a thorn in the eye. Those courtiers who had just fallen into the well did not dare to say a word. The Xuanhua faction were silent. No one could understand what had happened. The news they got was that Zhang Ji would be investigated and punished for stealing military pay today. But now Zhang Ji is safe and sound. The news must be wrong. How dare they go to the edge of the knife. Xuanli''s courtiers, however, put on airs to watch good plays, and could not hide their arrogance. Xuanli sighed and gently comforted him: "Mr. Zhang, you don''t have to be sad. He has been an official for so many years, and his character is just and comfortable. His father will make the decision for you." Zhang Jifen said: "if it''s just insulting the old minister, it''s all right. But it''s clear that the movement is to delay the journey of the logistics troops. If the military pay is not sent to the border one day, the soldiers will suffer another day. This. It''s clearly a bad intention. I want to embarrass the soldiers of Dajin dynasty! " I was shocked when I said this. Even the emperor sitting on the nine dragon chair suddenly burst out a cold color in his eyes. Xuanhua yelled in his heart. It was the undercurrent between the princes, but he taught the old man a word about the border war. Everyone knows that the war between Dajin Dynasty and Tianjin state is the least mentioned. Although it seems that the great Jin Dynasty has won many victories because of the arrival of the royal guards, the danger in it can not be attributed to the external humanity. This is a knife hanging on the palace of huatuan brocade cluster in Dajin Dynasty. No one can touch it. Now Zhang Ji puts it in front of the public, and it also leads to the bloodstain on the knife. Since ancient times, the emperor was suspicious. What would the emperor think? I''m afraid I''ll think that I''m in the mood of harming the country, and then I''ll guess that there''s even the possibility of cooperating with the enemy! Without sufficient evidence, the case can not be convicted. The news is so strange that even Xuanhua can''t determine the source of the news. The emperor can''t find the messenger. He must be even more suspicious. He thinks that Xuanhua''s ability is so great that even he can''t control it. This is not a good sign for the emperor. "Ai Qing, there is something strange in this matter. Don''t worry, I will give you an explanation." The emperor said deeply, and the chill in his words surprised everyone present. No matter how clear the emperor is, his inherent authority is inviolable. Now that the people behind him are playing with him like monkeys, they will be caught out. What''s the good end? He looked at Zhang Ji, who was kneeling on the ground with tears in his eyes, and comforted him: "I still need you, and so do the soldiers of the great Jin Dynasty. I''m sure that person will pay the price for this. It''s just that the border is tight now, so I have to go to Aiqing for the future. Now it''s too late. I''ll leave tomorrow instead. Aiqing will go back to her house today and have a good rest. I''ll make a decision later. " This is to appease Zhang Ji and seriously pursue the matter. Xuanhua felt more and more bad when he heard it, but if he spoke at the moment, he would undoubtedly add fuel to the fire. He had to swallow all the resentment in silence, but his face was so ugly that he almost walked away. Now that the emperor has put down his airs, Zhang Ji has no reason to take Qiao. He thanks the emperor for his kindness, and the great war of military pay gradually subsides. Zhang Ji will naturally receive the compensation from the palace when he returns to the palace. It is not very pleasant for a generation of old ministers to be stigmatized. On the surface, it seems that Zhang Ji was wronged, but in fact, it was not painful. On the contrary, it made the emperor trust him more. At the end of the play, Xuanhua was the only loser. The Emperor didn''t blame Xuanhua at the moment, but today''s every move fell into the eyes of the emperor. He would think and look at it in his heart. Sometimes, it doesn''t need full evidence and assurance to achieve a certain goal. As long as you bury a seed of doubt in each other''s heart and wait for it to sprout, one day this seed will burst out with great power at a certain opportunity. Today''s event is a seed buried in the emperor''s heart. The emperor doubted Xuanhua. From then on, what Xuanhua did in the eyes of the Emperor may not have no other mind. He lost the opportunity from the beginning.Today''s loser is Xuanhua, and the biggest winner is Xuanli. He didn''t do anything, even didn''t appear, but he easily won the emperor''s sympathy and trust, and paved the way for his next plan. When he passed Xuanhua slowly, he gave a smile and looked at Xuanhua''s gloomy eyes, as if with a trace of indifference. Xuanhua clenched his fist tightly to control that no one hit him. Behind Xuan Li, there was a smiling look at him, which came from the crowd of officials and did not attract special attention. It was a young man in a purple official uniform, with a small beard and meaningful eyes. When he took back his eyes, he was surprised to find that there was a man standing not far away from him watching Xuanli quietly. He was not mature yet, but a young child with beautiful and beautiful eyes. He was like a good glazed stone, but his eyes were cold and deep, and he was a little familiar. The child seemed to feel his eyes, turned around, gave him a cold stare, turned around, and the little eunuch on one side rushed to meet him: "Your Highness 13, go slowly..." Qi Feng was slightly stunned, then shook his head and left. When Zhang Ji returned to the palace, it was not surprising that the emperor''s edict came next. He rewarded some gold and silver rights as consolation. After comforting all the people in the house, it was dark. Zhang Ji went back to his study, lit the oil lamp, took out a box from under the desk and gave it to the person standing opposite. Obviously, the man had been waiting in his study for a long time. Seeing Zhang Ji''s action, he laughed with satisfaction: "Mr. Zhang''s action is really quick. I''m going to reply to your highness. In the future, when your highness achieves the great cause, he will surely write down the first-class merit to Mr. Zhang. " Zhang Ji said with a smile: "Mr. Jiang has a great reputation. Now I''m a man who will fall into the Loess with half my foot. What''s the glory and wealth. It is the hero of young master Jiang who is a legend of the great Jin Dynasty The people in the study are not others, but Jiang Chao. At the moment, he and Zhang Ji have reached a certain consensus when they praise each other. However, this alliance is based on the fact that the interests come together and the sincerity and falsehood are distinguished. Zhang Ji secretly scolds the boy opposite for his vicious mind, and is more willing to be Xuanli''s dog. He shyly asks for food from Xuanli''s hands. But Jiang Chao also secretly despises Zhang Ji''s indifferent attitude. It''s not all for power. However, no matter what is in my heart, I always smile on my face. Looking at the small box handed over to Jiang Chao, Zhang Ji said with a smile: "this is the key to the warehouse for storing military salaries. There are 800 cars in total. Mr. Jiang has to do things more cleanly to save money." "Naturally," Jiang Chao also said with a smile, "this is an important part of your Highness''s great cause. How can something go wrong. Thank you for your key today. I''d like to wish you a pleasant journey tomorrow. " Zhang Ji also gave him a smile: "chenggongzi Jiyan." After they had talked, Jiang Chao left from the back door of Zhang''s house. It was the third night of the night. The capital was dark, and there was no star in the sky. Maybe it was raining, even the moon was missing, and dark clouds were hanging in the sky. It was a night when I couldn''t see my fingers. Jiang Chao rode all the way to the back of a huge courtyard warehouse in the east of the city. He saw that the warehouse was extremely high. It was half the height of the city wall, and all the army''s pay was in it. All the people outside had arrived. Jiang Chao threw the key to the person standing in front of him. He opened the door of the warehouse with the key as if he had received a uniform instruction. Then the people waiting around moved together and put down the things on the other side''s car. One side carried things in from the warehouse, and the other side carried things out from the warehouse. This is the line is to steal the beam and exchange the pillar. Jiang Chao watched with pride until a man came to his side and said, "everything can be done?" Jiang Chao looked back and saw that Xia Jun was standing in the deep night, only holding a small torch. His eyes were red by the light of the fire, which was a bit strange. He looked a meal, said: "complete management, even around the people in the way to kill a clean." Xia Jun nodded, looking at the tall warehouse in and out of the people, the face did not show too much joy. Jiang Chao noticed his expression and said strangely, "cousin, what are you worried about?" Xia Jun shook his head, and his eyes flashed a strange color: "I don''t know why, there is always a feeling of uneasiness..." It all happened so well. Whether it''s a play in Jinluan palace directed and performed by Zhang Ji or stealing a beam and changing a pillar in the warehouse at the moment, everything happens too naturally and smoothly. A pair of upward eyes suddenly appear in his mind. The eyebrows are slightly bent, looking at it is smiling, and the deep irony in his eyes. Xia Jun heart a surprised, just feel like a basin of cold water, pocket head down, immediately down a breath of cool air. After a while, he said to Jiang Chao, "what''s the change in Jiang Ruan?" "She stayed in King Jinying''s palace all day, and she never went in," Jiang Chao said with a cold smile. "Cousin, you don''t have to worry too much. She didn''t come out at all. How can you know our plan? It''s hard to predict it?" Xia Jun Mou Guang moved: "yes, she can''t foretell." A person who lives in the palace, originally the news is slower than others, all the sources of information have to come from outside. It is impossible for Jiang Ruan to know what they want to do first. Tomorrow morning, the army''s salary will be transported to the border with the logistics troops thousands of miles away. But this is not the other. It''s too late for Jiang Ruan to find out something wrong.For example, how can Jiang Ruan know and how can she stop them? She can''t know their plans unless she''s not human, she can foretell. Xia Jun slowly calmed down, then slowly said: "go on, while the day is not bright..." Before dawn, everything was submerged in the night, and Jiang Ruan was doomed to lose in the battle. It''s an unchangeable truth to succeed in defeat. That night, the lights in King Jinying''s residence and Xiao Shao''s study were still on. From the outside, it was as bright and warm as a bunch of fireworks in the dark night. As if pushing the door open, you can see the indifferent and introverted young man in black sitting in front of the desk. At the moment, there is a person sitting in front of the desk, but it is curly and graceful, and the girl is just growing up. The fragrance of tea is curling, and the steaming mist is passing through the desk. Under the light, there is a small beautiful flower. What is more beautiful than the mist flower is the girl''s face. It is clear that it is a long white dress with a deep purple Cape. It is more and more matched with the face carved from such good white jade. It seems that every stroke of facial features is carefully carved by heaven, and every part is just right When it comes to the good, beauty comes naturally. There is a kind of gorgeous charm in her heart. Every move of this beauty is a kind of amorous feelings, but a pair of rising eyes are cold and gorgeous. The beauty is like a mandala in the moonlight, cool and enchanting. Jiang Ruan looked at the young man in purple. Rao Shiqi Feng was obsessed with court politics all his life, and he couldn''t help being slightly distracted by the beauty of the world. There are beauties in the world. It''s rare to be beautiful and smart. If the appearance is good, it''s a skin bag. Then the wisdom of the girl infuses vivid soul into the beautiful skin bag, making it vivid and unique. Jiang Ruan smile: "today, thanks to the master Qi." From the beginning to the end, Xuan Li and Zhang Ji did not want to stop the play. Since Qi Feng was playing with the imperial court, he naturally had another identity in the court. This identity is not impressive, neither too high nor too small, but it is the most subtle existence. If you want to do something in the court, it is also the easiest to hide your identity. Qi Feng, just as Jiang Ruan ordered, pushed the boat in Zhang Jichang''s play to make it more smooth. It''s just In addition to his secret arrangement, it seems that there is another force involved in it. So today, Zhang Ji''s performance is perfect. In fact, there is another person who contributes to it. He just doesn''t know what the purpose of that person is and who does it. Qi Feng''s mind suddenly flashed over the beautiful child''s face in today''s hall. His eyes sank slightly, and he turned to say: "they have already started." He raised the letter in his hand, and his eyes were far-reaching: "if he hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, it would be hard to think that Xuanli should be so desperate." Jiang Ruan took a sip of the white tea in front of him and said, "tonight, they''ve changed all the military pay in the warehouse into moldy rice and supplies, and they''ve reduced it by half. In addition to the most outside, the inside are filled with grass wadding. With Zhang Jichang''s good play on the court hall today, there will be no more accidents tomorrow. When the military salaries are safely transported out of the capital, the mountains and rivers will be high from now on. When the logistics troops leave, it is the soldiers at the border who will suffer. Without military pay and food, sooner or later they will run out of ammunition and food. When the whole army is destroyed, where will someone come to investigate Zhang Ji''s responsibility? Even if there are those who miss the net, they can find a way to kill them one by one. It''s a good deal indeed. " Qi Feng took a breath and said, "Xuanli, as the prince of the Dajin Dynasty, is crazy that he ignores the lives of tens of thousands of Frontier officers and soldiers for his own sake and regards the territory of the Dajin Dynasty as a child''s play." Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile: "Oh? Do you really think so? " When Qi Feng was seen by those eyes, he immediately felt that his mind had no place to hide. He always had a delicate mind, but he didn''t know why there was always a sense of frustration in front of a girl younger than him, so he scratched his head awkwardly and said with a smile: "sister-in-law, I have something to ask you. What do you want Jin Er to do with the royal guards?" Before Xiao Shao left, he handed over all the royal guards in the capital to jinyijinli, and jinyijiner was all under Jiang Ruan''s command, which is equivalent to that Xiao Shao handed over all the royal guards in the capital to Jiang Ruan. For Qi Feng, this is a very inconceivable thing. First, although the royal guards are dark guards, they are all elites and talents among the people. However, excellent people are always arrogant. It is not easy for them to submit to Jiang Ruan willingly. As the leader of the royal guards, Jinyi and Jiner are also very difficult. But when they heard Jiang Ruan''s order, they went out without saying a word. They could see the position of Jiang Ruan in their hearts. Second, Xiao Shao was not a person who could easily trust others. In his early years, he was used to going alone, but he gave his hidden power to Jiang Ruan. It was obvious that Jiang Ruan was different in his mind. Jiang Ruan suddenly laughed: "Mr. Qi, you are smart and wise. Why do you have to play a riddle in front of me now? You know why Xuanli wants to exchange the military pay in the warehouse. " Qi Feng was stunned and looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at her quietly. In the firelight, her smile was gentle and quiet, but her eyes were distant and deep. It was as if she was looking at the future decades through the firelight. There was a clear insight into the world in her eyes, just like a spectator who had seen the whole play and started from scratch - just an outsider who looked coldly at it It''s too late. No matter how the actors struggle, she will always be out of the world, sober and cruel to watch everything happen.He shook his head slowly and said with a bitter smile, "third sister-in-law, you are so smart that people feel terrible. Yes, I know why. I knew a long time ago about the collusion between Xuanli and Tianjin. The intelligence of the royal guards is the best in the world. There is nothing we don''t know. " Apart from your secrets, he added in his heart. "Yes, since Tianjin colludes with Xuanli, Xuanli always wants to express something. In other words, in this war, he must guarantee that Tianjin will win. Such a large sum of military pay is just a hot potato in his hand. Xuanli can''t leave these things in the capital, he can only find a way to transport them out. And there is only one way to make the most of these military salaries and use them safely. " Jiang Ruan light way. "Send it to the state of Tianjin, and pay for it." Qi Feng took her words. It''s so easy to talk to smart people. Jiang Ruan laughed: "yes, but Xuanli''s method may not be good in my eyes." "It seems simple on the surface, but in fact it costs a lot. Because it is too dangerous, no one thought of it. Xuanli was a hero who did the opposite. What''s more, if you want to find a way to deliver it, you must have a perfect solution. I don''t understand. What''s your explanation for saying that it may not be good? " Qi Fengdao. He did not believe how Jiang Ruan, a girl in the boudoir, could compare with Xuanli, a schemer. Even if she can guess people''s minds, the imperial court''s affairs, not just the people''s minds, can achieve the goal. "No matter what you do, you can''t leave a handle to others," said Jiang Ruan with a slightly cool eye. "Xuanli left this batch of military salaries, which is why I have a chance to break this situation. If I had stood in his position, I would never have left this batch of military pay. Once the things were changed out, they would be burned clean and there would be no trace left. " Qi Feng stared at her: "a fire?" He couldn''t see any banter from Jiang Ruan''s eyes. She was telling the truth. If she and Xuan Li exchanged positions today, she would really burn the whole batch of grain and grass. God, how could she be so bold? What did she grow up on? Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "didn''t you ask me what they did? What I tell you now is that they went to set fire, and that everything was good, but that they were slightly less than the others. But this fire was not the one that he has the final say. Qi Feng was cold in his heart and asked, "what kind of fire should I set?" "Don''t you understand?" Jiang Ruan''s gentle smile: "I want them to knock out their teeth and swallow blood this time. They have suffered a great loss, but they can''t say a word." Under the arrangement, all the grain and grass in the warehouse has been transferred to the place where it should be transferred. At this moment, someone in the warehouse in the east courtyard of the city closed the door of the warehouse and handed the key to Jiang Chao. The door of the warehouse was restored to its former appearance, as if it had never been opened. These things were restored to an excellent position. Everything looked no different from the day. Xia Jun stood beside Jiang Chao. He didn''t know why, but the uneasiness in his heart floated again, as if there were some subtle emotions to break the ground. Jiang Chao looked at the scene with satisfaction and said with a smile: "now that everything has been done, if you go back to your highness and make a job, you must have made a great contribution." As soon as this event is completed, Xuanli''s great cause in the world will be half successful. Some of the achievements in the world will be attributed to him. In the future, Xuanli will surely prosper and have an immeasurable future. It''s not in vain that he has put so much effort into it. "My Lord, it''s over now. Do you want to go back first?" Bodyguard way. Before the word "Da Dao" came out, I heard a sound of "Dong". Something fell from the sky and hit the top of the warehouse. It rolled down along the sloping top of the warehouse and rolled in front of the people. The guards were all startled. They protected Jiang Chao and stepped back. When they saw that the thing didn''t respond, they picked up the torch and bravely went forward to investigate. The bodyguard suddenly sat down on the ground in fright, and the torch fell down. Shaking his lips, he said: "my lord My lord... " Jiang Chao was surprised to see that his appearance was different. When he came forward, he was startled. The man on the ground was no other than Zhang Ji, the leader of the logistics force. At the moment, his whole body was hard, and there was a bloodstain in his throat. His eyes were wide open, and he was obviously dead. Jiang Chao was separated from him for only two hours. When he didn''t want to see him again, Zhang Ji had become a corpse, and he was shocked. Before he could react, he heard a few whizzing sounds, and some dark shadows flashed naturally. No one saw how the door of the warehouse was opened, and no one saw how Mars was led to it. I just saw that Mars touched with hay and then went up like a line of fire without any other provocation. But in a moment, the whole warehouse was enveloped in a sea of fire. The whole street was almost illuminated by the roaring fire, which was as bright as day. The fire was like blood, with an air of unknown. No one expected such an accident. Jiang Chao and Xia Jun were in a daze. The men in black came and went without a trace, and disappeared immediately. Xia Jun heart move, is about to give a voice to order the retreat, then heard I do not know which one yelled: "water, bad, warehouse water!" Then, the sound of horses'' hoofs came from the distance of the long street, accompanied by the firelight reflected by the neat torches. A voice called out: "bold madman, how dare you burn the army''s pay, take it to me!"I''m not going to make it either, Emma. That''s the end of the story www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 176 Xia Jun is surprised. He says something in his heart. Before he can speak, he hears that some of his men have already shown their swords. He shouts, "put down your swords!" But the man, as if he had not heard him, chopped himself up. It''s like a signal that people around you light up their swords and join the team. The crowd was in chaos. For a moment, only the voices of soldiers and soldiers were heard. Seeing this, the officer sitting on the horse was so surprised and angry that he cried out, "listen to me, take down these arsonists. If you have any resistance, put them to death on the spot!" This words a, Jiang Chao bring people is panic unceasingly, regardless of Xia Jun''s stop, more and more struggle to resist. It''s just that so many people are supposed to act at night, and they can''t match the imperial guards. In less than a few minutes, the men and horses brought by Jiang Chao had already been subdued, and the ground was in a mess. The fire in the granary is unstoppable. At this moment, people are constantly raising water to fight the fire, which is just like a drop in the bucket. It doesn''t help at all. We can only watch the fire engulf the whole granary and turn the hundred vehicles and military salaries into ashes. This fire has been burning for a whole night. The people in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty are sleeping soundly. They don''t know how many secret surges have taken place. No one knows how the granary caught fire. Until the next morning, the peddler went to open the shop. At first sight, he saw that there was a lot of smoke in the granary. The original cars and horses were in a mess, and there was a lot of ashes inside. Obviously, there was no good food. Jiang Chao, the second son of Jiang''s family, and Xia Jun, the second young master of Xia''s family, burned the army''s pay in the granary at night, and it spread all over the capital on the first day. When Jiang Quan heard the news in the mansion, he almost turned the tea cup upside down with a shake of his hand and stared at his new wife Xia Yue in disbelief: "what did you say?" Xia Yue looks at Jiang Quan timidly. She is just a daughter of a distant cousin of Xia Fu. She originally had her own childhood sweetheart. But in order to win over Jiang Fu and prevent the relationship between Jiang Fu and Xia Fu from breaking down after Xia Yan''s death, Xia Yue''s family married her. Xia Yue is only seventeen or eighteen years old, just like Hua. It''s natural to resent that she can be her father when she marries Jiang Quan. It''s not long since he married. Xia Yue is even more resentful. However, he has to bow his head under the eaves. On the surface, Jiang Quan looks gentle, but it''s frightening to start a fire. She said: "master, it''s true. It''s spread outside." She said so firmly that even if Jiang Quan didn''t want to believe it, he said angrily, "this bastard! We must destroy the Jiang family! " "Don''t be angry, master." Xia Yue looked down on Jiang Quan in her heart. She only knew how to blame the heaven and others for the accident. She concealed her disdain in her eyes and said: "it''s said that the Marquis has entered the palace. It''s not a small matter. It''s a big crime to burn the military pay in the granary. Now all the 100000 soldiers at the border are waiting for the food emergency. But the second young master makes such a move at the moment, which inevitably makes people suspicious. " Jiang Quan was shocked. He was dizzy just now. He was only concerned about Jiang Chao''s audacity. But now he really felt a sense of fear. It''s true that 100000 soldiers are still waiting at the border for emergency pay, but Jiang Chao and Xia Jun burned the granary last night. In the middle of the night, if it''s intentional, no one will believe it. If it''s intentional, why should the legitimate son of the official family make such a move. For example, today''s war between the state of Jin and the great Jin Dynasty is one of the most sensitive places of the emperor''s nerves. When Jiang Chao made a mistake at this time, he didn''t force the emperor to think about it, thinking about Jiang Chao''s collusion with the enemy and treason. Otherwise, why would you rather destroy the granary than make the soldiers of the Jin Dynasty run out of ammunition! Jiang Quan was restless. He felt a cold sweat sliding down his neck to his back. The emperor''s suspicion was a knife hanging on the head of Jiang''s house. But now he has only one son. He can''t help it. He suddenly asked Xia Yue, "why does Marquis Xia want to enter the palace?" Although Xia Cheng has only one grandson, Xia Jun, he should not enter the palace so quickly. Before everything is clear, Xia Cheng can''t act rashly. Now in a hurry, something important must have happened. Xia Yue took a look at Jiang Quan and said in a low voice: "it is said that yesterday, when Xia Er young master appeared, he also brought Xia''s private army. Those soldiers fought with the city''s garrison adults. His Majesty was very angry when he heard that he sent Xia Er young master and Xia er young master into the prison." When Jiang Quan heard this, he almost fainted. It''s no big deal for the high ranking officials in the capital to raise some private troops in each mansion. This private army is no different from the guards in the mansion, and the number is not very large. The emperor also acquiesced. However, the charges of arson by two people and arson by private army are quite different. If arson is only by one person, it is Xia Jun and Jiang Chao''s own idea. But once there is a private army, it is a major event involving the whole government. In particular, the private army fought with the city garrison. Was it not shouting at the emperor''s feet? What would the emperor think? Must be that they have already had the anti heart! Jiang Quan seized Xia Yue: "you can hear clearly, only Xia Fu''s private army has nothing to do with Jiang''s family?" Xia Yue''s heart was even more scornful. At this time, Jiang Quan thought only of himself, for fear that he would be involved in Jiang''s house, which was selfish enough. But when I think about it, the relationship between Xia Fu and Jiang Fu was originally maintained by marriage. After Xia Yan died, he added himself to the family. He was only together for the sake of interests. What kind of family relationship is there?"There is no private army of the Chiang family. Please rest assured, master." Although she thought so, Xia Yue still said with a smile, but immediately frowned: "but master, do you want to go into the palace to talk about love for the second young master? It''s not a small thing. " Jiang Quan sat in the same place, his face changing. If he had been in the past, he would have tried to save Jiang Chao without saying a word. But now the Chiang family is not as good as before, and their reputation in the capital is already bad. The emperor has a lot of complaints about the Chiang family. This time, Jiang Chao made such a big mess. It''s too big for him to leave. What''s more worrying is the emperor''s attitude. If he goes into the palace to intercede with Jiang Chao at the moment, will the emperor think that Jiang''s family is also involved in this matter. Originally, I just suspected that the Xia family had a rebellious heart, which would involve the Jiang family. What can I do? "No," thought for a long time, Jiang Quancai determined: "now is not a good time, you repair a letter for me, send it to King Jinying''s house, and say that you want Jiang Ruan to go back to the house quickly. If her second brother has such a big problem, she will try to save her second brother''s life." Xia Yue had heard Jiang Ruan''s deeds before she came to Jiang''s house. She was actually very pleased about Jiang Ruan''s rectification of Xia''s family and Jiang''s power. Now listening to what Jiang Quan said, there is a trace of disdain in his heart. Why should Jiang Quan say such a high sounding thing? He did not dare to show up, but taught his daughter to show up. Jiang Ruan and Jiang Chao did not agree. Jiang Quan knew very well how Jiang Ruan was willing to help Jiang Chao get rid of the crime. He did not know whether Jiang Quan was so confused because he was too anxious. The darkest cell in the cell, two cells closely adjacent to each other, separated by a thick iron fence. The weak fire light not only did not bring a ray of light to the already gloomy cell, but also made it more strange. On both sides of the iron fence, two people were sitting against the wall. One was dejected and wailed, while the other had cold eyes and a face heavy enough to drip water. Looking at Xia Jun, Jiang Chao could not hide his anxiety: "cousin, what should we do now?" "What else can I do?" Xia Jun sneered, "I''m a butcher, I''m a fish." Seeing Xia Jun''s painless appearance, Jiang Chao was even more anxious and said, "how can things become like this? What''s wrong with us? Hell, how could the city guard come at this time? " Xia Jun lowered his head and his eyes flashed. From last night to now, he felt that everything was too smooth, which made people suspicious. It can''t be said that Jiang Ruan didn''t stop him. Now he finally understood where the inexplicable premonition came from. It was only because she had never lost as long as it was related to Jiang Ruan since she calculated Jiang Ruan three years ago. She won''t lose, how can they win so easily? All this is just her calculation. "We''re in the game." After a long time, Xia Juncai said slowly: "this is a game set for us from the beginning. The other side always knows what we are going to do. It''s just a push. Now it''s time to close the net." Jiang Chao looked at him in surprise, his brain more confused: "cousin, what do you mean?" "The fire in the granary last night was very strange. It was clear that someone deliberately set fire and led the charge to you and me. At that time, when the city garrison led the troops, I clearly gave an order not to let the private army fight impulsively, but someone took the initiative to fight against each other. Now I think it''s really suspicious. It''s clear that someone is mixing in and deliberately disturbing the water. " The man mingled in the private army, provoked the conflict between the private army of Xia family and the soldiers led by the city garrison, and got the reputation of being a traitor and a troublemaker. The charge of arson, together with the charge of committing a crime, is really a heinous crime, which can be called treason. "But How do they know about our plan to steal food and grass? " Jiang Chao was surprised that there was a mantis catching cicadas and a yellow sparrow behind him. But there were only five people who knew about the plan. Where did the news come from. "It''s very strange, isn''t it? I also think it''s very strange. It''s not like knowing the news that we''re going to set fire. On the contrary, it''s like knowing what we''re going to do at the beginning, and even pushing it. Now think about it, the play that Zhang Ji sang that day in the court hall was too perfect. I think at that time, we had already been trapped by others, and we didn''t know it. " Xia jundao. Jiang Chao shook his head: "cousin, what you said is really incredible. If what you said is true, who is that person? Who has such great ability? " "Who?" Xia Jun in front of the emergence of a charming and gorgeous face, the rising eyes slightly bent, it seems to laugh at their ingenuity. Is that her? Although too incredible, but Xia Jun has a kind of intuition, this matter must have something to do with her. There are no prophets in the world, but why and how did she know about their plans? It''s as if I''ve got all their thoughts figured out. It''s terrible. She even let Zhao Yi on duty avoid last night''s search. Last night, she caught another old official on guard in their city. Dajin Dynasty is famous for its selflessness. If Zhao Yi, maybe the emperor would suspect that it was because of the festival between Zhao family and Xia family that Zhao Yi did so. But if he changed the old official, he almost completely abandoned this possibility. Jiang Ruan even thought of this, they have no chance to turn over."Do you know where the most terrible place is?" Xia Jun sneered and said, "we burned our food in the middle of the night. If we were not careful, we would be charged with treason. The grain and grass were used to relieve the urgent need of the frontier. Now all the fire has been burnt out. We can''t make it up. There''s only one way "What can I do?" Jiang Chao asked in a hurry. "Wait." Xia Jun said: "wait for the eighth prince to find a reason to replace all the grain and grass, and tell the emperor that we are burning moldy grain, not military pay, and this matter will be solved." "That''s good." Jiang Chao was relieved: "the eighth Prince still needs you and me. The Jiang family and the Xia family can''t lose them. Naturally, they won''t sit back and ignore us." "I hope so." Xia Jun looks at his hand, but In his heart, he said secretly, has Jiang Ruan really only achieved this? That woman''s hand is cruel and merciless. If all this is really dominated by her, how can she pick it up and fall down? Just to make them suffer? Xia Jun heart that faint uneasiness again came out, he held the fist, no longer speak. In the eighth Prince''s house, the staff retreated quietly and did not dare to say a word. It was a safe thing to do, but somehow there was trouble at this point, especially being caught. The garrison of that city is famous for its uprightness. There is almost no chance to complain. Moldy old grain can not be transported to the border, this part is lost, equivalent to lose all. Xuanli''s face is very ugly at the moment. Rao is one of his subordinates. Every place has it. However, he still doesn''t know how the city garrison suddenly led his troops. What''s more, I don''t understand what''s wrong with this plan, which will make people exploit the loopholes. Now the development of things beyond his expectations, even do not know how to pocket the net. "Your Highness, do you want to find a way to save Xia Jun and Jiang Chao?" The aide said, "the Xia family is still involved. If you sit back and ignore it, your majesty will punish the Xia family heavily. Now the Xia family is still useful to your highness and can''t be discarded easily." It is a fact that Xia''s private army is caught on the spot. If the development goes on, the emperor will even have the Xia family in one pot. Now that his great career has not been completed, he still needs to rely on the strength of the Xia family. How can he easily discard this most important chess piece? If the Xia family is damaged by this, it will not only chill the ministers who follow him, but also make him lose most of his strength. Xia family, we can''t help it. Seeing that Xuanli didn''t say anything, the staff continued: "now we have to find a way to transport the original military pay back, and ask for a way to say that Xia Jun and Jiang Chao are burning old grain to protect the military pay. As long as things are round and clean, it''s not impossible. " Xuanli was surprised. He seemed to realize something. His eyes sank and he said, "No." The staff looked at him in surprise. Xuanli sneered: "if I really do this, I''ll be in other people''s favor. You can say that Xia Jun''s purpose is to protect military pay. Others may not be able to say that Xia Jun wants to exchange military pay to enrich his own pocket. I think the person behind him may have other evidence when I try to explain it to my father, and then he will be charged with Xia Jun''s changing military pay. At that time, my father would be very angry, and even I would blame him. Besides... " He thought of something, but he didn''t finish. Then the staff was worried and asked, "Your Highness is doing this, but is he going to ignore the life and death of Xia Jun and Xia''s family?" "Abandon the army and protect the commander." Xuanli''s face was a trace of Cruelty: "now I have no way." Jiang Ruan put down his Lanhao and his beautiful hairpin and small seal script. The young man in purple sitting opposite him finally couldn''t help asking, "if Xuan Li wants to save him? The Xia family can''t hurt anything. They still hold a grudge against you. It''s just such a result. " He has always been used to calculating everyone with power. Now, for the first time, he is at the mercy of others. He doesn''t even know every part of the plan. He just does what Jiang Ruan tells him to do, but he is still at a loss as to what she wants to do. "They and I have long been enemies. Is it unnecessary to talk about hatred?" Jiang Ruan took no time to lift up the Xuan paper, hung it in a small range, and said, "why should Xuan Li save him?" "The fall of the Xia family is not good for Xuanli. His great cause depends on the support of the Xia family. If the Xia family is injured this time, it''s like breaking his right arm. How can he be reconciled?" Jiang Ruan looked at Qi Feng and suddenly said with a smile, "well, Mr. Qi, how about I make a bet with you?" "What bet?" Qi Feng was slightly stunned by her actions. "On gambling, Xuanli will not rescue the Xia family." Jiang Ruan Dao. "How?" Qi Feng was surprised. "If he lost the Xia family, what he lost was just a right arm. If he saved the Xia family, he might end his career." Jiang Ruan said lightly: "Xuanli is suspicious. When he has such an opportunity to save the Xia family, he will be hesitant. He thinks that we have dug a hole in the back to invite the emperor into the urn. The more hesitant he is, the more afraid he is to make a decision easily." "But that''s just suspicion. He won''t even dare to try." Although Qi Feng was surprised by Jiang Ruan''s familiarity with Xuanli''s mind, he still insisted on Tao."Of course he didn''t dare." Jiang Ruan suddenly laughed and turned to look at Qi Feng. His eyes were beautiful and full of deep meaning: "do you know where the 800 wagons are now?" It''s a digression. - the power will be cut off in case of heavy rain. I didn''t save the manuscript yesterday, but it''s only temporarily coded this morning. The time has been postponed. As long as there is no power cut, I will send it at 8 o''clock ~ all the time www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 177 Qi Feng shook his head when she asked. Now the royal guards even forget what he said and follow Jiang Ruan wholeheartedly. For example, last night, Jiang Ruan let Jin Er Tiao dark Wei mix with Xia Jun''s men and horses, and stir up the conflict between them and the officials, but he didn''t know in advance. If Qi Feng had known earlier that Jiang Ruan had this plan, he would have stopped it. He was used to complete consideration. Although Jiang Ruan''s plan was linked one by one, he took too many risks. Even Qi Feng''s boldness in coming up with this idea made him feel shocked afterwards. Now she asked where the 800 wagons were, and Qi Feng was even more confused. To tell the truth, he also doubted that the salary of 800 vehicles was not a small amount. Xuanli could not transport them out of the capital so soon. As for other places, the capital was so big. If he really wanted to find out, it would be sooner or later. Would Xuanli be so stupid to stay in his hands? "Eight hundred wagons are not a small amount," Jiang Ruan said lightly. "Xuanli dug a secret road in the capital long ago. The secret road led to a few hundred miles outside the capital. There was a post station arranged by Xuanli himself to help him transport all his materials to other places. If I''m not wrong, they are in the secret road right now. " Qi Feng suddenly stood up, hard to cover the surprise in the eyes: "what do you say?" He knew about the post station outside Xuanli city. The royal guards found this place a few years ago, but the secret road was unheard of. What Jiang Ruan said was so decisive that Qi Feng was immediately surprised. He stared at Jiang Ruan tightly: "what you said is true?" "If you don''t believe it, you can ask someone you trust to look it up." Jiang Ruan Dao. "How do you know that?" Qi Feng asked reluctantly, "what''s the relationship between you and Xuanli? If there is a secret Road, why hasn''t there been a trace of it for so many years? No matter how well Xuanli''s cover up is, it''s impossible not to show a trace. " "There''s no trace. That''s because he never used this secret passage." Compared with Qi Feng''s nervousness, Jiang Ruan was completely calm, even leisurely. Her smile was light, but every word she said hit Qi Feng''s heart like a heavy hammer. She said: "the secret road existed many years ago, but it was originally a mine road left by the rich merchants in Beijing. After knowing about it, Xuanli expanded the secret road beyond the capital. He had never used this secret road before, and it was something to be prepared for a rainy day. I''m just waiting for it to come in handy one day, but now I''m using it ahead of time. " Jiang Ruan looked at Qi Feng with a smile: "as for what you said, why do I know about it? I''m sorry I can''t tell you, but you can rest assured, Mr. Qi. Now that I''m in Jinying palace, I''ll protect Jinying palace one day. I won''t do anything to hurt it. Since I''m on the same side with your master, why do you worry? " Qi Feng is shocked by Jiang Ruan''s words. She has already got a thorough understanding of Xuanli. Her understanding of Xuanli is even higher than that of the royal guards. This really makes people doubt her identity. But now it seems that Jiang Ruan is more like a blood feud against Xuanli. He suddenly has a feeling that as long as Jiang Ruan is there for a day, she will try her best to stop Xuanli''s great cause. Xuanli''s great cause will never succeed. This woman''s mind is graceful and exquisite, and her means are appalling. Her appearance is bright and charming, but her heart is desolate. It seems that nothing can enter her eyes, and nothing can make her show her face. The whole body is full of a sense of mystery, but people can''t help but be attracted by her. Jiang Ruan didn''t notice Qi Feng''s eyes, but his thoughts floated to the distance. In the last life, Xuanli''s Secret road was not used so early. At that time, it was the late period of seizing the throne, the prince had died, the fifth prince was in prison, and the great cause of the world was just around the corner. He used this secret road to deliver information to the outside of the palace. This secret road is the most valuable bargaining chip. People who are used to preparing for a rainy day always have to leave a way for themselves. This is his trump card. At that time, Xuanli was angry with Jiang Ruan for the first time. Only when she apologized and repeatedly said that she would not tell anyone about it, Xuanli forgave her. But later he gave her two more maidservants. At the beginning, she thought that Xuanli was considerate and affectionate. Now she thinks that the two maidservants are just Xuanli''s spies. Xuanli is very suspicious. He doesn''t allow anyone to know his trump card. It''s merciful that he didn''t kill Jiang Ruan. But now I think of the past, I always feel that every scene is ironic. Qi Feng is sensitive to the change of Jiang Ruan''s eyes, which seems to contain the irony and self loathing of something, and has a profound coolness. After calming down, he asked, "I see. No one thought that he would hide his salary in the secret passage." "That''s right," said Jiang Ruan, slowly lowering his head. "He wants to protect this secret Road, so he will never help the Xia family. Once it is exposed that what is burned is old grain, and the military pay is still there, then his secret can not be kept. Once the secret road is exposed, the emperor will know his rebellious heart. Therefore, he does not dare to gamble. He will not save himself. If he wants to protect himself, he will sacrifice the Xia family. " Qi Feng suddenly realized. Now everyone in the capital is staring at the issue of grain and grass. If Xuan Li tries to tell the emperor that it''s just a misunderstanding that Xia Jun and Jiang Chao are burning old grain, where are the military salaries? With so many eyes staring at him, it''s impossible to bring back the general''s salary intact. Once Xuanli''s Secret road was exposed, the emperor realized that he was rebellious, so he would exert a great deal of pressure. Therefore, Xuanli''s road of great cause would come to an end.If he can''t help, or even avoid suspicion and protect the secret of the secret Road, he is doomed to sacrifice the Xia family, whose strength is just what he needs. In this way, Xuanli''s efforts over the past few years at least disappeared. Qi Feng wants to laugh. Jiang Ruan''s move is too cruel. It''s hard for him to leave. He has to gouge out a piece of raw meat. I''m afraid it''s time to be angry. "What should we do now? Find a way to inform your majesty of the secret way of Xuanli? " Qi Feng asked. "If you tell me now, Xuanli will have a hundred ways to prove that the secret road has nothing to do with him. Besides, if your majesty finds out after you tell me, you will inevitably be involved in Jinying palace. The position of King Jinying''s residence in the court is already awkward. It is harmful but not beneficial to be involved in this matter. " Jiang Ruan said: "the most important thing is" "what should we do?" Qi Feng saw that she doubtlessly denied the proposal, and knew that she must have other ideas in her heart. She asked, "third sister-in-law has a good idea?" "I said that this time, I want them to knock out their teeth and swallow blood. They have suffered a huge loss and dare not say it." A trace of anger flashed in her eyes: "Xiao Shao still needs the 800 wagons of military pay. I also want to thank Xuan Li for bringing them out intact. I want this batch of military pay!" "You..." Qi Feng looked at her in surprise. For a long time, he suddenly burst out laughing. He was very happy and said: "sister-in-law, you are so cheerful, bold and have a better idea. If this happens, if I leave, I will be angry and bedridden. You are really - tall!" Jiang Ruan was noncommittal. Just then, Dewdrop pushed the door and came in. Seeing that Qi Feng was also there, he saluted and came forward to deliver a letter. He whispered: "girl, I''ve got a letter from my master." Jiang Ruan took the letter and didn''t care about Qi Feng''s presence. He took out the letter and read it in a short time. After reading it, he was not in any mood. He handed the letter to Lu Zhu: "take it out and burn it." Dewdrop according to speech go out, Qi Feng looked at her: "three sister-in-law but what happened?" "Nothing, but my father thinks that my second brother is in prison, and my sister should do her best to save her." Her words are ironic. Qi Feng listened, but felt harsh, and could not help saying: "what''s the reason? As a father, even if he wants to deal with Jiang Chao, it should not be you. You are a boudoir woman. How do you get involved in this? Is Jiang Quan crazy? " "He''s just a little naive." Jiang Ruan sneered: "save him? I just want to look at him step by step and never look back. He has lived long enough. This time, I want his life. " In Nanhua garden, the emperor waved his hand, and the eunuchs who were about to make a sound were silent. Duke Li drove them all out. The emperor stepped into the door and saw the young man practicing calligraphy in the room. It is said that teenagers are a little early. He looks more like a child. He looks very delicate. It seems that every time I see him, he is more stable and introverted than before. When the emperor walked in a little, he saw that the child''s white rice paper said: a man of lust is like a torch. If he goes against the wind, he will burn his hands. His handwriting is excellent. He is as delicate as others, and he can''t see the edge at all. However, it doesn''t mean that this young man is as harmless as his handwriting. As a matter of fact, everyone has a temper. When he was young, he looked at people by his words, but in his handwriting, he couldn''t see his heart clearly. The emperor looked around and remembered that Duke Li had told him that xuanpei lived in the most remote hall in the palace, which was not even comparable to the residence of a seven grade official. Later, he vacated the Nanhua garden where the fourth prince lived to xuanpei. The fourth prince was also favored at the beginning, but for the accident later, I don''t know what the situation would be now. The emperor''s action immediately aroused the court''s conjecture. With a little insight, he began to inquire about the thirteen halls, which did not show mountains and water, and seemed to have no support. Although with the emperor''s favor, xuanpei didn''t have a strong mother''s family, so people didn''t think much of him in the palace. Even so, now that Nanhua garden is well-organized and well arranged, we know that xuanpei is a man with means and ideas. When the emperor looked at the child he didn''t value, a complex feeling suddenly rose in his heart. Xuanpei seemed to feel his arrival. Looking back, he was slightly surprised and then saluted: "my son has seen my father." "No gift." The emperor waved his hand: "I come to see you." His brow can''t hide his tiredness. When something happened in the capital, Jiang Chao and Xia Jun set fire to the granary, which almost angered people all over the world. What''s more, Xia''s family despised the imperial power, and Xia''s private army even dared to attack the army led by the city garrison. It''s really a great courage. Xia Cheng originally begged for help and was sent to prison together with him. Although his behavior seems reckless, Xia''s family has already made the world angry. It''s hard to calm the world''s resentment if they are not arrested. What''s more, this country is still the country of his Xuan family after all. When will the people of Xia family give advice? As an emperor, people all over the world must know that it is as easy for him to crush a Xia family as it is to crush an ant. The Xia family has been in the dark for so many years. He doesn''t know it. He just doesn''t want to break the balance. Now it seems that some things can''t be tolerated. Since the Xia family has taken the initiative to break the skin, they should spare no effort to suppress them.The emperor was not worried about how to deal with a Xia family, but how to pay for the army. The war had already strained the Treasury. It was not long since the last time grain was collected from the common people. Now it''s time to do it again, and how to pacify the common people. Thinking of this, the emperor slowly frowned again. Seeing this, Xuan Pei thought, "my father is worried about the granary?" The emperor suddenly looked at Xuan Pei. The son''s intuition was sometimes too sharp, especially now that he was only * years old, how could he feel like facing an adult man? Slowly, he said, "thirteen, what do you think of this?" "The Xia family is disrespectful to the imperial court. If they make mistakes, they will be punished by their father." Xuan Pei gently avoided this topic and said, "my son thinks that the most urgent task is not to deal with the Xia family and punish the criminals, but the food problem of the frontier officers and soldiers." If you doubt that he and the Xia family have any ideas before, xuanpei''s words are enough to dispel people''s doubts. Instead of mentioning the crime of governing the Xia family, he talked about military pay. Where you are and what interests you consider will naturally pay attention to that aspect. Xuanhua, for example, when he learned about the incident, all he said was about the crimes of the Xia family, without thinking about the tension of the war. However, Xuan Pei was able to put aside his own interests. Perhaps it was because he was still young, or he was really careless. The emperor''s eyes softened and his tone softened. It seemed that he was really the father of an ordinary family who wanted to test his son''s lessons. He said: "yes, the military pay at the border has been reduced to ashes, but the soldiers have to eat food. What do you think?" "In order to protect their father''s country, the officers and soldiers of the great Jin Dynasty shed their blood, but they were fooled by their own people. The Xia family sorry them, but the royal family can''t, otherwise who will work for their father and who will protect the country in the future?" Xuan Pei''s tone was still childish, but his eyes were quiet: "but now he frequently collects grain again, regardless of the life and death of the common people, regardless of public opinion, and it will cause civil unrest. But the Treasury can''t get the money for a while, so we have to start from other aspects. " Xuanpei raised his head and looked at the emperor. His eyes were beautiful. At the moment, he thought of some good idea. His eyes were bright, and the people who looked at them were about to melt. He was like a child who offered treasure and said with a smile: "my son thought that my father could copy Xia Fu. After all these years in the great Jin Dynasty, Xia Fu must have accumulated a lot of money. It''s no harm to take all the money out of Xia Fu, find a rich merchant to buy grain, buy a batch of army pay and transport it. As for the Xia family, who had been an official for many years, his father and emperor could forgive them for their death and banish them. On the one hand, it gives them a chance to atone for their sins, and on the other hand, it shows the Royal kindness. What do you think of my father? " The emperor was silent for a long time, but he covered his eyes with a trace of deep meaning. Xuanpei''s method, which he had thought about, was that he couldn''t make up his mind for a while. Now Xuan Pei''s words made him make up his mind. It''s just He looks at Xuan Pei, who looks at him hopefully, as if he is a good son waiting for his father''s praise. He slowly reached out and touched xuanpei''s head. Xuanpei''s body was stiff, and he didn''t seem to be used to such intimate contact, but he stood still. The emperor sighed and said, "what you said is very good. I think it''s a good idea." The Xia family has too much influence in the court. If they do it all at once, it will cause unnecessary trouble. Xuanpei''s method is very advisable. It can show the Royal benevolence, and don''t scare the rest of the party for a while. It also gives the Xia family a feeling that they don''t have to press too hard. The Xia government has accumulated a lot of money over the years, so naturally it can raise a sum of military salaries. The emperor was surprised at Xuan Pei''s political acumen at his young age. Although his method was not perfect, with some loopholes, the general direction was right. It''s really good for a child. He said something to Xuan Pei before he left in a hurry. After the emperor left, Xuan Pei stretched out and looked at the words on the table for a long time. Then he ordered the little eunuch on one side to take out the Xuan paper and throw it away. He sat down in his chair, playing with the Paperweight in his hand and smiling. Xia family It''s over. The burning of granary caused an uproar in the capital. However, before the courtiers discussed the reason, the emperor''s will came suddenly. First, Zhao Yi, the eldest grandson of the Zhao family, was sent to take charge of Xia''s house. All the money of Xia''s house was put into the national treasury to prepare grain and pay again. There were 183 people in Xiafu, all in exile. Like Xia Jun, Jiang Chao was exiled to a desolate place in the northwest. For such a big mistake, although the emperor''s will was carried out vigorously, it didn''t kill the Xia family. At least in the eyes of the people, the royal family was merciful. But the courtiers smelled something meaningful from the emperor''s action. For a moment, they did not dare to act rashly. Jiang Ruan was drinking tea in the room when he heard the news. He was stunned and whispered to himself, "how can it be so fast?" As soon as his voice fell, he saw Qi Feng coming in from outside in a hurry. Recently, in order to deal with the Xia family, he often came here to discuss with Jiang Ruan. Today, however, he looks a little serious, with some pleasure in his seriousness. "Third sister-in-law, it''s done," he said"It''s hard for you this time." Jiang Ruan smile: "with your help, things will be so smooth." "I was about to tell you about it." Qi Feng, however, said in a low voice. He looked around and shook his head: "I haven''t come yet. It''s not me who blows the air in front of the emperor. My people haven''t started to plan yet. There''s someone else who urges the emperor to issue an imperial edict." Jiang Ruan frowned: "who is it?" "Thirteen, your highness." Qi Feng was also very strange: "I heard that the emperor went to the side hall of his thirteen highness to sit for a while that day. After he came out, he went to the imperial study to draw up a plan. I think he must have heard something from his thirteen highness before he made this decision." Jiang Ruan''s teacup trembled and a big drop of tea splashed out. Qi Feng was startled by her actions and said, "what''s the matter, third sister-in-law?" How could xuanpei suddenly do such a thing? Today, according to the previous life, he is just a child who doesn''t understand anything. But since I saw him in the Palace last time, I felt a little strange. Now she can even control the emperor''s actions. She has been deliberately ignoring the news of xuanpei to avoid causing trouble to xuanpei. Now it''s very strange to think about it. It seems that unconsciously, she missed something very important. A bold guess comes to her mind, isn''t it Xuanpei can almost telepathic with her, even this time such a natural push boat, quietly gave the Xia family a fatal blow, if for that reason, everything is not impossible. Qi Feng looked at her carefully and did not let go of every look on her face. But after a moment, Jiang Ruan raised his head and said with a smile, "no matter what, we have achieved our goal." Qi Feng was very sorry that he didn''t find out Jiang Ruan''s thoughts, but he also knew that the girl in front of him was never happy and angry, so he was relieved and said, "yes, I think the Xia family is doomed this time." The forsythia that sits at one side mends smells speech to pour is strange way: "girl, what meaning is this words?"? Your majesty didn''t convict the Xia family of death. It''s obviously cheap for them. " When she heard the news, forsythia was still very angry. In her opinion, the Xia family wanted to change the military pay to frame the royal guards. It was a terrible crime. Ten deaths were not enough. "We don''t do it because we don''t leave any traces," Qi Feng explained with a smile. "Don''t worry. We don''t have to do it at all. Naturally, someone wants the lives of the Xia family." The Xia family has been an official in the imperial court for so many years. Of course, they are fully involved, but they also have a lot of feuds. For example, the people of the fifth Prince hate them so much. How to reach the northwest desolate place safely has become a difficult problem. They are confident that within three days, Xia''s family will die suddenly. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 178 In fact, they didn''t wait until the third day, but at noon the next day, the soldiers who were in charge of escorting the exiled prisoners sent a message by flying pigeons. It was the three generations of the Xia family and Jiang Chao who committed suicide in exile. The truth of this statement is unknown, but since the corpse is still there, no one cares whether it is true or not. A generation of princes and princes have fallen and come to such an end, but the common people are all clapping their hands and cheering. It''s a great crime for a man who has lost his salary. Who knows what kind of heart he is? When Qi Feng came back from delivering the news, he saw that Jiang Ruan just gave a faint reply and said, "third sister-in-law, why do you look so casual? Are you not afraid that they have been saved? " "Cunning rabbit dead running dog cooking," Jiang Ruan Hun does not care about sorting out the account book in front of her. Since she entered the house, housekeeper Lin really regarded her as the master mother of Jinying palace, and all the power in the house was handed over to Jiang Ruan. Even if she refused, the keys to the account books and the storeroom were still in her hands. She didn''t want to deal with these things, but it was Xiao Shao''s palace. It''s not good to let go of it like this. She had one more task every day. She said: "the Xia family has been Xuanli''s sword in the imperial court for so many years, and there are many enemies. Since Xuanli has been regarded as an abandoned son by the Xia family, it is impossible for him to make any move. He was killed in exile, but it''s not bad to find a name to commit suicide at will. It''s just a pity that the liberation is so fast. " "You''re wrong this time." Qi Feng said with a smile: "it''s not the enemy of Xia family." "Xuanli has started," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "he has a lot of courage." "How do you know?" Qi Feng was stunned. "Xuanli wanted to protect the secret road. He didn''t dare to let the secret of the secret road out. Naturally, he had to sacrifice the Xia family and Jiang Chao. But the Xia family and Jiang Chao have been working under Xuanli for so many years, and they know what Xuanli wants to do. Naturally, there are some. Xuanli wants to kill people. How can he allow the Xia family to live? " Jiang Ruan said: "I think the Xia family thought that they had been exiled. The result was Xuanli''s intention. They thought that one day they would make a comeback. They were so obedient. They didn''t resist, but they sent themselves to a dead end." Qi Feng touched his nose and said, "you can''t miss ten." He said: "the royal guards they sent are staring at. When the Xia family and Jiang Chao know that Xuanli sent someone to kill them, their faces changed. It''s a pity that they are too late to regret. Third sister-in-law, I''ve asked people to change the heads of Xia Jun and Jiang Chao back. "He looked at Jiang Ruan''s face and said," what do you want to do with third sister-in-law? " Hearing Qi Feng''s words, Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised. She didn''t expect Qi Feng to do so. As a matter of fact, Xiao Shao''s younger martial brothers have the same habit of protecting their weaknesses as Xiao Shao. Guan Lianghan and Mo Cong have a lot of complaints about Jiang Ruan, but Qi Feng has been really blessed with Jiang Ruan these days. He is a very intelligent person. He always appreciates people who are as smart as himself. In his eyes, Jiang Ruan is so smart that he really admires him. Since he regards Jiang Ruan as his own, Qi Feng secretly inquires about Xia Jun''s and Jiang Chao''s past affairs with Jiang Ruan. He is indignant at Jiang Ruan''s experience, and then he understands why Jiang Ruan should suppress them in this way. He didn''t feel that there was anything wrong with what Jiang Ruan had done. Instead, he appreciated her frugal nature. Naturally, he wanted to take a bad breath for Jiang Ruan. If Jiang Ruan wanted to do something, he would help him. Qi Feng imagined that Jiang Chao and Xia Jun had a good time with Jiang Ruan. Now, Jiang Ruan must be sorry that he didn''t kill his enemy himself. Maybe bringing the head back in this way can compensate her a little. Don''t want to Jiang Ruan surprised after light way: "it doesn''t matter, how do you want to do it?" "Don''t you hate them?" See Jiang Ruan so cold, Qi Feng a Zheng, uncertain asked. "People are dead. I''ve achieved my goal. It''s just a waste of time to spend more time on it." Jiang Ruan Dao. Qi Feng thought about it and said, "well, I''ll burn these two heads clean. I don''t want to let them go to earth." This man always looks calm and wise. It''s rare to meet such childish words. Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing and raised his lips slightly. Her usual smile is always with some cold, does not reach the fundus of the eye, such a light smile, eyes slightly bent, up the end of the eye slightly down pressure, it is a different bright color. Qi Feng couldn''t help but be stunned. He seemed to be touched by something in his heart. Then he quickly lowered his head and dodged: "in this case, I''ve done something. Third sister-in-law, I still have some things to go first." Then he left in a hurry. Although Jiang Ruan was a little strange that he left suddenly, he would not waste his mind on it. Now the Xia family has collapsed, but I don''t know what Xuanli thought at the moment? She smiles a little, but a little joy floats in her heart: Xuanli, just wait, wait to see your great cause of family and country, slowly, slowly destroyed in my hands. In the eighth Prince''s mansion, Xuanli''s face was dejected for the first time. The teacup in front of him had already been poured out. It was obvious that the master''s family had just been angry. "Your Highness, calm down." Seeing that the master was like this, a group of staff at the bottom came forward one after another and said, "although the Xia family has collapsed, it''s not all lost. In the end, the fifth Prince hasn''t made much noise. Don''t hurt your highness with anger. Don''t leave the Castle Peak without firewood.""What do you know?" Xuan Li''s face was as deep as water: "a Xia family, our palace is not so depressed. Our palace is angry that after so long, we haven''t found out the people behind us, a bunch of rubbish!" He spoke in a hurry with a gasp in his voice. The staff looked at each other, and they did not dare to speak out. Xuanli himself sent people to kill the Xia family and his son, but also in order to avoid future trouble. Such a move is tantamount to breaking his own arm. Although he said that the Xia family was not important, many things Xuanli had to do through the hands of the Xia government for so many years. It''s a good Dao that is easy to use and used to. It''s disgusting for him to have to change a Dao temporarily when he sees that the great cause of seizing the emperor is close at hand. What''s more, the emperor seized all the wealth of the Xia family, which means that he didn''t have any silver he could get from the Xia family every year. From then on, where did the money come from? What''s more disturbing is that this time everything was planned to be perfect, but I don''t know what went wrong in the middle. On the surface, it seems that Xia Jun and Jiang Chao are not doing things well, but Xuanli knows in his heart that there must be other reasons for the sudden arrival of the garrison in that city, but he doesn''t know what the reason is, and he has also inquired about it, but it''s a pity That official is an iron wood, how can''t pry open, perhaps also really is what all don''t know. There must be someone behind the control of this matter. Xuanli shudders at the thought that this person is so cunning and has been inviting the emperor into the urn. All the time, he kept a gentle attitude. Even if he did cruel things, he always went step by step. But I don''t know when to do anything will encounter obstacles, xuanlang''s death, Heyi''s death, summer''s fall, Chen Guifei''s loss. I don''t know when to start, his advantages are all gone. It''s like an invisible hand pushing all this, as if it was aimed at him alone. He is in the light, but others are in the dark. It seems that they regard him as a prey and lure him into the trap step by step. Xuanli has always been patient and scheming. For the first time, he felt anxious. A series of things were like a huge stone, which disturbed his calm heart. Xuanli''s most intelligent staff at the bottom looked at him with some worry. Xuanli has been more stable than others. Now his heart is in a mess, which is taboo. Once you are upset, you are prone to make mistakes. If someone really manipulates all this, he will never let go of Xuanli''s mistakes Xuanli''s face showed a little irritability. He had sent a lot of people to check, but nothing could be found out. How much power did the people behind hide so deeply? Originally, he and Xuanhua had the chance to seize the throne. I don''t know when, but the emperor attached great importance to xuanpei. At first, he thought xuanpei was humble and had no support from his mother''s family. No matter what, he was not qualified to compete with him for the position of crown prince. Now he thinks otherwise. The emperor''s intimacy to xuanpei is the same as that of his beloved fourth prince. He even gave him the crown prince Liu Min, which is not a good sign. Seeing Xuanli''s changeable look, the staff became more and more gloomy and quickly comforted him: "don''t worry too much, your highness. No matter how powerful the man is, at least we still have the 800 wagons and military salaries. As long as you have the salaries, your highness will not lose." What''s the salary? Xuanli calmed down slowly, and his depression gradually dissipated when he thought of the military pay. That''s right. He''s not a loser yet. He still has the 800 chariots of military pay. As long as he has the military pay, he can get most of the benefits if he sends it to the state of Tianjin. It will take some time for the Xia family''s silver to be used to raise the army''s salary again. He may not be a loser in this war. Although it can''t be said that the royal guards are all caught, they are not sure to win. Nowadays, the military pay is constantly transported to the post station outside Beijing through the secret road. As long as you get to the post station, the 800 wagons'' pay has nothing to do with the royal guards. After calming down, Xuanli was about to call someone to ask about the pay. Then he saw a bodyguard running in. He looked completely flustered. He said in a high voice: "Your Highness, something''s wrong, something''s wrong!" Xuan Li tengdi suddenly stood up from his seat, and his heart beat very fast. He was still staring at the guard: "what''s the matter?" "Military pay, military pay --" the voice of the guard almost cried out: "military pay is gone --" "pa", Xuanli''s teacup suddenly fell to the ground. Different from the scene of the eighth Prince''s house, a certain place is full of joy at the moment. Jin San sat down on the ground, patted the dust on his clothes, and said: "young lady, you are really clever. You can think of all the ways to snatch food. If I were the gentle prince, I would have been hanged by a rope. Even a boudoir woman can''t compare with her. What a hero Jin Si shook his head and said: "what boudoir woman, I don''t think most men in this world can match her. Xuan Li''s choice of the young lady as an opponent is also a bad luck for eight generations. Even the emperor''s mind has been taken into account. I''m afraid you don''t have the courage to have that idea. " When she heard these two people say this, she immediately put on a smile of satisfaction, straightened her chest and said, "that''s natural. My girl is very good. Although she can''t say that everything is in her hands, at least she can do whatever she wants to do. My girl is not only smart, but also beautiful. Who can match her beauty in the capital? Who married my girl? That''s a treasure"Listen to the tone of your talk is with your own so smart like," one side of the brocade two came over, one hand knocked on the head of dew: "but although the young lady is smart and beautiful, but the servant girl around is not so good." Said deliberately looked up and down a dew: "ah, who married you, can be really bad luck." "Dengtuzi -" dewdrop immediately said, "who do you say?" These two people fight noisily, completely disregarding the face of the people around. This is also a secret Road, but it is not Xuanli''s Secret road. Jiang Ruan had told him to send someone to guard the entrance of Xuanli''s Secret road. Once the 800 wagons arrived, he would send someone to stop Xuanli''s people and kill them. What the royal guards do is to kill people, so they are familiar with it. He took advantage of Xuanli''s Secret road to send the general out of the city, but instead of sending it to another post station, he turned to the secret road in the royal guards. Every organization has its own secret rooms. Although Jiang Ruan was not familiar with the royal guards, he knew that there must be such an existence. In fact, there is one place where the general of the royal guards transported his salary to his secret Road, and then sent it to the border by another way, disguised as a merchant. This not only solved the problem of the salary at the border, but also angered Xuanli. With Xuanli''s temperament, he will be furious when he learns that the military pay has disappeared without any reason. This is a strange thing, but Xuanli can''t find it here for a while and a half by the means of the royal guards. In this way, Xuanli would be immersed in this puzzle day by day, and with his suspicious nature, he would doubt that his secret path had been discovered. This is the real killing without blood. Let a person day by day immersed in fear, even if that person''s mind no matter how tough, is also a kind of torture. "I wonder, how did she know Xuanli''s secret way?" Night Maple ponders a way. This secret road has never been used for so many years, and even the royal guards have not been able to find out. Now it is Xuanli''s first time to use it. However, Jiang Ruan seems to have already known it in his heart, and he knows everything in great detail. It''s really strange for the royal guards who originally rely on intelligence. Jin 2 and Jin 3 both looked at the dew. The dew noticed their expressions and stepped back, saying, "what do you think I''m doing? I''m the girl''s maid, but I''m not the roundworm in the girl''s stomach. " After thinking about it, she said: "besides, the girl is now the princess of Jinying palace. She is your master. What can you doubt?" "Yes," Tianzhu also stood up, looked around for a while, then said: "she is also your master, pay attention to your identity." Night Feng Shan''s head down, some doubts in the heart, but also just a short time, now Jiang Ruan has unconsciously accepted so many people. I''m afraid she didn''t find it. Now it''s more and more convenient in the royal guards. In fact, the royal guards under Xiao Shao were not used to participate in the court fight, and they did not do these things for so many years. Now Jiang Ruan asked them to participate in it, but no one objected. This is a spectacle in itself. Thousands of miles away from the border, everything is in an orderly way. It seems that I don''t know what happened in the capital. It''s just that outside the tent, there is a lot of excitement. The burning light of the campfire reflects everyone''s face. A group of soldiers are cheering and enjoying themselves. From time to time, there are beautiful exotic women in cool clothes, singing and dancing. No matter how brave the soldiers of the great Jin Dynasty were, they could not stand the devouring of the desert grassland. The rapid consumption of materials was not enough for everyone. There was no supply. As for the advantage of Tianjin Kingdom, there was no trouble for the soldiers of the Jin Dynasty. What''s more, the news they heard was that the Jin Dynasty''s military pay had been completely burned, and there was no other way to supply food and grass for the time being, which meant that in the future confrontation, the great Jin Dynasty was likely to run out of ammunition and food and lose without fighting. So today these soldiers are here to celebrate. They are singing and drinking. They have a chance to win. They probably don''t know whether the war should continue or not. In the end, the 100000 royal guards will become their captives, just like the people in the big tent now. Yuanchuan, the man in the gray cloak, stood quietly in the distance of the campfire, but his eyes were gloomy. The soldier on one side held up a glass of wine to salute him: "military strategist, thanks to the protection of the military strategist, here''s to you!" Yuanchuan took the wine with a smile and drank it down. The light of the fire outlined his beautiful and mysterious figure, and his chin was beautiful and full of temptation. In a twinkling of an eye, he looked at the soldiers who were singing and laughing. They were all happy, but Why did the news of the great Jin Dynasty break off after the military pay was burned? This is not an ordinary thing. Those people who think they are elegant in the Central Plains love to do treacherous things most. Is it difficult for them to form an alliance that is not as reliable as it seems? Or something happened? Yuanchuan slowly lowered his head. In the tent, the young man looked at the busy girl beside him, frowned slightly and said, "you don''t have to do this. Put it down." "Deputy general Jiang, I''m your servant girl. These are what I should do." Girl jin''er gives him a smile. These days, she seems to play the role of a close maid very well, as long as she doesn''t look at those poor loopholes. There are no servants who can''t even clean up the dishes, don''t know how to arrange the dishes, and even have no sense of rules and etiquette. The sewing and cleaning is a mess. For example, the whole tent is covered with dust."This is the desert. You will only raise the dust like this." Finally, Jiang Xinzhi couldn''t help but stop her. Jin''er was stunned and put down her work. She was a little embarrassed and spat out her tongue: "sorry, deputy general Jiang, I''ll stop now." If it wasn''t for a big scar on her cheek, she would be playful and lovely. No matter how cold Jiang Xinzhi treats her, she can always finish it by herself happily. Although she is always helping her every day, sometimes Jiang Xinzhi thinks she is a little cute when she is busy. Yuanchuan will arrest Jiang Xinzhi for interrogation every three or five times. The process of interrogation is naturally miserable. When he comes back, he is full of scars. Jin''er looks tearful. The look of heartache doesn''t seem to be pretended. Once he comes and goes, Jiang Xinzhi also thinks that jin''er doesn''t look like the other party''s spy. Jin''er saw that he was in a trance, so she brought over the food and said, "today, we are celebrating outside. The food is good. Let''s use some of Jiang''s deputy general." Then he opened the food basket box, and suddenly a smell poured into Jiang Xinzhi''s nose. Inside was a plate of roast beef and a few gray dry cakes. Jin''er blinked: "I went to steal some dry cakes. I asked others for the beef. You have to eat it. " Since jin''er came, Jiang Xinzhi often had more dishes. Naturally, jin''er was kind-hearted. Although she didn''t need it at all, jin''er was very persistent in adding food for him and insisted on watching him eat up her extra snacks. Today''s dry cake seems to be the same. The food prepared for him by the people in southern Xinjiang must not be like this. He was too lazy to worry about it. After eating a few mouthfuls, he said, "why celebrate?" Jin''er was stunned and didn''t turn her head: "who knows, I think they have the chance to win again. Let''s celebrate casually. Deputy general Jiang doesn''t have to pay attention to it. These people will be defeated in the end." Seeing her expression, Jiang Xinzhi was surprised to know that the Jin army had failed again. He felt a little heavy in his heart and couldn''t eat any more. Just looking at the dry cake and thinking. When jin''er saw her words, Jiang Xinzhi was so silent. She was so worried that she said, "don''t think much about it, deputy general Jiang. Don''t give up. This war will be over soon, and you will be saved soon. These people are just clowns. They will be defeated in the end." Her tone was serious and full of hope. Jiang Xinzhi looked at her, and the fire in the tent made a soft pearl halo on her face, even the terrible scar blurred. The girl''s eyes are as bright as spring water, which is inexplicably moving. Jiang Xinzhi quietly looked at her and suddenly whispered, "who are you?" Jin Er is a Leng, looking at him way: "what?" "The food that the people in southern Xinjiang gave me was filled with soft gluten powder. I can''t develop my martial arts. After you came, the weight of ruanjiansan became less, and my martial arts were slowly recovering. You did it on purpose. Who are you One of Jiang Xin stared at her without blinking. He guessed that jin''er was not an ordinary person, but he had no idea who she was. She doesn''t look like an enemy, but she''s one of her own? But it looks strange. "I. I... " Jin''er was oppressed by Jiang Xinzhi''s questioning eyes. Her face turned red and stammered: "I''m sister Ruan''s friend. I''m here to save you. " Do you remember brother Jiang by Daming Lake_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 179 Jiang Xinzhi guessed many ideas, but he didn''t expect that jin''er was Jiang Ruan''s friend. He was stunned and said, "what?" "You don''t remember me?" Jin''er looked at Jiang Xinzhi''s confused appearance. She was a little worried. She looked around at no one. Then she came close and said, "at the beginning, you saved my life on the Palace Banquet. I and I came to repay my kindness. Don''t you remember?" Jiang Xinzhi frowned. At the beginning, he thought the girl was a little familiar, but he didn''t know why. Now when he heard her remind, he suddenly remembered. At the Palace Banquet of empress Yide, the assassin came out to assassinate. It seems that he really saved the two girls. Now I think it''s the same face as the girl in front of me. It''s just. He was surprised: "you are the official miss. How did you get here?" At the beginning, he didn''t notice, and naturally didn''t know the identity of the girl. It must be the official lady who attended the Palace Banquet. How the delicate and tender lady Jiao got into the enemy camp was also a difficult problem from the capital to the border thousands of miles away. How could her parents get along with themselves? "Our family has come to teach us how to repay each other for saving lives." Jin''er said: "since you have saved my life, I should come to repay you anyway. If you are trapped in the enemy camp, I will not even have a chance to repay you. This is a violation of the government''s admonition. Therefore, I came here on my own initiative among the women''s dependents in the reinforcement camp just to avoid violating the organization''s admonition. My parents will support me when they know. " This is totally unreasonable. A daughter''s family is so big that she pays more attention to fame in the official family. I think her parents are half angry, and she can still speak up here. Jiang Xinzhi had a headache and said, "you shouldn''t come here. It''s too dangerous." "Now that I''m here, I''m not afraid of danger." Jin''er''s speed of speaking is very fast, but it is very consistent with her crisp temperament, and said: "if you drive me away now, it''s really dangerous." How did you get into the enemy camp Although she can remember what jin''er said, and she is a friend of Jiang Ruan, Jiang Xinzhi can''t help but doubt her any more. Jin''er said with a smile: "deputy general Jiang, the royal guards brought by Lord Xiao are here. How can they stand by and watch you. Anyway, you are also Xiao''s brother-in-law. If Xiao ignores you, can Ruan make him better? Lord Xiao has sent someone to save you, but... " Jin''er spat out her tongue: "the people under his command are too skillful in martial arts. These people in southern Xinjiang are suspicious. Ordinary women don''t want to go. The brave are not smart, and the smart are afraid of death. I was the only one who was brave and intelligent and volunteered. Lord Xiao sent me. I just want to help. In the end, I have to rely on the people under Lord Xiao to help As she finished, she boasted a few words, which made her more frank and lively. Maybe she was different from the common ladies in the capital, and even dared to tease Xiao Shao with him. Jiang Xinzhi was slightly stunned. Seeing the girl''s generous behavior, he didn''t know which family had such a pleasant temperament. Then he asked, "which lady are you from? How about your father''s name Jin''er was stunned and laughed: "my father is just a little military officer. He is not very impressive. I don''t know vice general Jiang. As for Miss? Just call me jin''er. I''m your servant girl now, not a miss. " After a pause, Jiang Xin said in a low voice, "I didn''t save you in order to ask you to repay me. It''s too risky for you, a girl''s family, to do such a thing. In the future, you should be careful. The people in southern Xinjiang are too cunning. I will protect you with my own way. You should be more careful yourself. If necessary, you don''t have to worry about me. " This is the charge. Jiang Xinzhi''s words show that he believes jin''er''s words and will protect her in the future. The young man''s expression is resolute, and his facial features are naturally refined. However, he has the courage of martial arts practitioners. His actions and words are open and aboveboard, and his serious appearance has a different charm. Jin''er blushed slightly and stepped back: "yes." When they talked like this, it was quiet outside. It was late at night. The soldiers in southern Xinjiang had drunk hard liquor and fell asleep on the ground. It was quiet outside. The whole camp fell into an extreme silence. It seemed very peaceful. Jiang Xinzhi frowned. Martial arts practitioners would have a great feeling about the slightest change, especially at the moment, although he saw nothing, he felt something was wrong. This camp seems to be a little too quiet. I always think that something will happen next. However, he did not open the tent to go out to see - the soldiers with two handles outside still did not leave. Jin''er noticed his look and seemed to feel a little uneasy. She leaned up to Jiang Xinzhi''s ear and said in a low voice, "why is it so quiet? It seems that..." Her voice was so small that Jiang Xinzhi couldn''t hear it clearly, so he turned his head to hear what she was saying. Who knows that when he turned his head, jin''er''s lips rubbed his cheek. Jiang Xinzhi''s body was stiff, jin''er''s face turned red. Jiang Xin was so old that he had never had such close contact with a woman. Perhaps he witnessed the cruel intrigue of his wife and concubine in Jiang''s house and suffered a lot. Except for his only sister, Jiang Xinzhi always kept away from women. As a deputy general in the military camp, he looked forward to a bright future, and later became known as the God of war. No matter who wanted to use his daughter to make a relationship, there were not a few women who came alone to show their love. He is young and handsome, tall and extraordinary, and acts like a gentleman, which is eye-catching. Now so abrupt, Jiang Xin a time some chagrin, but do not know how to make amends to jin''er.Jin''er calms down after a short period of confusion. She can''t see her expression clearly under the dim light. She turns her head and says, "I think it''s a little strange. Is it the people sent by Lord Xiao to save us?" Jiang Xin one Leng, listen to Jin Er again: "now your martial arts recovery several become?" "Seventy percent." Jiang Xinzhi thought about it before answering. "Can you fight two people out there?" Jiner asked. "Yes." "That''s good," jin''er was a little nervous. "You have to be ready. I and I seem to hear the signal outside." "Signal sound?" Jiang Xinzhi is strange. "I asked before I came here. Take wolf howling as a letter. Listen to it -" in the quiet night, if there are several wolf howls, there are many hungry wolves in the grassland, but the soldiers with torches and guns are always at a distance. Now there are a few wolf howls from afar, it doesn''t seem to be a big deal, but jin''er is so determined that there must be some special rhythm. They held their breath in the tent. It was dark outside. There seemed to be a rustle in the dark. The soldiers turned over and continued to sleep. The slightest sound was ignored. Until the rustling sound turned into a crackling sound, which was also mixed with the sound of something collapsing. A hardwood fell down, and "pa" woke up a sleeping soldier. He rubbed his eyes, stood up and walked out of the tent, swearing. He wanted to see where the big noise came from. As soon as Fang got out of the tent, he felt a heat wave coming. The wine suddenly woke up, and he immediately widened his eyes, and saw that a tongue of fire was spreading in the distance, almost shining the whole sky. The night was like day, and the light of fire was reflected in his pupils. The fire became bigger and bigger, almost engulfed his thinking. Until the fire had spread to the nearest tent, he suddenly woke up, gave a scream from his throat, and then called out in a tone changed voice: "get up! Get up! The granary is burning Like a thunder in the night, almost all the people in the tent were awakened. The soldiers rushed out of the tent one after another and were immediately shocked by the sight. But in this wasteland and grassland, water is precious, and water and food are scarce. Such a big fire is of no help at all, but the place where the fire starts is the granary! It was the food and materials of the soldiers in southern Xinjiang. The fire was burning more and more. The soldiers were deeply distressed, and then came a deep fear. The soldiers and horses didn''t move food and grass first. Originally, they were still laughing at the military pay of the great Jin Dynasty, which was burned up in the capital. Now it''s their turn. The soldiers of the great Jin Dynasty had no pay, and they could hold on for a while depending on the former. However, their food was completely burnt, and they couldn''t support much for a day. What''s more, they are in the case of not enough water, to watch the survival of grain and grass into a pile of ashes, how cruel! "What''s the matter? Put out the fire with sand!" Suddenly there was a murmur in the dark. When they looked around, they saw that the man in grey had come out. His voice was deep, obviously full of anger: "be careful to disturb the saint!" "Master! The provisions have been burned A soldier can''t help but flustered: "how can this do?" "Shut up," Yuanchuan said, "all the soldiers go to the front sand dune to scoop sand. Who will make a noise again? Military law will deal with it!" Soldiers immediately silence, Yuanchuan is their leader, Yuanchuan in, it seems that all need not worry. At this moment, with Yuanchuan''s command, people rushed to the nearest sand dune. Yuan Chuan stood with his hands down. His broad robe covered most of his face. He couldn''t see his expression clearly. However, his beautiful red lips didn''t come back as before. Obviously, he was not very happy at this time. Although the words are firm, but Looking at the posture of the firelight, we can see that the grain and grass can not be saved at the moment. We are really powerless. The fingers gathered under the robe slowly bent and clenched into a fist. Yuanchuan stood in the same place, as if something had been forgotten. This fire must have been set by the soldiers of the great Jin Dynasty. It''s not insidious. Originally, they underestimated the royal guards. They haven''t moved these days. Are they waiting for the right time? It''s a good idea to choose such a relaxing time for soldiers in southern Xinjiang. But what is forgotten? Yuanchuan looked in the past and stopped slightly when his eyes crossed a big account. The two soldiers outside the tent were still upright, but their posture was a little stiff. Yuanchuan turned his head, and the two soldiers did not move, as if they were two stones. Yuanchuan was shocked and had a bad heart. Let''s go and see where Jiang Xinzhi is The soldiers were surprised and ran to the tent where Jiang Xinzhi was under house arrest. They found that the two bodyguards at the door had been dead for a long time, but they were supported by a long pole to maintain a standing posture. The tent was already empty. Who else was there. "No, Jiang Xinzhi ran away --" the voice of panic floated over the whole camp in southern Xinjiang. Yuanchuan stood in the distance, pursed his lips tightly, and said: "in such a short time, he can''t escape far, chase me!"When his subordinates are ordered to leave, Yuanchuan looks at the burning granary fire in the distance, and then looks at the empty tent. There is no one in the tent, even the maid is gone. Jiang Xinzhi is a pity for jade. No, it seemed that he thought of something, and his body suddenly froze. Jiang Xinzhi''s daily food was under the soft muscle powder, and how to knock down the guard at the door. Today, he took advantage of the fire to escape. How could he grasp it so accurately and cooperate with it so seamlessly? That maid - that maid! Jiang Xinzhi was not such a trusting person, especially in this camp in southern Xinjiang. He took precautions against everyone. At the beginning, the spy Leng who they sent to Jiang Xinzhi didn''t get useful information from Jiang Xinzhi. Now on the way to escape, Jiang Xinzhi even brought his maidservant. The maidservant must not be so simple. Maybe Xiao Shao sent him to meet Jiang Xinzhi! Yuanchuan''s face is as deep as water, and his heart is already furious. He is conceited and intelligent all his life, and everything is under control, but he didn''t expect to be put together like this. On the one hand, the maidservant didn''t seem to have any excellent martial arts. On the other hand, he thought that the maidservant didn''t have so much courage, but he was fooled by her. Today, Xiao Shao sent people to burn his granary and let Jiang Xinzhi go. This is not a great shame to him. He was more angry than others. In the night, the wind was very strong on the wasteland. The sound of the horse''s hooves was echoing, and the roaring wind lifted the long hair of the horse. Jin''er sits on the horse, Jiang Xinzhi is behind her, his hands around her, pulling the reins, so it seems that she is the whole person in his arms. Too close, the man''s good smell of fresh fragrance near the tip of the nose, jin''er small face slightly red, in order not to let his embarrassment was found by the man behind, she said: "how do they catch up?" Jiang Xinzhi smile, think she is afraid, comfort way: "don''t be afraid, across the liaoshui river is all right, since Xiao Shao sent to meet, naturally ready." Jin''er thought about it, and suddenly laughed: "Lord Xiao is really cruel. He burned a fire when he saved you. The granary can''t be saved. It''s called treating him with his own way. If I''m from southern Xinjiang, I''m very angry now." Jiang Xinzhi couldn''t understand what she said, "treat people with their own way". He was under house arrest in the account, and the news was not very well-informed. At the moment, listening to jin''er''s words, he probably guessed something. Thinking of her performance, she said with a smile: "your martial arts are good, and you have a lot of courage." In fact, jin''er''s martial arts is still far from good. It can only be seen that she has practiced martial arts. But I think it''s also because the people in the government are distressed. A girl''s body is tired after practicing martial arts. Jin''er''s martial arts are all superficial self-defense skills. If you appreciate it, it still lies in her fierce fighting. In the face of those guards who wake up and block the way, she is not afraid. She is not soft hearted. She seems to be a martial arts man who came from a general family. When jin''er heard this, she turned back and said with a smile, "that''s nature, i..." As if aware of something, her words suddenly stopped. Some uneasy looked at Jiang Xinzhi, but found that Jiang Xinzhi looked at her in a daze, stretched out his hand to her face. She was so nervous that she didn''t move. Jiang Xinzhi took a piece of leather off her face and raised her eyebrow and said, "false?" The "Scar" of the burn is being pinched by Jiang Xinzhi at the moment. Jin''er is relieved. Hearing the words, she says with a smile: "nature is fake. If you don''t make some camouflage, it''s not very good. You didn''t recognize me before. Now, do you know me?" As soon as she smiles, she appears to be very frank and frank. She deliberately gets closer and wants to let Jiang Xinzhi have a closer look. She was also holding a small torch in her hand. Her skin was clean and white under the light, and the scar was removed. She was really a beautiful girl. Her facial features were beautiful, and she had a kind of heroic spirit. Every move was very frank. Jiang Xinzhi moved a little in his heart. Don''t look away, and said: "you were just a little girl at the beginning." Now she is a green girl. There is a kind of inexplicable pleasure in his heart. When he saw the scar on jin''er''s face before, he thought it was jin''er who suffered some changes in recent years, but he didn''t want to poke her heart. Now he finds that it''s just a fake scar. He''s relieved, but at the same time he feels funny for his worries. When did he pay attention to these trifles? During the operation, they have come to liaoshui river. There is a small bamboo basket woven on the top. The water below turns up huge waves. It seems that if they are not careful, they will be engulfed by the waves. Jiang Xinzhi dismounted and drove the horse away. They set foot on the bridge. When Fang crossed the other bank, he saw someone meet him on the other bank. The man saw that Jiang Xinzhi and jin''er arrived safely. Without saying a word, he ordered his companions to draw out their swords and cut off the bridge rope. The bridge and road were suddenly broken. Even if the people in southern Xinjiang wanted to cross the river, they couldn''t get through for the time being. Several people jumped on the prepared horse and disappeared in the night. In Dajin barracks, the young man in the position of commander was dressed in a black and blue uniform, and his eyebrows were as cool as jade. His bodyguards came in and said, "master, deputy general Jiang and Miss Zhao are safe. They will be here soon. The granary of the people in southern Xinjiang has also been burned by us. There should be no more trouble for the time being. " Xiao Shao light "um" a, hang Mou not language. Guan Lianghan, who was sitting at the same time, could not help but said: "third, you are really extraordinary. You can burn other people''s barracks quietly. I''m afraid you can''t be so beautiful if you change my people. You are the only royal guard in the world who can do this. It''s so damn happyHe was wearing a white dressing room, in which the white bandage could be seen. Now the wounds on his body had not healed completely, but he couldn''t help it. He had to watch how to fight the battle. At the beginning, Guan Lianghan and Jiang Xinzhi were injured by the traitor who was ambushed by the people of Southern Xinjiang. Guan Lianghan gnashed his teeth against the people of Southern Xinjiang: "the people of Southern Xinjiang are full of bad water. We are fighting with the Sun Tzu of Tianjin, but southern Xinjiang also wants to intervene. It''s not a good means. It''s not a good skill to play some tricks!" "We are not tired of deceit." Xiao Shao said faintly, but his brow was slightly frowning. He naturally understood why the people of Southern Xinjiang would stick their feet in. It was just that some things could not be done for foreigners, and Guan Lianghan didn''t know the meaning. The ambition of the people in southern Xinjiang can be seen. Now is the time to draw the snake out of the hole. His relentless suppression of Southern Xinjiang is not as far-reaching as Guan Lianghan thought. Xiao Shao thought of the letter that the flying pigeon in the capital wrote before that Xia Jun and Jiang Chao united to burn the grain transported to the border, but was blocked by Jiang Ruan''s tit for tat. Xuanli loses his wife and breaks his army. Xia Jun and Jiang Chao also suffer from the consequences. Qi Feng''s letter is full of admiration for Jiang Ruan, and Xiao Shao feels proud of him. However, Xuanli colluded with Nanjiang, and they plotted against the royal guards in the capital. Jiang Ruan blocked him from going back. However, King Jinying''s house never suffered any losses. It is necessary to spare no effort to recover. So without thinking about it, he let people burn the granary of the people in southern Xinjiang. The people of Southern Xinjiang and the state of Tianjin should have reached some agreement, which burned down the military pay of the camp in southern Xinjiang, so the people of Southern Xinjiang would turn to the state of Tianjin for help. It''s just that the state of Tianjin can''t protect itself now, and it''s a small place with not rich materials. How can it get such a sum of food and grass. If we can''t get food and grass, the people of Southern Xinjiang will not stay here. There is no saying that they will die for it in vain. If the alliance between southern Xinjiang and Tianjin breaks down, it will be divided and broken up individually, and it will come very quickly. As for Zhao Jin, it just happened that he had not found a suitable person. Since Zhao Jin volunteered and looked very suitable, he also acquiesced. Now that Jiang Xinzhi has been rescued safely, some things have not been taken into consideration, so he can be relieved to do a lot of work. Guan Lianghan said: "now Lao Jiang is back, and the vitality of Southern Xinjiang is greatly damaged. Just concentrate on Tianjin. Son of a bitch, I''ve been worried about Tianjin''s grandchildren for a long time. Third, I''m more relieved when you come here. If we don''t teach Tianjin a lesson this time, we won''t be called brothers from Canaan mountain! " Guan Lianghan himself knows that it''s not necessary, because Xiao Shao''s temperament is so direct that he doesn''t need to use too much skillful tactics to fight. With such an invincible army and the master''s decision of lengku, he was constrained by Jiang Xinzhi''s imprisonment earlier, and now he''s depressed There is a breakthrough, will be merciless all vent out. This battlefield will soon become a Shura arena. When my brother-in-law and my brother-in-law meet, it''s a bloody storm. Ha ha ha ~ ha www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 180 On the snow-white wool blanket, women''s gorgeous dresses meander, marking a gorgeous red. Crimson veil will cover her face, only showing a pair of bright eyes, that is a pair of beautiful eyes, a look at the past is very clear, with a kind of naive bewitching, as if as long as the eyes take a look, they will be intoxicated to unknown death. The man in grey stood at the bottom of the woman''s head, with an imperceptible tension in his voice: "saint, Jiang Xinzhi ran away. There was a receptionist on the other side of Liao ShuiHe, but he didn''t catch up." Silence, after a long time, the air came lazy female voice: "is it? You can''t do this little thing well, Yuanchuan. The more you live, the more you go back. " "The saint taught me." Yuan Chuan bowed his head and said, "although we have run for one Jiang Xinzhi, we have not gained nothing this time. News has come from the capital. The announcement of food and payment has failed. Their spies haven''t found out yet, but our people have found signs. The people who started the operation are lurking in Jinying palace. " The four words "Jinying Palace" obviously moved the woman on the seat. She turned her head and seemed to have a slight smile in her voice: "Oh? Who is that? " "Before King Jinying left, he took his two brothers Qi Si and Xia Wu back to the capital. Now they both live near King Jinying''s residence. But the purpose that King Jinying took them over was to protect Princess Jinying, the eldest daughter of Jiang family, Jiang Xinzhi''s younger sister, now Princess Hong''an. This time, the style of paying for food is different from that of Qi Si. If it''s right, it''s probably from Princess Jinying. " The woman on the seat didn''t speak, but there seemed to be a tense atmosphere in the air. All the maidservants around lowered their heads. I don''t know how long it took for the rising incense to burn off. Yuanchuan kept his respectful posture and didn''t move. Then he heard a sneer: "Princess Jinying? What is that thing? " Yuan Chuan took a careful look at the woman above. Her bright eyes suddenly became deep, and some familiar emotion quickly crossed. Then I saw the woman standing up slowly. She was not tall, which could be called petite. She was dressed in a red skirt and outlined her graceful posture. No doubt, every move was charming. This kind of charm was not the charming of the brothel woman, but with a naive attitude. As if a birth is like this, like the birth of a beautiful cub, born, will seduce. "If he burned our food and salaries, the soldiers in southern Xinjiang would not be able to participate in the war." Word by word, her voice was as lazy as ever, but her words were calm. "Exactly. The news has been sent back from the state of Tian Jin. It''s impossible to provide too much military pay. I hope we can find a way out by ourselves. " Yuan Chuan said, "what does Saint mean?" The soldiers and soldiers can''t stay here any longer when the military pay is burned. Now the state of Tian Jin is too busy and lacks trust in southern Xinjiang, so it refuses to pay extra military pay. How can a little military pay solve the urgent problem. If Southern Xinjiang still wants to help Tian Jin State deal with Jin Dynasty, it will be thankless. "Treacherous people are not worthy to be my allies." The woman said coldly: "Tianjin is going to lose. They also know that. That''s why. Yuanchuan, go back and order that the alliance is over, and let the soldiers return to southern Xinjiang as soon as possible. " Yuan Chuan was stunned and said tentatively, "holy daughter, just go back to the south of Xinjiang. Dajin is going there Is the virgin ready to give up Yuan Chuan knows better than anyone why he wants to form an alliance with the state of Tianjin. Now when he hears about the saint''s decision, he feels incredible. "Yuanchuan, when did I give up?" The woman sighed, but her eyes became a little strange: "in the final analysis, it''s because there''s something wrong with the capital of Jin Dynasty. What you said about Jiang''s daughter really makes me a little unhappy. You have captured the God of war in the great Jin Dynasty for so long. You have been interrogating him day by day. What''s the result of the interrogation? " Yuan Chuan felt guilty and bowed his head: "his subordinates were incompetent and failed to tell Jiang Xinzhi the truth." "No," said the virgin, shaking her head. "He said it long ago, but you didn''t find it." "Yuanchuan is dull, please let the saint make it clear." He looked at the woman puzzled, but heard the woman''s lazy voice: "you interrogate him day by day, but he refused to say anything, even the slightest clue. As far as I know, Jiang Xinzhi was not such a cautious man when he was marching and fighting in the army. So careful, the person who protects must be a very important person. I heard that Jiang Xinzhi had a good relationship with the daughter of the Jiang family. When Jiang Xinzhi first returned to the capital of the great Jin Dynasty, it was Jiang Ruan who rescued him from the ambush. Since the two brothers and sisters met, Jiang Xinzhi''s official career has been rising steadily, and his journey has been smooth. Do you think it''s a coincidence? " Yuanchuan was surprised, and he had already figured out a lot of things. Looking at the woman, she said, "is the saint doubting? But she is just an ordinary woman. How can she know so much about the future? " There are many capable people and scholars in the world, but a boudoir woman is too hard to believe anyway. "As a people of Southern Xinjiang, you are also born in Wuyue. What''s the impossibility?" The voice under the veil of the saint girl is beautiful. When you listen carefully, it contains a kind of light killing opportunity: "you ignore these, because you don''t care about her, you think she is not your opponent. And I didn''t want to save her life in the first place. "Yuan Chuan lowered his head: "the saint is wise." "He asked all his brothers back to the capital to protect her. I thought she was so smart that she could be used for me. Now it seems that she is disgusting. The daughter of the Chiang family can break the disguise of our people in the capital without saying a word, and Xuanli is also defeated by her, which is an eye opener to me. It''s said that Xiao Shao won Tianjin, and he will marry her when his class teacher returns to court? " She suddenly chuckled. "It''s funny to hear that!" She didn''t say anything, and her tone was as lazy and soft as before, even with some sweet charm. But Yuanchuan shudders in his ears. He has been around the saint for so many years and knows what she wants to do. The more so, the more that her heart hate the deeper, the more ruthless. Finally, Yuanchuan couldn''t help asking, "holy girl, do you want to attack her?" The woman glanced at him: "someone will be more urgent than us. You can find a way to leak the news to Xuanli, saying that burning the granary was the idea of Chiang''s daughter. Now I have no way to leave. It''s time for Jinchao to start something. Yuanchuan, when Jinchao''s class returns to the court, you can get in the team and go to the capital. " "Saint Yuan Chuan was stunned, and said, "this is the start?" "The people in Jinchao are more and more useless now. You are the only one I can trust." She looks at Yuanchuan with a smile. Her beautiful eyes are like the best gems, just like a girl looking at her favorite lover. She said: "Yuanchuan, in addition to doing what I arranged, you still have a task. Xuanli is really incompetent. If he can''t kill Jiang''s daughter, you will kill her for me. I don''t want to see her live too long. " She slowly, word by word: "class teacher back to court after marriage? I also want to see what it''s like to marry a corpse. " Yuan Chuan heart a Lin, Gong voice should go down, turn round then out of the account. Time seemed to pass quickly, and no bad news came from the border. The deputy general Jiang heard that he had also been rescued by King Jinying. He was tortured all over, but he still gritted his teeth and didn''t surrender. Such a tough man made the emperor''s heart happy. The previous rumor broke, and the courtiers who were still waiting for him began to have other thoughts, trying to figure out whether their daughter might be married to the Chiang family. It''s strange to say that the Chiang family was a good family, but they didn''t know what bad luck they had taken in the past few years. First, the master''s mother put a green hat on the Secretary, and then Miss Jiang Er, who used to be a fairy, lost her reputation because she didn''t love herself. Later, young master Jiang Er conspired with the Xia family and burned the granary. The emperor saw that the Chiang family was not helpful, and his official career was coming The Jiang family is not far from decline. But to say the decline, the Jiang family has a princess Hong''an who is deeply loved by the empress Yide. The young master Jiang is the God of war of the Jin Dynasty with an immeasurable future. Even the fourth young lady, who is a commoner, is now Jiang Zhaoyi. In this way, Jiang Shangshu''s life is not sad. Some good people have heard that originally Jiang Shangshu was only partial to the two brothers and sisters of Jiang Chao who were born by Xia Yan, and he was very indifferent to the two brothers and sisters of Jiang Xinzhi who were born by his dead wife, and Jiang Dan was even more. Who knows, Fengshui turns in turn. The two brothers and sisters who were the least favored in the past are now the best. It''s really a pity that the Chiang family is relying on them to shine. Now is the winter has passed, the new year is coming, but the weather is still as cold as ever, the snow fell from the sky. Jiang Ruan stood in front of the courtyard. The snow fell on the ground and melted quickly. Her light red dress was like a fire in the snow. Qi Feng stood beside her and said suddenly, "the third brother is coming back soon." In the early spring of this year, the war between Tianjin state and Dajin Dynasty will come to an end. Tianjin state has already offended the power of Dajin Dynasty. For example, today, Jin state is losing day by day. The royal guards led by Xiao Shao are cruel and cruel. They are almost going to fight in other people''s cities. Tianjin state is at a dead end. It''s only a matter of time before they surrender to Dajin Dynasty. Today, Jin even had no strength to resist. As soon as the war was over, Xiao Shao naturally kept coming. Jiang Ruan gently nodded, Qi Feng said: "when the third brother comes back, you will be married." At this point, he felt a trace of bitterness in his mouth. He turned his head, and the girl in front of him was dressed in a light red dress, as if thousands of lights were scattered on her. The eyebrows and eyes are bright and charming. They look like a fire. Only when they get close can they find that it''s just a piece of ice. These days he accompanied the girl, watching her strategizing, watching her foretelling, but as if all things are not in mind as casual. Occasionally, he would wonder if all the things in the world could not enter her eyes. Now that he told the news that Xiao Shao was coming back, Jiang Ruan''s thoughtful appearance fell into his eyes, and Qi Feng understood immediately. He covered his eyes and joked: "sister-in-law, on that day, I think all the brothers in Mount Canaan will come back to ask for a drink." "Thank you very much," he said with a smile Her attitude is always so alienated and not close enough. Qi Feng didn''t open his eyes. He found a reason and left. Only Jiang Ruan was left standing in the courtyard. From winter to spring, many things happened in this year. Xiao Shao, who had been at the border, came back with the news that Zhao Jin had gone to the border, which was beyond her expectation. Zhao Jin also rescued Jiang Xinzhi. Zhao Jin was originally from a military general''s family. She was quite straightforward in her work. Jiang Ruan told Mrs. Zhao about it. Mrs. Zhao let go. The two brothers of the Zhao family were reasonable and didn''t have too much trouble. But when Lin Zixiang knew about it, King Jinying''s house came to blame Jiang Ruan, but he didn''t blame Jiang Ruan. It''s too shameful to say that Jiang Xinzhi had taken Zhao Jin away so casually, which made Jiang Ruan feel helpless.Speaking of Lin Zixiang, he often goes to King Jinying''s residence, but not to see Jiang Ruan. It''s not because he''s drunk. He and Xia Qing didn''t know why they got married. Later, the misunderstanding was cleared up, and they didn''t know when to talk about each other. Xia Qing seems to like Lin Zixiang very much, but their minds are too clear, but it''s difficult to understand them Many. Angelica dahurica and maple night now also some close, Angelica dahurica will also from time to time to maple night to send some snacks. Yefeng is also Xiao Shao''s right-hand man. He is also a man with excellent status in other places. However, he ignores his status every day to find a reason to talk with Baizhi. A fool can see what he means. Compared with Angelica dahurica and Yefeng''s mild, dew and brocade two are fighting all day long. As long as they meet, they will quarrel. People with clear eyes can see what they are for. It''s a pity that one of them looks like a dandy all day, the other is careless all day, and I don''t know when they will be able to achieve the right result. Even King Jinying''s mansion is unwilling to come now. Since the accident of Jiang Chao, Jiang Quan asked Jiang Ruan to find a way to save Jiang Chao, but Jiang Ruan ignored it. After Jiang Chao died, Jiang Quan seemed to be ten years old overnight. When he saw Jiang Ruan again, he was even more like a stranger. His mind was clear to Jiang Ruan, and he resented Jiang Ruan. Now that Jiang Quan has taken on several concubines, it seems that he wants to stay for the Chiang family again - he never regards Jiang Xinzhi as his son. Jiang Ruan sometimes feels strange. In his previous life, Jiang Quan was a man who loved power and made progress regardless of all means. Now she and Jiang Xinzhi can take Jiang Fu to a higher level, but Jiang Quan never wanted to please them or even hate them as usual. Maybe some people are born with injustice and hatred. No matter what Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi do, as long as they are Zhao Mei''s children, Jiang Quan can''t like them. As a father, he will always be open only to Jiang Su Su and Jiang Chao. Xuanli is still very quiet since the food and pay storm, and there is no other movement. Obviously, the loss of the Xia family caused great losses to Xuanli. In the past year, he disappeared and became a well behaved prince in the court. He didn''t even do anything in private. Most of his original power was destroyed. After the fall of the Xia family, it was difficult for him to find a substitute for the Xia family. Xuanhua, the fifth prince, became more and more calm in his work. Even xuanpei, the 13th prince, got the eye of the emperor, and even empress Yide liked it very much. Now it seems that the prince has learned to be more intelligent. He is no longer as ridiculous as before. With so many opponents in a short time, Xuanli may not feel well either. However, this does not mean that Xuanli intends to give up. On the contrary, Jiang Ruan knows her very well. Xuanli doesn''t do it now because he hasn''t found a suitable opportunity. This person is good at keeping a low profile. Once he has an opportunity, he naturally doesn''t hesitate to do it. Now Jiang Dan has been promoted from a beauty to a true three grade Zhaoyi. Now he is really in the palace. From the queen to the maidservant, he appreciates her very much. Even a stern person like empress Yide can''t find fault with her. She has colluded with Xuanli secretly and has a good life. A careful and intelligent person can cover up his ambition very well. She has risen steadily in the palace. She had a good life, but Jiang Ruan was not in a hurry. The flourishing age of the world was just a hunting. It depends on who is more patient. I''ve endured it all my life. Why not wait a few days? Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes and reached out to catch the falling snow. The snow melted quickly in his palm. The new year is coming. In a trance, she seems to be back to the year of rebirth. She shrinks in the dirty room of Zhang Lan''s house. She can''t even burn a lump of charcoal. When she wakes up from the bloody past life, her eyes are full of cruel reality. Her enemies are above, but she is below. Time flies by, now she stands in Jinying palace, the position seems to fall a son, the enemy death of the injury, she is intact. Thinking of Qi Feng just now, it''s time for Xiao Shao to come back. The big wedding she didn''t wait for in her last life, but now if it starts on her cold heart, I don''t know whether it''s a blessing or a curse. At the eighth Prince''s house, his bodyguards knelt down and told him, "back to your highness, there''s news from the border. Tianjin can''t stand it. The royal guards have entered the Tianjin pass, and Tianjin has surrendered. " Xuanli sits in the middle of the room, but his face is very gentle. It''s clear that his subordinates return such unpleasant news, but he seems to be very happy. His smile even feels like a spring breeze. It''s really strange. The staff did not dare to say a word. In the past year, Xuanli was hit by the Xia family, but his behavior became more and more calm. For example, happiness and anger are not in the form of color. Xuanli is already well trained. If Xuanli was able to skillfully put on a gentle mask on his face before, now the mask is integrated with Xuanli. "Faster than I thought." Xuan Li sighed: "can''t you destroy the royal guards?" "Your Highness, now we are not completely against King Jinying''s house. King Jinying has always been neutral in the court. It''s better to avoid it." One of the staff came forward and advised. Xuanli''s power has now been weakened by more than half. It is not a wise move to confront Xiao Shao. Moreover, Xiao Shao has always ignored the affairs of the imperial court. If he can avoid contact with him, he will surely save a lot of money."It''s late." Xuan Li said with a smile, "do you really think we can live in peace with Jinying palace?" He raised the letter in his hand: "you guys, do you know who wrote about the fall of Xia family when the granary was burned?" The staff looked at each other face to face. The people sent by Xuanli had been investigating the matter, but in the end, nothing was found out. Xuanli was very angry about it, which was also one of his worries. Now that he looks like this, do you already know who is behind him? Xuanli said calmly, "it''s Princess Jinying, Jiang Ruan." "How?" Everyone in the room was surprised: "that Princess Jinying is just a woman. How can she do such a great thing? Besides, she can''t foretell. If all this was written by Princess Jinying, wouldn''t she be too terrible? Why on earth did she do this against her highness? " "I know you are surprised in your heart, but I also tell you frankly that it was really the hand of Princess Jinying." He said with deep meaning: "you think that Princess Jinying can''t do this, and there''s no reason to deal with our palace. Did you think that this represents King Jinying''s meaning?" When the words came out, everyone was silent. Xuanli looked around and said, "the princess of Jinying may not have been inspired by the king of Jinying?" In fact, Xuanli knew that this was not credible. When he got the information from the spies that Jiang Ruan was the person behind the Xia family disturbance, he was also very surprised, but he believed it almost immediately. He always thought that Jiang Ruan was a little strange. Although he knew that the suspicion was a little puzzling, the other party was just an official lady who didn''t understand anything. How could he have such a powerful means. But every time he saw Jiang Ruan, Xuanli always had an indescribable feeling. He always felt that Jiang Ruan had a hidden hatred for him. Although he asked himself that he had never done anything to make Jiang Ruan hate him. After knowing the news, Xuanli was very angry. His great career was destroyed in the hands of a woman. One of Jiang Ruan''s arrangements cost him a whole summer''s family. Later, he even lost his 800 chariots and military salaries. He really lost his wife and soldiers. Every time he thought about it, Xuanli wanted to kill the woman immediately. "Xiao Shao is going to return to the imperial court." Xuan Li said with a smile, "I want to give him a gift." Jinying palace was a very special existence in the Jin Dynasty. For so many years, he could not even touch the real power of the royal guards. If he had thought about Jinying palace in the past, now he knew that Jiang Ruan had done harm to him, it would be like the last straw to kill a camel. Sometimes some things have to take risks. Xuanli doesn''t want Jiang Ruan to marry Xiao Shao. If Jiang Ruan is as deep-seated as the spy''s reply, and he is with Xiao Shao, the power of Jinying palace will be too terrible. While Xiao Shao has not come back, he needs to confirm something and also wants to solve a problem. Xuan Li slowly pinches the palm of his hand. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 181 Qi Feng was right. It wasn''t long before Tian Jin defeated Daye and surrendered to Dajin Dynasty. It was beyond everyone''s expectation that the war lasted so long. Tianjin state is just a small area. I don''t know when it will have the power to compete with Dajin Dynasty. It''s really thought-provoking. However, in any case, in addition to giving a warning to the great Jin Dynasty, it was a defeat in the end. The emissary with the letter will be the same class division back to the king''s army a Jin into the capital face saint. Among them, there are a lot of rumors about the compensation for land cutting. Specifically, there is a personal statement. I don''t know which news is true. It''s a long journey from the border to Jingshan. I can''t go back for a while. Nevertheless, the whole house of King Jinying began to be busy. Housekeeper Lin arranged what Xiao Shao should do after he returned to the house every day. The most important thing was Xiao Shao''s marriage to Jiang Ruan. Before Xiao Shao left Beijing, the Empress Dowager made a decree and married him only when his class teacher returned to the imperial court. Now that Jiang Ruan is out of filial piety, he will soon be the young lady of Jinying palace. Housekeeper Lin has been calculating since he received the edict a year ago. Jiang Ruan thought everything was in order. Who knows that housekeeper Lin is still worrying about it. Everything from the water beads on the wedding invitation to the carved patterns on the ivory chopsticks used at the banquet is just about the same. The dew bypassed housekeeper Lin and made a gesture of begging for mercy: "housekeeper Lin, this list has been changed dozens of times. I really can''t think of anything. Please forgive me. I''m just a slave. " Housekeeper Lin looked at the dewdrop and said, "since you are with so many people around the young lady, you also know the people she usually meets. This wedding banquet can''t be finished in a hurry. The more exquisite it is, the more we can see whether our royal family respects the young lady. So the young lady has face, and you are proud to be her servant. What''s more, since you are a member of the palace, you have to regard yourself as one of us. Why can''t you be so calm? Let''s have a look. How about this small porridge made into a light Jiangnan flavor? " Dew turned a white eye, simply did not turn around Lin housekeeper walked toward the house. Back in the room, forsythia and Angelica are surrounded by Jiang Ruan, don''t know what to do, even Tianzhu also stood aside to look, dew strange way: "eh, what is this?" The soft couch in front of Jiang Ruan was covered with a layer of things. When he walked in, the dew could see clearly. He couldn''t help exclaiming: "what a beautiful wedding dress!" Most of the wedding dresses that this woman married were embroidered by herself, and she began to sew them for herself as early as a few years ago. The craftsmanship of the wedding dresses can also show the girl''s needlework. When a girl embroiders her wedding dress, she is in a sweet mood. But when Jiang Ruan received the Empress Dowager''s edict, he was in a hurry. He even moved to King Jinying''s house. He didn''t think about the wedding dress every day. The time was too tight, so he didn''t embroider. It''s time to ask the clothes shop in Beijing to make one, as long as it doesn''t lose the side of Jinying palace. Who knows that the shopkeeper of baoyuelou came to deliver the wedding dress today. He said that Xiao Shao ordered baoyuelou to make it when he left Beijing. Who is king Jinying? After receiving this list, he can eat it for three years. The shopkeeper invited the best xiuniang, and with a spirit of 120000, he finally finished it for Jiang Ruan before Xiao Shao came back. Jiang Ruan himself was still surprised. She didn''t know when she was making clothes. How did Xiao Shao know her size? However, it''s not a time to worry about this. Although we know that baoyuelou always makes clothes for the empress in the palace, even Jiang Ruan can''t help taking a breath when he gets the wedding dress. The whole body of the wedding dress is bright red, but it''s not ordinary red. It''s like the clouds in the sky slowly flowing into the clouds. It''s warm, soft and gorgeous. The cloth is made of silk with double nests. It''s embroidered with gold and silver threads. The gold and silver threads are very thin, and the stitches are very delicate. The Phoenix''s neck is flying, and a colorful Phoenix''s tail is beautiful, The bottom is decorated with colorful gems, which are almost dazzling when gently shaken. The crowns are delicate and small, not heavy, and they don''t feel hard to wear. The green bird feathers are sparkling, reflecting the intoxicating color. The crowns are decorated with jewels. The golden dragon, the green phoenix and the pearls are resplendent and magnificent, which can''t be achieved by ordinary craftsmen. On the crown of the Phoenix, the Golden Dragon rises and leaps over the green clouds, and the green phoenix spreads its wings and flies among the jewelry flowers and leaves. The most moving thing is a bead in the mouth of Cuifeng in the middle. The whole body is crystal clear and round, and the color is faint and transparent. It can emit bright luster with people''s walking. With such a phoenix crown, the whole body is really bright. Not only that, but also Hua Chai''s step rocking, double ring gold rings, concentric knot locks, and happy shoes embroidered with mandarin ducks. In this whole set, Jiang Ruan had already seen the magnificence and wealth of the palace in his previous life, as well as the Royal dress of the queen. At this moment, he could not help but be a little lost. A woman''s wedding dress is supposed to bear all her hopes for the future. She will try her best to make it more beautiful. In this life, she was not particularly interested in all the beautiful things, but Xiao Shao was so thoughtful. Dewdrop''s mouth was wide open in surprise. She was stunned. After a long time, she murmured, "my uncle is really generous. This is to let the girl wear a Shangshu mansion on her body." Forsythia "poof Chi" a laugh out, way: "all nonsense, what do you mean a Shangshu house wear on the body?" She took a look at the exquisite wedding dress, which didn''t look like the only one in the world. She laughed more and more happily: "how can Shangshu mansion buy this wedding dress?"Since Jiang Quan''s attitude towards Jiang Ruan became colder and colder, and even didn''t take the initiative to ask Jiang Ruan a question within a year, several servant girls around Jiang Ruan had been colder to Jiang Quan. At first, they thought that Jiang Quan would see Jiang Ruan''s good one day. After all, he was his own father and daughter. He broke the bone and connected the tendons. Now they don''t want to mention him any more. Hengli Jiang Ruan is about to marry into Jinying''s mansion. He will be the people of Jinying''s mansion in the future. He still cares what those irrelevant people do. Without this layer of scruples, forsythia spoke impolitely to Jiang Fu. They all laughed again. Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the wedding dress, and he couldn''t help shaking his head. He really wanted to wear it, but he didn''t know what kind of sensation it would cause. Xiao Shao''s wedding dress is worth all the property of a five grade official in the capital. It is estimated that when he gets married, he won''t pass on the name of the evil girl of the country, but she can''t run away. Just then, he heard a report from someone outside: "young lady, young master Xia and young master Qi have come to see you." Jiang Ruan asked Angelica dahurica to put away their wedding clothes, pushed the door and went out. As soon as they went out, they saw Xia Qing and Qi Feng sitting at the stone table in the yard. When they saw her coming, Qi Feng joked with a smile: "listen to the servants in this house that the wedding clothes of baoyuelou have been delivered. My fifth brother and I are gambling." "Bet on what?" Jiang Ruan smiles. "Bet on the value of the wedding dress given by the third brother." Xia Qing''s baby face is particularly pleasing. When she talks seriously, she looks very cute: "my fourth brother guesses it''s 100000 Liang, I think it''s 50000 Liang." These two people are so bored that they bet on it. Jiang Ruan was a little bit embarrassed. He only felt that Xiao Shao''s brothers were very lively. He didn''t know how Xiao Shao''s stuffy gourd was formed. Just at this time, I heard Xia Qing''s crisp voice again: "it''s just that whether it''s 50000 Liang or 100000 Liang, the third brother is too wasteful. There is no such expensive dress. I don''t know how many people I can save if I take the money to open more charities. " "It''s none of your business," Qi Feng banged Xia Qing''s head: "you don''t earn the third brother''s silver. You didn''t build Jinying palace. What happened to the third sister-in-law wearing a wedding dress? If I marry a wife like my third sister-in-law, I will certainly spare no effort to find a dress worthy of her! " As soon as his voice fell, Qi Feng suddenly realized what he was talking about. He couldn''t help his voice and looked at Jiang Ruan uneasily. Jiang Ruan turned a deaf ear and seemed to be thinking about something else. Qi Feng''s eyes darkened. Xia Qing touched his head and said wrongly, "fourth brother, you are more and more towards third sister-in-law now. It''s not your mother. Why are you so tight? Do you want any more friendship with your brother "You --" Qi Feng really wants to beat this little brother. In the twinkling of an eye, he saw that Jiang Ruan was thoughtful, and his action slowed down. Jiang Ruan was thinking that it was time for her to marry Xiao Shao. In this life, she does not want to repeat the mistakes of her previous life, so every move is to try to avoid taking the road of her previous life. In her last life, she failed to be a decent wife. The imperial concubine looked at the scenery, but she was not a concubine of the emperor. To become the young lady of Jinying palace is to have a solid backing. Xiao Shao''s power can make her do many things more convenient. The most important thing is that she can get rid of Xuanli''s shadow completely. In this life, in one thing, she finally cut off the last point of involvement with Xuanli. From then on, as a woman of the Xiao family, she would not belong to the Xuan family. She looked back at Qi Feng and Xia Qing and said with a smile: "in a word, Xiao Shao is coming back, and so is my elder brother. I''m afraid the stable situation in the capital will change soon. Recently, don''t take it lightly. I''m not worried about Mr. Qi, but Mr. Xia..." Xia Qing refused: "what''s wrong with me? Third sister-in-law, how do you treat them differently? " "You are kind-hearted and gentle, so you can''t avoid being used." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "it''s better to keep an eye on it. Be careful before Xiao Shao and they return to Beijing. " Xia Qing and Qi Feng looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders and said, "well, sister-in-law Chang is like a mother. I listen to sister-in-law San." The dew was laughing on one side. When the wind blows at night, Angelica dahurica gets up and closes the window. Unexpectedly, she finds that it has begun to rain sporadically outside. In the cold winter night, it is very cold. The rain floats on people and immediately feels cool. Angelica dahurica will cover the window, looking at Jiang Ruan, who is still sitting at the table reading a book, said: "girl, you''d better have a rest earlier, wait for the rain to be heavy, carefully suffered the cold." Jiang Ruan nodded and closed his book. When Fang went to the door, he heard a sound outside. It seemed that something was bursting. She frowned, this hour, where there are any firecrackers. She always had an unexpected intuition about danger. She immediately put on a coat, stood up and went out of the yard to have a look. Angelica see Jiang Ruan have an idea, but also not to stop, horizontal and vertical outside there is a dark guard, not a big trouble. When Jiang Ruan Fang came to the yard, he saw a young man running in in a hurry. He said anxiously, "young lady, there are a group of people coming outside. They claim to be officials to catch the assassin. I dare not open the door. I come here to ask her what she means."The people of King Jinying''s mansion are carefully selected, but they are not stupid. It''s very strange to know what happened so late. It''s smart to keep an eye on it. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "nothing. The capture of assassins also requires official seals and tokens. If you refuse to open the door, it means that they have not taken out these two keepsakes. Since they do not have these two keepsakes, they can not prove their identity. Jinying palace is not a small family in Pengmen. Even if it is a small family in Pengmen, you can''t just rush. These people don''t have to pay attention to it. You''ve done a good job. " When he was praised by Jiang Ruan, the boy blushed, but he immediately changed his worried expression: "what the young lady said is, but those people are fierce. I''m afraid they won''t give up if they don''t open the door." As soon as his voice fell, it seemed that in order to reflect what he said, he saw the guard rushing to the gate again: "young lady, no, those people have already begun to rush into the palace. The subordinates have a look. They have too many people, and they all have bows and arrows. They are not good at coming. I''m afraid they are very dangerous. " Housekeeper Lin also came from the outside yard, and saw Jiang Ruan with a sigh of relief. Now all levels of King Jinying''s house regard Jiang Ruan as a serious mistress. Once something happens, as long as Jiang Ruan is there, they all report to Jiang Ruan directly over housekeeper Lin. Housekeeper Lin has put away all his usual fun and said: "young lady, it''s too dangerous here. We''ll let the royal guards left by the master protect you to leave here. The master''s Keepsake is still there. It can always protect you." If Jinying palace becomes the target of public criticism, and the other party dares to be so rampant tonight, it must be the best preparation. It''s not safe for Jiang Ruan to stay here. Anyway, the young lady of Jinying palace always comes first. Jiang Ruan pondered for a moment, shook his head and said, "No Everyone was surprised by her words, and dewdrop was worried: "girl, now is not the time to show off. Since those people dare to break into the palace at night, there must be something to do. What if there is something wrong?" Generally speaking, King Jinying''s residence is like an iron wall. No one would think of breaking into King Jinying''s residence. In this respect, Xiao Shao brought people with him when he was about to return to the court. It''s still an army formation. I think it''s surrounded by people outside. There are no people who can deliver letters to other places. The other side sent out such an obvious means, only to seek two things, one is human life, the other is other things of Jinying palace. Life is not difficult to explain, now this Jinying palace is just one more she. As for other things. Jiang Ruan looked at housekeeper Lin: "how many bodyguards are there in this house?" "There are 180 bodyguards. Little boys and maidservants, every servant has some martial arts skills, "said Lin Guanjia." but these people are like Mantis arms. They use bows and arrows. Besides, they have regular men and horses. They are just using military means to fight a king''s house. Young lady, this place is really dangerous. Before the young master leaves, he should leave a keepsake. If young lady must stay, how about calling the royal guards to protect her? " "No Jiang Ruan flatly refused: "since these people dare to come here so arrogantly, they may not have no other meaning. I''m afraid they want to test the depth of the royal guards. Is there any secret in the palace? " Housekeeper Lin was stunned. He looked up at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan was staring at him. His smiling and charming eyes were a bit sharp. Housekeeper Lin was awed by those eyes. He didn''t dare to hide it any more and said, "yes. The young master dealt with official documents in the palace, and some secret matters were discussed in the palace. Although the old slave was not very clear, he also knew that there should be many important things in the palace. Although it is well protected, it is hard to avoid being caught Jiang Ruan''s heart sank and said coldly, "it''s really a good plan to carve a few arrows with one arrow." "What''s the solution?" Housekeeper Lin asked. Jiang Ruan Fei quickly turned around and walked to the main hall of the Royal Palace: "it seems that reckless action, but at this time, if you recruit the royal guards, you can find out the real strength of the Royal Palace of Jinying. If you abandon the palace and run away, you may be able to find out the secrets in the palace. If you want to accept people''s lives, it''s even easier. It''s a robber, but a clever robber. " Xuanli was not so easy to send. Now it''s so aggressive. She walked fast and never stopped. Her long fur cloak made a gorgeous arc in the night: "it''s not too late, Lao Lin, gather all the people in the hall. No one is allowed to leave King Jinying''s house tonight!" Housekeeper Lin was shocked by Jiang Ruan''s words, and immediately replied, "yes!" Steward Lin''s action is really fast, less than half a pillar of incense, people have all gathered to the front hall of Jinying palace. Jiang Ruan is standing in the courtyard of the front hall, in front of everyone, housekeeper Lin is standing on one side, and Jin Er''s dark guards follow Jiang Ruan without saying a word. Everyone''s eyes fall on the young lady of Jinying palace. The situation is dangerous tonight, but the woman refuses to escape alone. This move has won the favor of the people in Jinying palace. All the ladies in Beijing are delicate. They are admired for their courage and insight. But if he is brave and resourceless, he can''t bring good luck to King Jinying''s mansion, so everyone wants to see what moves Jiang Ruan can come up with.Jiang Ruan stood in front of the crowd. The deeper the night was, the more gorgeous her face was. In such a dangerous situation, her eyes were as bright as a flash, and her lips were full of a faint smile. She was calm, but everyone felt the light killing opportunity on her body. She said: "ladies and gentlemen, I don''t need to say anything more. Some people are going to break into King Jinying''s house tonight. I don''t know what their purpose is. It''s always the wrong people. You are all from Jinying palace. Now, someone wants to step into your yard. They may kill your relatives, rob you of your treasure, or even plant an assassin''s hat on you. " She said coldly, as if to say that other people will happen, but in the hearts of the people below is to listen to a surprise. It''s a different thing to guess what might happen than to actually say it out of someone else''s mouth. People''s eyes changed slightly. "Your master entrusted Jinying palace to me before he left. I promised to protect its stability. Every plant in the palace may be closely related to the future of the palace, so we should not take it lightly. So, I am the same tonight. I want to fulfill my promise to your master. I will not leave this palace. I am with you. The robbers are coming in. If you don''t leave, I won''t leave either. I''ll stay here until the last minute. " People stare at her blankly, maybe some people don''t understand how Jiang Ruan, as the princess of the Golden branch and jade leaf, the mistress of the whole palace, would be willing to stay here. Knowing that it was a conspiracy, she refused to retreat. In her beautiful eyes, there was a kind of look that only a hungry wolf had. She was brave and extremely indifferent. She was neglecting her own life. Tianzhu stood quietly beside Jiang Ruan. From the beginning, she knew that the master she was with was the same as the royal guards in some aspects. No matter how the outside world changed, her heart was always strong. Jiang Ruan coldly ordered: "now, as Princess Jinying, I order you, all the boys and maidservants, to go back to their rooms and find a place to hide. All the royal guards, you gather here to guard Xiao Shao''s study and bedroom. If anyone breaks in, they will be killed. Jin Er, you should find a way to get out of the palace. If there is a secret Road, it''s better to light all the houses around Jin Ying''s palace for me. Jin San and Jin Si, you two play signal bombs. The royal guards can''t show up, but the Zhao family can show up. " Her eyes were cold, and her tone was unfathomable: "if you want to step here, you have to see if you have that ability first. Weigh the depth of King Jinying''s house, and I want them to come back All the people were shocked by the curse. They couldn''t help looking up at the beautiful hostess. Her charming and bright red dress floated red flowers in the wind of the cold night, but her tone was cruel and cold, like a devil climbing out of hell. The scoffing at the end of his eyes contained a kind of scorn engraved in his bones, which made everyone confused. Steward Lin''s palm trembled. He didn''t know why. He felt that Jiang Ruan was very similar to Xiao Shao at this time. He was strong and tough from the bottom of his heart. He would not be frightened by anything. Even if the knife was in front of his eyes the next second, he also had the courage to calmly command his servants to lay out. "Now, act now!" She ordered. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 182 The servants of King Jinying''s mansion are all well-trained after all. At the command of Jiang Ruan, they are scattered in succession. All the low skilled young men and maidservants find a place to hide. The martial arts bodyguards ambushed in Xiao Shao''s study and bedroom. Jiang Ruan was sitting in the main hall with a heavy face, and there were about ten guards around him. Housekeeper Lin said anxiously, "young lady, if you really don''t want to leave, at least you have to find a place to hide. Don''t leave it here. What can we do when those people come in? " "If I find a place to hide, those people who come in to find me will surely hurt the innocent. Why waste their lives in vain. I can also see clearly what they want to do here, whether they want my life, or whether they come to Jinying palace for other purposes. " Jiang Ruan shook his head. "It''s very dangerous." Housekeeper Lin has some helplessness. Jiang Ruan''s disposition is the same as Xiao Shao''s, and nine cows can''t get back what he decided. What''s more, no one who cherishes his life can do this method of committing danger with his own life. Jiang Ruan totally ignores life and death. This is not a great righteousness. Housekeeper Lin has lived for so many years, and he is very accurate in judging people. It is clear that Jiang Ruan never cares about his own safety. She is fierce in means and ruthless in heart. If she has enough chips to achieve her goal, her life can be traded. But now that Jiang Ruan has made up his mind, it is impossible to change it. Housekeeper Lin sighed and had to ask, "why did you say that just now? How can people burn down the houses around King Jinying''s mansion? " "The night is deep, where is anyone else. If we don''t bring out some news, we will accept an ambush quietly. These people seem bold, but they only dare to do it at night, presumably to hide people''s eyes and ears. Since under the guise of an official, I will not expose him politely. When all the houses in this street are on fire, it is bound to arouse more and more people. At this time, as long as someone shouts again that the robbers are coming, someone must suspect that it is not a small matter to kill and set fire at night. There are not many bodyguards in a house, but there are many bodyguards in every house in a street. Although they may not be able to deal with those people, it is impossible to exterminate them one by one. If they are flustered, they will naturally have scruples. As long as they have scruples, we can find the exit. " Housekeeper Lin suddenly realized and said, "young lady, you have a good idea, but if someone asks the next day, how about the fire? It''s immoral to burn people''s houses. " "What does the fire have to do with us?" When Jiang Ruan asked, housekeeper Lin was stunned. He only heard Jiang Ruan''s light Description: "it''s those fake officials who make the noise, and we are also victims. As for Yinde... " She smile: "this life is not over, worry about what to do after death, tonight''s death is not us." When it comes to the last sentence, the tone has turned cold, and there is a sense of forest. Housekeeper Lin calmed down and said, "what''s the matter with the signal bomb? I haven''t heard the little lady say "signal bomb." "My cousin and I have been in private all the time," Jiang Ruan said. "Xuan Li''s attack on King Jinying''s mansion in the future will inevitably involve the Zhao family. Now that I am married to King Jinying''s house, he will think that the Zhao family should be with the Xiao family. In order to prevent any accident, I have been in secret contact with my big cousin. It''s inconvenient for the royal guards to come out tonight, but the Zhao family may not. Xuanli, the soldier of the Zhao family, knows that. The general''s residence is not far from here. Since there is a ready-made city garrison, it''s a good idea to use the city garrison to kill the bandits disguised as officials. " Jiang Ruan looked at the tea in front of him: "they want to ambush the whole Jinying palace to catch turtles in the urn, but I want to use the soldiers of the Zhao family to catch them all. I want the people sent by Xuanli to observe secretly to see all this, and want them to understand that even if there is no Xiao Shao, this Jinying palace is not a place to come and go as soon as they want!" She said that she was extremely indifferent, but the guards and housekeeper Lin who were ordered to protect her were secretly shocked, and they could not help but admire her in their hearts. At the beginning, the people of Jinying Palace also discussed which woman in the world could match Xiao Shao. In a word, only Yao family''s daughter could barely count one. Yao family is proficient in all kinds of music, chess, calligraphy and painting. He is also extremely intelligent. His appearance and family background are top-notch. But if Xiao Shao married her, what kind of situation would it be today? At least not better than now. That Yao family may have the same wisdom as Jiang Ruan, but she can never be a Jinying Princess like Jiang Ruan. Because the girl who grew up in a rich family is good at dancing, but she is not used to killing. She is used to the tact in the deep house, not the cruel fighting in the dark. Only those who have experienced extreme pain and danger will have the courage to face any murder. Her heart is extremely tough. It seems that she did not grow up in a big house in the past ten years, but faced with the road paved by countless bloody swords to practice her iron heart. Housekeeper Lin said: "I know, I will fight to protect the young lady." "You don''t protect me," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "it''s Jinying palace." Housekeeper Lin moved in his heart and stopped talking. The fire burst into the sky and burned violently in the night. The crackling sound woke up the sleeping people. The big families in the street began to shout and run out to put out the fire. At the same time, I don''t know where it was mixed with the noise: "come on, robbers kill people!"The panic contained in the voice was instantly transmitted to everyone. Everyone''s sleepiness almost all faded at the same time, and the guards in the house ran out with knives one after another. At that time, the whole street was very noisy and noisy. Xia Qing wakes up vaguely from her sleep, puts on her coat with her slippers and goes out of the room. She looks at the boy who is in a hurry and says: "what''s the matter? Why is it so noisy outside? " "Childe, there is water in the house." The little fellow replied busily. "Ah?" Xia Qing''s drowsiness suddenly wakes up more than half, and says eagerly: "how can you get out of the water? Is someone hurt? " "No The boy touched his head: "we are not in a big fight here. I don''t know what''s the matter. All of a sudden, there is water in the house of this street. The slave just heard that there are robbers outside. Young master, you''d better not go out and stay in the room. I''ll go to inquire about the news again. " "Bandits?" Xia Qing was stunned: "which robber is so rampant that he burned down the house in a street. It''s too deceiving!" Just as he said that, he saw Qi Feng in another room come out in his outer clothes. Qi Feng was obviously more sober than him. Xia Qing said quickly: "fourth brother, are you also woken up? How can there be robbers? Isn''t it peaceful at the foot of the emperor? It''s too dangerous. " Qi Feng was about to speak when he suddenly made a move and stared at a place in the sky without blinking. Xia Qing followed his eyes and saw clearly the sky in the southwest of Chu. He didn''t know when a firework would bloom. The firework was not very big, but the voice was very clear, especially clear at night. Xia Qing was stunned and said, "when is this? Who has the mind to play with fireworks? Fourth brother, what do you think is going on He turned his head to ask Qi Feng. As soon as he turned his head, he was calmed by Qi Feng''s expression. Qi Feng''s face was a little pale. He was always calm and shrewd. He said in a low voice, "something''s wrong with her. I have to go and have a look." After that, no longer regardless of Xia Qing, turned to go out. Xia Qing called him: "fourth brother, where are you going? There are robbers out there "Shut up." Qi Feng drank: "you stay here, don''t go out anywhere, don''t make trouble for me!" Then he rushed out of the yard and disappeared into the night. Jiang Ruan Fang went to the main hall and listened to the bodyguard from time to time to tell him what the situation was outside. If the fire was really powerful, maybe I didn''t expect that so many people would be shocked suddenly. The people outside were obviously crazy. They didn''t pretend to be officers and soldiers any more, and they had already broken through. The bodyguards of King Jinying''s mansion were all excellent in martial arts, but they didn''t get the upper hand for a while. Just outnumbered, the other side is fierce, I''m afraid it won''t last long. Housekeeper Lin was also very anxious. For so many years, Jinying palace has been standing like an iron wall in the capital. But at this moment, he suddenly realized that those people did not dare to move Jinying palace just because Xiao Shao was there. Now that Xiao Shao is away, the Jinying palace is like a shabby house with walls stripped. The glory laid down by the ancestors is gradually fading away. What people fear is the royal guards, Xiao Shao, but not Jinying palace. However, the future hostess of the palace is trying to maintain it with a brave attitude. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s cold and calm appearance, housekeeper Lin''s uneasy heart gradually calmed down. "Young lady, they have come to the palace!" The bodyguard came to report. "Stop with all your strength and kill directly. Kill one, kill two, and earn one. " Jiang Ruan said slowly, "I''m still sitting here. If anything happens, I''ll take care of it." She always has a calm tone, seems to be able to accurately grasp the place where people are most likely to change. For example, at this moment, the words immediately aroused the heart of the guards. How can a woman, as a prince, retreat in front of the hungry wolf? Unconsciously, she has become the backbone of the whole Jinying palace. It seems that as long as there is her, there is nothing to be afraid of. At the moment, however, there was no apparent calm in Jiang Ruan''s mind. Even if the general''s residence is not far from here, those people must be Xuanli''s dead men, and they will not be merciful. If Zhao Yi leads his troops to the courtyard, everything will be unknown. However, no matter what you think in your heart, you can''t let out a copy on the surface. Things in the world are most afraid of exposure, but if she looks a little shaken, it will affect the servants of Jinying palace. Time passed slowly in the tense mood of the people, and every moment seemed extremely long and hard to endure. Before the tea on the table was cold, we heard the waiters roaring outside - the other party rushed into the yard. Jiang Ruan chuckled. The lights were bright, but in a moment, people with torches quickly came in and surrounded the yard. All of these people were dressed in the office clothes of officers and soldiers. At first glance, they were really like officers and soldiers in charge of work, but the murderous look in their eyes showed their intention. This is already one-sided. After those people surrounded the yard, they didn''t do anything rash for a moment. The leader came out. Today''s events are mostly not carried out as planned. When he accepted the task, the master also said that if he met Jiang Ruan, something would happen. At first, he didn''t care. He was just a woman. At most, he could only rely on the influence of men to drive a little power. But this to Jin Ying Wang Fu outside just discover is not, the condition that comes suddenly almost makes them anxious.The house in this street suddenly caught fire. I think it has something to do with the people in the house. Otherwise, if you don''t go to the water sooner or later, all the people in this street will wake up at this time. Their identities are exposed. If this task is not completed, it will be a dead end to go back. What''s more, the sudden fire really messed up their plans. But the signal bomb in the air is not false. I think it should be the signal of the royal guards. The man in the head is awed by the thought of the haunted team. He is full of fear. However, the master''s command cannot be disobeyed. As a dead man, he must have the consciousness of the dead man. He went all the way to King Jinying''s house, and his men fought with the bodyguards, deliberately making a ferocious gesture. Originally, he wanted to disturb the whole King''s house for convenience. But along the way, not even a boy or maid could be seen. Except for the well-trained guards, there was no one in a panic. Silent fighting can''t frighten people at all. Even people who want to find a secret can''t be seen. Everyone is very strange. Now when you come here, you will see a group of bodyguards outside the main hall. You will know that it must be the hostess. As a matter of fact, their people had a handle outside. If Jiang Ruan escaped from Jinying palace, he would be hunted down by them. Before the arrival of the royal guards, Jiang Ruan may not be able to escape. They are sure to hit the idea, but only missed the Jiang Ruan did not leave Jinying Palace this one, she did not intend to escape. It''s really stupid. The leader thinks it''s incredible. It''s just because it''s right to protect the most important people in the government under such circumstances. I heard that Xiao Shao was angry and cared about Princess Hong''an. In this case, she should put her safety first, but Jiang Ruan didn''t leave Jinying Palace at all, which was an accident. At this moment, the bodyguards who protect Jiang Ruan are standing quietly outside the main hall. The maidservants in the main hall are standing on both sides, fiddling with the Silver Charcoal in the stove. The housekeeper with a beard is standing on one side, flipping through the account books. No one looks here, no one talks, and it seems that his voice is all gone. And these people didn''t see them rushing into the yard. Everything is calm and inconceivable. Originally, it was a very common and warm scene. It seems strange and even strange here. The leader took a few steps forward, and a woman in red was sitting on the throne of the main hall. She was dressed in a light red embroidered plum brocade Long Qin jacket and skirt, and was covered with a fiery red fox fur cloak. The fur of the fox''s coat was smooth and glossy, shining like a gang at night. What is more dazzling than the fox skin is the woman''s appearance. She holds a small heater in her hand, slightly lowers her head, and her long and curly eyelashes vibrate gently. Her eyes are as moving as a pool of autumn water. Her skin is brighter than snow, and her lips are red and teeth are white. Although she has not seen the whole picture yet, she already feels that every move is wonderful, which is really disturbing people''s hearts. This picture is so beautiful that it''s almost shocking. However, the leader calmed down. With a wave, his subordinates slowly approached the main hall: "but Princess Hong''an?" The girl in red raised her head slowly and showed a charming and bright face. She seemed to see the fire in the yard. Her face moved slightly and disappeared for a moment, showing a very shallow smile: "exactly." "I''m sorry, princess," the man said with a sneer, "I''ll burn a piece of paper money for you on the way to huangquan!" His face was gloomy, but there was some doubt in his eyes. I don''t know if it''s a coincidence that Xuan Liyong''s personality is similar to him, especially in the article of being suspicious. The more calm Jiang Ruan showed, the more nervous they were, for fear of any conspiracy. It''s just for this reason that Xuanli is reluctant to take action here. It''s probably because she''s afraid that she''s playing some tricks, or Xuanli has warned them before she leaves. There was a trace of disdain in Jiang Ruan''s eyes. If she returned her position in this person, she would never be so tardy. The death of life and death, fight is ruthless, looking forward, will only cut off their own lives. She sighed softly, but did not speak. "What do you mean, princess?" The suspicion grew in the man''s heart. But hear Jiang Ruan smile voice ring out: "late." "What''s late?" That person a Leng, immediately sneer: "is the royal guards to rescue?" "It''s late." Jiang Ruan said calmly, "the royal guards won''t come. Your master can''t test anything." The man was shocked, almost to step back two steps, just feel that Jiang Ruan''s eyes bright amazing, unexpectedly there is a compelling shock. He calmed down and said in a cold voice, "why do you cheat yourself, princess? When you die, you can''t talk back." "I thought, what are you going to do, now I understand." Her smile was as bright as a flower, but her voice was startlingly cold: "you can''t take my life tonight, you can''t test the depth of the royal guards, of course, you can''t get out of the gate of the palace, and you don''t have a chance to live. So I said, "she shrugged," it''s late. " The more she said that, the more nervous that person was, as if she had been held by someone for seven inches. She couldn''t help being affected by her words, and she didn''t feel so sure just now. He immediately made a gesture to make his subordinates move, but as soon as he reached the middle of his hand, he heard the sound of breaking through the air. Before he could look back, he saw an extra arrow on his chest. I don''t know where the arrow came from, passing through his heart.Outside the courtyard and on the roof of King Jinying''s mansion, dark shadows appeared one after another. These shadows disappeared quietly in the dark place. Outside the door, there were people drinking: "bandits are rampant. Zhao Yi, the garrison of the capital, is here. Don''t catch them quickly!" They were shocked, and the leader fell down slowly. Jiang Ruan''s voice came to his ears, with a kind of inexplicable irony: "all the way to huangquan, please go." As soon as the leader died, the people at the bottom were in a mess, but they didn''t care about anything. For a moment, they had a scuffle with the city garrison brought by Zhao Yi. Jiang Ruan Teng stood up from his seat. All on the roof are the dark Wei that brocade two acquaintances, just said a lot of words with the man of the head, also just is to delay some time. The dark guards are hiding in the dark, which will give these people the illusion that the royal guards are haunting and suppress their spirit. At the moment, she can see clearly that these people are really all dead men. Now she thinks that the leader is dead. If she can''t finish the task tonight, it''s also a dead word to go back. There''s only death to catch. Zhao Yi''s scuffle with those people does not necessarily mean that he has the chance to win. But for a while, he is far away from being thirsty. Who else can help. She thought hard about countermeasures, but did not notice that several of the dead had approached her. Housekeeper Lin has just explained things to dark Wei. Jiang Ruan goes to the gate of the yard alone. Angelica dahurica and forsythia scream. Tianzhu jumps up and kicks away the knife in front of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan turns back. Tianzhu grabs her hand and says: "girl, go to the house first. It''s too chaotic here." Jiang Ruan nods. Now that Zhao Yi has come, her stay here is a drag. She follows Tianzhu and her maid to the house. But in the middle of Fang''s walk, Tianzhu is entangled by the victims who bully her. More and more victims surround her. She is a living target. The dark guards are entangled with the crazy dead, and no one can separate themselves from her. Jiang Ruan took a look at forsythia, turned around and ran in the other direction, always staying with her, forsythia they will be implicated. Fang ran to a corridor in the courtyard, but suddenly his neck was held by someone. Jiang Ruan looked down and saw that a dead man who had been seriously injured woke up at the moment and grasped her foot with all his strength. The man was so strong that he couldn''t get away from him. Another dead man saw this and didn''t want to, so he raised his sword to attack Jiang Ruan. Unable to move, Jiang Ruan stood in the same place as a living target, watching the light of the sword fall on his head, and he was about to die on the spot. Qi Feng, who had just run to Jiang''s house and found Jiang Ruan, was the scene that made people show their eyes. He immediately called out: "Jiang Ruan!" The sadness and great grief in that voice almost drowned people for a moment. Before Jiang Ruan could react, a dark figure leaped forward and grabbed her in his arms to avoid the dangerous light of the knife. Cold embrace also with the familiar fragrance, Jiang Ruan has a moment of stupefaction, moonlight that people cold, spit out two words: "seek death." In the interview with the author on the front page of 123 romance, you can see if you are interested. The link is http: / / / Fangtan / 360. html www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 183 Before they could see what the situation was, they felt that their chest was cold and the sword passed by. Xiao Shao threw the sword in his hand and wrapped up Jiang Ruan. He only acted as the humanity behind him: "don''t leave a living, kill him." When Fang came to the door, he heard the sound of fighting outside. A figure rushed over and saw that Jiang Ruan was held in his arms by Xiao Shao, which was a jump on his forehead. But he didn''t care too much at the moment and called out: "a Ruan!" "Big brother?" Jiang Ruan was stunned, and Jiang Xinzhi stood in front of him. Maybe he was in a hurry. He was in a dusty state. Jiang Ruan said, "why did you go back to Beijing so early?" It is said that there is still some time to come. As a result, the two suddenly came back today. What''s going on? Jiang Xinzhi took a look at Xiao Shao and said, "I always feel a little uneasy. Let''s hurry back first." After a pause, he looked at the scuffle in the yard and complained: "you are so smart. You are stupid at this time. If we didn''t come back today and run into this scene, what would I do if something happened to you? When it comes to this in the future, don''t worry about anything. You are the most important. " Jiang Xinzhi looked at Xiao Shao and said, "I really don''t trust that I will put you in this place." Jiang Ruan patted Xiao Shao and motioned him to put himself down. When Xiao Shaosong started, Jiang Ruan stood still, and then he said to Jiang Xin, "they are here for me in Japan today. They are the same everywhere." Jiang Xinzhi also wanted to say a few words. He was afraid that Jiang Ruan would be surprised and feel aggrieved in Japan. After all, he held her hand and said, "in a word, it''s not safe here. You should go back to the government with me first." Xiao Shao grabbed Jiang Ruan''s arm and looked like ice: "if she doesn''t go, she will stay here." One hand of the two men put her in the middle, but the atmosphere was deadlocked. Just listen to Jiang Xin''s way: "she still didn''t come out of the cabinet, what is it like to stay here?" "She''s from King Jinying''s house." Xiao Shao light way. "Stop it." Jiang Ruan shook off their hands and felt a faint depression in his heart. Looking at Jiang Xin, he said: "brother, it''s too late now. It''s inconvenient to go back to Jiang''s house now. Besides, there are inevitably spies sent by Xuanli outside, so as not to cause more trouble. I''ll stay here tonight. " Xiao Shao''s face lightened a little, but Jiang Xinzhi was impatient. He thought that if the girl was really outgoing, she would turn to someone else before she got married. There was some grievance in his heart, but he knew that what Jiang Ruan said was really reasonable. For a moment, his mood was very complicated. Jiang Ruan knew what he was thinking when he saw Jiang Xinzhi''s appearance. He was helpless for a moment, but he didn''t know that the elder brother had been fighting for several years. Now he became more and more childish. "I don''t think it''s safe outside. Don''t leave. I have something to ask you. You can clean up and rest here tonight. " When Xiao Shaogang wanted to refuse, he heard Jiang Xinzhi immediately say, "OK, I''ll see your face and stay here tonight." Xiao Shao Xiao Shao''s men and horses moved very quickly, but in a moment, almost all the dead were slaughtered, and his men were also very experienced. The yard was immediately cleaned, and there was not a trace of blood left. Sitting under the oil lamp, Jiang Xinzhi was still dissatisfied: "it''s not the first time to look at this matter. How many people have died in King Jinying''s residence? Do you really want to live in such an ominous place?" "Brother, what''s the matter with you?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Since Jiang Xinzhi saw her, he seemed to have a tit for tat with Xiao Shao, and his performance was too obvious. Although Jiang Xinzhi didn''t like Xiao Shao, he was not as hostile as he is now. Jiang Ruan himself doubted that what had happened at the border? Can Xiao Shao bully Jiang Xinzhi? Jiang Xin''s eyes parted. After a pause, he said, "do you really want to marry him?" In Jiang Xinzhi''s opinion, after several years of fighting abroad, he suddenly knew that Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan had been married. Naturally, he was very angry. If he''s here, it doesn''t matter. It happened in his absence. In his opinion, Xiao Shao took advantage of others'' danger. It''s just like a Chinese cabbage that he had painstakingly planted had been arched. Naturally, he was unhappy. "Brother, this is the Empress Dowager''s Yizhi." Jiang Ruan sighed: "I can''t resist the order. What''s more, there''s nothing wrong with getting married to King Jinying''s house. There''s no mother-in-law or sister-in-law to wait on me. I''m very clean and straightforward. " "You are my sister," Jiang Xinzhi said solemnly, "although he is young and promising and has a good life, he has a bad reputation after all. What''s the good point of getting along with a cold person day and night? " Jiang Xinzhi is good at seeing his younger sister. Naturally, Xiao Shao is not worthy of Jiang Ruan. How can he have a good face. "What is fame?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "brother, I forgot that I was a lonely star in heaven. Is that true?" "It was framed by others. How can you take it seriously?" Mention this matter, Jiang Xin''s chest will feel a plug. At the beginning, I only blame him for his incompetence. I didn''t know that Xia Yan''s family had a sinister intention, which made Jiang Ruan so infamous that she suffered so many years of grievances in Chuang Tzu."Since I was framed, how can he not be framed?" Jiang Ruan shook his head: "besides, brother, you''ve been at the border for so long, and you''ve got along with him. You know something about him. You don''t know what kind of person he is? " As a matter of fact, although Xiao Shao was cold, his subordinates were respectful and awed. If you want to see a person, it depends on the attitude of the people around him. Since Xiao Shao''s subordinates are so loyal to him, he must have something extraordinary. Moreover, on the battlefield, this man''s courage is indeed admirable. It is undeniable that this is a very strong young man. Together with Jiang Ruan, he can absolutely protect her. But what Jiang Xinzhi thought was not a taste. He said with a stuffy head: "ah Ruan, you are facing him every sentence. It''s always true that he doesn''t care, but he''s also attracted to him. " This time, it was Jiang Ruan''s turn to stop talking. She glared at Jiang Xinzhi for a long time and then said, "brother, I''ll marry anyone. Although the Empress Dowager dotes on me, the country of Jin Dynasty is more important than my personal safety. The higher my status is, the more I am favored by the royal family, and I am more likely to become a royal chip in the future. Do you remember the original Princess Yuanrong? Everyone can see that I am like the second Yuanrong princess in front of the Empress Dowager. Who can be sure that I will not be the second Yuanrong princess in the future? " "Don''t talk nonsense!" he said "Elder brother knows what I mean," Jiang Ruan shook his head. "Princess Yuanrong is the daughter of empress Yide, and she has come to such an end. I have no blood relationship with the royal family. Who knows if it will change suddenly one day. As for my father, he hated us in his heart. If I could pave a way for his official career, he would be happy. My days are full of flowers, but they are in crisis step by step. When I marry Xiao Shao, he''s cold-blooded, but he just saves some trouble. I''m the same as everyone I marry. If I marry him, at least I have chips. I have an ally relationship with him, which is stronger than any other relationship. " "You..." Jiang Xinzhi was surprised and angry: "what are you talking about? How can marriage be used as a chip? I will fight for what you want. I will protect you, but you can''t regard your husband as an ally. That''s the person you want to make friends with, the person you will accompany for life. Where do you put yourself when you say that? " "Brother, now I don''t want to be romantic." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "you and I have been used to seeing my mother''s ending since childhood. There is always a dilemma in my heart. If I marry to King Jinying''s house, if he is really my lover, after a long time, his allies will naturally become husband and wife. But it''s all about getting along. " She lied to Jiang Xinzhi. Her resistance to marriage and her blockade of her own feelings in this life did not come from Zhao Mei''s ending, but from her previous life''s painstaking efforts. All she got was betrayal and killing. It is not easy to get rid of that shadow in this life. But she couldn''t tell Jiang Xinzhi about it. After hearing this, Jiang Xinzhi didn''t know how to persuade Jiang Ruan. Once his sister had an idea, no one could shake it, so he sighed, patted her on the head and said, "I''m a little old woman, but I don''t know who I am." Jiang Ruan smiles, and the two brothers and sisters talk about other things. In the study at the other end, Xiao Shao is sitting at the desk, while Xia Qing and Qi Feng are sitting opposite. Xia Qing is anxious to come here, but he is surprised to find that Xiao Shao has come back. Sitting in the study of Jinying palace, he finally has the heart to ask himself: "third brother, why didn''t you come back with him?" "He was escorted with the army." Xiao shaodao. He hastened to come, who knows Jiang Xinzhi also followed up, the army can not be leaderless, naturally left Guan Lianghan alone. Qi Feng didn''t know what he was thinking. He kept silent. Seeing this, Xia Qing touched his arm: "fourth brother, what''s the matter with you? I''ve been out of my mind since I came in? Just now I heard that there was a fire and you rushed out? What are you in such a hurry for? " When Xia Qing comes, the royal guards have already disposed of the dead man''s body. Xia Qing doesn''t know what happened. Xiao Shao smell speech Mou Guang to move, saw one eye Qi Feng, didn''t speak. Qi Feng recovered. Only he knew how dangerous the scene was. It almost stopped his heart beating. Even now, as long as I think of it, I''m still afraid. At that time, he lost his temper in a hurry, and I don''t know if he was seen by Xiao Shao. Thinking of this, Qi Feng raised his head and was facing Xiao Shao''s quiet eyes, which seemed to be able to see through people''s hearts, making his thoughts invisible. Qi Feng felt a little uncomfortable and almost ran away. For a moment, he just managed to smile: "it''s OK, I just came out to have a look." He remembered that just at the critical moment, it was Xiao Shao who rushed to save Jiang Ruan. He was able to protect her, and his heart was filled with bitterness. However, there are some things in the world that can be fought for and some things that can not be fought for, even without the qualification to fight for. Qi Feng pressed the pain in his heart and said, "third brother, when you come back, I''m afraid there will be another change in Beijing. What clues do you find when you go to Tianjin this time? " Many years ago, they began to investigate the changes in southern Xinjiang. This time, the challenge of Tianjin was so sudden, which had a lot to do with southern Xinjiang. On the other hand, Xiao Shao was ordered to go out to investigate the information. Xiao Shao shook his head: "the imperial court has a person arranged by them. This person is too hidden. This time, the Tianjin army was defeated, and the southern Xinjiang alliance broke down. It may take some time to recuperate. There are other arrangements in Beijing. "Xia Qing couldn''t understand what they said, so she scratched her head and said, "no matter what, it''s good for the third brother to come back safely. Before, my fourth brother and I bet on your marriage. When will the third brother do the wedding when he comes back? I''m just waiting to finish the wedding wine and go back to Jinling. The things at the hospital haven''t changed for a long time. My doctors are all in a hurry. " As soon as he said this, Xiao Shao and Qi Feng were slightly stunned. After a long silence, Xiao Shaocai said faintly: "I''ll go into the Palace tomorrow to explain this. The sooner the wedding, the better. " His eyes stopped on Qi Feng and left quickly, his expression was as cold as ever. "That''s great," Xia Qing said excitedly. "I have to think about what kind of gift to send." The next morning, there was a light snow in the morning. At night, the snow was deep and almost knee deep. It''s surprisingly cold. However, the streets are not so cold because of the extremely cold weather. On the contrary, they talk about the fact that all the streets in the north of the city were watered last night. The peddlers talked a lot. They all heard that there seemed to be robbers. But after a long time, the guards in the house bravely went out to investigate, but nothing happened. It''s just that a series of houses have been destroyed. It''s just that people living in the prosperous corner of the north of the city are either rich or expensive. They don''t care about the silver, but after all, it''s hard to calm down and feel a bit unlucky. In the eighth Prince''s house, Xuan Li held his forehead and looked worried. A night attack last night has not yet been reported, nor has the spies sent back. Xuanli knows what it means, but he is not reconciled to persuading himself that all things are bad. He thought that all the people he sent would be destroyed, but at least someone came to report the situation of the royal guards. Jiang Ruan was just a woman. Could he order to kill her? What''s more, there was a sudden attack that night. Jiang Ruan was not fully prepared to retreat. I''m quite sure of these things, but I didn''t hear from you all night. The spies sent out again can''t find anything outside Jinying''s mansion. Jinying''s mansion is as solid as gold, and even a fly can''t fly in. It''s even more difficult to ask for information. After several unsuccessful returns, Xuanli feels more uneasy. Early in the morning, the matter of walking along the street in the north of the city spread like wildfire. It must have something to do with King Jinying''s residence. Xuanli knew that it was Jiang Ruan''s way to confuse the public, but there was nothing he could do. Just thinking about it, the two boys came in carrying a box of things, put it in the middle of the room, and said to Xuanli, "Your Highness, Mr. Zhang has sent a salute. Please have a look." It''s normal for his officials to send gifts from time to time, but today Xuanli didn''t care about it. He waved his hand impatiently and said, "open it." The box opened slowly. Before Xuanli could see it, he heard the two boys and the guard gasping. Maybe he was afraid of disturbing him. He didn''t scream, but the shortness of breath still made Xuanli frown. He turned his head to look, his body was stiff, and his eyes could not be moved any more. There are a series of heads neatly placed in the box. The bloody appearance makes people feel blocked. However, they can still recognize the eyebrows. Five spies, one of them is the leader of the assassin. Leaving a head neatly placed seems to be laughing at his incompetence. Xuanli''s throat was so sweet that he felt a breath of depression coming out of his chest, and he almost threw it out. Reluctantly swallow a mouthful of sweet blood from his throat, Xuan Li turns his head and stares darkly at the two boys dragging the box in: "how did this thing come in?" The two boys had been shaken by the sudden changes. Hearing the words, they knelt down and begged for mercy: "Your Highness, please spare your life. Mr. Zhang''s hands put the box at the door. This is what the little boys brought in. Please spare your life, your highness!" Xuanli''s hand made an effort, and the cup in his hand broke. The porcelain bottle of the cup scratched his hand, and the blood slowly overflowed from his fingers, but he seemed to be unaware of it. The bodyguard on one side didn''t dare to come out, just because Xuan Li''s expression was very distorted at the moment. It was clear that the corners of his mouth were upturned, but his muscles were shaking uncontrollably. He was obviously short of breath. It is not unjust to say that Xuan Li is oppressed in his heart. Originally, there was Xiao Shao guarding Jinying palace, so there was no way to find the exit. Now Xiao Shao is not here, and only Jiang Ruan is in charge of Jinying palace. How can he fall into the hands of a weak woman? What''s the matter with the head? It''s a provocation to send it in this way! Xuanli seems to be magnanimous, but he is very narrow-minded. This move almost marks out the dark side of his heart. The person who has done such a thing is unforgivable! Just as his eyes were deep in thought, there was another dark guard outside. Seeing Xuanli, he immediately told him, "Your Highness, I just got the news that King Jinying has returned to Beijing." Xuanli''s eyes were burning, and he looked at the man immediately. His palms unconsciously exerted force, and his blood trickled down. There are two flowers, one on each side. Jinying palace is full of vitality at this time. Everyone is happy when the young master comes back. Last night, everyone thought that there must be a fierce battle. At the critical moment, Xiao Shao suddenly came back, and everyone was happy. Originally, people in King Jinying''s mansion liked Jiang Ruan very much this year. Although the young lady looked a little colder, she never asked too much, and she was very considerate in the new year. Miss you, who is not a small temperament, this young lady is easy to get along with, almost no airs. As soon as last night passed, Jiang Ruan showed a strong and tough scene in front of the public. Suddenly, his image became tall in people''s hearts. He almost accepted people''s hearts at that time. From then on, he became the well deserved hostess in all servants'' hearts of Jinying palace, which was just what everyone expected.So as soon as Xiao Shao came back, people consciously created all opportunities for the future virtuous couple to get along with each other. After Jiang Ruan fang had breakfast, dew came up and said, "girl, it''s snowing outside. Do you want to have a look?" There was nothing to see in the snow these days, but there was nothing to do in the house. Jiang Ruan stood up and forsythia saw it. She quickly found a cloak of fire rat hair and put it on her. Then she put a Carved Silver stove into her hand: "be careful not to catch cold." Several people walked out of the house and went to the yard. From a distance, they saw a man sitting in the pavilion. The dew blinked and pretended to be surprised. "Oh, that''s not my uncle, girl. My uncle is over there. Do you want to have a look?" Her voice was very high, and the people in the pavilion heard it. They turned around and looked at it. This is to pretend that they didn''t see it. Jiang Ruan glared at the dewdrop. The dewdrop touched his nose and looked up at the sky. With a sigh, Jiang Ruan picked up his train and walked towards the pavilion. Several servant girls consciously did not follow, standing far away outside the pavilion waiting. Xiao Shao is sitting in the pavilion. Today, he is wearing a blue embroidered Kirin and silver pattern official dress. The gold thread at the cuff is carefully embroidered, which makes the whole person''s spirit more beautiful. He is wearing a black cloak outside, and his body is tall and slender. At the moment, he didn''t know what he was thinking. He frowned slightly, his long eyelashes fell down, his face was elegant and beautiful, his temperament was cold and elegant, which was really attractive. Jiang Ruan sat down in front of him and thought about it. Seeing the teapot on the table, he reached out and poured himself a cup of tea. Xiao Shao looked at her and said nothing. The atmosphere was a little strange for a moment. Finally, it was Jiang Ruan who broke the silence and said, "thank you last night." This kind of polite words, Xiao Shao''s eyebrow wrinkled tighter, tone slightly chilly: "between you and me, don''t have to say these." He was a little strange. Jiang Ruan noticed his abnormality and said strangely, "what happened?" Xiao Shao stopped and said, "I''ve already returned to Beijing. I should prepare for the wedding banquet. Today I''m going to go to the palace to face the emperor. Do you think about it?" Jiang Ruan a Leng, but did not expect that he said it, a smile: "think well, when you say it." Xiao Shao''s expression was a little relaxed. She suddenly thought of something and said, "I heard what Jin Er said last night. Thank you for guarding Jinying palace for me. But you don''t have to do that in the future, "he said with cold eyes and thin lips like a knife." the most important thing in the palace is not honor and secret, but you. " Jiang Ruan was stunned. She was puzzled. She said with a smile, "since I''m the mistress here, I have to shoulder some responsibilities. In fact..." "You are my Xiao Shao''s woman." Xiao Shao interrupted her: "you don''t have to do anything." What''s more, dear ones, happy June day~^_ ^ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 184 Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. He felt that Xiao Shao''s words seemed to have some inexplicable emotion. He looked up at him strangely. This youth then stares at her straightly, a pair of deep and cold black eyes almost want to see the person''s heart. Xiao Shao was cold and indifferent on the surface, but in fact he was strong and domineering. For example, in his words at the moment, he wanted to take her as his own. Jiang Ruan thought and shook his head in his heart. Xiao Shao was introverted. He didn''t look like such an emotional person. He was afraid that something was right. After a pause, she said, "you''re right to say that." she changed the topic: "now that you''re back in your class, I think your majesty is going to have a headache about what kind of reward to give you." Xiao Shao was originally in a position of high weight, and he never said that he could walk horizontally among the officials of the great Jin Dynasty. When it comes to him, it''s totally unnecessary. As early as many years ago, the emperor spared no effort to reward him. Except for the position of the ninth five, now he has no shortage of gold and silver for every merit he has made, and his official position has reached the first grade. There is nothing to be found. Jiang Ruan suddenly thought of something and began to smile: "I think about it. It seems that I can only give you some beauties." Xiao Shao didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would suddenly mention it. He looked at him and said, "no need." "Your Majesty wholeheartedly supports you," Jiang Ruan said, looking at the tea cup in front of him, "when you return to the imperial court, the Empress Dowager''s will will be fulfilled. But now the family of Jiang''s house is in decline. Marrying me won''t bring you any benefits. Your majesty thinks about you everywhere, so he doesn''t want to. At the beginning, I heard that your majesty intended to betroth the Yao family''s gold to you. This time, you have made such a contribution. Your marriage is more direct than any gold, silver and jewelry. " Jiang Ruan''s words are not groundless. Since the news of the great victory of the frontier came, when Jiang Ruan entered the palace, he heard aunt Yang beside empress Yide say that the emperor began to call governor Yao frequently again. Jiang Ruan knew that Xiao Shao had many secrets, just like her. She didn''t understand why the emperor would protect Xiao Shao, but it was obvious that the emperor''s heart was partial to Xiao Shao. The emperor was very dissatisfied with her being the princess of Jinying. If it wasn''t for Xiao Shao''s sake, he would have chosen another person. Now, after many years of re-entry into the imperial court, Xiao Shao has made such a great contribution. How could the emperor let it go? Since ancient times, emperors always like to arrange life for others. She said magnanimous, it seems that there is no bad mood. Xiao Shao looked at her quietly and did not speak. He looks good. Maybe he stayed at the border for some time, which aroused all the coldness in his bones. When I came back this time, I was even colder. My whole body was filled with a kind of cold air. However, my eyebrows and eyes were picturesque, and my face was very beautiful. Suddenly, with a slight smile, I felt cold and evil. His voice couldn''t hear his emotion, but he just floated to Jiang Ruan''s ear: "so, what do you think?" As soon as Jiang Ruan held the hand of the heater tightly, the young man in front of him, black as ink, pressed again: "do you want me to accept others?" For a moment, Jiang Ruan suddenly froze, holding the heater in his hand, and suddenly felt like falling into the ice cellar. Because she had heard the same thing in her previous life. At that time, she was just like a palace. She had the idea of living and dying every day. At that time, it was said in the palace that the prime minister intended to marry his youngest daughter to the eighth Prince Xuanli. After hearing the news, she felt that her already gloomy life was even worse. She had a serious illness and came to see her. He leaned over her ear and said softly, "what do you think? Do you want me to accept someone else? " Jiang Ruan thought vaguely, how did she answer at that time. Perplexed and miserable, she endured the pain of her heart and said, "this is your Highness''s business. I have no right to interfere." What did Xuanli say? Xuanli looked at her with a gentle tone. He said: "in my life, the position of Zhengfei is reserved for you. The rest of the people can''t get into my eyes, let alone my heart. If you''ve heard anything, it''s just acting on occasion. You can''t really do it. You''re the only one in my heart. Don''t you understand? " Such sincere and affectionate words finally broke her last weakness in the deep palace. For his affectionate words, she was willing to play a chess piece for him step by step in the palace, but in the end there were no bones left to lose. Now I hear this words, time seems to turn back, and let him return to the day when Xuanli whispered softly in his previous life. It''s so bloody. Xiao Shao saw her abnormality, and she was surprised. Xiao Shao has seen Jiang Ruan in all kinds of ways, gentle and graceful, clever and submissive, bright and charming, cruel and unfeeling, describing her as embarrassed, gritting her teeth, stubborn and independent, but rarely seen her at a loss. At the moment, she was sitting opposite him with the heater in her hand. Her eyes were in a trance. She didn''t know what she was thinking of. Her eyes were full of sadness and loss. What she saw made people feel tight for no reason. Xiao Shao didn''t have time to analyze why Jiang Ruan suddenly changed his mood, so he immediately stood up and took her. As soon as Fang reached her hand, he realized that she was shaking slightly. After a pause, he pulled Jiang Ruan into his arms. "I''m sorry, I''m wrong. I shouldn''t have asked you that." There was a trace of chagrin in his tone: "I will not accept others, the mistress here, only you." Jiang Ruan was at a loss for a moment when he touched Xiao Shao''s cold clothes. Her head was on Xiao Shao''s chest. Xiao Shao''s hand was over her shoulder and gently fell on her back. She comforted her carefully. Her posture was like coaxing a child.Jiang Ruan rigidly put out his hand to embrace him, his hands around his waist slowly tightened, the bottom of his eyes bit by bit to restore calm. She thought that she would forget all those things, thought that she could well hide the hatred in her heart. However, things in the world are not so easy to put down. Xuanli''s previous life and her betrayal and hurt were always there, and she never forgot them. Xiao Shao felt Jiang Ruan''s emotional excitement. He didn''t know which sentence he said was wrong, which caused Jiang Ruan to be so abnormal, but he knew that the problem must be in his words just now. After thinking about it, he whispered, "I said you don''t have to do anything, and you don''t have to worry about it." "I don''t want to." Jiang Ruan said suddenly. Xiao Shao looked down at her. Jiang Ruan''s expression seemed to be in a trance, but his eyes were as calm as before. Her hands were cold, and her hands around Xiao Shao''s waist tightened a little more, and she began to smile: "I don''t want you to accept other people." The girl''s smile is as beautiful as a flower. She is bright and moving. Every time she sees her, she seems to grow up. Now all her childishness has gone away. Her eyebrows and eyes are full of charm of amorous feelings. Every move has a kind of astonishment engraved into the bone marrow. Her tone was firm and calm: "since you want me to enter your palace, your palace and you are only mine. All women in the world are jealous, and I am no exception. If more women come to divide up my things, I will kill them without hesitation, even if it''s just for fun. " Speaking of the end, her tone has highlighted the murderous. In fact, Jiang Ruan could not explain why she said this. After her rebirth, she also thought about her marriage, only to achieve her own goal with the help of her husband''s family. Since it''s just a tool for revenge, she won''t care about the sincerity and falsehood. Even will play a good virtuous wife, if necessary, can take the initiative for their husband concubine. Now she is to say her own ideas, time and the previous life overlap, she also do not know at the moment is the answer to Xiao Shao''s question or the previous life Xuanli''s question. But she knew in her heart that at this moment, what she said was without thinking, which was her original intention. Xiao Shao stares at her, there seems to be a ripple flash in his quiet dark eyes, but he disappears quickly. The next moment, he bends his head quickly and kisses Jiang Ruan in the forehead. He put Jiang Ruan''s head in his arms, and his tone was as gentle as ever: "I don''t like to play on occasion, so there will be no one else." Jiang Ruan''s body trembled. He said that he didn''t like to play on occasion. He is different from Xuanli. With a sigh in his heart, Jiang Ruan unconsciously hugged Xiao Shao more tightly. He was not Xuanli. There was never any similarity between them. Xiao Shao hugs her, her long eyelashes droop, covering her mood in her eyes. Jiang Ruan is so strange today, but he doesn''t know what''s wrong. Once upon a time, he thought that maybe Jiang Ruan didn''t want others to touch some secrets, and he didn''t explore them deliberately. Now it seems that if some secrets are not solved, there will always be an invisible barrier between him and her. The news of Jinying King Xiaoshao and Jiang Xinzhi''s early return to Beijing spread all over the capital the next day, not for anything else, but for two purposes. One is to give Jinying King Xiaoshao and Hongan Princess Jiang Ruan a marriage at once. The second is to add Jiang Xinzhi as a great general of Western Shandong. He worshipped zhengerpin and took over 100000 military power under the former general Wu. This is a great honor for a young court rookie who was born as a civil servant. With this seat as a starting point, Jiang Xin''s future will be beautiful. However, in fact, this time the royal guards led by Xiao Shao cooperated with Jiang Xinzhi and really fought a beautiful battle. Guan Lianghan was still on his way with his army and the envoys of Tianjin state. When the envoys came to Beijing, they wrote a letter of decline. From then on, the state of Tian Jin paid tribute every year and ceded ten cities. From then on, they bowed to the emperor Dajin. The emperor was very satisfied with the result. On that day, Xiao Shao went into the imperial study and talked with the emperor for half an hour, but he didn''t know what he said. After Xiao Shao left, the eunuch who went into the study to clean up saw that the ground was full of broken tea cups and porcelain pieces. Obviously, the emperor was very angry. But I do not know why, the next day under the news of Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan immediately married. They guessed that what Xiao Shao and the emperor said was related to this matter, and they envied Jiang Ruan. A month later, Guan Lianghan also returned to Beijing, which coincided with the end of the new year. This heaven given marriage was decided long ago, but now it''s just marriage. However, in the palace or set off a lot of waves, for a time everywhere can hear the discussion of this matter. In the imperial garden, Jiang Zhaoyi and some of the women''s family members of the palace sit on the small table to discuss the matter. Jiang Dan peels off a tangerine, and her hand painted with kordan looks very white and tender on the round tangerine. She smiles and says, "big sister is really lucky." Wang Meiren, who should be called Wang Zhaorong now, said gently, "Princess Hong''an is smart and decent. She is a perfect match for King Jinying. It''s also perfect to have the queen of heaven''s royal marriage ahead. " Jiang Dan smiles, takes a look at Wang lian''er, and crosses mu Xirou. Over the past year, the emperor did not know why, but also praised Wang lian''er and mu Xirou. Xu felt that they could restrain each other. Wang lianer became Wang Zhaorong, mu Xirou became Mu Zhaohua, and she became Jiang Zhaoyi herself. All three of them are of the same grade. Mu Xirou holds a shelf all day long, which is not enough to be afraid for the time being. But Wang lianer is very cunning. They are the only two in the palace who fight fiercely in secret.Jiang Dan laughed and suddenly said to a woman sitting in the next seat, "Dong Xiuyi, you and my elder sister used to be friends in the boudoir. I don''t know what gift you prepared for this big sister''s wedding?" The woman raised her head and showed a beautiful face. It was Dong Yinger who was right. Now her appearance has not changed, but her expression is no longer as smart as when she was a girl. In the past year, she also got the favor of the emperor, and was promoted to the third rank of commoner. The world is really ironic. When she was a girl at the beginning, she was the daughter of Jing Zhaoyin''s family. Jiang Dan was just a commoner daughter of Shangshu''s family. Her identity was far behind her. Now she entered the palace, but she fell down. She had to salute when she saw Jiang Dan. At the moment, Dong Ying''er heard Jiang Dan''s sarcastic words, just a faint smile: "Princess Jinzhiyuye, how can I climb up?" "Dong Xiuyi is wrong. I remember that you were very close to my elder sister. By the way, it''s not the miss of the Zhao family. Speaking of it, I think of a thing. My elder brother has been promoted to a senior general. This reward is also brilliant. When the news of my elder brother''s strange place was spread outside, who would have thought that he would have such a beautiful day? So I said, man is not as good as nature. Big brother, this opportunity can make those who have bad intentions fall behind. When the big brother had an accident, many of the people who wanted to go up with his relatives saw the wind and took the helm, and immediately drew a clear line with him. Now I''m afraid I''m green with regret. " Dong Ying''er''s body was slightly stiff. She hung her head down, but her throat was unconsciously tight. Jiang Dan''s words all seemed to speak to her. At the beginning, Jiang Xinzhi''s whereabouts were unknown. His parents just saw that the situation was wrong and forced her to enter the palace. At that time, she had no way out. Seeing that Jiang Xinzhi was in danger, she went to the palace immediately. Who knows today, when the news of Jiang Xinzhi''s rescue came out, her heart was really happy and sad. The good thing is that the man still has a life. The sad thing is that she has been married to someone else, and there is no possibility between them. Now Jiang Xinzhi has become a young general in Luxi. She is a family member in the palace. It''s ironic to say that again from Jiang Dan. Seeing this, Wang lian''er said with a smile, "isn''t it? Jiang''s army is really young and brilliant, and he has excellent talent. But he doesn''t know which family''s money will be cheap in the future to get his green eye. " "Where is the last day of the round?" Jiang Dan laughed more and more happily: "isn''t it a little interesting now?" Dong Ying''er''s body was stiff, Wang lian''er was stunned and asked, "what''s the meaning of sister?" "Does Dong Xiuyi still remember Miss Zhao who was very close to her elder sister?" Jiang Dan said with a smile: "at the beginning, you three were very good friends. I heard that general Jiang''s favorite was Miss Zhao. Now I''ve asked someone to go to Zhao''s house for information. It''s really a perfect marriage. My elder sister is very happy, too. " Dong Ying''er''s face was pale. If he hadn''t remembered that it was the imperial garden, he would have collapsed. Zhao Jin? Zhao Jin? After entering the palace for such a long time, she had already seen clearly that Jiang Dan was not a good role to play. Originally, she also wanted to think it was Jiang Dan''s random bite, but as long as Jiang Xinzhi was involved, she couldn''t help being upset. Is Jiang Xinzhi''s sweetheart Zhao Jin? When did they get together? When did Zhao Jin enter Jiang Xinzhi''s eyes again? Dong Ying''er only feels cold in her heart. At the beginning, she favored Jiang Xinzhi, but she didn''t hide it from Zhao Jin. Zhao Jin knows that her mind is still with Jiang Xinzhi. And Jiang Ruan, who was so heartless to her at the beginning, helped Zhao Jin and Jiang Xinzhi, who were also friends. Why did Jiang Ruan treat her so differently? Her heart gushed a deep unwilling and angry, and was betrayed by the sad. I just feel that everyone is watching her joke, and the whole person seems to be different from her own. I couldn''t hear what Jiang Dan was still saying. "Miss Zhao is a perfect match for elder brother." Jiang Dan said with a smile: "the elder brother is a general. Miss Zhao is from a military family. It''s no wonder that the elder sister will help them." Jiang Dan said that she was happy, but she didn''t expect someone to come behind her. As soon as she said this, she heard a clear voice and said, "I thought that only ignorant women in the villages would chew people''s tongue. I don''t think the noble family in the deep palace would do the same. It''s really an eye opener. Fortunately, Miss Zhao''s family and general Jiang are not here today. Otherwise, when they hear about their reputation, they will be destroyed for no reason. I''m afraid they won''t give up. Liu Taifu, is that right? " All of them were shocked. Jiang Dan stood up and saw behind him a young man and a beautiful young man. The young man looked beautiful. His tone was smiling and joking, but his eyes were cold. Who was Xuan Pei. "Thirteen, your highness." Wang lian''er several people busy rise to salute, for the prince, is three grade palace imperial concubine also want to lower a head. What''s more, now the thirteen princes are in favor, even the prince''s Taifu Liumin has given him. The young man beside him was beautiful and proud. At the moment, a trace of anger flashed in his eyes, but he said quietly: "Your Highness said it." This is the agreement. Jiang Dan secretly clenched her teeth, but she didn''t know when to run out of xuanpei. She felt that she was in front of the crowd because xuanpei lost face and was a little annoyed for a moment. Then he said with a smile: "Thirteen highness, these things about the mouth and tongue of the harem are just women''s things. Thirteen Highness''s involvement will make people laugh."I don''t know why. She doesn''t like xuanpei very much. She is very comfortable with other princes, and she does not grudge her own compliments. However, she is very reluctant to treat the thirteen princes. I don''t know if it''s her illusion. She can always find the shadow of Jiang Ruan in Xuan Pei, especially when she looks at people with the same cold eyes. Wang lian''er scolded a fool in her heart. Everyone knew that the emperor valued Xuan Pei, but Jiang Dan was so impolite. I don''t want to think about what the emperor would think if it came to the emperor''s ears. The Emperor himself could scold xuanpei, but he would never let Zhaoyi teach the prince a lesson. "How can this be regarded as a matter of the harem?" Xuanpei said with a smile: "general Jiang is a meritorious official of the great Jin Dynasty. Zhaoyi lives in the palace, but she is also clear about general Jiang''s private affairs. I think she is also very concerned about general Jiang. A woman in the harem of Zhaoyi can care about general Jiang. As the prince of the great Jin Dynasty and the son of his father, our Palace should care more about general Jiang." Jiang Dan''s words stopped, and he secretly scolded Xuan PEI for his cunning. This is really a little heartbreaking. As a woman in the harem, she is concerned about the private affairs of other young generals, which is a little overstepping. Jiang danqian: "at least it''s my elder brother..." "Zhaoyi is really strange," said Mu Xirou, who had been watching coldly. Her beauty was too arrogant, and she still said coldly: "I heard that general Jiang went to the palace to receive a reward, but I never heard that he went to the palace to talk with Jiang Zhaoyi, and no one from Jiang''s family came to visit Zhaoyi. I really don''t know where Zhaoyi got the news. The Empress Dowager and her majesty did not speak. It seems that Jiang Zhaoyi is more capable than your majesty. " No one thought that mu Xirou, a cold beauty, could speak so much that she would almost silence Jiang Dan. The palace is full of the emperor''s people. Today''s words may not reach the emperor''s ears. No one knows what the emperor thought, but Jiang Dan was in a hurry and said, "I didn''t say that. Mu Zhaohua, why do you say that about me?" Mu Xirou sneered and stopped talking. Xuanpei on one side is smiling. Liu Min, who is standing beside him, also raises his lips slightly. A smile flashed in his eyes. Jiang Dan accidentally offended Xuan Pei, but he isolated himself. No one would offend the prince whom the emperor valued. No one spoke for Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan was in a very awkward situation at the moment. Xuanpei stroked his sleeve. The young man with delicate eyebrows and delicate clothes, gentle smile on his lips, but his tone was cold: "Jiang Zhaoyi, disease comes from the mouth, disaster comes from the mouth, you have to remember." For a moment, Jiang Dan felt a chill. Oh, I really want my soft sister to be a flower boy when she was 13 when she got married www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 185 Time flies. In a twinkling of an eye, it comes to the day when Guan Lianghan leads his troops back to Korea. The defeated state of Jin sent envoys to deliver the letter of surrender. The emperor Longxin was very happy, and Guan Lianghan got many rewards. But now people don''t pay attention to these, instead, they pay attention to Jiang Ruan''s marriage. The fifth day of Guan Lianghan''s return to the court was the wedding day of King Jinying and Princess Hongan. Because Princess Hong''an is now half of the royal family, but it is run by the empress dowager, and the real shangshufu of her mother''s family is quiet. Lottery, name, Naji, please wait. On this day, Jiangdong light snow, snow fell, Jiang Ruan sitting in the room, Zhao''s second grandmother Yao sitting in front of her, watching the bride give her colorful cotton thread to her face. The second grandmother of Zhao was always grateful to Jiang Ruan for saving Zhao Feizhou. Generally speaking, the women in the general''s mansion are very gentle and kind-hearted. They know that she is Zhao Mei''s daughter and have been sending some gifts over the years. Now that he is married, the family of Shangshu mansion is left out in the cold. Jiang Quan doesn''t care at all. Xia Yue is Xia''s family. On the surface, she has done her best, but in fact, she has no special enthusiasm. It was Zhao''s family that sent 20 sets of gifts. Zhao also sent 10000 taels of silver notes and land deed shops. It''s just that Zhao Mei didn''t send out the dowry when she married to Shangshu mansion. Now all of them are given to Jiang Ruan Lai. It''s not easy to refuse. The Zhao family treat her sincerely. Yao looked at her and said something about how to get along with her husband and wife after getting married, which made Jiang Ruan a little embarrassed. It was so easy to find an empty space. Yao went out. Lin Zixiang ate the fruit with the scarlet letter on the table and said, "you didn''t hear a word of what your aunt said. To tell you the truth, I''m a little curious. How do you get along with Xiao Shao when they become husband and wife? Tut Tut, I can''t think of it. " Wen Feifei helped her forehead and said, "what are you talking about? You are not married now. When you get married, you will know. Sister Ruan, you are so gentle and beautiful. There is no mother-in-law or sister-in-law in King Jinying''s house. The days will only be better. " Wen Feifei nearly fainted at the door of Jiang''s mansion the last time. She found that she was pregnant after returning to her mansion. Originally, I didn''t live very well in the house. As soon as I had a body, I almost had to be confessed by my mother-in-law. Now she has a lot of experience about the back house. Seeing that Jiang Ruan didn''t have to wait on her mother-in-law, she was naturally happy for her. "Is it about beauty or not?" Lin Zixiang immediately said, "if it''s not beautiful, you can''t get married? Where does this come from. It''s a short-sighted person who only cares about his appearance Lin Zixiang has always been so lonely and straight. Wen Feifei says that she has no choice but to shake her head. Zhao Jin said with a smile: "today is Ruan''s happy day. I''d better take out the makeup first. Ruan''s sister has seen many good things. Don''t think I''m simple." She said and took out a small box from her sleeve. The box looked black, nothing special, even a little stupid. When Jiang Ruan Fang took over, Zhao Jin puffed out a mouthful of tea and said, "what are you sending here? A stone? At least find a better looking box. " "What stone?" Hearing this, Zhao Jin said hastily, "this is the black dysprosium stone that my elder brother brought back from Xirong. It looks stupid, but no one can match it in terms of firmness. If you take it to the fire and burn it for three days and three nights, there won''t be any damage. It''s a treasure hard to find. " It''s really in line with Zhao Jin''s temperament to give people makeup and stones like this. But Jiang Ruan was helpless. What''s the use of holding such a box? He can''t use such a box to install jewelry. "Open it and have a look. I asked baoyuelou to make it myself." Zhao Jin looks forward to it. Jiang Ruan opened the box and found a ring inside. Let''s call it a ring. Actually, it''s a black ring with a golden pimple on it. But no matter how calm Jiang Ruan was, he couldn''t help choking when he saw such an intuitive jewelry. Wen Feifei and Lin Zixiang cough when they see each other. Zhao Jin''s choice of jewelry is really different. On weekdays, it''s OK to have her own sisters looking at it. If they are completely according to their own wishes, they can''t get in the eye. For example, the pile of gold beads on the ring at present makes people feel powerless. Even if Jiang Ruan wanted to inherit her feelings, such jewelry was really eye-catching. Jiang Ruan smile: "thank you." "You''re welcome," Zhao Jin said with a smile. "This ring is also made of black gold stone. It''s very firm. If something happens in the future, it can be used as a knife. But I thought about it. After all, you are still a girl''s family. You can''t just wear a plain ring, and let the master of baoyuelou add a little decoration. How beautiful is the golden flower? " It''s better not to add it. Lin Zixiang didn''t have the heart to look. Jiang Ruan''s mouth was a little stiff, so he said, "it''s very nice." Zhao Jin''s choice of jewelry is the same as that of weapons. Everything hard, firm and sharp is beautiful. Zhao Jin put down her heart and said, "you can''t be better if you like it." Lin Zixiang and Wen Feifei pull Zhao Jin apart and present her makeup. Wen Feifei''s face is a pair of South China Sea pearls. The pearls are big and round, very beautiful. Lin Zixiang''s is a rare ancient book. He says that it''s a family heirloom of his family. There is only one in the world. He felt that he was predestined with Jiang Ruan and gave it to him. Jiang Ruan then looked at the ragged and curled pages of the book. He was really helpless.When Yao came back, the bride began to make up for Jiang Ruan after she had twisted her face. On the other hand, she said, "the young lady is good-looking, so she doesn''t need the heavy colored powder. I''ve never seen such a beautiful bride before." Forsythia several people stand behind Jiang Ruan smile for a group, after waiting for the bridesmaid to clean up, just smile to Yao said: "now good, come to see the bride beautiful?" Jiang Ruan stood up. She was wearing a scarlet wedding dress today, but she didn''t notice it when she sat down. However, when she stood up, she felt that the whole person was shining, and the bright light almost burned people''s eyes. Her facial features tend to be bright and bright, usually smile with a bit of gentle alienation, will be gorgeous down a bit, it is not so frivolous. Now she has been painted eyebrows and rouge by the bride. Her skin is brighter than snow. Her lips are like cherry petals. Her eyes are aimed upward and sprinkled with gold powder. It''s amazing. Her wedding dress is like fire, but she is like a goblin in the flowers. Her every move is vivid and fragrant. There were only some female dependents in the room, and they couldn''t help looking straight. "Sister Ruan, you are so beautiful." Zhao Jin looked a little crazy: "it''s like coming out of a painting." "I thought I was very beautiful when I got married, but today I know what it means to be dwarfed. I knew sister Ruan was beautiful, but I didn''t know she was so beautiful." Wen Fei Fei opens a way. Yao couldn''t help but wonder. He had heard Zhao Yuanping say that Zhao Mei, the youngest sister of the Zhao family, was very passionate when she was young. She was as dazzling as a fire. Now she can see Zhao Mei''s style in her niece. Jiang Ruan usually deliberately pressed the bone of the Yan Mei, now completely open, straight teach people heart shocked. I just think that this color is worthy of bringing disaster to the country and the people. Lin Zixiang was always picky, but now he was silent for a long time before he said, "this wedding dress makes you look like a kind of beauty." All the people were laughing and crying. Several of the Zhao family members came in again and said something. When the day was brighter, the wedding procession arrived. "Miss, please get up," the bride said After that, he put the small Phoenix crown on her head, covered her xipa, and Yao came to help her out. The wedding procession of King Jinying''s mansion arrives at the gate of Jiang''s mansion. Jiang''s family is his mother''s family after all, and the sedan chair is also carried to the gate of Jiang''s mansion. Empress Dowager Yide didn''t come out to watch the ceremony, but she sent aunt yang to bring her wedding ceremony, which was also a support for the scene. As soon as Jiang Ruan went out, the people around him were dazzled by the gorgeous wedding dress. The girl''s family and even the married wife could not help taking a breath when they saw it. Just as dewdrop said, they put the whole Shangshu mansion on them, and the Queen''s court dress was not so valuable. As soon as Jiang Ruan and his party came to the door, they heard the sound of firecrackers outside and opened the door to "block the sedan chair". Zhou, the eldest grandmother of the Zhao family, got up with a red candle in her hand and went to the door of the sedan chair to look inside, expel the evil spirits hidden in the sedan chair and "search the sedan chair" in the city. The eight lift sedan outside is waiting. It''s a gorgeous enough soft sedan with pictures of hundreds of children and thousands of grandchildren embroidered on it. It''s all outlined with thin gold lines. Even though the sun is not big today, it''s like a thin shining gold fan under the deep snow on the ground. The shining Amethyst is hanging down on the top of the sedan chair. Every lesson is worth thousands of gold. The glory of King Jinying''s mansion is too big. Even this soft sedan chair is enough for a senior official to eat food for one year. The eight people who raised their feet were all soap boots in green clothes. They were tall and handsome, and they were very dignified. I''ve never seen a little boy raising his feet, which attracted the ladies to watch, but some folk girls in the crowd watched the sedan chair driver blush. Jiang Quan stood aside. In the excitement, his face was smiling. He seemed to be very happy. But if you look carefully, you can see the reluctance of that smile. Then there was "crying in the sedan chair". The bride was supposed to sit on her mother''s lap and feed her in the sedan chair. But Zhao Mei has already passed away for many years. If Xia Yue comes to feed her, it will be a great irony in the eyes of everyone. Xiao Shao naturally won''t let this happen. He has already discussed with the people in the general''s residence. The general''s wife Li came to feed the meal. Li''s is Jiang Ruan''s grandmother. Jiang Ruan sits on her lap. As soon as Li''s spoon of rice reaches Jiang Ruan''s mouth, his eyes turn red. At the beginning, Zhao Mei and Jiang Quan also ran for their wives. Her only daughter got married, but she couldn''t feed them. This is Li''s heart forever regret and pain, now watching his granddaughter on the sedan chair, as if to see his bright and enthusiastic little daughter. Li''s heart a sour, exhortation words is a sincere: "Nan, Nan, Nong can carry, ah, loud! Nong, go alone, and bring a tide "Crying on the sedan chair" is followed by "holding on to the sedan chair". The elder brother of the bride holds the bride into the sedan chair. Today, Jiang Xinzhi is dressed in a blue lotus embroidered wedding gown and a bunch of multicolored tiaozi around his waist, which was called by Jiang Ruan when he was bored. He went up to Jiang Ruan, bowed to him, picked him up, put him in her ear and whispered, "ah Ruan, are you ready?" "Ready, big brother." Xipa, Jiang Ruan smile. I just felt that Jiang Xinzhi held her arm tightly, as if he had some emotion to show. However, in the end, he just said: "a Ruan, from now on, you will be someone else''s person. If he bullies you, tell me. Never let yourself be wronged. "His words are heavy and patient, but he is not like a brother who marries a sister, or a father who marries a daughter. Jiang Ruan wanted to laugh a little, and he held out his hand to his neck tightly. However, he remembered the sad news of Jiang Xinzhi in the last life, and the bitterness and despair in his heart at that time. In this life, she has always kept Jiang Xinzhi, and Jiang Xinzhi is still with her, which is enough. She said with a smile, "I see, big brother. No matter who I marry, you will always be my big brother. " Jiang Xinzhi didn''t speak any more. He took Jiang Ruan Chao''s sedan chair and walked away. The girl in his arms is what he saw growing up. From a babe to a graceful girl, even if she is going to be a wife, Jiang Ruan will always be a little sister who has not grown up. After Jiang Ruan got into the sedan chair, the person at the front of the welcoming team appeared in front of the crowd. Xiao Shao, who lives on top of the white horse, is about his good horse. He is white all over and has no hair. He is so smooth that he is proud to stand there. And he held the reins, a new suit, it is very eye-catching, almost immediately won the attention of the public. Xiao Shao was a low-key man. He didn''t often appear in front of people on weekdays. He always liked to wear black clothes and never saw such gorgeous colors. Today, wearing a red wedding dress on the body, even if the thin lips are tight and the look is light, it actually shows the charm of two-thirds delicacy. He has a wonderful face. Now he sits on a horse and looks down at the door of the sedan. His eyes are like paint and his eyebrows are like ink painting. He is not as elegant as a mortal. This beauty is really shocking. It''s amazing. Seeing him like this, Li Shi was really happy though he had tears in his eyes. She has long been indifferent to King Jinying. She was worried that Jiang Ruan would be wronged when she married. But now she seems to think too much. Xiao Shao saw the appearance of the sedan chair, but not all of them were merciless. She was a passer-by and could see some things clearly. Xiao Shao''s appearance is outstanding, and his family is there. For a moment, Li is very satisfied with his grandson-in-law. Jin Er, who was distributing the candy in the crowd, shook his head and said, "the four leaders of the royal guards have become sedan bearers. The young master is too feminine." Steward Lin heard him say this, immediately gave him a foot: "what do you say, this sedan chair man can represent the face of King Jinying''s house, how can you find a few people at will just like other families. If you look at the people we''re looking for to lift the sedan chair, the pace is the same. At first sight, it''s practicing family, and the young lady is comfortable in it. You have a good face, and it''s very attractive when you look at it. I''m afraid you are envious of others and can''t let you carry the sedan chair. " "Thank you, Lao Lin," Jin Eryi said with a smile. "I''m so ugly. I can''t represent the face of our palace. I''m very ashamed." "Oh, I''m quite conscious." Dew is busy hair silver naked son, a listen to brocade two words then happy: "people really valuable in self-knowledge." "That''s better than you." Brocade two smile Xi Xi return a way. "For what?" housekeeper Lin shook his head. "It''s good for anyone. In a word, everyone today just wants to set off the beauty of the young master. The young master is so good. If the lady and the master see it, they don''t know how happy they will be." All of them were the victims of Xiao Shao''s beauty. People didn''t realize that they were still very sincere in the eyes of the old housekeeper of Jinying palace, just like the vases and paperweights around them. Jiang Xinzhi followed the sedan chair, and the sedan chair circled qiansuifang and sanfaqing, which means "qiansuifang" and "sanfaqing". Along the way, the people in King Jinying''s mansion also showed their rich side. As they walked, they scattered silver money, which attracted people to rob them. It''s true that the story of Shili red makeup is true. I''m afraid that the princess''s wedding will not be so grand. Zhou zhengyingjun, a native of King Jinying''s residence, and housekeeper Lin''s arrangement, are so beautiful that they are ready to eat. In addition, they are so generous that there are almost thousands of people in the capital. All of them come to meet their relatives. All the women came to see the men in Jinying palace, and all the men came to see the silver in Jinying palace. The girl in the boudoir can build a capital city after her heart is broken. Even though Jiang Ruan is in the sedan chair, her eyes are full of envy. One day later, there was a saying in the Dajin dynasty that "I''d rather be a servant of the Xiao family than an official girl". I''d rather be a servant of the Xiao family. I''m afraid I''ve seen more beautiful women and silver than a lady of the official family. Jiang Ruan didn''t know what was going on outside. He just heard the noise and knew that it must be very public. This kind of publicity is not like Xiao Shao''s handwriting. It should be arranged by housekeeper Lin. Housekeeper Lin has been preparing for the wedding for a whole year, and now he finally has the chance to show his skills. He will not let it go. Jiang Ruan is also really puzzled, Xiao Shao such a low-key temperament is how to raise housekeeper Lin such a publicity housekeeper? At the moment, she was sitting in the middle of the bridge, and the sedan chair was so smooth that people could hardly feel her walking. Inside even made a short table, the box is full of some exquisite cakes, so as not to be hungry on the way. With a smile, she became the emperor''s woman when she entered the palace in her previous life and lost the chance to wear a red wedding dress. Now the experience is strange and novel, but it''s not too bad. After welcoming the capital for a whole week, the sedan chair arrived at Jinying palace. There was already a big wave of people waiting at the door. Xiao Shao had no relatives, and there was no other clan in Jinying palace. The people who came here were all Xiao Shao''s own friends, about Xiao Shao''s elder martial brothers and some court bureaucrats. The royal guards were tidy, and they were very busy.As soon as Guan Lianghan lifted his robe horn, he began to fire and play music to welcome the sedan chair. After stopping the sedan chair, he unloaded the sedan chairs. A five or six-year-old girl from the sedan chair welcomed the bride out of the sedan chair. Jiang Ruan went out, stepped over the horse saddle with the help of the bridegroom, stepped on the red carpet, and the bridegroom helped the bride to the right side of the hall. The audience in the hall had already stood on one side, that is, to see the ceremony in the temple. Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao stood on one side, holding incense candles and began to offer incense. Zhao Guang and Li''s eyes were moved as they sat in high positions. Jiang Quan and Xia Yueshen''s feelings are somewhat stiff. They want to try their best to make a moving appearance, but they are particularly stiff. If it was someone else in the crowd, it would be fine. Jiang Xinzhi was watching, but his eyes fell on one of them. Today, the young man with beautiful appearance only wore a long white velvet brocade shirt and a snow wolf fur cloak. He was as handsome as jade, as if he was a little boy carved with jade from some family. It was Xuan Pei. Xuanpei is surrounded by Liu Min, but they don''t know how to come. All the invitation cards made by housekeeper Lin himself are made of gold, which is not a small expense, so they are all recorded and precious. Jiang Xinzhi had seen it before, but he didn''t remember them. In fact, housekeeper Lin invited Liu Min when he planned to be a guest, but somehow he crossed it out. Liu Min and Xuan Pei came uninvited. Liu Min is OK. Jiang Xinzhi had heard that he didn''t seem to have any intention to treat Jiang Ruan. But what happened to Xuan Pei? A prince came out of the palace to salute Jiang Ruan. He frowned and asked Lin Guanjia on one side, "how did your highness come?" "How do I know?" Housekeeper Lin touched his beard: "it''s about in the face of the young master. Speaking of this, the thirteen princes are really generous. They actually sent 66 shops of he Hanfang to the young lady. The Jiang family can''t match that. " He Hanfang is a restaurant. There are restaurants all over the great Jin Dynasty. There is one shop that can make a steady profit, not to mention sixty-six. There are countless stores every year, so you can eat and wear in your life. Not to mention how xuanpei, a prince, had the ability to get so many shops, Xuanli might not have the ability. What''s more surprising is that he gave away his great wealth. Jiang Xinzhi frowned more tightly: "that shop all writes the name of Ruan?" Housekeeper Lin clapped his hands: "I remember that. It''s really strange that they all wrote the name of the young lady. If it''s good with the young master, there''s no need to write the name of the young lady. " At the same time, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had already finished the three kneeling and nine kowtowing, and the six ascent worship coincided with the last couple''s worship. Xiao Shao turned around, and Jiang Ruan also turned around. They were face to face. Jiang Ruan couldn''t see clearly when he covered the cover, so he hesitated and suddenly felt that his hand was held. Xiao Shao didn''t know when he had held her hand. His hands were long and cold, but with some reassuring power, he held her firmly. "Husband and wife worship each other," the singer sang aloud. When they went down together, Jiang Ruan could only see her scarlet skirt across the veil. She could not tell what she felt. It seemed to be a farewell and another beginning. In any case, this person in front of her is the one who will live with her later. No matter what happens, this person is always around. It seems that the group''s announcement is not very conspicuous in the comment column. I''ll say it again here. The group number is 332796262 ~ the name is Hougong group of erhcha ~ the knocking brick is a name in the article ~ < br www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 186 After the ceremony, two girls holding dragon and Phoenix candles led Jiang Ruan into the bridal chamber. Although Jiang Ruan had lived for the first time, it was the first time for her to get married. This complicated pattern almost made her in a hurry. When Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were surrounded and sat on the left and right sides, they quietly retreated. Jiang Ruan was a little uneasy in his heart. It was not easy to uncover the cover on his head. After thinking about it, he said, "go out quickly. The wedding banquet is waiting for you to drink." With this sentence, he heard a light smile from the room, which seemed to be Xiao Shao''s smile. Then Jiang Ruan felt that his palm was held, and Xiao Shao''s voice came from his ear: "don''t be nervous." "I''m not nervous." Jiang Ruan interrupted him, his tone was a little hasty, but he seemed to be annoyed that something was revealed: "you go out quickly." Xiao Shao then straightened up and ordered Forsythia to take good care of Jiang Ruan. Then he walked out. After Xiao Shao left, Jiang Ruan opened the cover and was so surprised that Angelica dahurica immediately wanted to cover the cover for her: "girl, please cover it quickly. What can I do if someone bumps into it later?" "It''s just getting married. Why be so cautious?" Jiang Ruan was helpless. The red tape of marriage almost drives people crazy. But I don''t know if it''s housekeeper Lin''s handwriting. Maybe the princess she had heard of in the palace didn''t get married so much. Today''s wedding is really grand and grand, but it''s really unbearable. Forsythia loves Jiang Ruan, so she agrees: "Oh, no one can see it at the moment, won''t it be enough to cover it when someone comes? If it wasn''t for the hair to be untied and the Phoenix crown to be removed together, the Phoenix crown would be heavy. I would feel tired for the girl if it was on my head. " "The most important thing is to be comfortable." Dewdrop took out a small snack from the box: "the girl hasn''t eaten anything up to now. She has to wait for some more hours outside. I''m not hungry. I went to Fei Cuizhai early this morning to buy it. It''s exquisite, and I don''t know how to make fat. The girl has something to eat." Since I got up early in the morning, except for eating some happy fruit, I really didn''t get in the water and the dew. I didn''t say that it was OK. When I said that Jiang Ruan really felt hungry. The cake was small, so Jiang Ruan twisted a few and ate them. Dahurian angelica poured a cup of tea and handed it up: "run your mouth again." As soon as he went, after Jiang Ruan had eaten all the snacks, he felt a little tired. Seeing her appearance, Tianzhu said, "if you are sleepy, you can have a rest first. The young master should wait for some time before coming in. When you come in, your subordinates will wake up the young lady. " After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan did as he said. He found a posture that would not damage the Phoenix crown and fell on the bed to have a rest. Outside the banquet wine, Zhao family and Jinying palace people seem to have been happy, don''t know what to say. Although Jiang Quan is the father of Jiang Ruan, he and Xia Yue are the only ones left in the Jiang family. At a glance, they look very lonely. It seems that where he sits, there is a state of decay. In addition, people only know that his relationship with Jiang Ruan''s brother and sister is not very good. Today, most people are friendly with the Zhao family and King Jinying''s house, so they naturally keep away from him. In this way, Jiang Quan is isolated. Jiang Xinzhi is drinking a little more now. Today is the day of Jiang Ruan''s great joy. As a close relative of Jiang Ruan, he is like a elder brother or a father, toasting one by one with Xiao Shao''s brothers. There is a sense of humility and toughness in his words, which means that he is entrusted to take care of Jiang Ruan and that he is supporting Jiang Ruan behind his back. The three brothers of Zhao Yi and Jiang Xinzhi share a common hatred. Although Jiang Ruan does not have much contact with the Zhao family, he helped Zhao Yi and Zhao Feizhou several times before. In addition to Zhao Guang''s entrustment, the Zhao family was also a backer of Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao is dressed in red, standing in the guests toasting, his expression is indifferent, seems to be no different from the usual, but in the end, I do not know whether it is because of the joy of the day, the eyes are actually a lot more gentle. It''s very eye-catching when you''re drinking. After a round of drinking, Jiang Xinzhi finally came to xuanpei. Xuan Pei is sitting next to Liu Min at the moment. He has a gentle and respectful smile. His appearance is beautiful. In addition, every move has a kind of quiet grace. He is very eye-catching at a young age. If he grows up, he doesn''t know how brilliant he should be. Seeing Jiang Xinzhi coming to his side, Xuan Pei looked at him with a smile and said, "general Jiang." When he laughs, he looks innocent and innocent. However, Jiang Xinzhi felt that this young man was not in the middle of the pool, and he did not go around the circle at the moment. He opened the door to the mountain and said, "when the 13th hall comes down to attend the wedding banquet of my sister, I''m really scared." "General Jiang doesn''t have to belittle himself." Xuanpei said with a smile: "Princess Hong''an is now the brotherhood of our palace. Today, when she married to King Jinying''s house, our palace naturally wanted to express her joy." There is nothing wrong with this, but xuanpeitang, a prince, is not so good at flattering Jiang Ruan, but he has 66 shops, which is not like something that a half-way man can do. Jiang Xinzhi frowned. The boy just pretended to be confused and didn''t tell the truth. Jiang Xinzhi couldn''t tell the truth, but he had nothing to do. Xuanpei seemed to see what Jiang Xinzhi was thinking. He held up his wine cup and shook it at him: "anyway, today is her wedding. You are as happy for her as we are."One of Jiang Xin was stunned and looked up at the boy in front of him. Xuan Pei is not as simple as he seems on the surface, but at this moment, the young man''s feelings are sincere, like blessing and sincerity from the heart. There is no appearance of acting, so no one can help but believe it. When he was still in a daze, Xuan Pei had already raised his wine cup to drink it all, and raised his lips to him with a smile. The other side is the prince, who has already made such a gesture. If he sticks to it, it seems that he is wrong. Jiang Xinzhi has to raise his glass and drink the wine in one gulp. His doubts are not solved. Among the guests here, Liu Min''s smile is somewhat reluctant. From the former court upstart to the present direct minister in front of the emperor, Liu Min is young and beautiful, bright future, and unmarried. All the guests who have their daughters of the right age look at him eagerly. Liu Min lips overflow a bitter smile, shaking his head slowly sipped a cup of wine. He has never been used to drinking, and now it is precisely because of his worries that wine is a good thing to drink. In my mind, I remember the appearance of the couple standing together on the wedding hall just now. The woman was wearing a wedding dress. She was scarlet and gorgeous. What kind of good color was hidden under the cover. Only the newlyweds could see the beauty of that moment. At the beginning, he thought that this intelligent woman treated herself differently, but in the end, fate made a fool of others. Before he even had time to express his mind, he lost this qualification forever. There are more than one people who have fallen from the end of the world. For example, Qi Feng has shaved his chin since Xiao Shao came back. He was a handsome young man. He used to be a bit uninhibited with a beard. Once he cleaned up, he felt a new look. He is romantic and wise, and standing here has also attracted the attention of many daughters. But Qi Feng didn''t have the heart to look at other people. Although he had a smile on his face, he looked a little lonely. Jin Er squatted on the ground to eat shrimps. Seeing Qi Feng''s appearance, he shook his head and sighed: "Qi Si Shao is really pitiful. He used to be the master of many flowers, but now he is so thin. It''s a pity that piansheng met the little Lord, which is even more pitiful. " "He''s not the only one who''s poor tonight." Brocade four bundle high long hair, skin smile meat don''t smile a way: "this all over the eye is sad, you see, this don''t come again?" A young man in light yellow brocade was walking in front of him. In the lively wedding banquet, once he looked wrong, he could be easily detected. What''s more, he was very depressed. Jin San craned his neck and said, "isn''t that young master Gu, the young master of the chief soldier''s family? The young master of such a rich family is just greedy for a moment''s beauty. Now it seems that he really hurt his heart. I didn''t expect that he was still a lover. " Qi Feng favored Jiang Ruan because he was impressed by Jiang Ruan''s wisdom. Liu Min liked Jiang Ruan because Jiang Ruan had intimate feelings with him. Only Gu Yi, from the beginning to the end, seemed to have real contact with Jiang Ruan on the Linglong boat that Jiang Ruan had just returned to Beijing. At the beginning, he was just a rich young man who didn''t understand anything. Just because the beauty was gentle and beautiful, he moved his heart. It didn''t last long to make people happy. I didn''t expect that Gu Yi was still concerned about it now. Jin Sany''s long hair: "this little boy looks very pitiful. I''ll go to comfort him, elder sister." Then, regardless of the obstruction of Jiner and Jinsi, Wu walked in the past. Gu Yifang walked to a secluded garden, where there were fewer people, less impetuous, and his depression dissipated a lot. He looked down at the wine pot in his hand. Just as he was about to take another sip, the silver wine pot slipped away. A frivolous voice came from the opposite side: "young master, drinking alone is very lonely. Do you want your sister to accompany you?" Gu Yi raised his eyes and saw that there was a young woman on the opposite side. She was beautiful, but she had an indescribable taste and a mature style. When she smiles, she looks up and points the wine pot at her mouth. A small amount of crystal clear jade liquid is poured into her mouth. Her action is charming with her nature. After wiping her mouth, her lips soaked in wine are ruddy and bright. Gu Yixian was stunned by the beautiful scenery. Then he realized it. His face turned red and said, "where are the women from? I don''t know the rules!" Although he loves beauties, the beauties he loves are always as gentle as water. For example, a glance at Jiang Ruan''s exquisite boat a few years ago, although the love he had when he was young was not serious, it was always engraved in his heart, and the touch he brought was not a word to express his feelings. At the moment, he was depressed. Suddenly he saw such a beautiful woman. She was too presumptuous, and his heart was dissatisfied. "It''s not kind of you to say that," Jin San said with a smile. "I see that you are depressed tonight. I want to talk with you to comfort you. But you can''t say it to me like this." "I don''t understand what you''re talking about." Gu Yi frowned and was about to walk around her and walk out of the garden. I don''t want to hear the cunning voice of the woman next: "don''t you know? Don''t you like brides? Is it sad to see her get married? " Her voice was clear and quick, and seemed to contain a trace of malice, but she did not suppress her voice at all. She suddenly appeared very abrupt in the quiet garden. Gu Yi was startled. He felt guilty and angry when he was exposed. He immediately denied: "nonsense."Jin San shrugged: "you don''t like the bride. It''s OK. I happen to know the bride a little. I can say something about it. I want to mention that Mr. Gu came to the wedding banquet in the future, but ran to the garden to drink. The bride will wonder if she did something wrong." She laughed innocently: "of course, it has nothing to do with you." Then he turned around and left. "You stop!" Seeing that the other party really wants to leave, Gu Yi can''t help but say angrily. Although he didn''t believe that the strange woman knew Jiang Ruan well, he couldn''t let Jiang Ruan know about it. Gu Yi suppressed his anger and said, "what do you want?" Jin Sany lifted her long hair and patted Gu Yi on the shoulder. She was only up to Gu Yi''s shoulder, but this shoulder patting was just like a big sister patting a little brother. She said with a smile, "don''t be nervous. I just came to relieve you. If you have any unhappy things tonight, you can tell me. After that, you''re happy, and I''m happy. Isn''t everyone happy? " Gu Yi In front of the banquet to the wine after three rounds, also almost open the table, people scattered, the hall in the end is a mess. Some of them have already left in carriages, and they have a better relationship. Now they are planning to return home. Jiang Xinzhi stood in the hall and wanted to go to the bridal chamber to have a look at Jiang Ruan''s wedding. Seeing this, housekeeper Lin immediately took him by the hand and said, "uncle and young master, you see, it''s not early. We''ve had a meal today. We have a special arrangement. Let''s go for a walk. Jin Er, if you don''t come to help uncle and young master, no one will drink too much." Although Jiang Xinzhi''s drinking capacity was not as good as that of housekeeper Lin, he immediately said, "I''ll go and see a Ruan." Housekeeper Lin was just about to scold him for his poor eyesight. How could he get involved in the wedding night. Although I think like this in my heart, I dare not show it after all. Everyone knows that the young lady''s short guard is very good. The elder brother and young master are the treasure that can''t be touched in the young lady''s heart. As soon as Jin Er Jin came over, he helped Jiang Xinzhi left and right, and Lin Guanjia said, "ah, uncle and young master, Lao Lin knows how you feel. It''s hard to see other people living and flying together. It''s hard to see how our uncle and young master are short of two people. It''s not that Lao Lin boasted, but he has rich experience in this aspect. Today, for the sake of his uncle and young master, Lao Lin specially went to baihualou and arranged a place for baihualou to blossom. Today, it''s OK for him to pick which flower he wants to pick, just to go home. " He patted Jiang Xinzhi on the shoulder and said, "when the flowers are in bloom, you must break them. Don''t break them without flowers." Jiang Xinzhi This end sent Jiang Xinzhi away, but the new house on the other end was extremely quiet. Because of Xiao Shao''s own temperament, no one dares to make a bridal chamber. Xiao Shao goes to the door, Tianzhu is about to report, Xiao Shao waves her to go out, forsythia and Angelica have no reason to stay here, Dewdrop wanted to wake up Jiang Ruan, Xiaoshao light look at her, Dewdrop will not say anything back out. As soon as Xiao Shao went in, he saw Jiang Ruan sleeping on his bed. She is heart big, cover head early cast aside, probably afraid is to make flower Phoenix crown, sleep posture some careful. The hair is a little messy. The face on the pillow is gorgeous. When she closes her eyes, her long eyelashes hang down, like a butterfly flying. Her small nose and ruddy lips are like a touch of color cut by clouds. Her skin is as clear as snow. The new house is fumigated with silver carbon. Her face is slightly hot, which makes her blush. It''s more gorgeous than not wearing rouge. Used to see her always alienated and indifferent eyes, when closed, but docile and charming, as if I don''t know where to stray into the house of the goblin, left the lack of homeopathy sleep in the flower bed. Fragrant and beautiful, people can''t bear to be shocked. As a matter of fact, Xiao Shaoguo was not shocked. He saw that Jiang Ruan was sleeping soundly. He saw that the candle on one side had to burn out sometimes, so he simply asked people to draw water and wash themselves first. The maids who were guarding outside didn''t expect Xiao Shao to ask for water so early. It was strange for a while, but the master''s order couldn''t be disobeyed, so they quickly brought hot water. Xiao Shao went around to the screen, changed his clothes and sank himself in the huge barrel. He didn''t know what to think. I don''t know how long it took until Jiang Ruan felt that the room was getting colder and woke up vaguely. When Fang woke up, she saw that all the servant girls in the room had retreated. She was a little confused and subconsciously looked behind the noisy screen. The color of the huge glass screen is natural, and the picture of mandarin ducks playing in the water is carefully carved. The steaming heat diffuses up. Jiang Ruan looks at it, and suddenly feels something wrong. Then he finds that the pattern on the screen has changed quietly, from the rich and festive mandarin ducks playing in the water to men and women. The more the heat rises, the more powerful it is. The gesture * is easy to imagine I understand. Jiang Ruan was not a little girl who didn''t know anything about love. When she entered the palace in her previous life, her mother would also give them pamphlets. It''s just that the screen is magnificent. No one found anything strange in it. Otherwise, with Xiao Shao''s serious nature, he would never let this kind of thing be put here. Jiang Ruan didn''t know that this screen was just an imported product from the West. This piece of colored glaze was made by nature. It had a group of fineness and was specially carved by skilled craftsmen. Once there was hot water, it would show a special shape. Big families can use it to add some fun. For example, when Fang * cleaned up and saw the pattern on the screen, he was more interested. The screen was also passed by housekeeper Lin, and everyone was very satisfied, expressing the royal guards'' ardent expectation for their master. It''s just that these two masters don''t know.Looking at the screen, Jiang Ruan was stunned, but he didn''t notice that the person behind the screen had got up at any time. With a crash, she appeared in front of her the next moment. Jiang Ruan was in a daze. Xiao Shao seldom saw her staring straight at things in a daze. She couldn''t help but follow her eyes. At a glance, her expression was stiff. Jiang Ruan reacted, and his face turned red. Originally, it was nothing. She was always easy to hold back her emotions, but because of Xiao Shao''s presence, she felt uncomfortable all over, and seemed to have a trace of embarrassment. His eyes wandered for several circles, and finally he couldn''t help looking at Xiao Shao''s expression. Xiao Shao seems more calm than she is, but she puts her clothes on the screen to cover up the beautiful picture. He had bathed, and now he was only wearing a snow-white tunic. His long hair was slightly wet, like black jade. He hung down from his shoulder. His beautiful face was soft under the lamp. Although he looked cold and indifferent, he was still slightly red behind his ears. He came to Jiang Ruan, who was nervous. Although he warned himself that nothing would happen, he grasped his mattress subconsciously. Xiao Shao noticed her movements, some helpless in her a few steps away to stop, said: "I sleep on the couch." There was a soft couch in front of the window. Xiao Shao said that he would come forward to get the quilt. Jiang Ruan took a look, and the collapse was next to the window. She was afraid that it would frighten the wind at night. After thinking about it, she said with a straight heart, "what''s the collapse in sleep? You have to do something about it. You can sleep here." She got a little bit in and made way. Xiao Shao was stunned. There was a strange flash in his eyes. He looked at Jiang Ruan and said nothing. Jiang Ruan was annoyed. How could this sound like an invitation. She coughed lightly. She wanted to hide her embarrassed expression just now. She took off her clothes and looked at Xiao Shao again: "tired all day, don''t you feel tired? I''ll go to sleep if I''m tired. I''ll go to the Palace tomorrow. I''ll go to sleep first. " What she said was quick and clear. On the surface, she looked very calm and calm, but Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing. He doesn''t often smile. It''s like the beginning of ice and snow melting. It''s almost dazzling when he smiles. Jiang Ruan glared at him: "what are you laughing at?" "Rest assured to sleep." "I''m sleepy and I don''t want to do anything," he said with a smile Jiang Ruan''s face immediately felt very hot, but the culprit was Shi Shi ran. The quilt was in front of him. It was broad and gorgeous, with thin incense sprinkled on it, which was not as fresh as the fresh smell of the youth. Xiao Shao gave her half of the quilt, her long eyelashes drooping, but she couldn''t cover her happy eyes. It''s a digression. to get married before falling in love, Xiao Meiren''s determination is so good ~ that www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 187 I can''t remember how Jiang Ruan finally fell asleep that night. Since Zhao Mei''s death, she has almost never been in bed with anyone. It should be a very alarming thing to lie on the wide bed with someone sleeping beside her. But she took the dagger given to her by Xiao Shao in her hand, and finally did not put it under the pillow, but received it in the box. It''s not a warm thing for her to share a bed with others. For example, Zhao Mei and Jiang Quan shared a strange dream. And she had hoped that Xuanli would become a pillow man, and then the pillow man in her dream cheated her all her life. She was very nervous, but Xiao Shao closed his eyes very quickly. He slept soundly and quietly. Rao Shi and Jiang Ruan were also surprised. As the head of the royal guards, she didn''t believe that Xiao Shao was such a man without vigilance. But the young man slept so safely, as if the safest place was beside her. Looking at it, Jiang Ruan himself gradually calmed down. Those complicated emotions gradually returned to peace, but there was a kind of peace of mind that he had never had before. The red candle quietly shed tears, time gurgling away, at this moment, the new house does not have the love of beautiful hot flame, not the wind and moon, but has a light warmth. As if those deep-rooted hatred and not belong to the world of cool thin, also in this festive red stained with a trace of smoke. When the first light came in, Jiang Ruan opened his eyes. She was surprised that the night was so sleepy. She turned her head subconsciously. The first thing she saw was the young man''s beautiful face. Xu Shifang is still in a relaxed mood when he wakes up. Jiang Ruan doesn''t know why he didn''t look away. Instead, he turns over, holds his chin in one hand and looks at the young man in front of him carefully. Xiao Shao sleeps soundly. He sleeps well, which may be the reason for his good upbringing. Even in his sleep, he shows a noble grace. However, compared with waking up, there is a kind of beautiful softness. Her eyes slid down, down Xiao Shao''s long straight eyelashes, across her straight nose, thin lips, and her delicate chin, which was carved like a knife, fell on the white jade clavicle. This man is really a good skin, the light of the sun inclined to his face on a layer of gentle light gold, as if the God of beauty. I don''t know when the snow-white tunic has spread, revealing the jade like porcelain white skin, looming under the clothes. I can''t help but feel it. Jiang Ruan was a little dazed. His brain was thick. He even reached out and touched it. The place he touched was smooth and tight. His temperature was cool. It was like a fine silk. It was really comfortable and tight. "Feel OK?" Suddenly, there was a low voice in his ear. Jiang Ruan was startled. He took back his hand like lightning. Xiao Shao didn''t know when he had woken up. She looked at her with a smile, then sat up and closed her collar. Jiang Ruan felt a little ashamed. When he saw his last move, he was a little impatient. It seemed that she wanted to be a good man. What''s Xiao Shao''s expression? Is she so fierce? She seemed to swallow a fly in general expression, obviously pleased Xiao Shao, Xiao Shao lips a Yang, hand patted her head, maybe feel good touch, also rub a few times, this just as if nothing happened way: "call your maid in?" "No need." Jiang Ruan himself sat up, she also only wore snow-white clothes, but regardless of Xiao Shao''s presence, she took out her clothes from the box and came into the screen. In the morning, the screen is a picture of mandarin ducks playing in the water. When Jiang Ruan passed by, he looked at the happy clothes on the top and remembered the embarrassment of last night, but he couldn''t help shorting his breath. Don''t know why, she didn''t recruit Forsythia several come in, in the heart don''t want to let others see the next day Xiao Shao and she get along with the picture. She is meaningless, but Xiao Shao is a man after all. Nothing happened on her wedding night. She is not too comfortable in front of others. While thinking about this, he changed his clothes. When Jiang Ruan came out of the screen, Xiao Shao had already changed his clothes. Because it was the second day of her marriage when she went to the palace to see the empress dowager, Xiao Shao was not good enough to wear the usual black clothes, but chose the light red court clothes. Embroidered with a white python, he spread a noble bearing. Although desolate, but more and more set off childe such as jade, show bone green pine general. Jiang Ruan also wore a water red lantern jacket with hundreds of butterflies. There was a circle of white rabbit hair around the collar. His small face, which was already big in palm, was even more delicate, and his beautiful eyes were endless. In this way, the two looked more like they were wearing the same clothes. Jiang Ruan was a little strange that Xiao Shao didn''t need to be served. On second thought, he often carried out various tasks, but he wasn''t the young master who had to be served. Seeing that his collar was still open, he went over and tied it for him. She did it naturally, but Xiao Shao was slightly stunned. Jiang Ruan lowered her head. The girl''s gentle fragrance came from the tip of her nose, which could not be ignored. His white fingertips clasped his neckline, and his movements were gentle and quiet. Xiao Shao felt soft without any reason, and suddenly had an impulse to kiss her forehead. He just had this idea, the voice of Forsythia came from outside: "girl, are you awake? I''ve got hot water. " Xiao Shao moves a meal, Jiang Ruan calls a way: "come in." Forsythia and Angelica dahurica came in with a water basin. They were stunned to see the movements of Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao. Forsythia lowered her head and began to eat and laugh, saying that Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan looked like an ordinary couple. At first, I was worried that my daughter would meet Xiao Shao with such a cold temper. They must respect each other like ice. But when I just came in, Xiao Shao''s expression was very gentle.Angelica dahurica temperament calm, only look at the bed, see bed neat, also did not see the red yuan PA, heart immediately understand. I don''t know whether I should be nervous or relieved. My complexion is complicated for a while. But no matter what you think, it''s all about Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao. When the two have finished grooming, housekeeper Lin has already sent breakfast. As soon as he entered the new house, housekeeper Lin looked around. When he saw the Xifu on the screen, his face turned white. Then he looked at the neat bedding, and his face turned blue again. Qingqing white for several times, finally looking at Xiao Shao, can''t help but sigh, almost beat his chest. Xiao Shao didn''t lift her eyes. She didn''t realize that housekeeper Lin was acting like this. Jiang ruanzi wouldn''t take the initiative to take care of housekeeper Lin. the old urchin was disrespectful and often uttered amazing words. Even she was often speechless by housekeeper Lin''s words. Today, housekeeper Lin is on the verge of collapse, so she just concentrates on eating and never looks at housekeeper Lin again. Housekeeper Lin was left in the cold, deeply hurt by his self-esteem, and left angrily. When I got out of the door and looked at the sun, I couldn''t help but burst into tears in my eyes and cried out, "master, madam, I''m sorry for you --" "how''s it going?" Jin er jumped down from the beam of the house: "there''s no intense Xiangyan thing?" "There''s a fart!" The forest housekeeper hears the speech then the rage, way: "little Lord little madam that appearance pure can''t again pure." All kinds of fierce scenes didn''t appear in anticipation. Why did Xiao Shao make an order not to let anyone listen to the corner outside the new house? No one is willing to marry to see these two people sleeping under quilts. As a result, they lost sleep all night. Young master, you can have a snack. "I know," Jin Er Da Xi, stretched out his hand to his colleagues: "I''d like to admit defeat. How much money did you bet yesterday?" It''s a gamble whether Xiao Shao will marry Jiang Ruan. Housekeeper Lin was furious when he saw this. He immediately yelled: "no gambling in the palace!" When I think about Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan, I''m worried that I could be a gentleman in front of such a screen and a beauty like Jiang Ruan yesterday. Maybe my master has that problem. Housekeeper Lin is startled. He wipes the sweat on his forehead and secretly decides to ask Xia Qing for some medicine. Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao are going to visit empress dowager Yide after breakfast. The carriage outside has already been prepared. Although housekeeper Lin is very sorry that they didn''t get married, the arrangements for the first few days after their marriage are very considerate. The carriage is indeed the work of housekeeper Lin and the most extravagant work. After getting into the carriage, Jiang Ruan finally couldn''t help asking the question in his heart: "is there much silver in the palace? Housekeeper Lin is so generous. " In the previous account books, the account books of King Jinying''s residence were all checked by Jiang Ruan. Although they were also very rich, they were ignorant and didn''t have a whole number. She doesn''t have any idea about Zhongji. Xiao Shaoping is used to Jiang Ruan''s shrewd appearance. It seems that there is nothing she can''t do in the world. It''s rare for her to have something she can''t do. He is surprised and thinks Jiang Ruan''s appearance is really cute. He says with a smile: "well, there''s a lot of silver." He was serious. Jiang Ruan was very angry. He thought that the most prosperous one was the royal family. One of the housekeepers in Xiao Shao''s house was so generous. If the real man was not as good as others, when he saw Xiao Shao again, he was so evil that he couldn''t help laughing: "how much money do you want to share with me?" She just wanted to make fun of Xiao Shao. She didn''t want Xiao Shao to look at her. She was silent and said, "all the money in the house belongs to you. You can do as much as you want, princess." The last two words "Princess" are very clear, deliberately slow a few beats, the voice is mellow and pleasant, which directly teaches people to hear the heart and hair jump. The corner of Jiang Ruan''s mouth flicked, and Xiao Shao was dark, staring at her with broken diamond eyes. A smile flashed in her eyes. Jiang Ruan turned his head, coughed and said, "thank you very much." In recent years, empress Yide has shown more and more kindness in front of Jiang Ruan. Today, Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan come in together. Empress Yide is very satisfied with her marriage. She says to Aunt Yang: "look at these two men, they are really beautiful. I''m satisfied to see you so right. " Although Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao didn''t get married, the Empress Dowager Yide couldn''t be taught about it. Therefore, in the palace of CI Ning, she always showed her shyness and gentleness, as if she were a newly married wife who had been pitied and loved by her husband. Her acting was excellent. At a glance, there was nothing wrong with her, but Xiao Shao was frightened after all, and her expression was stiff all the time. The Empress Dowager Yide was very generous to them. The gifts before her wedding were not included. Today she went into the palace and gave them a lot of rewards. And obviously the interest is very high. Jiang Ruan noticed that the Empress Dowager Yide looked at Xiao Shao in a very different way. She looked at Xiao Shao as if she were treating a minister. She looked at Xiao Shao as if she were treating her grandson. Just because Jiang Ruan had been with empress Yide for some time, he felt more or less clear about empress Yide''s temperament. Seeing this scene, he was surprised and suspicious, but he didn''t show it.Out of the palace of CI Ning, the emperor''s father-in-law Li brought a message saying that the emperor had something to discuss with Xiao Shao. It must be something happened in the imperial court again. Jiang Ruan had no reason to follow him. Li Gonggong hinted that it would be a long time before Jiang Ruan asked Xiao Shao to go there first and take a carriage to go back. She lived in the palace for a period of time, and even the maids didn''t have to help her. She knew the way by herself. Take forsythia and Angelica on the way out of the palace. Don''t want Fang to go to one end of the corridor of the imperial garden. From a distance, he saw two beauties in palace clothes meandering. The two also saw her. Before Jiang Ruan spoke, one of them called out in surprise: "big sister!" It was Jiang Dan. Today, she is dressed in apricot cotton satin brocade. The white crane embroidered on her dress is about to fly. She is wearing Ding Dong on her body. Her jewelry is also valuable. It seems that I had a good time in the palace. It''s not a fake to please the emperor. The woman next to Jiang Dan wears a little less than her. Her original charming expression is now the same as the smile of the woman in the palace. With a bit of hypocrisy, she can''t see her body and mind at a glance. It''s Dong Yinger. Jiang Dan looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile. He looked very warm: "big sister, on the day of last night''s great joy, Danniang didn''t go out of the palace to make up for you. It''s really a shame. But Danniang has someone to send her. Does she still like it?" It''s just a set of jewelry. Jiang Ruan takes a look at it and throws it into the box. She smiles: "I like Jiang Zhaoyi''s gift very much. Thank you." "Why do you say it so politely?" Jiang Dan took her hand. "You and I are the sisters of the family, so naturally we need to support each other. I''m very happy that you become the princess of Jinying palace. " Jiang Ruan didn''t want to talk with her, but she just stood aside and didn''t talk. Jiang Dan never does useless things. Today, he never just wants to catch up with her. Now let''s see what she wants to do. If it is true, Jiang Dan saw her slightly impatient expression, and suddenly laughed: "speaking up, people''s opportunities are really different. When the elder sister came back from Chuang Tzu, she said something more than that. At the beginning, many people were waiting to see her jokes. Big sister Leng became today''s Hong''an princess, Jinying princess. The elder brother had been away from home for many years, but he had no news, so he suddenly became a great general. On the other hand, the second sister and mother have already turned into white bones. For example, the thirteen Royal Highnesses in this palace were just a humble prince, but now they are protected by his majesty. It is really intriguing how the fate of human beings has changed so much. If there is an afterlife, I don''t know what the situation is. " Hearing this, Jiang Ruan''s eyes flashed. He stared at Jiang Dan tightly and said slowly, "what did you say?" "If there is an afterlife, what kind of situation will it be? Will it be a totally different fate, and what will happen to the eldest sister?" Jiang Dan''s voice was sweet, but it was also in a low tone, which made his voice seem strange. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s sudden change of color, Jiang Dan giggled and said casually: "Danniang has something else to do, so she won''t chat with her elder sister. She''s easy to go." After that, he turned and left. Dong Ying''er, on one side, dropped his eyes. His eyes did not fall on Jiang Ruan for a moment, and then he left. Back to the house of the carriage, Jiang Ruan staring at the front of a few, forsythia and Angelica are nervous staring at her. Since Jiang Dan spoke with Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan seemed to be in a trance. The dignified look made forsythia and Angelica dahurica feel a little different. Naturally, Jiang Ruan was surprised. Jiang Dan''s words were of great significance. It might be nothing in other people''s ears, but it was like a bolt from the blue in her ears. The secret of rebirth has been buried in her heart, which is a secret that no one can touch. Now it''s amazing to hear from Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan won''t say this without any reason. What did she find? Was she born again? She was in a trance, frowning tightly. In the eyes of Forsythia suspense and Angelica dahurica, it''s really unusual. Jiang Ruan was never happy or angry. Even if he met something big, he could not see any waves on the surface. Now she just stares at the little girl in front of her, but her eyes never stare. It seems that she is in a crazy thinking, and even Forsythia can feel her fear. It''s so strange. "Why do I feel like the girl is in a daze?" Forsythia whispered to Bai Zhi: "just now four young ladies said what girl so nervous, I listen to nothing wrong." Angelica face dignified: "do not know why, I always have a sense of uneasiness." Jiang Ruan only felt that the more serious he thought about the key points, the more chaotic his brain became. He could not hear what Angelica dahurica and Forsythia suspense said in his ears. Jiang Dan''s words are like a curse. When she is mad, she hears the news of Jiang Xinzhi''s death. She is pushed from the main hall by Jiang Quan and falls down from the nine steps. She hears their voice of indifference declaring that she is the evil girl of the country and sees Jiang Su Su Su Su''s crazy expression. She was made into a human * and witnessed the struggle of Pei, crying and being killed by a broken stick and setting a poison oath. The pictures are full of blood and tears. The fear of not getting and losing filled her, she just felt more and more frenzied, a kind of unexplained anxiety around her. "Girl, girl, what''s the matter with you?" Forsythia anxiously patted her back, Jiang Ruan''s eyes straight, eyes already crazy."Poof", she suddenly throat a sweet, spit out a mouthful of blood, all spray in front of a few small snow-white tablecloth, spot blood shocking, the next moment, forsythia scream. There is a real tangle in this more detailed story_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 188 Lin housekeeper Fang asks for a prescription from Xia Qing. He is instructing his servants to prepare the medicine. Then he sees the carriage of King Jinying''s house coming back. I wonder why I came back so early. I found that the curtain was lifted from the inside. Forsythia suspense and Angelica dahurica came out with a man in their arms. I had a close look. Who was Jiang Ruan? Although Lao Lin is over 50 years old, his eyes are sharp. At a glance, he noticed the blood on the corner of Jiang Ruan''s lips. At that time, his heart jumped, and he saw that Xiao Shao was not here. Immediately he trotted up and said, "what''s the matter? What''s the matter, young lady? " "The young lady fainted." Angelica said anxiously: "go and call the doctor, housekeeper Lin, please ask someone to help the young lady back." Housekeeper Lin was worried when he heard that this was not the first day of his marriage. He thought that there was a ready-made doctor in the neighboring house, and immediately sent someone to invite Xia Qing to see him. When Jiang Ruan was helped to lie down in the room, housekeeper Lin immediately asked forsythia, "how can you feel dizzy, young lady? How do you take care of the young lady? " Dewdrop and Tianzhu Wenyan also rushed over. There was no other wound on Jiang Ruan''s body, but it didn''t seem to be hurt. Forsythia reproached herself: "the girl met the fourth young lady in the palace. She said a few words to the fourth young lady. When she turned back on the carriage, she began to feel strange, as if she was stunned. Then she vomited blood and fainted." "What did she say to the young lady?" Tianzhu asked. "It''s nothing. It''s nothing wrong to say something about fate." Forsythia frowned. Just then, Xia Qing and Qi Feng rush in in a hurry. They are discussing when to leave Beijing, and rush in the servants of the palace halfway. They only say that something happened to Jiang Ruan and ask Xia Qing to have a look. Xia Qing thought that the people in Jinying palace were too nervous, but Jiang Ruan had to do something as big as sesame seeds, just like earth shaking. The result came in to see Jiang Ruan lying on the bed with his eyes closed tightly, and he was stunned. Qi Feng''s face changed and said, "how did the third sister-in-law become like this?" "Ouch, my fifth master," housekeeper Lin hurriedly pulled Xia Qing to the bedside and said, "please hurry up and have a look. I''m afraid that the young lady is so popular that Fang vomited blood. It''s amazing. Don''t hurt your body when you are young. It''s the only way. " In Forsythia''s words, Jiang Ruan was not hurt by a knife, but angry by Jiang Dan''s words. Although I don''t understand why I''m so angry, I don''t have a better explanation. Xia Qing frowned and went to the bedside to sit down. She reached for Jiang Ruan''s pulse. Everyone looked at him nervously. A moment later, Xia Qing let go. Qi Feng said: "old five, what''s the matter?" "The third sister-in-law was worried too much. She had a long-standing disease. Today, she was aroused by others, but she was depressed. She vomited a mouthful of blood and blocked her chest with blood clots. Now she can''t wake up." Xia Qing wants to talk and stops. Finally, she shakes her head and says, "I''ll prescribe the prescription first. Housekeeper Lin, you can find someone to take the medicine and cook it for the third sister-in-law right away." Although he said relaxed, there was no relaxation between his eyebrows, but a bit dignified, which is not an ordinary thing for Xia Qing, who is known as the master of Jinling. Forsythia several then calculate, Qi Feng a summer green so appearance followed to clench a fist. Housekeeper Lin didn''t dare to delay, so he immediately asked someone to fill the medicine. Xia Qing sat in the room, looking at Jiang Ruan, his face was gloomy and uncertain, and he didn''t know what he was thinking. Qi Feng stood by the window, looking up at Jiang Ruan from time to time. Several servant girls are busy, but Jiang Ruan hasn''t woken up. About half an hour later, the door of the room was suddenly pushed open, bringing in a cold winter from the outside. Xiao Shao walked in from the door, covered with snow. He went to the bedside, looked at Jiang Ruan''s closed eyes, slightly stunned, then turned his head, looked at forsythia and Angelica dahurica, coldly said: "what''s the matter?" Forsythia and Angelica looked at each other, and Angelica had to repeat the explanation she had just given to the people: "after the separation of the prince and the girl, the girl met the fourth lady in the palace. After a few words with the fourth lady, the girl vomited blood on the carriage and fainted. The fifth master of Xia said that it was the old disease of the girl. " After a pause, Angelica dahurica said: "but where does the girl have an old disease?" Xiao Shao looked up at Xia Qing and said to forsythia, "what did Jiang Dan say to her His tone was cold, his eyes were dark, and his anger was deep. Forsythia shivered in her heart and repeated every sentence that Jiang Dan and Jiang Ruan said. Just then he said, "that''s all. I dare to say something. I can''t hear anything strange in these words, but the girl in the carriage seems to have been made a taboo. She looks very afraid. I''ve been with her for so many years. Since I returned to Beijing a few years ago, I haven''t seen anything like that Qi Feng smell speech, explore to see forsythia. Xiao Shao is a tight hand, seems to be standing in situ thinking for a moment, turned to go, Qi Feng a pull him: "third brother, what do you want to do?" "It''s up to the person who tied the bell. It has something to do with Jiang Dan. Naturally, it''s looking for her. " Xiao shaodao. "What can you do now? These words will not convict her. " Qi Feng looked at Jiang Ruan: "do you want to kill her now? This will only bring trouble to the third sister-in-law. " In his words, he put himself in Jiang Ruan''s shoes, but Xiao Shaowen''s eyes were awe inspiring. He looked at him coldly and said, "that''s my wife. Don''t bother you."Qi Feng''s throat was astringent, but he couldn''t speak. He looked a little embarrassed. But Xia Qing also stood up, a baby''s face was full of heavy words that didn''t match her age: "don''t quarrel. The third brother and the third sister-in-law are not impatient because of other people''s words. Even if it''s just an opportunity, what really makes her look like now is that she has been poisoned. " Qi Feng grasped Xiao Shao''s hand and said, "poisoning?" "Impossible," said Xiao Shao, "no one can do it in the palace." Everything here is managed by housekeeper Lin himself, and the bodyguards in the palace can''t betray him. Poisoning Jiang Ruan is more difficult than killing her directly. "It''s not in the palace." Xia Qing shook her head: "the poison has been in her body for more than ten years. It seems that it was brought from the fetus. I don''t know why, it stopped for several years, so that the toxin didn''t spread. But it''s actually accumulated in the body. Now someone has used something to induce the toxin. As for what the two servant girls said in the palace, they are angry. It just makes the toxin in the third sister-in-law''s body flow faster. " He hesitated for a moment: "there seems to be other intention, but I can''t think of it." "Old five!" Qi Feng could not give up tit for tat with Xiao Shao. He said urgently, "is the prescription you just prescribed effective? Can you undo the poison of sister-in-law three It''s not that he is not confident about Xia Qing, but that Qi Feng has known every expression of Xia Qing for so many years. As a miracle doctor, Xia Qing has a sense of excitement and fanaticism in the face of patients. Her eyes are confident. This is the first time for Qi Feng to have such an anxious and dignified expression. Xiao Shao also stares at Xia Qing tightly, not to mention Angelica dahurica and forsythia. It seems that as long as he says it''s hopeless, he will cry immediately. Xia Qing swallowed a mouthful of saliva and then said: "in fact, I have never seen this kind of poison. Now I''m doing it according to other antidote prescriptions. I have to observe it for a few days before I can diagnose it." "How long will it take?" Xiao Shao asked, "her life is not a joke." "Two days." Xia Qing said: "as long as two days.". Two days later, if her poison hasn''t been controlled, I don''t think I can do anything about it. " Xiao shaoding looked at Xia Qing for a long time, straight to see Xia Qing some creepy, just a few invisible nodded: "you only have two days." Xia Qing wiped her sweat. She always knew that her third elder martial brother was cold-blooded, but she didn''t expect that she was so terrible when she was really gloomy. It really made people feel more pressure. I just went out to study the prescription for a reason. After Xia Qing and Qi Feng left, housekeeper Lin came in and said, "yesterday, a young lady ate something and ordered someone to check it. There was no problem in our house." Forsythia and Angelica a listen, forsythia urgent way: "yesterday, afraid of the girl hungry, maidservant for the girl to find some baoyuezhai pastry, but the pastry should be no problem." Angelica dahurica also nodded: "that package of cakes is from the big bag, the rest is all distributed to the maid in the yard, everyone has nothing to eat, it can''t be toxic in the cake." It''s really like looking for a needle in a haystack. Xiao Shao waved his hand. Yefeng understood what he meant and immediately said, "I''m going to baoyuezhai now." It''s not a good omen that such a change happened on the first day of marriage. Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan''s pale face, and his face was indistinguishable. Forsythia pushed Angelica dahurica, and they went out of the door together. Xiao Shao went to Jiang Ruan and sat down. She slowly reached out and pulled her broken hair to one side, and a trace of guilt flashed in her eyes. The urgent task is to get rid of Jiang Ruan''s poison. Xia Qing''s words reminded him that he had a pulse with Jiang Ruan a few years ago. At that time, he found the abnormality of Jiang Ruan''s pulse. It seems that there was something wrong with his body earlier, but his Qihuang skill is not as good as Xia Qing''s. He thinks that the toxin is gradually receding now, and it''s not a problem as long as he takes care of himself a little. I didn''t think that the poison was actually a snake dormant in Jiang Ruan''s body. At this time, it was found to be wrong. Although Qi Feng and Xia Qing said that Jiang Dan had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan''s poisoning, after Jiang Dan spoke to Jiang Ruan, there must be some reasons for Jiang Ruan''s abnormal reaction. Jiang Dan and this matter must not be innocent. He frowned slightly. Moreover, according to Xia Qing, the toxin had accumulated in Jiang Ruan''s body for many years. That is to say, when Jiang Ruan was a child, he was poisoned. Who was the one who poisoned him? He had also heard that Jiang Ruan''s life in Jiang''s mansion was not pleasant in his early years. However, he did not expect that someone was brewing for her life when he was very young. Thinking about this, Xiao Shao''s eyes suddenly felt a chill. He stroked Jiang Ruan''s hair, stood up and walked out of the room. Jin Er looked serious and was waiting outside. Xiao Shao dropped his eyes and said faintly, "everything that happened in Jiang''s house after the birth of the princess, I want to know everything." Jin a few looks a Lin, the right color way: "yes." Take orders and go. In the twinkling of time, at night, Xiao Shao was sitting in the room, and the official documents were approved batch after batch, but he didn''t look tired at all. Housekeeper Lin came several times to persuade him to have a rest earlier. Xiao Shao only said that he had something to do, and people with a clear eye could see that he was just taking an excuse to guard Jiang Ruan. It''s just that the master''s idea can''t be changed. After several times of fruitless, it''s over. Dewdrop pushed the door in, holding a medicine bowl in her hand. Seeing that Xiao Shao was still there, she said, "uncle, the medicine that doctor Xia ordered to fry for the girl is ready. This medicine is fried by maidservant and Tianzhu, and no one touched it." Because Jiang Ruan was poisoned, the palace is now very interested in taking medicine, afraid of other people''s way. The man who lured the poison didn''t come out early. It was always dangerous for Jiang Ruan.Xiao Shao raised Mou to see one eye, way: "you go out, I come to feed her." Dew did not dare to say anything, turned around, put the medicine bowl on the desk and left the room. After the dew left, Xiao Shaocai took the medicine bowl to the bedside, helped Jiang Ruan up and leaned on himself, blew the dark brown medicine in the bowl, and slowly fed it to Jiang Ruan''s mouth. He moved very gently for fear that he might hurt Jiang Ruan by accident. Xiao Shao, who has always been indifferent to others, would be so gentle and considerate. I''m afraid he would be so surprised that his eyes would fall off. But in a coma, Jiang Ruan Zheng and Xiao Shao''s medicine spilled out from the corner of their mouth and splashed on the bed, wetting Xiao Shao''s chest. He didn''t realize it. He just reached out and gently wiped the medicine stains off his mouth. This is not the way to feed the medicine. Xiao Shao dropped his eyes and thought about it. Suddenly he took a sip from the medicine bowl. Then he pinched Jiang Ruan''s chin and raised it slightly. He leaned down to stick his lips on her and slowly fed the medicine juice with his mouth. The girl''s face is gorgeous. Under her gentle appearance, her expression is always with a trace of indifference. At the moment, her lips are soft, with the fragrance of bitter medicine. If usual, there are some romantic thoughts. But now Xiao Shao has no worries. He only feels distressed when he looks at Jiang Ruan. He bent down to reach Jiang Ruan''s mouth. Finally, Xiao Shao put down the empty bowl in his hand and was about to help her lie down, but he suddenly felt that his chest skirt had been grabbed. He was slightly shocked and looked down, facing Jiang Ruan''s eyes. "You..." There was a moment of embarrassment, and then came a surprise. Xiao Shao held Jiang Ruan''s shoulder and said, "are you awake?" Then Jiang Ruan didn''t answer him. His eyes were wide open, but his eyes were not quiet, even helpless and scared. Xiao Shao was stunned. It was strange that such eyes appeared in Jiang Ruan''s eyes. But she didn''t feel Xiao Shao was in front of her. She just grasped Xiao Shao''s skirt tightly and murmured to herself. Xiao Shao frowned and listened. Jiang Ruan''s words clearly spread to his ears. She was chanting: "help me." Xiao Shao was suddenly surprised. Jiang Ruan shrank into a ball. He held his hand tightly, as if holding the last straw. In a low voice, he repeated over and over again: "help me, help me." "A Ruan," Xiao Shao put soft voice, gently patted her back: "don''t be afraid, I''m Xiao Shao." Jiang Ruan looked at him with wide eyes, but it seemed that he was looking at something else through him. Xiao Shao held out his hand, and Jiang Ruan retreated madly. Her eyes were desperate and desolate, as if she saw something extremely terrible. She asked angrily, "Xuanli, how dare you treat me like this!" Xiao Shao stares at her eyes tightly and feels at a loss for the first time. He suddenly drank: "night Maple!" Night Maple suddenly pushed the door in: "master, what''s the matter?" To see the appearance of Jiang Ruan, night maple is also surprised. When did Jiang Ruan have such an embarrassed expression? It seemed that he was not facing Xiao Shao, but an old enemy with deep hatred. Before I could recover from the scene, I heard Xiao Shao''s indifferent voice: "call Xia Wu to come in!" Xia Qing quickly rushed over, in order to take care of Jiang Ruan''s illness, he simply lived in Jinying palace. Being lifted from the quilt in the middle of the night, Xia Qing has a bad premonition. When I came into the room and saw Jiang Ruan''s abnormal behavior, I felt shocked. Xiao Shao''s face was heavy enough to drip water and asked, "why did she become like this?" Xia Qing didn''t dare to be careless, so she immediately came forward to check the pulse for Jiang Ruan. She was stunned, as if she couldn''t believe it. Then she took a careful look at Xiao Shao and said, "third brother, third sister-in-law is OK. But it was a nightmare. I''m afraid she has some evil in her heart, and now she''s aroused by her mistakes. " Xia Qing is a little embarrassed. She unknowingly breaks Jiang Ruan''s secret. With her resolute nature, she doesn''t know how to treat him when she wakes up. However, despite some scruples, it was his sister-in-law. Xia Qing said, "this is the third sister-in-law''s evil spirit. I can only give her a tranquilizing prescription, but I really don''t know if it is useful. Third brother, I''m a doctor, but I can''t cure people''s heart disease. Don''t embarrass me. " This is true. Xiao Shao knew that Xia Qing couldn''t find a good way to ask again, so he said in a deep voice, "go out." Xia Qing touched his head and quickly followed a crowd in the room to retreat. Only Yefeng and Xiaoshao are left in the room. Jiang Ruan shrank in a corner of the bed. She looked sad and worried. Her eyes were empty and deep. Xiao Shao was stunned when he saw her eyes. How could people in the world have such eyes? Over the years, there have been many lives under the royal guards. Before they died, some of them struggled for mercy, but they were not as miserable as the girl in front of them. There is no glory and cunning in those eyes, only despair engraved into the bone marrow. It seems that when you look at them, you will feel that there is no light in the world any more. The devil? Xiao Shao thinks of Xia Qing''s words. Does Jiang Ruan have a heart? His eyes were cold, looking at the girl in front of him. From a long time ago, he felt that Jiang Ruan had a secret that no one knew. She often has some strange behavior, but that behavior is never useless, she is like a sudden glimmer of light, strange and mysterious, don''t know what it means. And she just words, Xiao Shao also didn''t ignore. Xuan li. Many of the things she did had nothing to do with Xuanli. He also sent dark guards to check the relationship between Jiang Ruan and Xuanli, but nothing was found. I thought it was just some accidents, but now it seems that his guess is right. What kind of festival did Jiang Ruan have with xuanliding? Looking at the appearance, it''s not too much to think it''s a blood feud! What did Xuan Li do to her? She asked such a sad question.Yefeng is also shocked to see what kind of person Jiang ruanping Rili is. It seems that there is no weakness. Even in the face of the most cunning enemy, he can always be calm. Now, after poisoning, the demons are forced out, showing a very vulnerable side. What has she been through? Xiao Shao walked over quietly, afraid of disturbing her, Jiang Ruan stared at him coldly. Xiao Shao stretched out his hand to take her to his chest to comfort him. If he didn''t want Fang to come up to her, Jiang Ruan grabbed his arm and bit it down. "Master!" Night Maple exclaimed, and saw that Jiang Ruan''s bite was very heavy. Xiao Shao''s light colored clothes, which he wore in Japan today, immediately covered with blood. And he just slightly frowned, let her bite, and then stretched out another hand gently touched her head, soft tone: "don''t be afraid, I''m here." He doesn''t move, Jiang Ruan also doesn''t let go, call night maple to see in the heart impatient. I don''t know how long after that, Jiang Ruan seemed tired and let go. Xiao Shao liberated her hand from her mouth, but she was not anxious to see her injury. Instead, he reached out to help her wipe the blood from the corner of her mouth. Jiang Ruan looked at him in a daze. Suddenly his eyes turned red, and big drops of tears rolled on the back of Xiao Shao''s hand. Did you wake up? Xiao Shao was stunned. Jiang Ruan suddenly covered her face. Her voice seemed to laugh and cry. The night Maple did not dare to come out. In the silent night, her cry was very clear. She took away her hand, a bright face expression indistinguishable, like a desperate smile, but also like a startling sadness. She asked: "father, that''s how you sent me to huangquan. You cheated me with them. You wanted my life to be a stepping stone for Jiang Su Su! It turns out that at the beginning, you wanted me to fulfill your credit and career. You are so cruel Isn''t Jiang Su Su Su dead? Why did you mention her again? The night maple in the heart doubts, that Jiang Quan''s merit and official career is how one thing? Jiang Ruan''s words call Ye Feng to hear in the clouds. Jiang Ruan shook his head and said, "I''m not the evil girl of the country. I didn''t kill the emperor!" "Well behaved, don''t think about it." Xiao Shao forced her in his arms, dark eyes can not see the mood, but the tone is full of tenderness with comfort. Jiang Ruan grabbed his sleeve and suddenly said, "you save my brother. You save him. They want to kill him. You save my brother." Xiao Shao closed his eyes. When he raised his eyes again, his eyes were as bright as ice. He said in a cold voice, "Yefeng, go to shangshufu immediately and invite Jiang Xinzhi to me!" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 189 When Jiang Xinzhi rushed to Jinying palace, his face could not be described as ugly. In the middle of the night, someone suddenly turned into his room at night. If he didn''t show his identity in time, he would have been treated as an assassin. The visitors were in a hurry. They only said that something happened to Jiang Ruan and asked him to go to the palace. As soon as Jiang Xinzhi heard this, he was in a hurry and rushed to Jinying Palace on horseback. The more I thought about it, the more annoyed I was. It was only one day after his good sister married into the palace that something happened. I didn''t know what it was. But Jiang Xinzhi knew in his heart that Xiao Shao''s unique skill would not have sent someone to inform him in person if it had not been for a successful thing. If it is true, when you arrive at Jinying palace, as soon as you enter the gate of the main courtyard, you will see the dignified faces of Angelica dahurica and forsythia. Jiang Xin''s heart sank and he walked in with great strides. At a glance, you will see Jiang Ruan crying in Xiao Shao''s arms. Since Jiang Ruan was picked up from Chuang Tzu, he has hardly cried so impolitely. Even in front of Jiang Xinzhi, she is always calm and calm. Jiang Xinzhi knows that her younger sister''s temperament has been honed extremely tough these years. When I saw her look like this, I was in a trance. The girl in front of me coincided with the tender girl when Zhao Mei was still there many years ago. But after a moment''s absence, Jiang Xinzhi came back to him and walked to Xiao Shao in two or three steps. He said angrily, "what''s the matter with you, Ruan? Did he bully you? " Jiang Ruan cried so badly that one of Jiang Xin''s hearts was torn. No one in the world could make her cry so much, but if Xiao Shao was replaced. Jiang Xinzhi has a cold face, and Yefeng is a little nervous. It seems that if Jiang Ruan answers well, Jiang Xinzhi can fight with Xiao Shao here immediately. "She was poisoned." Xiao Shao said faintly: "now you are troubled by demons. You are in a state of confusion. I asked you to come here because I wanted to ask you something. Did you ever fall into a trap before your family conspired to harm you in early summer?" "What poisoning, what are you talking about?" Jiang Xinzhi frowned and didn''t understand what Xiao Shao was saying. Seeing Jiang Ruan as if not aware of his arrival, I felt something wrong in my heart. Then he stepped forward, bent down and approached Jiang Ruan, and said, "Ruan?" But Jiang Ruan didn''t realize it. Her eyes were empty, like a deep pool. Her words were clear, like a bolt from the blue. She said, "brother, don''t die, don''t leave me alone." Jiang Xin''s Leng is in place, Xiao Shao droops Mou: "now you understand, why should I call you over." "What the hell is going on?" Jiang Xinzhi is not a fool either. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s abnormal state, he has already understood something. He looked up and down at Jiang Ruan, but he didn''t see any other wounds on her body. He felt a little calm. Looking at Xiao Shao''s eyes, it was very bad: "what happened to a Ruan? Why don''t you even know me? This looks like a nightmare. " Thinking of Xiao Shaofang''s words, Jiang Xinzhi was shocked: "you said she was poisoned?" "Yes." Xiao Shao looks at Jiang Ruan in her arms. She has been in such a panic mood for a long time, and there are endless secrets in her words from time to time. Even he has a lot of confusion. Jiang Xinzhi is Jiang Ruan''s brother. He thought he knew at least one or two things about them, but now it seems that the two brothers and sisters are not without words. Jiang Ruan has always enclosed herself in a narrow space, and no one can go in, because the secret she guarded seems to be a huge conspiracy. "How could she be poisoned?" One of Jiang Xin grabbed Xiao Shao by the skirt. Maybe he was afraid of hurting Jiang Ruan, but his hand was still much lighter. He lowered his voice, but his eyes were a little red, and his tone was full of anger: "Xiao Shao, you let her be poisoned under your eyes just one day after she passed by? That''s how you take care of her! I would have kept her in the palace for the rest of my life, and I would never have let her marry you! " He has always been short guard, but while listening to the night Maple but want to for his master, said: "Uncle young master, you can say this is not appropriate. The poison, young lady, was not laid in our house. It has been carried in the womb for a long time. It has been accumulated in the body since childhood. The root is not in the palace. It''s unreasonable for you to blame the master. " The royal guards treat Xiao Shao with great respect, but they don''t pay so much attention to others. Yefeng is not polite. Straight hear one of Jiang Xin Leng, he asks in reply: "in the womb take poison?" "So I ask you," Xiao Shao looked at him coldly, "who was it that someone in Jiang''s family once did harm to you Jiang Xinzhi was slightly stunned, and then sneered. He always treated people kindly, and rarely saw such a gloomy expression. He said: "ah Ruan and I are the thorn in the eye of all people in Chiang''s mansion. It''s too much for you to ask me who is bad for us. A Ruan has been insulted constantly since she was born. At the beginning, she was protected by her mother and me. At least she could live in peace. If you hadn''t mentioned it today, I didn''t know that she had been poisoned long before that. " Jiang Xinzhi clenched his fists: "if I know who that man is, I will surely tear him to pieces!" "The first lady was also poisoned," Xiao Shao said, "because of this, she died. And you don''t seem to have been hit, "Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan in his arms." you are the only ones who know the housework of Jiang''s house best. You need to understand the origin. After finding that man, I won''t make him better than you. "He said that the clouds were light and the wind was light, but the room was cold. The last few words almost came with a hint of killing intention. Without hesitation, this beautiful and elegant young man will incarnate in Shura''s bloodthirsty and merciless next moment. Jiang Xinzhi looked at him calmly, and Xiao Shao looked at him calmly. A moment later, Jiang Xinzhi said in a deep voice: "if you ask me who my biggest enemy is, it''s naturally Xia Yan''s family. At the beginning, she wanted to be a housewife. She was clearly just a concubine, but she was in trouble with her mother everywhere. She pretended to be magnanimous, and Jiang Quan always protected her. " Jiang Xinzhi''s expression is like swallowing a fly. As long as he thinks of the humiliation Xia Yan brought to their mother and son in those days, he feels disgusted. Now he even refused to call "Dad" from Jiang Quan. He could see that he had no affection for Shangshu mansion. "Xia Yan has died, but she was induced to stimulate the old poison in her body. The person who started is not Xia Yan." Xiao Shao said: "I''ll find out about it. Now..." He looked at Jiang Ruan in his arms and said, "come and see her." He released his hand. Jiang Ruan had been coaxed by him and calmed down a little. At least he didn''t ask hysterical questions. He just looked very scared and miserable, as if he had experienced something extremely desperate. As soon as Xiao Shao got out of the way, Jiang Xinzhi came forward and hugged Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were red and swollen. Although Jiang Xinzhi had answered Xiao Shao''s question before, he was still full of doubts at the moment when he saw the scene. He immediately asked, "how can a Ruan become like this?" "By mistake, now she''s possessed." Xiao Shao''s voice can not hear the joy and anger, but it can make people feel the light anger in the calm words. He stood up and looked at Jiang Ruan: "this is her heart. Jiang Xinzhi, she has been immersed in such fear day by day. I can''t understand it, and you don''t understand it, but there are some things that I think you should know. " He dropped his eyes, his long eyelashes seemed to vibrate slightly, and his tone had no waves: "your sister, Princess Hong''an, is not as fearless as it seems. She''s scared every day, but you and I don''t know it. " With these words, he pushed the door and went out, leaving only one of Jiang Xin to stay where he was. Zheng for a moment, Jiang Xinzhi seemed to understand, he looked down at Jiang Ruan. Even though Jiang Xinzhi was by her side, her eyes seemed to be looking at something else through Jiang Xinzhi. Jiang Xinzhi noticed that her little finger was deeply bent up and wrapped in her palm, which made her eyes red. Jiang Ruan was very timid when he was young, but when he was extremely afraid, he always did this little action unconsciously. Later, Jiang Ruan came back from Chuang Tzu. She was smart, calm, bold and agile. She didn''t seem to be afraid of anything. She never made such a move again. I thought that she was no longer afraid of things, and no longer retained this habit, but today I saw that she had always been the same little girl. How could he let his sister fall into such a situation? What Xiao Shao said hit him like a heavy hammer. Jiang Ruan was in fear day and night, but he didn''t know? He didn''t know? One of Jiang Xin clenched his teeth and punched the head of the bed. The vase on the head of the bed was broken, and the blood slowly overflowed between her fingers. Jiang Ruan''s body trembled, and Jiang Xinzhi looked at her. She grabbed Jiang Xinzhi''s hand and murmured: "it''s bleeding, big brother is bleeding, big brother is dead The elder brother died in battle. The elder brother didn''t die in battle. He was murdered! Brother Her stable mood suddenly excited, her eyes were crazy, but every word was Jiang Xinzhi. Although Jiang Xinzhi didn''t understand her words, his nose was sour. He could not help holding Jiang Ruan in his arms. As if he had comforted his little sister many years ago, he whispered: "Aru, brother is OK. Brother won''t leave you. Don''t be afraid. I''m not going anywhere... " In the silence of the night, the movement of the brother and sister can''t be ignored. It''s clear in the ears of the people outside the door. Dew covered her mouth, eyes full of tears, whispered: "I never knew the girl''s heart so bitter." Since she had been with Jiang Ruan in Zhuangzi, Jiang Ruan never showed the bitter side. She had her own thoughts, but in all her emotions, only vulnerability was not included. Jin two patted to be afraid of her shoulder: "young madam disposition is strong, can get better." Tianzhu didn''t move, just looked at the room quietly. She once admired the tenacity and means of the women in the room, trying to be as strong as her. Now suddenly seeing the appearance of Jiang Ruan, Tianzhu was confused. "She must have suffered a lot." Steward Lin suddenly said, it''s rare for people to see him so serious. They all turned their heads to see him. Housekeeper Lin was standing outside the house. His smart eyes seemed to have some strange emotion. He was sad and sad for a moment. He said: "the mental means are different from ordinary people, not the talents of heaven. Only when you are young, you can''t bear it. She is so good at means that she has never been afraid of something. It must be because, as early as a long time ago, she experienced a very desperate moment. People who have no intention must have been hurt. " Have you ever been hurt? They all looked at the silhouette under the two lights in the room. The woman seemed very sad. In the shaking light, her shoulders were so weak that she couldn''t bear it. Originally thought that the light and cold people, the original heart was so painful. For a moment, everyone felt a little more regret for the future mistress of the palace."Where is the master?" Jin three looked around, Xiao Shao out of the house, I don''t know when has disappeared. Jin four one Leng: "bad, master son won''t go to Jiang Dan directly under impulse?" Everyone looked at each other. At the end of the new year, even in the palace, things for the new year''s day are being bought everywhere. In addition, the weather is very good these days. Even if it''s snowy, the sun is always lovely. The emperor is very happy, and all the concubines in the palace are happy. The master is happy. The people at the bottom are also good. For a time, the palace becomes cheerful and lively by sweeping away the previous depression. In a corner of the palace, Mingyue is serving a young man with breakfast. Xuan Peifang gets up. The young man is valued by the emperor now. Even Xuan Li and Xuan Hua are not much better than him. Although the court officials feel that it is dangerous to bet on the thirteen princes who have no background, they are uncertain about the emperor''s attitude. Xuanpei, the 13th prince, was familiar with the four books and five classics, and his strategies were well written. Even Liu Min, the always strict Taifu, spoke highly of him. Even though he is still young, he has a lot of opinions on the affairs of the central government. Every time the emperor comes to test him with the official affairs of the central government, Xuan Pei can come up with several good ideas. Now that it was just getting white, he had already ordered someone to light the lamp, had a few mornings at random, and went to his desk after washing. There was a thick pile of scriptures and histories on the desk. He is always like this. He gets up at the crowing of chickens. People can only see the scenery of others, but they can''t see the boy''s hard work in private. He never said this to others, but Mingyue was secretly frightened. The longer she stayed with xuanpei, the more she felt that this beautiful young man was incredible. Young, but know how to keep a low profile, self-control is amazing, almost no need to remind others, he can always accurately know what to do and work for it. Even the emperor''s favor for him was in xuanpei''s step-by-step plan. For example, at the moment, today''s hard work is only for the emperor to answer new questions. Xuanpei has already sat at the table, and Mingyue gets up to clean up the leftover dishes and chopsticks. Don''t want to just receive half, then hear outside Xuan Pei another close maid Chaoyang flustered voice: "Xiao Wang Ye, how do you come? Your highness is still resting. You... " Before he heard the door slamming open, the young man in black was standing at the door, his eyes cold, but he looked haggard. Chaoyang rushes in and looks at Xuan Pei with fear: "Your Highness, I can''t stop you..." Although Xuan Pei looks very easy to talk on weekdays, and doesn''t seem to say anything serious to his servants, once he gets angry, the end is always creepy. Therefore, although Chaoyang is smiling on weekdays, he does his best to treat the master. Chaoyang''s words remind Mingyue that she was the one Xiao Shao arranged for xuanpei. Xiao Shao is his master, and xuanpei uses her easily. At the moment, she never stopped Xiao Shao''s idea. Fortunately, Xuan Pei was not angry either. He just took a look at Xiao Shao and said to Mingyue and Chaoyang, "I want to read books in this hall. You all go down." Words is to hide Xiao Shao in this meaning, the moon and Chaoyang quickly back to cover the door. After they left, Xuan Pei walked to the table and sat down. Today, he is wearing a pine green brocade and gilt edged court dress. Now the emperor treats him well, and his clothes no longer don''t fit him at the beginning. Xuanpei''s figure and cloth are very matched with his temperament. He was originally beautiful and elegant, but now he is more noble and has a special taste between immature and mature. He leaned back in his chair. His voice was still childish and clear, but his tone was full of grown-up style: "my Lord has rushed into my palace in the early morning. If you have something to say, you may as well say it." Then he raised his pen, as if he wanted to practice calligraphy. "What is your relationship with Jiang Ruan?" Xiao Shao spoke coldly. Xuanpei''s hand, a big drop of ink will drop down from the wolf''s hair, dense on the paper. He put down his pen, covered the deep meaning in his eyes, and then slowly said, "Oh? Why did Lord Xiao say that? " "You go back to my question first." Xiao Shao didn''t give in and stared at him. Xuan Pei turned to look at him, and his eyes slowly fell on Xiao Shao''s arm. Where did Jiang Ruan bite last night? Later, housekeeper Lin bandaged him. The wound on his arm was bandaged, but the scratch on the back of his hand was left. As soon as xuanpei saw the scratch clearly, he immediately stood up and said, "what did you do to her?" Xiao Shao is cold and arrogant. There are almost no other women around him except the royal guards. Now he has a wife, and Jiang Ruan is the one who has the closest relationship with him. The scratch of a woman''s fingernail on the back of a good hand is really hard not to be associated with other places. It''s not that Xiao Shao has never met Xuan Pei. He also knows that this young boy is a master of camouflage emotions. Now his emotions are so exposed. It''s really surprising. Fortunately, even so, his attitude towards Xiao Shao was so clear that he could see that he was very concerned about Jiang Ruan. At least it will not go against Jiang Ruan. Seeing Xiao Shao''s meditation and silence, Xuan Pei was in a hurry. He stepped forward and said, "answer me quickly. What have you done to her?" Xiao Shao hears the speech and looks at him thoughtfully. Xuan Pei is suddenly aware of his gaffe when he is seen by his dark eyes. However, it was too late. Xiao Shao asked faintly, "why do you care so much?""I..." Xuan Pei said for a moment, then thought of something, and immediately said: "Princess Hong''an is at least half of the elder sister of the temple now. Since she is a brotherhood, she should take care of each other. If you bully her, you will be beating the face of the royal family. Today, I''m not afraid to tell you that if you dare to touch her, even though we are small, we will fight for justice for her! " Although the boy was not happy and angry, he was very persistent in dealing with Jiang Ruan. In the end, even if he was a little childish, he could see the determination. Those words are not fake, but from the heart. If Xiao Shao really bullies Jiang Ruan one day, Xuan Pei will be desperate to find a way for her. This kind of relationship is really unusual. After all, Jiang Ruan is only a nominal princess, and he has no long contact with Xuan Pei. What''s more, he once investigated that the intersection of Jiang Ruan and xuanpei originated from the fact that he helped xuanpei out of the encirclement from Princess Heyi in the palace. It''s just a tiny thing. Why do you have such great friendship. But since then, xuanpei has even helped Jiang Ruan testify in the imperial court of Jinluan palace. Even the prince''s coming and Xia Qing''s coming to Beijing have xuanpei''s part. On the wedding day, Xuan Pei''s gift was as rich as the dowry of an ordinary official daughter. How to see is not a nodding friend, now xuanpei this action expression, is to confirm Xiao Shao''s conjecture. But even so, there are many things that don''t make sense. It''s clear that they didn''t have much contact with each other. Last night, Jiang Ruan. He looked down at Xuan Pei, who was still young and pretty, but with deep hostility in his eyes. Xiao Shao light way: "I didn''t do anything, she was poisoned." "Poisoned?" Xuan Pei was stunned and asked quickly, "how is she now? How are you doing? " "Not good." Xiao Shao''s eyes flashed a trace of deep meaning, saying: "the whole person fell into the heart of the devil, muttering to himself, other people''s words completely can''t hear." "What about that?" Xuan Pei lost his normal precocity and steadiness, and said, "aren''t you king Jinying? Why didn''t you ask the imperial doctor? By the way, is that Jinling master still in the capital? Why don''t you invite him? This temple immediately let a person take a post to invite him "No need," Xiao Shao interrupted, his voice suddenly became cold and heavy: "he''s at home. However, when a Ruan mumbled to himself, he said a name. I thought it was familiar to me. " Xuan Pei was stunned. Xiao Shao said slowly, "she said, pei''er." Don''t leave a message for the girl who reads the stolen text. It''s too congested to look at it. All the college entrance examination students are cheering for the exam today ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 190 Xuanpei''s expression suddenly changed, but he was so surprised that he stepped back a few steps. Then his expression changed dramatically, like joy or sorrow. Xiao Shao took a panoramic view of his expression and slowly frowned. After a long time, Xuan Pei finally recovered from his entanglement. He looked at Xiao Shao, who suddenly had an illusion that he was not a young boy, but an old man with vicissitudes. Xuan Pei''s curved lips seemed to be a relief and a bitter smile. He looked at Xiao Shao and said slowly, "I want to see her." Xiao Shao whispered, "good." "The moon, the sun." Xuanpei suddenly called out in a loud voice. The two maids who were guarding outside the door came in. Xuanpei''s expression became very cold for a moment: "I want to go out of the palace. Before I go back to the palace, I will do everything I can to keep this matter." "No, your highness," Chaoyang said eagerly. "It''s a big deal to be found out of the palace without permission. If your majesty asks How many people in the palace are staring at you, but you can''t send up the handle by yourself. " "Am I the master or are you the master?" Xuan Pei asked: "if you can''t do this well, it''s no better than staying by my side." There was no room for negotiation. Chaoyang suddenly remembered that the young man in front of him had never changed his face and looked at the maid of honor who had been with him for more than ten years. He was never an ordinary young man. At the moment, the tone was cold, which made Chaoyang shiver. Under the cruel eyes, he could not speak any more. Xiao Shao looked at the moon coldly and made a silent look at it. Seeing it, she said to Xuan Pei, "Your Highness, don''t worry. The maidservants in the palace will do well." Today xuanpei left the palace because of Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao couldn''t stand by. What''s more, it seems xuanpei has a lot to do with Jiang Ruan. He can''t let xuanpei suffer because of this. Xuanpei sneered. She picked up her cloak and said, "let''s go." Jinying palace, Xia Qing just for Jiang Ruan over pulse, drink medicine she always calm down in the morning today, deep sleep. But all the people in the king''s mansion had no idea of sleeping, and their eyes turned blue. As a doctor, Xia Qing racked her brains to detoxify Jiang Ruan. However, after a night''s medical treatment, she was helpless, not to mention Jiang Xinzhi. She accompanied Jiang Ruan all night yesterday. Although she didn''t know what she heard from him, people today saw his face very bleak, as if he was ten years old overnight. Qi Feng sits at the gate of the courtyard, with Guan Lianghan and Mo Cong by his side. Guan Lianghan said: "this younger sister of the Jiang family looks at such a lively and resourceful person on weekdays. She is very clever and can be reached by people. She doesn''t know where she is. It was just a little girl at the beginning. How could anyone be cruel enough to attack a little girl? " He was a gentleman, and he was disgusted to talk about the backyard pickling. Mo Cong always looked at Jiang Ruan, but now he was quite embarrassed and said, "although I used to think that third sister-in-law was too strong as a woman, I would rather she was as arrogant as she used to be than to have her lying in bed now." He looked at Qi Feng on one side and said, "fourth brother, why do you look so out of your mind?" Qi Feng came back and said with a bitter smile, "I''m ok." Seeing this, Xia Qing patted him on the shoulder comfortingly: "I know, with your intelligence, you can''t see who the third sister-in-law has been cheated by, so you have to blame yourself. But it''s not your fault. Maybe brother five will be able to make up the antidote today. Don''t be sad. " Qi Feng smiles and doesn''t speak. Xia Qing doesn''t know what he''s thinking. She just looks at Jiang Ruan lying on the bed pale and listens to her startling words. Qi Feng feels shocked again. He never liked women''s crying. Before, he appreciated Jiang Ruan for her courage. However, when he saw Jiang Ruan''s sad questioning yesterday, he also felt pain in his heart. He wanted to comfort her, but he could only watch from a distance. He hated his inability to help. Everyone is thinking of their own thoughts, do not want to see housekeeper Lin with Xiao Shao hurried to this side, Xiao Shao is also followed by a person. Everyone is a little strange. At this time, Xiao Shao is still taking people to the palace. Isn''t he afraid of more and more chaos? Then look at the man behind Xiao Shao. He is not tall, but he has a pretty face. He seems to be a young man of some family. Inexplicably familiar. "Your Highness Mo Cong first called out. He looked at Xiao Shao and Xuan Pei, and said, "third brother, how did you call out your thirteen highness?" He was free and unrestrained, and his first thought was not the trouble Xuan Pei might bring when he went out of the palace without permission. It''s just a question. What will xuanpei do if something happens to Jiang Ruan. Xuan Pei and Xiao Shao can''t remember any friendship. As for Jiang Ruan, it''s impossible to have anything to do with Xuan Pei. "You go in." Xiao Shao said to Xuan Pei, "she''s in there." Xuan Pei looked at him and said, "thank you very much." This eye is full of all kinds of complicated emotions, and the people around it are all in a fog, but they also feel that this is not a dialogue between an adult man and a teenager, but a man to man commitment standing in an equal position. After Xuan Pei went in, Guan Lianghan finally couldn''t help saying, "third brother, what the hell are you doing? What''s the matter with calling the 13th Prince here? If the emperor knows, you''ll have a lot of trouble. ""He has to come." Xiao Shao light way: "some matters, only he understands is how to return a responsibility." In the room, Angelica dahurica Forsythia retreated. Xuan Pei closed the door. It seemed that he didn''t dare to get close to the bedside. He just stopped a few steps away from the bed. Jiang Ruan slept peacefully and quietly, with a pale face. Xuanpei looked at it and finally walked a few steps forward to the bedside. Suddenly, he knelt down. The boy''s back was straight, as if he were a real noble. However, his eyes were full of tears. The tears accumulated so much that he could not bear to fall from his eyes. The tears fell on the back of Jiang Ruan''s hand. His delicate and beautiful face is wrinkled into a ball, and his old face is full of childishness at the moment, as if he had been pretending to be a strong child. When he saw his mother, his long-standing disguise was suddenly removed, and his grievances were released. "Mother Princess." Xuan Pei choked: "is that you? Mother, are you back He slowly grasped the woman''s hand, which seemed to be warm in memory. He put his hand on his cheek and gave a big smile: "do you remember Peier? Pei''er is so happy. When are you going to wake up "I''ve been scared for so long." Xuan Pei held Jiang Ruan''s hand tightly: "I thought I was the only one here. I came back alone. I want to take revenge for you, but I don''t know what to do. I''ll get a firm foothold in the palace. Only in this way can I help you. Later I saw you, my mother. I thought you were not my mother. You didn''t know me at all. Pei''er thinks that''s OK. Let pei''er guard you this time. " He suddenly stopped, but slowly, slowly sobbed: "but originally, you are still my mother." "If only I could get to know you as soon as possible, my mother, it''s not easy for us to meet again in this life. I don''t want to leave you, my mother. Don''t leave pei''er alone, OK?" The humble plea of the young man drifted in the air and suddenly dispersed. The arrogant and cruel young man in the palace also had such a fragile moment. If he was seen by others, he didn''t know what to think. However, Xuan Pei is just immersed in his sadness and joy of recovery, and he can''t worry about anything. But even after Xuan Pei came, things didn''t get better. On the contrary, when Jiang Ruan went to sleep, he never woke up. All the people were anxious, and Jiang Xinzhi''s eyes were red. At night, in full view of the public, Xia Qing finally came out with a shrug of her head and bowed her head to mourn: "third brother, no, I can''t get rid of this poison." As soon as his voice fell, a man grabbed him by the collar, not Jiang Xinzhi, but Xuan Pei. Except Xiao Shao, everyone looked at him unexpectedly. Xuanpei said: "the so-called holy hand of Jinling turned out to be a quack. Now we tell you clearly that if we can''t cure him, we will tell our father to demolish your hospital and cut off your head. We don''t need such a false doctor in the Jin Dynasty!" His tone is cruel, like a trapped animal in a desperate situation. People are shocked. Xia Qing is shocked by the boy''s fierce appearance. He even forgets to get angry, but looks at him stupidly. Qi Feng frowned. He didn''t know why. He always felt familiar in xuanpei''s eyes. He didn''t know whether he was under the illusion now. He always felt that xuanpei''s angry look was the same as Jiang Ruan''s. Of course, this is impossible. Qi Feng shakes his head and cuts off his wishful thinking. "Don''t push people too hard, your highness." But Mo Cong couldn''t see it. He came out to fight against Xia Qing: "although my fifth brother is a miracle doctor, he is not an omnipotent immortal. Otherwise, no one will die in the world. What else do you need so many coffins to do?" "I won''t let you talk about coffins!" "Shut up." The two voices speak at the same time. The former is Xuan Pei, who is obviously very angry. The latter is from Xiao Shao. He glances at Mo Cong, who is silenced by the warning in his eyes. Jiang xinzhiqiang repressed his feelings, forced out a smile, and asked: "dare to ask doctor Xia, the poison on her sister can''t be solved, but what else can I do?" Xia Qing shrinks, and Xuan Pei releases his hand. He took a look at Xiao Shao and gave him a cold look. He said, "I''m under the guidance of Mr. Baqi. He''s the smartest man in the world. I can''t solve this poison, but maybe master can. If master can''t solve it, no one in the world can solve it. " He looked at Xiao Shao and said, "third brother, if you don''t take your third sister-in-law to mount Canaan, master should be out of the pass now." Xiao Shao was stunned, and suddenly remembered that when he went to see Mr. Baqi in Mount Canaan last time, Mr. Baqi had asked him if there was any special person around him. At that time, he did not understand what Mr. Baqi was referring to, and what he said was not very clear. Mr. Baqi said that the man came for revenge and also for gratitude, and his fate was entangled with him. Did he refer to Jiang Ruan. Yes, Mr. Baqi also said that he would meet that person. Isn''t it now? Jiang Xinzhi saw that Xiao Shao''s look was clearly gone, but he didn''t know what he was thinking. He patted him on the shoulder and said, "Lord Xiao." Xiao Shao looked at Xia Qing and said, "I''ll start early tomorrow morning." "I''m going too!" As soon as his voice fell, Xuan Pei began to cry. Seeing that everyone was looking at him strangely, Xuan Pei was stunned, and then covered up: "our palace and Princess Hong''an are brothers. If something happens to him, we can''t stand by. It''s also a royal household affair. We are qualified to manage it."This is just a half way monk. There is no blood relationship. What kind of brotherhood is this? People''s eyes were obviously disbelieving. Xiao Shao said coldly, "no way." "You --" xuanpei still wanted to talk, then he heard Xiao Shaoping''s emotional words: "you have been out of the palace for too long. I can''t stand it. Being found will drag her down." As soon as he heard that Jiang Ruan was dragged down, Xuan Pei was silent. He clenched his fist and said a moment later, "OK, I''ll go back to the palace, but if there''s any news, you must have a message sent to me." Xiao Shao did not agree or refuse, which is the default meaning. Jiang Xinzhi said, "I''ll go with you. I don''t have to stay in the palace. I''m a Ruan''s brother. I can''t trust her alone." "There is an eight ring array in Mount Canaan. You are not a disciple of our school and can''t break the array." Xiao Shao light way: "if you go, will only delay time." Jiang Xinzhi''s words were stopped. Qi Feng said with a smile: "let me go with my third brother Xia Wu. Xia Wu knows medical skills. Maybe he can help Shifu. I also want to ask Shifu about some things. The second and seventh elder martial brothers stay in the capital. If there is any change, they can at least cope with it. " He said, "we will try to find a way to let the third sister-in-law see the master as soon as possible." Xiao Shao took a look at Qi Feng, didn''t retort, turned and walked to the house: "what to do." Canaan mountain is covered with snow all the year round. The mountains are high and the valleys are deep. All the year round, it is the scenery of northern China, with broken ice and flowing water. From the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain, there are eight bad plum blossom formations, which are closely linked and exquisite. The scenery of Lvyang villa at the top of the mountain is different from that at the foot of the mountain. Even though it is in the late winter, the colorful flowers are still blooming, and the warmth is as warm as the early spring. The green parrot at the entrance of the villa had already flapped its wings and yelled. An old man in grey in the courtyard was looking at the chessboard on the stone table and pondering. That game of chess had been left in a mess, and he could not see the rules at all. The old man shook his head: "Linglong, there''s a guest coming." As soon as the voice fell, an urgent voice came from the entrance of the villa: "master --" Xia Qing came in breathlessly. More than ten days a year without intermission, straight teach him some can''t bear. Xiao Shao has been the leader of the Royal Guards for such a long time, but he doesn''t pay much attention to such a little distance. Although Qi Feng is a bit reluctant, he once had some martial arts skills. He is the only scholar who knows how to strengthen his body. Nevertheless, Xia Qing is an excellent doctor, holding the doctor''s parents'' heart of the medical training, but all the way did not cry tired. Mr. Baqi smiles: "little five." Xiao Shao and Qi Feng appear behind Xia Qing. Xiao Shao is still holding Jiang Ruan. Qi Feng sees Mr. Baqi and calls his master. Then he says, "third sister-in-law is poisoned. Please help her." Mr. Baqi''s eyes fell on Xiao Shao who came after him, but for a moment, he stopped in front of Jiang Ruan in his arms, sighed a little, and said: "this meeting is coming." Xia Qing touched her head: "master, what are you talking about? I can''t get rid of the third sister-in-law''s poison. Shifu, what can I do? Life matters. The third sister-in-law hasn''t woken up these days. It''s really not good for me to look at her. " "Carry her into my room." So Mr. Baqi said. After Jiang Ruan was carried to the bed in the room, Mr. Baqi suddenly said, "little four, little five, you go out, I have something to say with a Shao." "Master, what can I say another day? It''s not right to save the third sister-in-law right now?" Qi Fengji road. He has always been quiet and wise, rarely so anxious. Now it''s time to see that Jiang Ruan''s health is getting worse day by day. Xia Qing pulled him: "what nonsense, master is here, and she will not let the third sister-in-law be in danger. Let''s go. " Qi Feng was stunned. Although Mr. Baqi was very gentle to his apprentices, he actually valued the rules of his apprentices. Just now, his words were really a little too much. For a moment, he said, "I''m sorry, I''m a little anxious." Some uneasy looked at Jiang Ruan empress, this just and Xia Qing together backed out. After Xia Qing and Qi Feng left, Mr. Baqi looked at Jiang Ruan on the bed. The cloth bag he had just taken out was on one side, but he didn''t rush to open it. He just said, "ah Shao, do you understand now?" After a moment''s silence, Xiao Shaocai said, "please give me some advice." "Ah Shao, you are so smart, how can you not understand." Mr. Baqi didn''t look at him, but said, "you should understand what I told you. Do you still have to make this decision? " "Master thought I shouldn''t have made such a decision?" Xiao Shao asked. "I will always follow your advice." Mr. Baqi sighed: "what you say is what." "Well," said Xiao Shao, "please help my wife." Mr. Baqi said faintly: "ah Shao, I remember I told you that you are not suitable to be a killer." "Master said my blood was not cold enough." Xiao Shao replied. "That''s right, ah Shao. I knew as a teacher that you would definitely make this decision. But ah Shao, you have to understand, "Mr. Baqi''s face had a touch of compassion across:" your fate should have ended here. If you make this decision today, your destiny will never be reversed. Ziwei meteorite, your imperial life style, success and failure are on the verge of success. However, "he said," in this life, you will no longer be the fate of a lonely ghost. ""I see, master. Please help my wife." Xiao Shao was calm, and his tone had no waves. "If you go against the sky and change your life style, it''s not good for you. Your life may be in a sudden disaster, so, Shao, don''t you regret it? " Mr. Baqi asked. "I don''t have anything special to cherish in this world," Xiao Shao said faintly. "I want to protect her. I will never regret the decision I made today, whether it is fate or disaster. " The young man is very beautiful, his eyes are indifferent, his tone seems to be as cold as usual, and he can''t even see a trace of affection. However, the firmness and commitment revealed in it will move even the most hard hearted people in time. Mr. Baqi was slightly stunned. His eyes were in a trance. He seemed to see someone else through Xiao Shao. Many years ago, he also met a person. He also said this sentence in Xiao Shao''s tone today. He said that he would never regret it, but. Mr. Baqi sighed and said, "well, I will save her. Her poison is not difficult to cure. It''s just a kind of poison made from poisonous flower in southern Xinjiang. This flower has the effect of Psychedelic. If there is a knot or a demon in the heart, as long as there is a little unhappiness in the ordinary days, he will endure the torture in his heart day by day and see the scene he fears most in his life every day. This poison is harmless to the human body, but it will torture people''s heart, and eventually lead to heart failure and death. It was tortured by its own demons and died alive. " Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, then frowned: "it''s southern Xinjiang!" "Her heart is too strong." Mr. Baqi said meaningfully: "in fact, now she is the most vulnerable time. The answer you want to know can now be found in her. If you want to know the secret..." "No, master." Xiao Shao interrupted: "even if I want to know her secret, she must tell me in person. Such a thing, I will not, also disdain "She won''t want to tell you," Mr. Baqi asked. "If she won''t tell you this secret all her life, what will you do?" "I''ll keep this secret with her all my life." Xiao Shao replied. Mr. Baqi was stunned and suddenly said, "ah Shao, I thought you were not the number one killer in the world, but now I feel that you have no less demons than her. Her demons are secrets, and yours are hers. " Once a seemingly heartless person has love, he is more persistent than anyone else in the world. Xiao Shao now so, let Mr. Baqi more and more feel that the world is changeable, otherwise years ago, why now again. He thinks that he has seen through the secrets of nature, but his fate is always changeable. Otherwise, why don''t he go to mount Canaan all his life? If he reveals too many secrets, he will be punished. Although a thousand things can be foreseen in the world, the only thing that can''t be foreseen is love. "If she''s my demon, I''d rather die than break." Xiao shaodao. Jiang Dan is not born again, and this article will not be finished soon. It will be a while, and many things have not been explained yet ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 191 Jiang Ruan felt a lot of pain in his head, and his whole body seemed to be light without any strength. She struggled to open her eyes, did not see the bright sky, a moist and sweet smell filled the tip of the nose, seems strange and familiar. She reluctantly recalled, surprised to find that it was the smell of blood. She moved and slowly got up from the ground. This is a dark and humid place. There are some black worms crawling on the ground. The worms are rotten and nauseous. It seems that there is something in her mind that she can''t catch. There was a hard thing around her. It seemed that there was some viscous liquid. She tried to raise her head. Suddenly, she heard a "squeak". It seemed that someone was talking outside. A strong ray of sunlight came in, which made her almost unable to open her eyes. A woman''s voice rang out: "come on, the empress wants to see it with her own eyes. It''s not fast enough to let the empress wait for you hooves." Then, several maids came in, but they didn''t know whether they were afraid or disgusted. Strangely, they lit the oil lamp in their hands and walked in until they came to Jiang Ruan''s side. However, they seemed to turn a blind eye to Jiang Ruan. Instead of looking at her, they bent down and picked up something from the ground. Jiang Ruan slowly frowned and watched them warily. But they seemed to pay no attention to her, as if she did not exist. Jiang Ruan stood up tentatively, and no one stopped her. After thinking about it, she bowed her head and went out with the maids. As soon as she got out of the room, there was dazzling sunlight outside. It seemed that she had not seen such sunlight for a long time. Turning around, his eyes were right in front of the things in the hands of the maid of honor. He was surprised, but he unconsciously stepped back two steps and almost fell down. The maid of honor was holding a wooden basin in her hand, in which a monster like thing was lying on her back. I can''t see my limbs, but I can see a basin of blood. It''s not like a person. If you put it in front of others, you can''t see what it is. But in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, she was shocked. It''s nothing else. It''s her from the last life! She was made into a human * and she was killed in a wooden basin. Now in the wooden basin, the "Jiang Ruan" is dead, just a cold corpse, with no dignity at all. Jiang Ruan stood on one side, biting his teeth, watching the maid of honor pick up the body. A leading maid of honor walked in front of him, and he was a butterfly. Butterfly is not already expelled from the house of Jiang Su Su, sold to the kiln, how to become the current palace maid. When Jiang Ruan looked at her, an idea suddenly flashed through her heart. She was killed by the war in the last life and was reborn in Zhuangzi. What happened after that is unknown. Now the body is still there, and my old friend seems to be the same as before. Could it be that God opened her eyes and let her see the end of the last life? Butterfly led the way, holding a wooden basin in her hand, to a garden. Jiang Ruan could see clearly that the garden was the one behind Kunning palace. Kunning palace, Jiang Ruan''s heart trembled. Could it be that. If it is true, Fang went to the entrance of the garden, and heard a familiar voice saying: "this palace doesn''t care about anything. As long as they can''t reincarnate, what if they can''t reincarnate forever?" "I''m poor, but at the command of my mother, I''ll do my best." Jiang Ruan sneered. Now no one could see her. She went inside. Sure enough, the woman sitting on the high seat was a queen''s robe. She was rich and grand. She had a beautiful face. She also brought a kind of reserved Gao GUI. The Nine Tailed Phoenix hairpin on her head was flying in the sun. Her every move showed the dignity of her mother, It''s Jiang Su Su. At the moment, Jiang Su Su Su was reclining on the soft chair. In the huge garden, she was the only one sitting alone, and the eunuch stood in a row, with a look of fear on her face. The blue robed man standing in front of Jiang Su Su, dressed as a Taoist, is not empty. Who is the Taoist priest? It turns out that the Taoist priest of void had been in touch with Jiang Su Su all his life. It was not only in Chuang Tzu that he made her have Kefu and Kemu. It seems that Jiang Su Su Su promised him a lot of benefits. Otherwise, how could a wandering Taoist in the wild get into the Palace? He just didn''t know what he was going to do? "Niang Niang, maidservant has brought things." Butterfly stepped forward carefully. Jiang Ruan stood aside and looked coldly. He saw Jiang Susu smell the speech and smile gently. Her smile was very beautiful and seemed to be from the heart of joy. She looked very happy. Her beautiful laughter could be heard in the whole garden. She was born beautiful, and her smile was very moving, but at this moment, everyone in the courtyard did not feel obsessed, but showed a trace of fear. Just because the monsters in the wooden basin are so terrible, ordinary people will feel scared when they look at them. However, Jiang Su Su is very satisfied and stares at the things in the wooden basin, as if they are very interesting. After a while, Jiang Su Su Su seemed to have enough of laughter. Finally, he straightened up and pointed to one side gently: "my palace and she are sisters in name at least. For the sake of living under the same roof, I don''t want to do anything so absolutely. This man in our palace has always been soft hearted. Let''s give them a reunion. " What she said seemed weightless. Jiang Ruan''s heart was shocked. He felt that his blood had almost stopped, and a chill poured down from his head. The whole heart of the pouring is half cold. She looked in the direction Jiang Su Su pointed to, and saw a small body lying on the ground. The body was so familiar that she only looked at it once, and tears welled up.Jiang Ruan gave a hard hissing voice from his throat, which almost didn''t look like the voice that people could make, from despair to hatred in his bones. She thought it was the most desperate moment when she saw pei''er being played in a wooden basin and her body was in disorder. Now when I saw Peier''s body with my own eyes, I realized how painful my heart was. The picture that had been sealed up in her memory was fresh again. She had never forgotten the pain. Jiang Ruan fell beside pei''er and began to cry. However, her voice can''t reach these people''s ears. The end of this life will not change. She is dead, and pei''er is dead. The little body lying on the ground was covered with a lot of scars, each of which was terrible. It''s frightening to see that even when a child is treated, they can do the same. Jiang Ruan only felt that pei''er had suffered a great panic before he died. "Mother is kind." But it was the faking Taoist priest, the empty Taoist priest, who flattered me. He quickly walked up to Jiang Ruan and lifted pei''er from the ground. His strength was obviously great. Pei''er''s small body seemed too weak for him to speak. Jiang Ruan rushed to him, but her hand only passed pei''er''s side - she couldn''t touch him at all. The Taoist priest of void grabs pei''er and Jiang Ruan''s corpses together and puts them in an agarwood box. Then he closes the door of the box. Then, several strong bodyguards came over and nailed the door to death with long nails. The door was covered with yellow Rune paper, and the incantation was written on it with blood colored cinnabar, which made people unable to see clearly. The Taoist priest of void sat cross legged in front of the box, closed his eyes, put his hands together, and recited words. After reading for a quarter of an hour, he suddenly opened his eyes, reached out and took a bowl of chicken blood from the table, lowered his head and took a mouthful, puffed it all on the coffin like box. Then, with a long breath, he ordered the box to be thrown into a dry well in the southwest corner of the garden. After all this, the Taoist priest of void came to Jiang Su Su and said, "back to the empress, I have already done my magic work. The enchantress and the evil star are sealed in the nine star array. They are suppressed in this dry well forever. They can''t be reincarnated or liberated. It''s impossible to come out and make trouble again. " "Good." Jiang Su Su laughed with satisfaction: "since our palace is the queen of the great Jin Dynasty, we have to shoulder the responsibility of the great Jin Dynasty. Even the brothers and brothers could not destroy the whole great Jin Dynasty for their own personal love. Since they are evil women and evil stars, they can''t come out to make trouble. The Taoist priest has worked hard. I will report this to your majesty when I go back to our palace. I will record your contribution. " The void Taoist priest was overjoyed and said, "thank you for your love." This side of the people say happy, but Jiang Ruan listen to the whole body cold for a while hot for a while, Jiang Su Su even hate her so far, since dead are not willing to let go. But let the void Taoist priest to practice, unexpectedly is to her soul life and death are trapped here, eternal suffering! If the Taoist priest was not a false Taoist priest in vain, wouldn''t everything be as she wanted? People say that it''s the most poisonous, but Jiang Su Su Su''s mind is really a little bit more attitude! Jiang Ruan looked at the dark dry well. It turned out that the final destination of her and pei''er in the last life was a deep dry well in the deep palace, buried deeply with the decaying leaves. Some of her want to cry, and some want to laugh, the original last life, she died in such a mess, unexpectedly is the last place to fall to the earth, is also completely without dignity. She felt that she was not allowed to walk in front of her, and the scene in front of her changed. The gate is very tight. What is the Shangshu mansion? Jiang Quan was sitting in his study. Jiang Su Su was dressed in Chinese clothes, with a faint look of pride. However, Jiang Quan was not very happy and said, "you are such a fool! I told you earlier that you should not act rashly in this matter. Since she is in front of you, why do you do so much? If someone talks to me, I will not let my side down! " Xia Yan''s eyebrows and eyes were beautiful, her movements were dignified and gentle, and she said with a smile: "don''t be angry, master. Let''s relax. Let''s see what Su Su said. This child is not out of proportion. From small to large, what kind of person is she? You don''t know?" Jiang Su Su quickly covered a trace of impatience in her eyes, and said respectfully and naively, "father, my daughter has made a mistake. She will never make such a mistake again. The daughter just wanted to scare her, but the people who didn''t want to work for her made her look like this. Father, don''t be angry with your daughter. It''s not worth it to be angry with yourself. My daughter will never dare again. " She looked very low browed. The anger on Jiang Quan''s face gradually dissipated. She just sighed and said, "I just wanted to use her to pave the way for you. If the Jiang family can wipe out their relatives and win a good reputation outside, your position as Queen will be more stable and popular. Now she''s been taken out by you. Fortunately, she hasn''t been found outside. She''s afraid of sin All. Su Su, if you want to do something, you should do it more simply. Don''t leave something to be caught. " In his tone, he looked like a kind father. Every word was worrying about Jiang Su Su. Jiang Su Su smile: "father although rest assured, Su Su save, everything is packed up." "It couldn''t be better over there." Chiang Kai Shek sighed as if a stone had fallen from his heart. Jiang Ruan stood quietly and looked at her. There was no hatred in her eyes, just a deep-rooted coldness. That kind of cold, even the coldest ice in the cold winter is out of reach. Her eyes were empty, and her scarlet clothes were like a fire bursting out of her soul. She wanted to burn everyone who was close to her.This is the truth of the last life. When her father Jiang Quan learned of her death and was executed by Jiang Su Su, he not only didn''t complain about her injustice, but also told her all his life''s grievances. On the contrary, they are thinking about Jiang Su Su inside and outside. He was afraid that Jiang Su Su would leave something to be caught and endanger her as Queen. For her daughter, it''s just a light "do it more simply". Jiang Quan took her as the paving stone for Empress Jiang Su Su''s seat. It was natural for him to do so, as if he should have done so. But forget that she is also the legitimate daughter of the Jiang family, one can abandon it as my shoes, one can hold it as a pearl. At least at the moment, Jiang Ruan has no affection for Jiang Quan. If she can, she is willing to torture him in all ugly and painful ways and regard him as a real enemy. Jiang Su Su suddenly thought of something and said, "Jiang Dan is becoming more and more ignorant now. Her husband is only working for his majesty, but now he is also holding the reputation of a noble life. I don''t even pay attention to him." Jiang Ruan is stunned. Is Jiang Dan''s husband working for Xuanli? Jiang Dan was promoted to a higher rank? Jiang Quan shook his head: "no matter how powerful she is, can she surpass you? Su Su, you have to remember that she can''t be compared with you, no matter in Shangshu mansion or imperial palace, or even in Dajin Dynasty. My daughter of Shangshu mansion has always been just you. Her husband is now highly trusted by your majesty, and she is also a great help to you in the palace. Don''t be a child. Remember to get along well with her. " "I see." Jiang Su Su pouted discontentedly. Standing on one side, Jiang Ruan suddenly realized that what he didn''t understand in his previous life and this life was clear at this moment. How could Jiang Dan be willing to be a pawn of Jiang''s house to pave the way for Jiang Susu, but it turned out that her merchant husband had been working for Xuanli for a long time. Jiang danguo really had a way. After her death, she got a Gaoming with her husband. After all, she was the only one who was sacrificed in her previous life. When she looked at the irony in front of her, she felt a salty smell in her mouth. Then, the scene in front of her changed again. This time, it was a magnificent palace, a place she had never been familiar with. And the man sitting on the edge of the bed, dressed in bright yellow, is very familiar. It was her lover in the previous life, the death of this life, Xuanli. Xuanli, who had been wearing a Dragon Robe, was different from what Jiang Ruan remembered. He is always smiling, smiling like a spring breeze, even if it''s just a fake mask, it''s pleasing to watch. But now Xuanli''s brow is wrinkled tightly, and his face is haggard. He can''t find a trace of his former complacency. "Duke Chen," said the little Eunuch in front of Xuanli''s mouth, "I can''t sleep again today." "Will your majesty go to the queen? Her gentle explanation may calm your majesty Mr. Chen is just. "No need." Xuanli waved his hand: "it''s the same everywhere. I still have nightmares every day. I can''t sleep because of the nightmares. I didn''t wake up from my dreams. I always feel that. I always feel that someone is looking at me. " Jiang Ruan stood by the Dragon bed, looking at Xuanli with a slightly embarrassed look, silent sneer. Did he have a time when he couldn''t sleep? He plans to send her to the palace as an excellent chess piece. Now it''s a big deal. He is the only one who can sit on the throne. Can he not sleep at night? What on earth is it for? Will people always get retribution when they do something bad? In his nightmare, did she turn into a fierce ghost to ask for his life? "Your Majesty is working too hard for state affairs." Mr. Chen is just. "I feel tired only when I sit in this position, just as I think women in the harem are boring! It''s not even as good as Jiang Ruan. " He seemed to think of something, and a trace of regret appeared on his face: "it''s just a pity that if she was not such an identity, I really loved her at the beginning." "Do you love me?" At first hearing this, Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing, but the smile didn''t reach the bottom of her eyes. Knowing that Xuanli couldn''t hear it, she said coldly: "what you love is just a fool who worships you as a God and has never been obedient to you. I was too stupid to be partial to you. Now, if you want to use these words, are you lying to me or to you? Xuanli, you are just a victim who loves all the people in the world and sacrifices for your throne. It''s hypocritical of you to give them a false comfort when you sacrifice them. " The figure in the Yellow Dragon''s bedroom of the Ming Dynasty gradually faded away, and his face became blurred. Jiang Ruan walked in the mist, as if he had come to a huge labyrinth. There seemed to be the sound of thousands of soldiers fighting, the loud noise of the city gate being knocked open, and the sound of swords touching each other everywhere. Someone was shouting: "no, no, the royal guards have entered the pass -" the royal guards? The name was so familiar that it seemed that he had heard it somewhere. Jiang Ruan walked forward in a daze. She saw the chaos and blood flow in the Jinluan palace. From time to time, black armor guards with swords passed through the hall. Outside, the imperial guards were dead and wounded, while in the hall, a pair of men and women in bright yellow clothes fell under the nine steps, just as she was at the beginning, but she was still alive. And they''re dead.The young man in black stood quietly in front of the Dragon chair. He had a beautiful face, but his eyebrows were as cold as ice. Although he was elegant and noble, he was restrained by the coldness. The bodyguard on one side said: "the dog thief who has a bad name and bad words dares to talk nonsense. I don''t know who is the real bandit! General Guan also sent the old dog thief Jiang Quan to the West. Master The young man turned around and said, "let''s go." Xuanli and Jiang Susu conspire to gain the most supreme power in the world. At first, they seem to want to take the position of motherhood in the world, but they are killed after they have been completed. Even Jiang Quan himself fell into a different position. It was clear that this young man was the future emperor who was killed in the middle of the way, and Jiang Ruan only felt happy in his heart. Looking at the young man again, he felt that his heart was beating very fast. He seemed to have met the young man somewhere, but he couldn''t remember. She wanted to find out what was going on, so she followed the young man and went on. Walking straight to a royal garden, he saw a gray haired middle-aged man coming forward and said, "young master, Liu Taifu found something in the dry well. He fished out a box from the well, in which there were two bodies. It''s the eldest daughter born to Mrs. Jiang Jiaxian. He shook his head and said, "ah, how can there be such a cruel father in the world?" The young man and Jiang Ruan''s eyes looked up to the ground together. The two corpses, one big and one small, were rotten and out of shape, gray and black. However, it can be seen that the body of the adult is already incomplete, and it is clear that he was wronged before he died. Jiang Ruan looked at his body indifferently. A young man in purple came over. He was beautiful, but he had a small beard on his lips, which was very funny. Looking at the corpse, he sighed: "this is the same root. Why is it too urgent to fry each other? This woman used to be a beauty in the palace, but this child is raised under her knees. It''s really a pity that mother and son have come to such an end together." Then he bent down, took off his clothes and covered the corpse. He looked at the young man in black and said, "third brother, what should you do with the corpse?" "If you are a royal concubine, you should go to the imperial mausoleum. Find a time to bury yourself. " The young man drooped his eyes and said, "by the way, tell the world the truth about the evil girl of the country." When Jiang Ruan Ru was struck by lightning, she looked at the cold and beautiful young man. She thought that she would never get the grievance in this life, but at the last moment, the young man''s words were the last warmth she got in her cruel life, and the only attachment she had at the end of her life. She suddenly widened her eyes and called, "Xiao Shao!" It''s tiring to write this chapter. ~ Liu Taifu and Qi Si were only kind to Jiang Ruan in their previous lives, so they didn''t have a deep fate in this life. Spoon in his previous life finally made a Ruan''s soul return to stability. ~ this love affair ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 192 "Xiao Shao!" Jiang Ruan''s eyes widened and he suddenly woke up from the bed. The oil lamp is like ink, and the charcoal burning in the room is especially warm in winter. A concerned voice comes: "are you awake?" Jiang Ruan raised her eyes and saw that the cold and beautiful young man in her dream was sitting by the bed at the moment. Most of the time, Fang was awakened by her, and her eyes were a little nervous. However, her eyes were cold and dark. If one side was calm, it would attract people. "You..." Jiang Ruan suddenly lost his mind. The tragic past was just a dream. It was like a big dream. Seeing the fate of all kinds of people, seeing Xiao Shao at the moment, he felt as if he was separated from the rest of the world. See Jiang Ruan just sit on the bed in a daze, Xiao Shao slightly a Zheng, will stand up to pour water for her: "can feel thirsty, you coma for more than ten days, drink some water." As soon as he was about to get up, he was caught by Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao turned back, picked his eyebrows, and sat down beside Jiang Ruan again: "what''s the matter?" His voice is soft and reassuring, which makes people suddenly feel a trace of reality after experiencing the tragedy in their dreams. Jiang Ruan reaches out her hand as if she is a little timid. Xiao Shao frowns. She touches Xiao Shao''s collar, as if to confirm whether this person really exists. After pausing at the collar, Jiang Ruan suddenly put his hands around Xiao Shao''s neck, threw forward and hugged her tightly. Even now, Jiang Ruan''s action is also surprising. Xiao Shao is slightly stunned. After a moment, he hesitates to look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s head was buried in his neck, and the bracelet was very tight. After thinking about it, he reached out and patted Jiang Ruan on the back, and said in a soft voice, "a Ruan?" "Xiao Shao," Jiang Ruan''s voice was a little strange. She seemed to suppress some emotion. Her words were also strange: "what I didn''t understand before, I don''t understand why it was you, now I understand." Her voice slowly lowered, almost completely inaudible: "so, you have already appeared." There is no unexplained fate in the world. In her previous life, she seems to have nothing to do with Xiao Shao. This life is always entangled with him. Originally thought it was just a coincidence, until in the dream like a dream, the day before yesterday all reappeared in front of us. Something suddenly becomes clear in the mind. It was Xiao Shao who avenged her in her previous life. Is it because of this that she has to take revenge in this life? Is there cause and effect in the world? Really? haven''t you? Xiao Shao dropped his eyes, long eyelashes down, covered the meaning in his eyes, and could not see the emotion. However, he was gentle and just patted Jiang Ruan on the back. Even silence was reassuring. After a while, she felt hot liquid flowing through her neck. Did she cry? Xiao Shao, holding Jiang Ruan''s shoulder slowly, raised her chin with one hand. Her bright face, which was always smiling, was now covered with tears. A big drop of tears hung on her chin. It was crystal clear and shaky, just like her expression at the moment. "You..." Xiao Shao was stunned by her expression and was about to speak. Before meeting, the woman suddenly jumped forward. Her lips were warm, and the soft touch came from her lips. As soon as he was stiff, Xiao shaoxiu''s eyebrows began to frown. Jiang Ruan''s movements today were very unusual. Not to mention whether she would make such a move on weekdays, it was very strange that such enthusiasm happened to her. He wanted to pull apart Jiang Ruan, but the woman held him more tightly. His slender arm held him tightly, as if he was afraid that he would run away. Xiao Shao''s heart was inexplicably soft. And the woman seems to be encouraged, lips never leave, even more bold. Xiao Shao''s fair and handsome face suddenly rose a little red. The beauty threw herself into her arms. She was still the woman she liked. Even a normal man would not be indifferent. No matter how cold Xiao Shaoping is, no matter how gentle he is to her, the sense of plunder and desire for conquest in a man''s bones are always there. He is a strong and domineering man, but he is usually hidden under the indifferent appearance and ignored. At the moment is a tight arms, along with the trend will be pulled to the arms, a hand to hold the woman''s back brain, anti defense for the attack, hard to kiss up. Different from the gentle and cold appearance, the kiss is domineering and warm, which almost engulfs people. However, when the feeling is strong, all the repressed emotions are released together. It seems to be tender and affectionate, and it seems to be lingering to death. The gorgeous beauty hugs the beautiful youth tightly, and holds her head up to accept the marriage from two generations. The beautiful posture makes the snowflakes can''t help melting. It''s like watching the spring flowers bloom in the cold winter, and the peach blossom in the frozen field ten miles away, beautiful and sinking. The door is suddenly opened. Qi Feng and Xia Qing look at the scene before they meet. Xiao Shao moves so fast that he clasps Jiang Ruan''s head in his arms and looks out of the door slightly angrily. Xia Qing''s face turned red instantly, scratched her head and said with a guilty heart: "third brother, I''ll come to see third sister-in-law. You go on, go on." Then he tugged Qi Feng. Qi Feng took back his gloomy eyes and said with a smile, "I''ll go to the master with Lao Wu first." Then they closed the door and went out together. When Jiang Ruan heard the voice, he was sober. Now he was buried in Xiao Shao''s arms. The man''s fresh fragrance filled his nose. For a moment, he was afraid to look up at Xiao Shao. Just now I was so excited that I made such a faux pas. It''s just an impulse, and I don''t know what Xiao Shao thought at the moment. "Are you going to suffocate yourself?" Xiao Shao wants to laugh a little and pulls Jiang Ruan out of his arms like an ostrich. Jiang Ruan''s cheeks were hot and he pretended to be calm and said, "where is this? What''s wrong with me? "Seeing her like this, Xiao Shao seemed very amused. He reached for her head and said, "this is mount Canaan, where I worship my teacher. When you were a child, you were poisoned and led out. I''ll take you to the mountain for medical treatment. " "Poisoned?" Jiang Ruan was stunned: "when you were young?" "Yes." There was a chill in Xiao Shao''s eyes: "I was born with poison." "I see." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "after I defeated my mother, I heard her say that in order to get rid of my mother and me when I was young, she also asked my fourth sister, now Jiang Zhaoyi, to poison me. But later I was sent to Chuang Tzu, and I also cut off the poison. " It was the first time that she took the initiative to tell her about herself. Xiao Shao looked at her unexpectedly. When she heard Jiang Dan, she frowned and said, "your mother raised Jiang Dan." "It''s a pity that she raised a wolf," said Jiang Ruan Dan. "She was afraid of Xia Yan''s coercion. Originally, she only wanted to send a message to my mother and my fourth brother. But later, I was just afraid that I would share her favor and poison me. Maybe she''s not just afraid that I''ll give up her favor, she''s just paving the way for the future. " Jiang Dan, a commoner girl in his former life, finally became a wife of Gaoming. It can be seen that he began to plan long ago. Even her poisoning is a conspiracy, who knows. "Leave it to me." Xiao Shao light way: "you recuperate is." "No need." Jiang Ruan said, Xiao Shao action, Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile: "this thing I want to do, I know who that person is." "Who?" Xiao Shao asked. "The man who poisoned." Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes: "it''s my carelessness. But I''ll be careful later. " She raised her eyes and gave Xiao Shao a smile. Although the smile was very weak, there was something different. Xiao Shaomin''s sense of perception seems to have something changed unconsciously, slightly stunned, looking at her speechless. In the Imperial Palace and the imperial concubine''s palace, the woman was dressed in royal clothes and looked very comfortable. The hall is full of warmth, incense curls up, and exquisite jade articles are randomly placed on the compartment. Obviously, the master is extremely favored. Jiang Dan slowly twisted a plum in the crystal plate and looked at the man in grey in front of him. He said, "I''ll do as you say. Why do you want me to say that?" The long robe of the man in grey covered his feet, and his hat almost covered half of his face, revealing only his beautiful chin. His tone was slow and strange: "if you know too many people, you will only have more trouble in the end. Does Zhaoyi really want to know? " Jiang Ruan twists plum''s movement, on the surface flash a trace of imperceptible tension. She''s a smart person, and she knows what that means. Unlike Jiang Su Su, she never had to control others and put herself in the highest position. Before that, she always knew how to lurk, and she always knew how to stop when it was good. What''s more, Jiang Su Su Su had an intuition that the person opposite was not ordinary. Then he laughed and said, "why do you want me to say those words? I don''t care, as long as I can achieve what you said. Before, you said that as long as I said that, Jiang Ruan would no longer exist in this world. Now that I haven''t heard from her for a long time, don''t you miss it? " When he was in the palace before, Jiang Dan passed Xuanli and saw the man in grey in front of him. The man in grey left Xuanli and told her about Jiang Ruan. Strangely enough, he seemed to understand Jiang Dan''s fear of Jiang Ruan and put forward the idea of cooperation to make Jiang Ruan disappear in the world. With Jiang DanJin''s small and cautious nature, he should not have agreed to the request of the man in grey so hastily, but now Jiang Ruan is the princess of Jinying, and she looks like Xiao Shao''s favorite. This really makes Jiang Dan very uneasy. If we can solve Jiang Ruan very early, it would be the best. What''s more, she doesn''t need to take risks. She just needs to say a few words. Although he didn''t know what method was used by the people in grey clothes, it was obvious that Jiang Ruan had offended a seemingly very difficult person unconsciously, which was just a happy achievement for Jiang Dan. "Your doubts are unnecessary." Huiyi humanity: "if you don''t believe me, Zhaoyi can do it by herself." Jiang Dan''s face was tight, and then he laughed: "I believe you. I''m waiting for your good news. After it''s done, I''ll thank you a lot." "What Zhaoyi should thank is herself." The man in grey suddenly smiles. Although he can''t see his face, he can hear the smile in his voice. It''s really frightening to see the smile in his heart. He said: "if it had not been for Zhaoyi''s means many years ago, today''s affairs would not have been so cheap. Therefore, thanks to Zhaoyi''s plan many years ago." Every word of him seemed to strike heavily on Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan''s body trembled, as if he had been peeped into the deepest secret, and almost collapsed on the chair. She thought that no one in the world knew about it except Xia Yan and Jiang Ruan. Xia Yan is dead. He is not afraid. The only one to be on guard is Jiang Ruan. But this stranger who doesn''t know the origin seems to have known for a long time. How did he know it? What do you want to do? "I don''t know what you''re talking about," she said The man in grey stood up slowly, and there was a trace of strangeness in his voice: "Lady Zhaoyi, don''t worry too much. My purpose is the same as yours. Because all we want is her disappearance. You are no different from me in this point. I don''t have the heart to discipline the rest. Why worry about Zhaoyi? ""You have a grudge against her?" Jiang Dan asked tentatively. "In fact, I have no hatred with Princess Hong''an." The reply of the man in grey made Jiang Dan feel tight. Then he heard the voice of the man in grey: "but if she gets in the way of others, she must disappear." The reply of the man in grey let Jiang Dan breathe a long breath. She suppressed her doubts and raised a smile on her face: "no matter what, I''ll wait for your good news." The scenery of Mount Canaan is different from that of the capital city. There is no bustling atmosphere of the city. On the contrary, it is like a paradise. When Jiang Ruan Fang woke up, he found that the place he was staying in was very beautiful. Rao Shi, like her, didn''t care about the outside world. She was also shocked by the beautiful scenery. This place seems to be isolated from the world, not contaminated with fireworks. It seems that as long as someone steps here, they will be washed away and there is no regret in their hearts. It was also in Lvyang villa that Jiang Ruan met Mr. Baqi, Xiao Shao''s master. This is an old man who looks very fairyland. Different from the vainly pretended Taoist priest, Mr. Baqi has a kind of detached and worldly temperament. He has a mild temperament. After playing a game of chess with Jiang Ruan, he can see that his mind is clear and exquisite. He is a man of great wisdom. Because Xia Qing didn''t find out the toxicity of Jiang Ruan''s body, she has been practicing medicine these days, so she once again turned over all the medical books in the former attic of Canaan mountain. In order to make up for her poor academic skills, she stayed in the attic all day and didn''t see anyone. Now Xiao Shao and Qi Feng are out hunting again. In the big Lvyang villa, there are only Jiang Ruan and Mr. Baqi left. The chessboard is exquisite. Mr. Baqi holds up a sunspot and falls down. Suddenly, he says, "ah Shao is very nervous about you." Jiang Ruan raised his eyes to see Mr. Baqi, and Mr. Baqi said with a smile: "girl, watch chess." Looking calm, Jiang Ruan couldn''t think of anything else, so he reached out and picked out a sunspot from the porcelain jar and said, "I know." "Does a girl like ah Shao?" Mr. Baqi said. It''s strange for an elder to ask the younger. What''s more, he was Xiao Shao''s mentor. Jiang Ruan didn''t want to hide his wisdom from the wise old man in front of him. He almost didn''t hesitate to reply, "I like it." "I''ve got nine apprentices. Of the nine apprentices, a Shao is the coldest." Without raising his head, Mr. Baqi dropped another son, and his tone seemed to be as long as memory: "when he was in Canaan mountain, he used to learn the art of Qihuang. Even if there was no accident in Jinying palace, he also carried a lot. Although he learned it, he didn''t pay attention to it. In fact, he is the most spiritual apprentice. My nine apprentices have learned nine unique skills. " Mr. Baqi said with a smile, "but later something happened in Jinying palace. Ah Shao knelt down in front of me and wanted to learn how to kill people." He looked slightly disappointed: "ah Shao''s temperament is not suitable to be the number one killer in the world. I didn''t agree. It snowed heavily that day in Canaan mountains. He knelt down at the foot of the mountain for three days and three nights. " Jiang Ruan''s hand slightly, then followed by a son. Xiao Shao is something she has never seen before, but the Jinying palace accident should be the same as Zhao Mei''s and Jiang Xinzhi''s. Now Xiao Shao is calm and introverted. It seems that nothing can shake his brow. But as long as you think of that noble young man, he slowly lifts his robe corner and makes his face full of happiness and anger The snow slowly kneels down in the body, straight back, so the silent picture is enough moving. "Then I agreed to him. A Shao treats himself ruthlessly, because he can be a person who is not suitable for him at all. He has been in the Royal Guards for so many years and has never said a word of bitterness. I think this is his perseverance. After all these years, he seems to have no weakness He looked at Jiang Ruan, eyes full of smile: "girl, you are the first, you are his weakness." As his hands rose and fell, the chess game on the chessboard changed dramatically. He said, "but I''m glad you can be his weakness, because that makes him look more like a person." Jiang Ruan was silent for a moment. He thought, "I won''t hurt him. He''s my husband. If someone is in trouble, no matter whether I can do it or not, I''ll try my best to vent my anger for him." The person who was kind to her in the previous life is not enough to repay her in this life. What''s more, he once again helped her in this life, and the debt is not enough. It''s better to have a lifetime of debt. She has tied herself up with Xiao Shao. Mr. Baqi stroked his beard and quickly dropped a son. He said, "is it because of the cause and effect of the previous life that the girl protects ah Shao so much?" Jiang Ruan''s hand trembled, and he could hardly hold the pieces in his hand. Eyes suddenly become indifferent and alert, looking at the opposite old man. "Ah Shao has always had an idea. When the girl was in a coma, she once confided a few words. Ah Shao is very clever. He doesn''t know it. I just don''t want to ask. Shao refused to ask, but I asked for him. I am a master in a Shao. I treat a Shao as my own child in my heart. Girl, although you are the person a Shao likes, I still don''t treat him honestly enough. " Mr. Baqi said slowly. Jiang Ruan''s heart seems to set off a huge wave, Xiao Shao even know. She naturally knew that there was no need for Mr. Baqi to lie about it, that is, Xiao Shao might have guessed her secret. She saw the ending of her previous life in her dream, and she said something unintentionally. For a moment, Jiang Ruan had a clean sense of shame from the bottom of his heart. It doesn''t hurt to be known by others, but that person is Xiao Shao. What would Xiao Shao think of such a embarrassed, dark woman?"Girl, don''t worry," Mr. Baqi seemed to see her worry, and said gently: "since a Shao didn''t choose to ask each other, he didn''t care about it. Never care about people are not him, but you "I don''t know how master knew about it." "I didn''t mean to hide it from him, but I just couldn''t face it." "What a girl can''t face is a Shao, or yourself?" Mr. Baqi asked. Jiang Ruan was stunned: "what''s the meaning of master''s words?" "Ah Shao doesn''t care about it. No matter what the outcome is, he''ll enjoy it. If you care what he thinks, you don''t have to, because he won''t have any other emotions for you. What you can''t face is just yourself all the time. " "Master is right. I really can''t face myself." Jiang Ruan said, "I''m not afraid of other people''s eyes, whether I''m regarded as a monster or a ghost. But if you put such a me in front of him, I feel ashamed. " Her tone was frank, and she didn''t even cover it up at all: "I can''t face such a me standing beside him, so I would never take the initiative to tell him about it. If it hadn''t happened, I would never have told the secret in my life. Some things will only cause trouble when they are said, and I don''t want to add to the trouble. " "And now?" Mr. Baqi smiles. "As master said, he doesn''t care. Why should I care?" Jiang Ruan said lightly: "this time I was in danger, I saw many things I didn''t understand. Also understand some of the original do not understand the problem, I think I owe him a lot, some things are predestined fate, why do I have to stop. Master, relax. I will tell him exactly. After listening to these things, whether he dislikes me or doesn''t care, it''s all his decision. I respect him. " With these words, Jiang Ruan seemed to have relieved himself of a heavy burden he had been carrying for many years. The secret of rebirth has been buried in her heart since this life. She has been walking hard step by step, but she never thought of sharing it with anyone. Even Jiang Xinzhi, who is closest to her, can''t do it. She plans to carry it to the end alone. But now there will be another person to carry with her. Maybe the burden will be lightened a lot, maybe nothing can be lightened. No matter what the result is, she is happy and does not feel sad. What she said was so magnanimous that Mr. Baqi''s eyes flashed a trace of appreciation and said slowly: "congratulations. Girl, you have no demons. " Jiang Ruan was stunned, and Mr. Baqi said, "you just said that it was difficult to face ah Shao because you didn''t tell him. Now I think it''s not a bad thing." Only before meeting the old man suddenly naughty winked at her, tone is full of narrow: "at least, that means you really care about a Shao." Cough, I''m a little busy recently, so I don''t have time to return my messages, but I have to take a serious look. Please don''t leave a message, the girl who read the stolen text. The author will be very happy to see it. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 193 Deep in the jungle in the distance, the man in purple pulled the rope and dismounted. Looking at the young man in black on the horse, he said, "third brother, for so many years, your accurate head is still so good." Xiao Shao turned over and got off the horse. Behind the shining fur mount, a series of prey hung upside down. One of the white wolves was very eye-catching. All over the body white, without a trace of miscellaneous hair, huge, between the throat of an arrow, it is obvious that an arrow sealed the throat. It''s hard to hunt in the snow forest. The color of white wolf''s coat is also integrated with the snow. It''s necessary to distinguish between them unless they have excellent eyesight. The wolf is so big and vigorous. It''s a pity that he met Xiao Shao, who is still in his bag. "It''s just animals." Xiao shaohun didn''t care. Qi Feng said in a tone: "the third brother wants to make a cloak for the third sister-in-law. The white wolf skin is hard to find. Now the third sister-in-law is recovering from a serious illness, so she needs to protect herself." Xiao Shao looked at him and did not speak. In fact, Qi Feng is right. Seeing that he was so cold, Qi Feng didn''t mind. He just shook his head and said with a smile, "although white wolf skin is good, it''s a pity that third sister-in-law hates white. If it was red fox skin, she would be more happy. " Xiao Shao steps a meal, stop to look at him, light way: "what do you want to say." There is a bitter smile on Qi Feng''s face. These days, the relationship between them is always different. Xia Qing, the mindless doctor, can see that it is wrong. Naturally, it was because Jiang Ruan was in a coma a few days ago, and Qi Feng''s action made Xiao Shao unhappy. Looking into the distance, he could see the peaks of Mount Canaan from the undulating mountains. He said, "third brother, you are the Third Elder martial brother in Mount Canaan. Among the nine elder martial brothers, you are the most intelligent. Everything is hard for you. Even if I learned it as a tactic, I''m not as good as you in terms of intelligence. " Xiao Shao dropped his eyes, not knowing what he was thinking. Qi Feng seems to have a voice of recollection coming from his side: "at the beginning, you were cold-blooded and treated everyone coldly. Except for the second brother who could say a few words to you, you didn''t look up to any of the other martial brothers. At that time, we were young and young. Seeing you behave like this, we thought you were arrogant and didn''t want to be with you. " Qi Feng smiles. At the beginning, their nine martial brothers were together in Mount Canaan. All they had to do was to practice on the mountain. At that time, they only felt that the days were hard. Later, when their respective teachers came down the mountain, they really saw the glitz and bustle behind the world of mortals. Among them, they fought with each other openly and secretly, and realized that the original days on the mountain were the best. "The third brother once saved my life, right here." Qi Feng suddenly said: "I still remember the appearance of the third brother at that time. You didn''t say anything. At that time, I was very afraid, but you didn''t have a nervous look. At that time, I thought you were very powerful, so from then on, I really admired you." At that time, many years ago, on such a snowy day, several martial brothers came out to hunt in the forest. There should be no beasts in the deep mountains and forests in winter. Unexpectedly, that day, he met a big black bear who came out to look for food. The black bear was tall and fierce. At that time, Guan Lianghan and his family were so far apart that they couldn''t come out to help. Seeing that Qi Feng, who only knew a little Kung Fu, was about to die under the black bear''s sharp mouth, but in the middle of the way, an arrow flew into the black bear''s mouth. The black bear was furious. The man came up from behind, and the arrow couldn''t be used. Xiao Shao took out his short dagger and met him without changing his face. No matter how skillful he was, he could not avoid losing money in such a close encounter with the beast. What''s more, Xiao Shao only had a short dagger in his hand. One inch short, one inch dangerous, how dangerous can be imagined. When Xiao Shao finally subdued the black bear, he was already injured. But he was always dressed in black, but he could not see the bloodstain. At a glance, he was paler and indifferent as usual. Qi Feng was very nervous at that time, but Xiao Shao didn''t say anything. There was no deep hatred between the teenagers, but it was just a fight on weekdays. Xiao Shao''s calmness at that moment almost impressed Qi Feng. He seems to see from the incident that this cold faced elder martial brother is not as unkind as he shows, just not good at expression. Qi Feng admired such a brave man from the bottom of his heart. That''s why he didn''t join the imperial court as many people thought. Instead, he went to baizhanglou of Xiaoshao royal guards and worked for him behind the scenes. Because in Qi Feng''s eyes, the cause that followed Xiao Shao was more glorious than those of the so-called imperial court. Waking up from the memory, Qi Feng said with a smile: "what I want to say is that the third brother is always the person I admire most. I won''t fight for anything, and I don''t have any other thoughts. Third sister-in-law is the most special woman I have ever seen He sighed softly: "if I had met her earlier, I would not have been so willing. But since she''s your wife, she''s just my sister-in-law. " When it comes to the end, I can''t hide the gloom in my tone. "I didn''t think you had any other thoughts." Xiao Shao interrupts his words, the tone is as cold as ever: "you won''t." "You will not" three words, seemingly insipid without waves, but the moment in this cold mountain with warm power. Xiao Shao, in fact, should not easily believe others, but you can not three words, it contains an absolute trust. Qi Feng''s inexplicable heart was sour, and his mouth was bitter. He shook his head and said, "I always feel that if one of our martial brothers wants to catch up with you, it''s impossible. You are better than all of us. "Lose in where, perhaps not just meet sooner or later. Xiao Shao was indeed a wonderful man in the world, and he matched Jiang Ruan very well. Today, Qi Feng also opened his heart and took the initiative to erase the estrangement. Xiao Shao''s reply also showed his attitude. Although his heart was sour, he put down a stone. Qi Feng wanted to liven up the atmosphere and said with a smile, "no matter what, the third sister-in-law will be better. If she survives, she will have a better future. It''s just that this matter has something to do with southern Xinjiang. The people of Southern Xinjiang have already prepared to do it in Beijing. Xuanli has a close relationship with southern Xinjiang. Maybe they are also involved in this matter. " "I''ll never let him go." Xiao shaodao. "He probably wants to do it again." Qi Feng said: "at the beginning, he did those things and squandered the friendship of our martial brothers. Although the master had expelled him from the school, every time he thought about it, he felt disgusted." Qi Feng sighed: "with his attitude of repaying, if one day the great cause of the world falls into his hands, the first one that will not be spared is that we Canaan mountain is full of people." "There won''t be that day." Xiao shaodao. "I know that the third brother won''t let him succeed. We haven''t forgotten about the ninth younger martial brother." Qi Feng looked at his sleeve: "the debt he owes will be paid one day." After Qi Feng and Xiao Shao return to Lvyang villa, Xia Qing, who comes out to cook medicine, is unexpectedly happy to see their prey. It was the White Wolf bone that was a precious medicine, which could be used as medicine. He immediately dragged the White Wolf back and said that he would send the wolf skin back. Xiao Shao had always been generous in dealing with these things. Except for wolf skin, the rest was useless to him. He immediately agreed. "It''s said that white wolves are hard to hunt. How can you hunt them?" Jiang Ruan had seen a white wolf skin in the palace in his last life, which Xuanli bought with a lot of money from the merchants outside. Because the white wolf has no hair on his whole body, it is rare to use an arrow or a knife to leave defects on the wolf''s skin. At the beginning, the complete white wolf skin was really enviable, but Xuanli was used to send it to Princess Chen. Chen Guifei made the white wolf skin into a wolf skin collar, and piled it on her neck. The emperor praised her very much. Xiao Shao went out to hunt a white wolf and came back, which made her curious. Xiao Shao looked at her and said, "with an arrow." Jiang Ruan Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing at her speechless appearance. Jiang Ruan glared at him, who was deliberately teasing her. Suddenly she thought of something. She asked, "I heard from my master that you had nine brothers. I just saw other brothers'' calligraphy and paintings in the attic. Why don''t you see eighth younger martial brother? " Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao''s brothers, had seen almost all of them. In addition to Xue DA and Du Liu, the elder martial brother, they are not in Dajin. But Lao Ba and Lao Jiu, as soon as Xia Qing mentioned it, he would prevaricate and prevaricate. Xia Qing''s head was honest and he didn''t know how to lie. It was strange for Jiang Ruan to have such an attitude. At the moment, seeing Xiao Shao suddenly think about it, he mentioned it. Hearing this, Xiao Shao''s face changed slightly. Instead of answering immediately, he frowned slowly. Jiang Ruan was stunned and said, "if you don''t want to say..." "Lao Ba is Xuanli." Without waiting for her to finish, Xiao Shao interrupted her: "the ninth younger martial brother is actually the ninth younger martial sister. She died because of Xuanli. After that, Xuanli was expelled from the school by her master." Xiao Shao''s words are still as concise as usual, but the short sentence is startling. Rao Shi and Jiang Ruan are also shocked by the twists and turns, and some of them are speechless. She stayed with Xuanli for a long time, but she never knew that Xuanli and Xiaoshao were the same elder martial brothers, let alone that Xuanli and Xiaoshao had such a holiday. Seeing her shocked eyes, Xiao Shao reached out to hold her rouyi. His hands were slender and well-defined. They were not as rough as ordinary martial arts practitioners. On the contrary, they had a kind of lustrous and powerful beauty, which was really pleasing to the eye. Jiang Ruan raised his eyes and looked at him. Xiao Shao sighed and said, "sit down and I''ll talk to you slowly." Although Mr. Baqi on Mount Canaan was a hermit at the beginning, he was known as "the destiny of heaven". Many people wanted to send their sons to mount Canaan to learn arts. However, Mr. Baqi was eccentric. He would not be accepted by the family unless he saw it right. The nine disciples who were brought into the school by Mr. Baqi have their own merits. They are all dragons and phoenixes among the people. Xue Da is a lobbyist with a bright tongue. Guan Er has the courage of a general, Xiao San assassinates the first, Qi Si is a military talent, Xia Wu Yi has the skill of medical treatment, and Du Liu Yi has the skill of making all kinds of secret weapons. Mo Qi you is a world shaking genius, Xuan Ba has the style of emperor, and Bai Jiu is a master of Mr. Baqi. Bai Jiu was named Baizhu at the beginning. He was an abandoned baby picked up by Mr. Baqi from outside. He was raised as his own daughter. Mr. Baqi received eight male apprentices. As a woman, although there is no defense between men and women in Mount Canaan, the spread of Baizhu will affect the eyes of people around him. Mr. Baqi then ordered Baizhu to dress up as a man, and on weekdays, he matched them with Xiao Shao as his brothers. In name, he is the ninth younger martial brother, but in fact, he is the ninth younger martial sister. There is such a little sister in Canaan mountain, and Atractylodes macrocephala is really smart and lovely, and he was brought up by Mr. Baqi to be a childlike. All the brothers are very fond of Atractylodes macrocephala. In these long years, Atractylodes macrocephala has finally grown from a girl into a beautiful girl.No matter how to make men''s clothes on weekdays, it can''t hide the fact that Baizhu is a woman. Especially at the same age as Hua, which girl doesn''t have spring, and no one knows when Baizhu fell in love with Xuanli. Xuanli was in Mount Canaan at the beginning. To be fair, he was indeed a very outstanding young man. He was born handsome and elegant, and had the unique noble demeanor of the royal nobles. What''s more, he has no airs and treats people with gentleness and courtesy. He is not only a master of Atractylodes, but also a kind of martial brother at the beginning. At the beginning, he was also a sincere friend with him. All the disciples who grew up in Mount Canaan were very excited by Mr. Baqi. In comparison, Xiao Shao and Xuanli are more mature and introverted in their behavior, but compared with the cold Xiao Shao, it is obvious that Xuanli, who is always smiling, is more pleasant. Atractylodes macrocephala is a girl with brilliant temperament. She hardly touches the human world at the foot of the mountain. Her world is almost transparent, simple and fragile. Like a person is like, do very obvious, discerning people can see Baizhu like Xuanli, Xuanli nature also can see. If you don''t like it, just say you don''t like it. The most hateful thing is to use other people''s mind to achieve your own secret. At the beginning, Xuanli studied the rule of the emperor. He was originally a royal son, so there was nothing wrong with this. Atractylodes macrocephala is proficient in divination and divination, but it can''t divine the divination of itself and those close to it. Mr. Baqi said it was the destiny. All the books in Mr. Baqi''s attic can be flipped at will, but Mr. Baqi left a hand in teaching him. The so-called lifeline of the emperor and the royal family - the astronomical phenomena of the dragon. No one knows when Xuanli was concerned about this matter. The terrible thing is that he was only a teenager at that time, and he could resist the plot in his heart. On the surface, he was brothers and sisters of the mountain master of Canaan. On the other hand, he secretly instigated Bai Jiu to steal Mr. Baqi''s astronomical map. Bai Jiu was just in his infancy at that time. He didn''t understand the conspiracy and * at all, and he didn''t know what Xuanli wanted her to do. He just thought that ordinary elder martial brother wanted her to steal a meal and order a coin. Mr. Baqi was strict with his disciples, but very tolerant to her. Baizhu is determined to steal the sky chart for Xuan. He doesn''t want the sky chart to be an unusual object. There are secret devices in it. Baizhu only knows how to defend himself. He can''t stand the poisonous concealed weapon and is hit by it immediately. The poison should be untied in an hour. If Baizhu was discovered earlier, he would not die. But the sky map was hidden in the secret room. Only Xuanli knew that Baizhu had gone to the secret room. For fear that something might be revealed and cause trouble, he didn''t say a word and didn''t tell anyone about it. Atractylodes macrocephala died under the concealed weapon in the secret room. It was discovered a day later. Xuanli said he didn''t know anything at that time, but he was finally discovered by Mr. Baqi. Canaan mountain does not accept traitors, and it is such a beast with human face and animal heart. Atractylodes macrocephala is the daughter of Xuanli''s mentor. She treated him with sincerity, but because of his insidiousness and selfishness, she gave up her life in vain. Xuanli refused to admit it, and there was no other evidence. At that time, imperial concubine Chen was in the limelight again. If Xuanli was dealt with privately, it would only bring trouble to the disciples of Mount Canaan. Atractylodes macrocephala is the younger sister of all brothers. She has always been taken care of by her relatives. As a result, she died miserably, and everyone was furious. If you want to make Xuanli pay for his life secretly, it is Mr. Baqi who comes forward to stop the angry brothers. He said that on this day, there should be such a disaster in Baizhu''s life, not Xuanli, but others. Similarly, Xuanli will have his own fate. People outside the world should not interfere in the affairs of the world. The cause planted by Xuanli today will one day taste the bitter fruit. Mr. Baqi''s words finally let the brothers give up the idea of secretly dealing with Xuanli. However, they can no longer live together with Xuanli in Mount Canaan, and hurt their own daughter. Mr. Baqi, even a saint, can''t be indifferent. After that, he expelled Xuanli from the school and declared that Xuanli had nothing to do with Mount Canaan. From then on, when he met Xuanli again, he was only a stranger. Baijiu is a taboo in Mount Canaan. No one ever mentioned him. "He did it again..." Jiang Ruan murmured. He suddenly realized that Xiao Shao was looking at her and found that his words were wrong. Jiang Ruan quickly said, "I mean, he had a plan and means so long ago." Xiao Shao recalled as like as two peas of the past, the same as the scenes of her last life. Not all of them fall in love with a modest gentleman in their heart. They are very happy to get close to him, but they find that he is a hungry wolf who eats people and does not spit up bones. Finally, he lost his life in vain. She suddenly some rabbit dead fox sad sorrow, originally no matter is the previous life or this life, Xuanli such means never only aim at her, use other people''s sincerity to achieve the goal for him, and she and Baizhu just stupid some. "He is the enemy of Mount Canaan. One day, this account will be recovered." Xiao Shao looked down. Jiang Ruan squinted at him, and his beautiful eyes rose as if they were not, as if they were narrow. Xiao Shao was a little hairy and said, "what''s the matter?" "The ninth younger martial sister is smart and innocent. She is the treasure of the brothers." Jiang Ruan said slowly, "but recently Xuanli was chosen. You can''t match him?"Xiao Shao took a look at her, and a helpless look floated on her pretty face. After thinking about it, he said, "she''s just a sister." Jiang Ruan shook his head and said, "you say that the ninth younger martial sister is one in a hundred, but I think one of her disadvantages is that she has a bad eye." Looking at Xiao Shao, she suddenly turned to danbiansheng, reached for Xiao Shao''s cheek and pulled it to both sides: "if I were her, I would not choose Xuanli. What''s good about Xuanli, but it''s just a bit of an affectation. In my opinion, "she said with a smile," she looks more beautiful, behaves more elegant, is smarter, has better martial arts, and is even richer in terms of wealth. Although her status is not as good as that of a royal nobleman, it''s just what I want. " Although her usual smile is gorgeous, it always brings some estrangement. This time when she woke up from her serious illness, she seemed to have changed her smile. She often smiles truly and cheerfully in front of Xiao Shao. The smile is bright and moving, if the spring flowers and Autumn Moon, the charm in the eyes is almost dazzling. Xiao Shao was pulled by her face, can''t help but slightly absent-minded, but also didn''t care about her such impolite behavior. But took advantage of the situation to embrace her waist, gently smile: "exactly what you want?" Jiang Ruan a Leng, hand unconsciously loosen, Xiao Shao picked pick eyebrow, it is some pleasure: "my honor." Then he bent his head and pecked her lips. Jiang Ruan A thief Life in Mount Canaan was easy and pleasant, as if all the earthly things could be forgotten for a while. Every day is leisure. This was the place where Xiao Shao grew up. Xiao Shao took her through the valley that used to be repaired, as if she could grow up with him. However, the good time always flies. After Jiang Ruan''s injury is fully recovered, it''s time to go down the mountain and return to Beijing. At a special time, Xia Qing and Qi Feng also went back to Beijing together. Mr. Baqi would close the door again. When he left, Jiang Ruan sat in the carriage and leaned against Xiao Shao. He said, "if everything will be settled one day in the future, I''d like to live here more. My mood seems to be much more open." "If you like, I''ll bring you often." Xiao Shao patted her on the head. After a pause, Jiang Ruan said, "in fact, Xiao Shao, I have something to hide from you." Xiao Shao looked up at her. "It''s my secret. I intended not to tell anyone in my life. But now I''ve changed my mind. " Jiang Ruan lowered his head. He didn''t know whether he was avoiding Xiao Shao''s eyes. His voice contained an indescribable subtle emotion: "I want to break the gap between us. I''m going to tell you about it. It''s not right now. When I get back to Beijing, I''ll deal with one thing and I''ll tell you about it. After I told you, I''ll accept whatever you think of me. " Xiao Shao was silent for a long time. He suddenly stretched out his hand, gently and firmly straightened her head and forced him to look directly at himself. His dark eyes were deep, like ripples in the calm Tan water, which made people dizzy. "Ruan, I don''t care. If you feel reluctant, don''t say it. " He faintly smile: "no matter what happens, in my eyes, you are you. Your so-called separation has never existed in my heart. " Don''t leave any more messages for the girl who reads the stolen text! I will delete them all in the future! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 194 On the way back, it was much easier than when he went. After Mr. Baqi detoxified Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao sent a message to Beijing with a flying pigeon. On the way, Jiang Ruan also saw the snow pigeon. She was lovely and smart. She was also very close to her. She had a name named Huba, which was said to be taken by housekeeper Lin. It is impossible to find a more elegant name in such a place with more men and less women. When I got back to King Jinying''s house, housekeeper Lin had been waiting for a long time. Seeing that Jiang Ruan came back safe and sound, he burst into tears. Zhijiao should immediately go back to Kaizong temple to comfort their ancestors. Thank you for your blessing. Because Xiao Shao was on his way, Dewdrop would only delay his journey, so he stayed in the palace. These days, he has lost a lot of weight. Jiang Ruan got out of the carriage, and several servant girls surrounded him, all asking questions. Dewdrop said with a smile: "now the girl can be regarded as good, there will be a blessing if she survives. We should celebrate this escape." Angelica dahurica worried: "do not want to fall what disease is good, after all, so many years of toxicity.". If you don''t mind, I''ll be relieved. " "What do you say these frustrated people do?" Forsythia glared at Angelica dahurica: "now the girl well back, the past will also be in the past, in the future more careful is." Tianzhu lowered her head and said in a slightly annoyed tone: "I didn''t protect my little lady. Please punish her." The royal guards have always attached great importance to their duties. Now she is Jiang Ruan''s personal secret guard. She let Jiang Ruan be poisoned under her own eyes. It''s all her fault. "It has nothing to do with you. It''s impossible to prevent." Jiang Ruan said gently, "it''s just that the other side is too cunning. You can''t protect me. I was poisoned more than ten years ago." Tianzhu looks at Jiang Ruan in surprise. Jiang Ruan''s face is hot and cold. Although she doesn''t make trouble for her maid, she is not very close to her, especially to her maid who comes along the way. Now this is an excuse for her. In Jiang Ruan Mei''s eyes, the usual anger seems to have dissipated. Instead, it is a special relief and magnanimity. I don''t know what happened to Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao when they went to mount Canaan this time. Tianzhu guessed, but she took a look at Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan understood what she thought and looked at Xiao Shao: "since you gave me Tianzhu, I always have the right to deal with her." Xiao Shao nodded, Jiang Ruan then said with a smile: "well, I said, it has nothing to do with you, don''t ask for trouble." Tianzhu took a careful look at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao didn''t have any special reaction. He was grateful and said, "I thank you for your kindness. I''m a little Lord." Qi Fengqing coughed twice: "the third sister-in-law went to the house first. She carefully noticed the cold outside. Now she has just recovered from a serious illness, and she is still slightly weak." Everyone thought that, forsythia and Angelica will help Jiang Ruan advanced house. Xiao Shao had something else to do to go into the palace. After calming Jiang Ruan, he left first. After Xiao Shao left, Jiang Ruan sat in the room. The room was a little messy. Bai Zhi was embarrassed: "the maidservants are worried about the girl''s body these days, and they don''t want to take care of the room. Let''s go and sweep it." "Don''t be in a hurry for a while," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "I have something else to tell you." "What''s the matter?" The dew said strangely. "Although the poison in my body is an old disease, it can be said that it was caused by someone who used it a few days ago. I know who did it? " Jiang Ruan took the hot tea in Forsythia''s hand and sipped it. Tianzhu looked tight: "girl knows who it is?" "I don''t know who personally poisoned me, but I know who was behind it." Jiang Ruan smile: "since he sent this gift to me, how can I not respond to him." Several servant girls looked at each other, but they didn''t understand the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words. After a while, the dew said, "is this man the same person who poisoned the girl more than ten years ago? What''s the reason for this? If it''s the big lady... " Dew wrinkled her face and said, "now the eldest lady has already died. How can you tell someone to poison the girl?" "That man is not Xia Yan," Jiang Ruan looked at the tea in the cup. "This man came to my life many years ago, and now he suddenly does the same thing again, just because he feels that I have posed a threat to him again. The man is in the palace. Naturally, I''ll get back this account together with my mother''s She sneered: "Xiao Shao has gone to decorate, tomorrow morning, I''ll make them look good!" Forsythia a few look at each other, since Jiang Ruan did not make it clear, naturally because the person behind must be not simple, and she also has her own idea. A few servant girls followed her so long, naturally understand her mind, won''t always ask. Tianzhu asked, "what do you want your maidservants to do?" "I''ve made all my plans. If the man is in the palace, I''ll pay him back in the palace. Tomorrow you will follow me to the palace. I''d like to find out some things. " She faintly smile, but there is a chill in her eyes, straight see Forsythia a few also can''t help fighting a cold war. In a corner of the palace, Jiang Dan threw the porcelain bottle in his hand to the ground. With a "Hua La" sound, crystal fragments burst everywhere. All the maids in the palace around them were full of atmosphere and did not dare to come out. One of them knelt down and was about to pick up the pieces. Jiang Dan said angrily, "get out of here!"The palace maids were startled and quickly backed out. Jiang Dan was the only one left in the huge palace. Her expression was no longer pretty and lovely, and her ferocity was a bit terrible. She clenched her fist and clenched her teeth unconsciously. Even if it''s more tolerant, the longer you stay in the palace and the higher you stand, the easier it is for human nature to be exposed. Once people forget themselves, they are easy to be caught. But even now, Jiang Dan is still relatively sober, so he still remembers to drive all the maids out before he is discovered. She has always been careful. Jiang Ruan is not only safe, but also appears in the carriage outside the Jinying palace. When it comes to her, Jiang Dan''s hands are shaking. A few days ago, no matter what, I couldn''t find out about Jiang Ruan. Jinying''s palace was so solid that she couldn''t even fly out. But Jiang Ruan had just had an accident. She didn''t dare to commit a crime against the wind and was caught. Originally thought that so long no news, Jiang Ruan Ding is a lot of bad luck, who knows Jiang Ruan so swaggering back to the Jinying palace in a carriage, she did not even know when Jiang Ruan went out. I didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan was so lucky, but Jiang Dan was more frightened. Since Jiang Ruan is in good health, she must know that the poison existed in her body when she was young. If we really investigate it, we will find her sooner or later. Jiang Ruan is so insidious. I can see from the end of Xia Yan''s family that he can''t stop easily. Once she is found in the relationship, Jiang Ruan Ding will not let it go. Every time he thought about this, Jiang Dan was in a panic. When she thought of the man in grey, she couldn''t help complaining to herself. Jiang Ruan, who had been agreed at the beginning, had great ability. This time, she was doomed. She didn''t want to get out of trouble. After thinking about it, she went to one side of the table and picked up a pen from the jade tube to pose to write to others. It was also in the palace, but someone''s mood was totally different from Jiang Dan''s. In Nanyuan, when Xiao Shaofang came into the hall, the delicate young man stepped forward, but he was not polite. He grabbed his sleeve and said, "she''s back?" "It''s in the house." Xiao Shao quietly pulled out his sleeve: "is the 13th Prince going to visit my wife?" A minister called himself "I" in front of the prince. Xiao Shao was really brave enough. But his highness had no consciousness of being bullied at all. He immediately crossed his face with an obvious joy: "OK, when will he leave?" Xuanpei has been living in the palace for more than ten days. What he thinks most about every day is Jiang Ruan''s illness. Even when the emperor came back to ask him about his lessons, he was absent-minded and answered many wrong questions. Even Liu Min can see that he has something on his mind, but Xuan Pei naturally won''t talk to others about the reason. With so many worries, Jiang Ruan was ill in bed, but he was much thinner. Later, he received a message from Xiao Shao that Jiang Ruan''s poison had been removed, and xuanpei fell a stone in his heart. However, xuanpei was very annoyed that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao didn''t come back. He didn''t know how many times he scolded Xiao Shao for taking Jiang Ruan away insidiously and finally brought Jiang Ruan pan back to Beijing. "No one can take the prince away at will. His highness wants to visit my humble abode and come out by himself." Xiao Shao light way. Xuan Pei was stunned by this blatant bullying, and then he left angrily: "you are so unreasonable. You treat me like this and tell her..." "How?" Xiao Shao looked at him with no special expression, but his eyes were full of pressure. Xuanpei was stunned for a moment. After reaction, he felt embarrassed to be silenced by the other person''s eyes. When he became angry, he yelled: "she must make decisions for me!" Xuan Pei has always been more calm than his age in the palace. Sometimes he said that he was more like an adult than an adult. Especially now the emperor has paid more and more attention to xuanpei, and people have hardly seen xuanpei as a child. Now, Xiao Shaoqi''s jumping foot has some rare vitality at this age. "She''s my wife. Why should I help you?" Xiao Shao continued. "She''s still me..." Xuanpei was about to finish, but he suddenly stopped and looked up at Xiao Shao warily, but it seemed that there was a huge wave in his heart. This man is so deep-seated that his secret is almost revealed in these words. Xiao Shao seems to be indifferent to everything, but in fact he has great observation ability. He knew that when he mentioned Chiang, Ruan and xuanpei, he would be upset. He also knew how to use words to stimulate xuanpei''s mood. That''s how it came out. Xuanpei''s heart gradually calmed down when he was challenged by the drug fight. Looking at Xiao Shao, he suddenly said with a smile, "Lord Xiao, you are really bullying me." His words were full of satire, but Xiao Shao didn''t blink an eye and said, "Your Highness is not weak." Xuanpei swallows his saliva. Who says King Jinying is a cold faced saint who doesn''t eat people''s fireworks? Once this man is bad, he is really bad. "I know what you want to know, but I don''t have to tell you. You and she are husband and wife, but... " Xuan Pei laughed maliciously: "I don''t think it should be a real couple." "Thirteen his highness is too lenient," Xiao Shao reminded, "that day will come."Xuanpei was choked by his words again. He gave Xiao Shao a strange look, as if he was looking at the person in front of him and whether he was the same person in other people''s mouth. After a while, he shook his head and said, "no matter what, she and you are not talking about everything now. What you want to know is a secret, which concerns me and her. If you are really good for her, you can find a way to let me go out of the palace. I want to see her once, and I need to explain some things to her face to face. After that, if she really trusts you, she will tell you. But I have no obligation to tell you. " Xiao Shao looked at him silently and nodded: "OK." Seeing that he agreed so readily, Xuan Pei was relieved. He looked at him solemnly and said, "you saved her life before. Anyway, I should thank you for her. No matter what happens, my purpose is the same as yours. You and I will not hurt her. " This is xuanpei''s first time to sincerely soften to Xiao Shao, or because Xiao Shao tried to solve the poison on Jiang Ruan, xuanpei is deeply grateful. Xiao Shao looked at him: "I save his wife, and you have nothing to do, do not thank." Xuan Pei Jiang Ruan returned to King Jinying''s residence only half a moment later. After receiving the news, Jiang Xinzhi rushed back from the barracks, and then dragged Jiang Ruan to talk about a lot of things that should be paid attention to when he was sick. If he didn''t know that his eldest brother was a martial arts practitioner, Jiang Ruan would have doubted whether Jiang Xinzhi would change his career to become a doctor. She didn''t tell the general''s house about her poisoning. She kept the news from the general''s house all the time. If Zhao Guang knew that someone had attacked their mother and son more than ten years ago, he would go to Shangshu''s house immediately. But now is not the time. When Jiang Xinzhi mentioned this, he was still in a state of fear and anger. He only said, "what''s the matter? Xiao Shao doesn''t tell me who is going to poison you, and you''re not going to tell me? " Angelica sent some plum blossom honey water, Jiang Ruan pushed a cup to Jiang Xin''s eyes, comforted: "I know who that person is, now just don''t want to scare the snake.". Elder brother, please feel relieved. I will solve this problem tomorrow morning. It''s not difficult for me. With the help of Xiao Shao, what will not happen. Elder brother also knows what kind of person I am, and there is no reason why I have been calculated for nothing. " "Ah Ruan, I''m your brother." Jiang Xinzhi was angry: "you would rather tell Xiao Shao than me. You think that your brother is useless, so you don''t want to tell him about it and let him handle it?" Jiang Xinzhi felt a little aggrieved in his heart. If she married someone, she would not be her own sister. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan was so kind to him that he said, "when you were a child, you were bullied by others. It was your brother who helped you out. Now why don''t you remember..." Jiang Ruan could not help but help his forehead: "brother, what are you saying. It has nothing to do with my feeling that you are useless. I''ll tell you about it, but now, can''t you wait for one night? Besides, you are not allowed to intervene because you are not in the right position now. You are a general. It''s always tempting to intervene in these things. Xiao Shao is not the same. The royal guards under him are different from the soldiers. They do things in secret, and they are easy to use. He is my husband, and his people are my people. Brother, you don''t like him. Are you dissatisfied with me? " Jiang Xinzhi said, "how can I be dissatisfied with you. Now that I have won this title, I want you not to be bullied. If I win this title, I have to be afraid of being said. I even have to think about it for you. What''s the point of climbing higher? " Seeing the appearance of Jiang Ruan Wei''s stupor, Jiang Xin''s heart softened. In the end, he was afraid that she wanted to cause a serious illness in her heart. He quickly said, "well, I don''t care what you say. When tomorrow comes, you must find out the man for me. If you dare to attack him, I have to kill him myself! " Jiang Ruan smiles, Jiang Xinzhi looks at her, sighs suddenly and says: "although I don''t know why, this time you went to Xiaoshao''s school, people seem to be more cheerful. I think it''s all thanks to Xiao Shao. " Jiang Ruan was stunned: "how can elder brother say that?" "You are my sister, and I know you." Jiang Xinzhi shook his head: "in the past, I always felt that you had something in mind, even if you married someone. But this time I came back, I felt that my temper had changed a lot. I didn''t like Xiao Shao at first. I thought he was too cold-blooded to take good care of you. " Jiang Xin hesitated: "but now it seems that he treats you well. I said, Ruan, you are so good. How can anyone in the world not like you. Xiao Shao''s eyes are not bad. You treat him now It''s not the alliance you said before Is she so obvious? In his heart, Jiang Ruan laughed: "don''t you like me like this "No, I''m happy." Jiang Xinzhi said with a smile: "if anyone in the world makes you happy, no matter who it is, I will be happy for you." Jiang Xinzhi reached out and touched her head: "as long as you are treated well, that''s enough." The brother and sister said something again. Jiang Xinzhi didn''t dare to talk to Jiang Ruan for too long, for fear that it would affect her rest. Soon, he got up and left. Before leaving, he told Forsythia to come back to see her tomorrow. After Jiang Xinzhi left, Jiang Ruan took a rest for a while. It was getting late. After drinking the medicine, Jiang Ruan looked at the account book in the house for a while. He had no time to look at the account book in the Canaan mountain mansion. At the moment, he had nothing else to do.Dahurian angelica came, advised: "it''s late, the girl or go to bed early rest, this account later to see is not too late." "Yes," the dew blinked. "My uncle is still waiting in the bedroom. The girl has been in the study. She has been cooling carefully. My uncle is going to have some trouble with my servants." People with a clear eye can see that this time Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao seem to have become somewhat different. Their feelings have become better, and people are happy to see their success. Dew is changing the way, want to make a pile of two people together. Forsythia flicked the dew on her forehead: "little hoof, you can make fun of the girl''s words at will. It seems that the girl treats you too well and is more and more lawless." She looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile: "but what she said is to the point. The girl''s body can''t stand the toss now. It''s better to rest early, so as to avoid my uncle''s heartache." Jiang Ruan looked at his servant girls fighting, and suddenly remembered the scene in her dream when she was in a coma. These servant girls were not able to meet in her previous life. Suddenly, she sighed: "how many years have you been with me?" Forsythia a few Leng, who did not expect why Jiang Ruan would suddenly say this. Forsythia and Angelica looked at each other, said: "maidservant and Angelica are with the girl since childhood, now also about 16 years." Dewdrop blinked: "the maid followed the girl from Chuang Tzu for about six years." "I''ve been with the young lady for two years." Tianzhu whispered. "It''s been so many years." Jiang Ruan whispered. "Girl..." Angelica worried. Jiang Ruan waved his hand and said with a smile, "it''s just that you''ve been with me for so many years, but you don''t seem to have a good life. You look bright on the surface, but in fact you are in crisis everywhere. It''s not my master." What she said was puzzling. Dewdrop said quickly: "girls, don''t say that. It''s a blessing for maidservants to follow girls. Girls treat maidservants very well. Maidservants never feel guilty." Forsythia several busy also follow a way, Jiang Ruan smile: "nothing, I rest first, you also early sleep, tomorrow morning also want to enter the palace." Then he stood up. Tianzhu quickly put on her coat, and Jiang Ruan went out of the study door and into the bedroom. The sky has already sunk, Jin Ying''s mansion falls into a piece of silence, at night what voice all have no, seem peaceful tight. In the middle of the night, it began to snow. The ground was wet and cold, and it would slip if I stepped on it. In such a dark night, a humble figure suddenly appeared in the courtyard. It seemed that he got up in the middle of the night and went to the thatched cottage. When he passed through the outermost outer wall, he seemed to squat down and brush inside at the root of the wall. In this instant, suddenly in front of a bright, dark night suddenly appeared several torches, shining brightly on the man, the man was surprised, quickly squatted down to cover his face with his hands, head down, refused to let people see his face. A voice rang very clearly in the night: "young lady, hold on! If there are thieves Another said, "Hey, look up. Who is this man?" The man''s body trembled and his head was lower. It was a game of catching turtles in a jar. Behind the guards, Jiang Ruan came out slowly. She was holding a torch in her hand. The light of the torch reflected her cold and beautiful face. However, her eyes were filled with a touch of compassion and an imperceptible disappointment. Who is the internal ghost www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 195 Jiang Ruan walked to the man and stopped. The dark guards looked at each other. Jiang Ruan looked down at the man''s hair and finally said, "dahurian angelica, don''t you dare to look up at me?" The dark guards on one side were all startled. They were all familiar with the name of Angelica dahurica. They were the dowry maids of the young lady. The four maids of Jiang Ruan were all the celebrities of Jinying palace except Tianzhu who was Xiao Shao. On weekdays, Angelica dahurica is the most calm and quiet of several servant girls. She is beautiful and lovely, and the bodyguards are very attentive. Angelica dahurica is deeply trusted by Jiang Ruan. She is also an old man who grew up with Jiang Ruan when she was a child. Today, Jiang Ruan arranged to catch the ghost. When she heard the name of Angelica dahurica, the dark guards were surprised. The people on the ground did not respond, but Jiang Ruan was not in a hurry. Instead, he stood calmly and waited. After a while, the people on the ground finally straightened their clothes and slowly stood up, revealing a familiar face. Angelica dahurica''s expression was as gentle and calm as usual. It seemed that she had just finished a task assigned by Jiang Ruan. She even had no fear of being caught. She just looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "girl is smart, but I''ll catch my maid." "This..." Around the dark Wei a see really is Angelica dahurica, are some confused, some strange staring at Angelica dahurica, in case she did something bad to Jiang Ruan. At this time, heard the news came to Forsythia several also from behind catch up, see white dark Wei surrounded by Angelica, can''t help but be surprised in situ. Dewdrop is a heavy gas, immediately said: "Dahurian sister, how can it be you?" Forsythia and Angelica dahurica grow up together, and their friendship is deep. Seeing this scene, forsythia is shocked, and her first thought is that Angelica dahurica has been wronged. He said eagerly, "what''s the matter? Angelica dahurica, is there any misunderstanding? If you are here, you will be innocent. Tell me quickly She was very anxious and wanted to help Angelica clear the charge. Just because in Forsythia''s view, Angelica dahurica really has no reason to frame Jiang Ruan, and it is not likely to be what the informer said. However, Angelica dahurica did not clarify as she hoped. She just laughed and said, "it''s not a misunderstanding. I''m the ghost around the girl. The girl has always been very observant, and she has not caught the wrong person this time. " She took a look at forsythia and whispered, "I''m sorry, I lied to you." "How is that possible?" Forsythia couldn''t help but rush up and grab the sleeve of Angelica dahurica. She looked a little excited. No matter how many people were present, she said, "you and I have been serving the girl from childhood to adulthood at the same time. Everyone can see clearly how to treat the girl. At the beginning, in Chuang Tzu, you were also devoted to helping girls. Over the years, I have the right to say what kind of person you are. Angelica dahurica, do you have anything to hide, you and I have many years of friendship, the girl is you as their own people, you say, the girl will help you. Is something wrong with you? " Angelica slightly meal, but more forcefully will Forsythia hand pulled down from his sleeve, said: "I have nothing to say, there is no secret, you can''t believe me, still can''t believe the girl, when she caught the wrong person." Forsythia was shocked by the determination in the eyes of Angelica dahurica. She couldn''t help but step back and look at the woman in front of her. She just felt that she was completely strange. She was totally different from the old friend who lived with her day and night. Some puzzled, she looked at Jiang Ruan. He could not see any change in his expression, but said to the dark guards around him, "go down, leave a few people outside the yard." "Young lady," a secret guard worried, "the safety of young lady is very important." "An unarmed woman, why worry? It''s enough to have Tianzhu here." Jiang Ruan light way. Seeing her resolute attitude, the surrounding dark guards knew that Jiang Ruan was not a man who could easily be controlled by others, so they had to retreat out of the yard. There are only Forsythia dew, Tianzhu Jiang Ruan and Angelica dahurica who don''t know what they are thinking. "Girls treat you well. Why do you do that?" Dewdrop was the first to lose her temper. She was a person with a clear love hate temperament, and she always loved Jiang Ruan as a relative from the bottom of her heart. Suddenly found that Angelica dahurica is the person who secretly murdered Jiang Ruan, the anger in the heart can be imagined. Previously, if there was still some doubt that Angelica dahurica was wronged, now look at the attitude of Angelica dahurica and Jiang Ruan''s determination, Dewdrop will also see the clue, only indignation to Angelica dahurica. Angelica dahurica did not answer dewdrop''s words, but looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "girl, this situation is set up to catch me? The girl has known for a long time that I am the one who leads the poison? " "Yes." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "I said before that if I wanted to find the person behind me and go into the palace, I meant to tell you. I know you''ll find a way to spread the news and specially order people to wait in the house to catch ghosts. " "The girl is always smart. You can''t hide anything from her." Angelica dahurica smile, the expression is actually very calm: "when did the girl find that the maid is a spy?" Jiang Ruan''s beautiful eyes flashed a strange emotion, red lips slightly hook hook, smile is a little cold: "Angelica dahurica, if you can, the person I most don''t want to doubt is you." She light of, seem to have no what emotion of way: "you are at the beginning mother give my servant girl, always accompany at my side.". You accompany me for a long time, I always think that the person who can accompany me to the end will never betray me. If I don''t trust many people in this world, angelica, you can count one of them. "Angelica a Leng, it seems that did not expect that Jiang Ruan would say such a word, lips moved, but finally returned to silence. "All my food in the palace has gone through housekeeper Lin''s hands. The palace is very strict about these things. I don''t doubt that there is anything wrong with them. If it is said that there is a place where poison is introduced, it must be a move taken outside. I thought it was in the palace, or Jiang Dan did something, until later I remembered that on the day when Xiao Shaocheng and I were married, while waiting in our new house, Dewdrop was afraid that I was hungry and gave me cakes, while you gave me a cup of tea. " Dewdrop also seems to recall: "yes, because I''m afraid that the girl will only eat cakes and choke, sister Angelica dahurica gave me a cup of tea. Is it the tea problem?" "But with a cup of tea, how can the girl conclude that it was the slave who did it?" Angelica dahurica said with a smile. "A cup of tea really doesn''t mean anything. Maybe someone else threw it in. But you know, I couldn''t get used to sweet things. On that day, the cake was already very sweet, but you brought me lotus leaf honey water to drink. It''s nothing to look at, but for you, Angelica dahurica, you''ve been with me for more than ten years, and no one knows my eating habits better than you. You are my first-class servant girl. You are always safe and don''t make such mistakes. You did it because you were so flustered that you didn''t notice it. Too sweet cakes and too sweet tea, Angelica dahurica, normal you, will not do so Forsythia followed, raised her eyes to Angelica dahurica, she and Angelica dahurica have served Jiang Ruan for so many years, naturally understand what Jiang Ruan said is right. Angelica dahurica in the life of Jiang Ruan has always been fine, her temperament careful, will not make such a mistake. After a long time, Angelica dahurica gently laughed: "the girl is really careful, but I didn''t expect that it was such a little detail that betrayed the maid. I''m convinced. " "No, it''s more than that." Jiang Ruan looked at the burning torch. The bright light reflected everything. And there was a beauty in her face. She said: "and when I came back, forsythia and they all surrounded me. They were happy because I was detoxified. You are the only one who is sad." Angelica dahurica puzzled way: "maidservant because of worry girl and sad, what''s wrong with this?" "Yes, you should worry about me. As a servant girl, it''s understandable to worry about my master''s injury. But a normal person, first of all, will feel lucky because others survived. Angelica dahurica, since you saw me, you haven''t shown a happy look. This is a kind of unusual. It''s like you don''t feel happy because I''m better. Instead, you worry and feel sad. What are you sad about? Is it because you failed? " She asked. Angelica dahurica meal, some trance looking at Jiang Ruan: "so here I also exposed the foot of the horse..." "Not only that, when I went back to the house, I saw that the house was in a mess, as if it had not been cleaned up. You said it was because everyone was worried about my injury, so they didn''t want to clean it up." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "this sentence applies to Forsythia suspense and dewdrop, because they are impatient and can''t hide things in their hearts. Once something happens to me, they have no other thoughts. But you are not the same, dahurian angelica, you have been with me for so many years, the temperament is the most calm, even if I fell into the water in ZhangLan''s Chuang Tzu, you will still do all the trivial things in order, because you are a very assertive person, will not change because of external changes. Will you not be in the mood to do things because of my injury? No, you''re just worried, because there''s something in your heart that you can''t calm down. " Finally suspected to Angelica dahurica, perhaps there is a warning about the previous life dream. In her previous life, forsythia died in the battle of Jiang Quan, but the angelica dahurica around her stayed at the end and went into the palace with her. At first, she thought that Angelica dahurica was soft tempered, but Xia Yan was soft hearted. Now it seems that no matter what kind of person Angelica dahurica is, with Xia Yan''s cautious temperament, how can she bring her own confidant into the palace. Angelica looking at Jiang Ruan, suddenly took a step forward, Tianzhu vigilant block in front of Jiang Ruan. Tianzhu came the latest and had no deep friendship with Angelica dahurica as forsythia. Now it is confirmed that Angelica dahurica''s spy identity. In the royal guards, she hated the traitor most. In Tianzhu''s eyes, Angelica dahurica is just an enemy. As soon as Tianzhu moves, Angelica dahurica stops. She looked at Jiang Ruan, thought for a while, then began to smile bitterly: "what the girl said is right. After so many years with the girl, the girl knows her maidservant like the back of her hand. What''s more, the girl is a person who is easy to guess people''s minds. This skill of the maid is really not on the table in front of the girl. It''s just a joke "No," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "I don''t know your abnormality because I know you well, and I don''t know you''re a traitor because I''m good at guessing people''s minds. I can understand your identity only because you deliberately revealed it to me. " She crossed Tianzhu and walked slowly to Baizhi. She looked at Baizhi calmly and vomited out a fact: "these horseshoes are deliberately disclosed to me by you. You don''t want to hide your identity. You want me to find that this ghost hunt is not so much arranged by me as by you with my hand." Angelica a Leng, then said with a smile: "girl really can laugh, I am not a fool, how can take the initiative to send the handle to people''s hands, let people catch me.". Why am I doing this? ""Yes," sighed Jiang Ruan, staring into her eyes. "I also want to know, why do you want to do this?" That pair of up in the eyes of fierce eyes, seems to peel off all the camouflage, all the thoughts in the heart in front of this pair of eyes seem to have no escape. Angelica straight see some uneasy, she bit her teeth, insist on looking at Jiang Ruan. "You have chosen such a way, don''t you want to tell me the truth?" Jiang Ruan''s voice is soft, seems to contain a kind of inducement and bewitchment, people can''t help but say their own words: "Angelica dahurica, you have any trouble, you can tell me. This is not only an account to me, but also an account to yourself. Being betrayed by a servant girl who has been around for more than ten years, you should at least give me an explanation. Otherwise, I will think that I am such a master who can''t keep people. " Dewdrop and forsythia are looking at Angelica dahurica, as a sister to get along with day and night, overnight they become their own enemy. This is really unacceptable fact, forsythia said: "dahurian angelica, you should at least tell us, in the end is because of what." Angelica dahurica in such a close look, and finally hung his head, and then raised his eyes, eyes have been very calm, as if to make a major decision in general. She said: "the girl guessed right, it''s not that the girl won''t keep people. The reason why Angelica dahurica has become a poison inducing person is that she is the first lady''s person. " "How?" Dewdrop was surprised and said, "the eldest lady has already died. How can you poison the girl again?" "At the beginning, maidservant and forsythia were selected by the first lady and given to the girl, but maidservant and forsythia are different. Forsythia is clean and is the son of Shangshu mansion. The family of the maidservant is in a Chuang Tzu under the Shangshu mansion. The elder brother of the maidservant works under the housekeeper of the eldest lady. The eldest lady wants the maidservant to follow her and take care of the girl, but she holds the contract of selling herself in her hand. " Forsythia did not expect such a crop, she has always thought that Angelica dahurica, like her, is Zhao Mei''s own choice to come in and serve Jiang Ruan, the foundation is naturally clean. Who knows the purpose of Angelica sent in is not simple. "Although the eldest lady asked her maidservant to follow her, she didn''t ask her to do anything. She only asked about her occasionally. I dare not stop. Later, the girl went to Chuang Tzu. The family of the maidservant was lucky enough to get rid of her slavery. The maidservant has been with the girl all the time. Because there is no threat, she wants to serve the girl wholeheartedly, which can be regarded as the compensation of previous years. " She pauses and laughs: "once upon a time, the girl was gentle and often bullied. Later, in Zhuangzi mountain, she changed her temperament somehow. The maid really felt happy for the girl. Later, the eldest lady also died. The maidservant thought that the original thing was gone forever, as long as he had been living with the girl like this. Who knows, a few days ago, someone took my mother''s Keepsake to me. Someone found my maid''s family and asked her to give her a medicine. Otherwise, her family''s life would be lost. " "So you poisoned the girl to protect your family?" Forsythia surprised. This may be excusable, but as a servant, you can never betray your master, so this behavior of Angelica dahurica in the eyes of forsythia, or very disapproval. "Even so, did you ever think about girls when you did that? Let''s not mention the past. Now, you can tell the girl about it. She is so smart that she will find a way to solve it for you! " "You don''t understand!" Angelica dahurica yelled: "forsythia, your family is innocent, you can be a loyal servant in front of the master. But I''m the first lady''s person. If this matter is involved, even if I don''t do anything to the girl, I can''t be estranged in the future. Once this is said, I can never go back to the past. Moreover, no matter how powerful the girl is, I dare not play with her family''s life. I have my brother and brother, and I can''t put them in danger just because I''m alone. " "You are so stubborn!" Forsythia said angrily. "I don''t care whether you say me or blame me." Angelica smile sad: "I committed this heinous crime, the girl how to punish me, I have no regrets." "Who is the man who asked you to poison the girl?" Asked the dewdrop eagerly. "I don''t know." Angelica shook her head: "he is a dart tied to the note and I pass the message, I do not know who that person is, across the wall, also do not know what he looks like." "I just want to ask you one question," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "do you know when Jiang Dan poisoned my mother more than ten years ago?" Dewdrop Forsythia are all surprised, but they don''t know that there is the scene of Jiang Dan poisoning. At first, I didn''t know who was behind the Xia mansion, but was it Jiang Dan? Angelica dahurica was silent for a moment before nodding. Jiang Ruan coldly looked at her, if she was always mild to Angelica dahurica before, and did not show the anger of being betrayed, but now it is cold and makes people feel cold. She said: "you have been with me for so many years, and as you said, you have done nothing to hurt me. In the most difficult time, is you and forsythia accompany me, although I don''t say, but as long as in this world safely one day, will exhaust power to protect you. Angelica dahurica, I don''t pursue the things you cause poison to me. If you do these things for your family, I may not be able to do better than you. But you watched my mother was poisoned by Jiang Dan. You could have showed your feet like today to remind me. You didn''t say anything. Although you can be excused, I can never forgive you for that. "Angelica was surprised, suddenly looked up at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan has never been cold temperament, on the surface, he didn''t care much about anything, so he has always been very tolerant of the mistakes of the perpetrators. But only close to her people know that she has a very crazy paranoia on some things. If Baizhi determined that Jiang Ruan would be disappointed with her, but she would not be angry with her. Now Jiang Ruan''s words clearly express that she and she are two hostile camps. "You have poisoned me, and I have nothing to say. I can''t forgive watching my mother stand by. Angelica dahurica, between you and me, the meaning of master and servant, this world here, no longer related Word by word, there is no doubt about Jiang Ruan''s words. Forsythia and dew Tianzhu stand on one side in silence, and no one speaks. Angelica dahurica is numb. Snow falls on her one after another, and the fire burns silently in the snow. She feels very lonely, as if everything in the world has abandoned her. A moment later, she suddenly began to smile gently, and then her smile grew bigger and bigger, almost to tears. She said: "I didn''t finish that man''s task, and he couldn''t spare me in the end, for fear that I would climb out of him again. There is only one way Before the words were heard, he bumped into the stone wall. She was close to the stone wall, and Tianzhu, who had the best Kung Fu, was beside Jiang Ruan, so there was no time to save her. Angelica dahurica this is under the full strength, clearly is one heart to die. Only heard a dull sound, forsythia exclaimed, angelica soft fell down, the blood on the forehead startling. Her big breath, blood from the mouth kept coming out, wet the snow under her body into a bright red. She gasped, her voice like a broken bellows, barely able to hear an unwritten word: "sorry..." The snow fell into silence again, there was no sound, large pieces of snow fell down, almost soon to drown the blood on the ground. Jiang Ruan''s voice was so low that he could hardly hear him. He said, "let''s bury it." She turned and walked out of the yard. Her long scarlet train was connected with the blood on the ground. Her face was cold, her back was straight, and she walked coldly and resolutely. She never looked back at the figure on the ground again. However, the faster I walked, the faster I walked, and I almost had to trot in the snow. Finally, after I rushed out of the yard, I suddenly stopped and held the vermilion pillar beside me with one hand. I felt strangely cold all over. She pursed her lips tightly, the corners of her mouth stiff, but her eyes reddened slightly. A cold figure came out from behind her, stood behind her, slowly pulled her shoulder, and held her in his arms. The young man was handsome, but the slender figure seemed to have a reassuring infinite power, and had a trace of warmth in this cold winter. "Xiao Shao, I''m very sad." Jiang Ruan''s voice was tired. She reached back and hugged the young man''s thin waist. She buried her head on his shoulder and said, "don''t betray me." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 196 Xiao Shao looked down at the woman in his arms. Although he didn''t go in outside the hospital, what happened was clear. Knowing that Jiang and Ruan didn''t pay attention to everything, they were just not used to showing off. These maids have been growing up with her all the time. People always put their trust in supporting their friends. At last, they find that this is just a deception in the name of loyalty. She can''t rub the sand in her eyes. We can imagine the sadness in her heart. He patted Jiang Ruan on the back and said nothing. In such a generous and gentle arms, Jiang Ruan''s mood gradually calmed down. In fact, she is the most reluctant to doubt angelica, this life of these people, previous life to accompany her to the last only angelica. Now it seems that Angelica dahurica is the person who was Xia Yan at the beginning. Although Xia Yan didn''t make her do anything to hurt herself, her position was hostile from the beginning. Finally, she gives pei''er to Bai Zhi, hoping that Bai Zhi can take pei''er to escape, but pei''er finally falls into Li Dong''s hands. Perhaps Angelica dahurica simply handed over pei''er to Jiang Su Su, or all this was that she really didn''t escape. But in the end is what kind of situation, only the previous life of Angelica dahurica can answer. But this is like a thorn in her throat. As soon as she thinks about it, she will doubt whether Baizhi has finally sent Peier to the end. She was a bigoted person. Once she had this conjecture, she would never be able to let go of Angelica dahurica. There are so many mistakes in the world. Who can know? She gently broke away from Xiao Shao''s arms, only to feel that she had just been a bit out of her way. Seeing this, Xiao Shao thought about it and said, "go to the Palace tomorrow and have a look at xuanpei." For a moment, Jiang Ruan almost thought that Xiao Shao knew the cause and effect of the matter. "Why?" he asked "He seems to have something to say to you." Xiao Shao pursed her lips: "you haven''t been in the palace for a long time." To be sure, his words meant to divert Jiang Ruan''s attention and make her feel less heavy, but they still surprised Jiang Ruan. What can Xuan Pei say to her? In this life, they have almost nothing to do with each other. But what Xiao Shao means is that Xuan Pei takes the initiative to find him. The conjecture that floated in his mind at the beginning appeared in his mind again. Jiang Ruan restrained himself from thinking about it, but he always thought about it unconsciously. "Don''t worry." Xiao Shao seems to see her uneasiness, comfort way: "go to know what is, I will always protect you." Jiang Ruan looked up and saw that the young man''s face was cold and beautiful, but what he said had convincing power, as if he could do it as long as he said it from his mouth. She slightly a smile, temporarily suppressed the bottom of the heart uneasiness, only to Xiao Shao way: "good." It snowed all night. When it got up the next day, the new snow covered the blood on the ground. Last night, the thrilling trace disappeared. Everything was calm as if nothing had happened. Not far from the palace, the newly built tombs seem to have been built overnight. They are not gorgeous, but they are not rough. They are meticulous everywhere. There is not a word on a stone tablet, and I don''t know who set it up. Two young women squatted in front of the grave, in front of an iron basin full of burning paper money. There are some incense sticks in the censer. Forsythia while burning money slightly choked: "Angelica dahurica, this life we also calculate a sister, cast a good fetus, next life don''t do servants, as you say, is to be a peasant miss is also good, fate always in their own hands." Although dew angry dahurian angelica to Jiang Ruan poison, last night that tragic situation, but also let her heart sigh. She is a soft hearted person, and since she has been with Jiang Ruan, she has been with Angelica dahurica for so many years. Angelica dahurica has a gentle temperament and often takes care of her like a big sister. When she thinks of these, her eyes are red. Voice some hair block: "Angelica dahurica sister, if there is an afterlife, when we meet again, I would like to have the honor to be sisters with you." Both of them have some feelings. When the paper money in the silver basin is easily burned, they are both a little heavy. Jiang Ruan didn''t come to express his condolence. He was a master and a servant, but now he doesn''t know how to meet each other. It''s ridiculous. Back in the palace, Jin Er saw the dewdrop''s gloomy look. For the first time, he didn''t deliberately tease her. Instead, he stood behind her for a long time and then held out his hand to give her a handkerchief: "Hey, you are so ugly when you cry." Dew is not the heart to fight with him, hanging his head did not pick up his PAZI. Brocade two see this, never play flowers veteran also some don''t know what to do, a long time just hesitated to gather in the past, from the personal will pa son clenched stand in front of dew. Peeping up at him in amazement, brocade two then grasps the handkerchief to wipe tears on her face, quite unnatural way: "how can someone cry in the palace, it''s really a hindrance." Dew stood different, seems to endure what, brocade two hands can''t help a stiff, some worried looking at her, finally can''t help for the first time put soft voice way: "what''s the matter with you?" As soon as the voice fell, dewdrop could not help but hold his lapel. Her face was buried in his lapel and she burst into tears. The body of brocade two is some stiff, don''t know what to do of looking at to grasp the dew of his dress. Dewdrop has always been a girl who loves to laugh in the palace, and she is very infectious when she laughs. It seems that the big things are no big deal here. Now it''s the first time to see her so sad. Brocade two feel she cry of own heart all ache, finally summon up courage to stretch out a hand to pull her to own bosom, low voice of comfort.Dew and brocade two things in the end Jiang Ruan don''t know, etc. Forsythia back to the house, she will take forsythia and Tianzhu into the palace. She has never been in the palace since she was poisoned. Even the Empress Dowager Yide could not say it was right there. Today she also took this opportunity to enter the palace. Jiang Ruan went to CI Ning palace to see empress Yide. She didn''t see Jiang Ruan for a long time. She felt a little strange. Jiang Ruan only said that she was infected with wind and cold, so she recuperated in the palace for more than ten days. Empress Dowager Yide let go of her heart and asked her for a while. She got along well with Xiao Shao and his wife. Jiang Ruan answered one by one. Empress Dowager Yide was very satisfied with her peaceful relationship with Xiao Shao. She was probably happy for her good fortune, so she left Jiang Ruan for lunch. But now that Jiang Ruan has married and become Princess Jinying, she has no longer lived in the Princess Palace. When empress Yide took her lunch break, Jiang Ruan said goodbye to Aunt Yang. But she did not go out of the palace directly, and she still remembered Xiao Shao''s words in her heart. He went straight to Nanyuan to see xuanpei. Jiang Ruan knew where Nanyuan was after walking in the palace for a long time. But at the beginning xuanpei was not a favorite. Before she was raised by her side, she only lived in a very remote and gloomy yard. Now xuanpei''s position in the palace was very different, and he was deeply loved by the emperor. The emperor''s love may be a kind of poison. He will be placed in a position where people can see him. Countless cold arrows and dark knives are aimed at him. However, it is also a more useful talisman than anything else. As long as the emperor likes him, the power of any cold arrow put at him will be greatly reduced. The closer she was to Nanyuan, the more nervous she was. Since her rebirth, it is rare for her to have such a tense moment. Tianzhu and forsythia, who are with her, have noticed Jiang Ruan''s abnormality. Tianzhu stopped and said, "young lady, what''s wrong?" Jiang Ruan suddenly regained his mind, shook his head and said, "nothing." She forced herself to settle down, now everything is her wishful thinking, the truth is how, no one can tell. When we got to the gate of Nanyuan, the little eunuch who was guarding the gate saw her from a long distance and immediately bowed to salute and said, "I''ve seen the princess." Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. Most of the time in the palace, people called her Princess Hong''an. Now it''s said that it''s called "Princess" at first glance, and the deep meaning is unknown. Such as the princess married, in the palace or as a princess, and near the palace called her Princess. It is to reveal a meaning from the side, the name of Princess of Jinying palace is more noble than that of Princess Hong''an. It also shows Xiao Shao''s position in the palace. A beautiful looking maid came out and saw Jiang Ruan. She first took a look at Tianzhu and then said with a smile, "my maid is the moon beside my highness. Your highness wants my maid to welcome the princess in. Princess, please come with me Jiang Ruan looked at the bright moon in the eyes. At first he was a little confused, then he understood. Then he thought it was incredible why Xiao Shao sent his secret guard to Xuan Pei. However, since she was Xiao Shao''s person, she was also quite at ease. He followed Mingyue into Nanyuan, went through the front hall, and saw the magnificent furnishings inside. He knew that xuanpei really had a holy heart now, and his life was very nourishing. Let''s relax a little. Mingyue stopped in front of the study and said with a smile, "Your Highness is waiting for the princess in the study." Then he stepped back and motioned for Jiang Ruan to go in. Forsythia also some nervous, for fear of Jiang Ruan and other people''s way, want to follow in. Don''t want Tianzhu to grab her arm and shake her head. Tianzhu was born in the royal guards. She was very skilled. Forsythia believed in Tianzhu. Although she didn''t understand, she didn''t mean to follow her. Jiang Ruan himself did not say yes. She believed Xiao Shao''s people. Moreover, Xuan Pei was always the beautiful and delicate child in her heart. No matter what he becomes, he will always be a child in front of her. She will not worry that Xuan Pei will want to harm her. That is a mother''s instinct. Therefore, Jiang Ruan just slightly stopped and went in without looking back. The light in the study is very dark, and the curtain has been covered. So a little vague, Jiang Ruan turned to close the door and walked towards the desk. Sitting on the wide chair in front of the desk is a small person, who is holding a brush, seems to be writing something, serious appearance, because the head is too small, looking at it is a bit funny, plain drowning the usual sense of alienation and estrangement. Jiang Ruan walked slowly towards him. The child bowed his head to write carefully. He was inexplicably familiar with the gesture of holding a pen. He could see his delicate nose and ruddy mouth with his head down. The pink jade carving looked like an exquisite jade doll. Jiang Ruan looked at it silently. The light on one side was dim. In the dark, he finally saw clearly the words on the paper, which were actually four words. They are Jiang Ruan and Xuan Pei. If Jiang Ruan is struck by lightning, he will stay where he is. It seemed that a picture scroll had been torn out of her mind and suddenly appeared in front of her. It was in the shabby palace, dressed in clothes that didn''t fit, but with delicate and elegant appearance. The strange child clumsily took a pen and asked, "mother, you see, pei''er has learned to write the names of herself and her mother." The child smiles happily, but what he says is heartbreaking. The prince of a country has been neglected. Even a master has never invited one. Perhaps no one will notice whether this unpopular Prince has knowledge or not, but as his mother''s wife, xuanpei''s character is taught by her hand. For the first time, she taught Xuan Pei to write about himself and his name. That''s what Xuan Pei said.As like as two peas, the two names are still on the snowy Xuan paper, and the handwriting is the same as that of the previous generation, and even every detail is exactly alike. The picture in front of her and the scene in her memory suddenly overlapped. Jiang ruanyi couldn''t tell exactly what was going on in front of her. Maybe all this was just a dream. Was she in reality or in a dream? Xuanpei put down his pen. It seemed that he heard her voice. He finally raised his head and saw that it was her. With a sweet smile, he said, "my mother, pei''er has been waiting for you for a long time." Jiang Ruan stepped back two steps suddenly. He was in a trance and in a daze, full of disbelief and shock. "What did you say?" she murmured "Is my mother still going to recognize me? I''m Peier So is Xuan Pei. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were wide open, but her mind was blank. She looked at the beautiful boy in front of her. He is as like as two peas before birth, but the smile is exquisite and profound, and what he knows is nothing but innocent children. He is much smarter than Peier in his previous life. Xuan Pei gave a wry smile and looked up at Jiang Ruan. He slowly put away his smile and no longer faced her with his innocent appearance. The way: "the mother imperial concubine before life and death in the chaos under the stick, Pei son after that also with into the yellow spring, originally thought that the whole life is doomed. I don''t want God to give me another life, and I didn''t expect to see my mother again in this life. " He looked at Jiang Ruan: "up to now, my mother, don''t you want to recognize me?" Every word in his mouth was like a heavy hammer on Jiang Ruan''s heart. No one would know about these things. He didn''t lie. Before that, there was only a trace of disbelief, but now they are flying away. Jiang Ruan didn''t know whether he was happy or sad in his heart. He just felt a kind of surprise. She strode forward to touch xuanpei''s face, but her hand suddenly stopped in front of xuanpei. For a moment, she was a little timid. For the first time, she doubted: "you Is it really him? " "She teaches pei''er to write her own name. Pei''er will write her name together with her, and she will never be separated again." Xuan Pei said with a tearful smile. Jiang Ruan was shocked when she taught Xuan Pei to write his name and himself. Xuan Pei did say the same. Now the words are still in my ears, and then from xuanpei''s mouth, Jiang Ruan finally put xuanpei in his arms: "yes, you are him, you are Peier. Why didn''t I think that since I survived, you were also possible. Pei''er, it''s my fault. I didn''t come to you earlier. If only I could recognize you earlier. You must be very scared when you are alone in the palace. " Her voice trembled with excitement. Even those who were closest to her did not see Jiang Ruan like this. She is a cold and hard stone, xuanpei is her only soft. Xuanpei was dead in her previous life, but she was hard all over her body in this life, even without the last trace of softness. But xuanpei''s loss and recovery reminds her of the most gentle place in Jiang Ruan, who had died in her previous life. "I''m not afraid." Instead, Xuan Pei comforted him softly: "I live well in the palace. I know how to protect myself, and I want to help my mother and concubine get revenge. I always thought that my mother''s concubine was different from her previous life. At the beginning, she helped me out in front of Princess Heyi, so I thought that I would only protect her in this life. I didn''t expect When my mother''s concubine was poisoned, I knew from King Jinying''s mouth that my mother''s concubine was still that mother''s concubine. " Jiang Ruan was stunned. How did Xiao Shao know about it. She was a little uncertain. When she was in a coma, she confided some sentences, which Mr. Baqi also said. Xiao Shao is a smart man. Naturally, he can infer a little bit from it, but he actually told Xuan Pei about it. Has he guessed the relationship between himself and Xuan Pei? I don''t have a particularly clear picture in my head. Jiang Ruan slowly released her hand. She took Xuan Pei to one side of the hard collapse and sat down, as if they had done it in the previous life. She said, "pei''er, what happened to you at the end of your previous life? How did you get caught? " When Xuan Pei heard the speech, he bit his lip. Even now, he is no different from the adult mind. But when it comes to this matter, those dusty gray memories come to us, which makes us feel cold. After a pause, he said: "at the beginning, my mother asked my elder sister angelica to take me to run along the secret Road, but in the middle of it, someone rushed over, and my elder sister was killed. I was arrested, and then... " Thinking of that humiliating memory, Xuan Pei closed his eyes and said, "later, my mother was killed by a random stick fight. I bit off one ear of that man. He was furious and killed me." Jiang Ruan suddenly put him in his arms: "well, don''t say it." She took a deep breath: "I didn''t protect you." "It has nothing to do with the mother." Xuanpei gritted his teeth and said, "all this is just Xuanli''s trick. Without him, how could she be wronged and end up with such a result. So since my life, the only thing I want to do is to knock down Xuan Pei and not let him sit in that position. " This young man is resolute in his eyebrows. When he mentions Xuan Pei, his indifference is the same as that of Jiang Ruan. Looking at him, Jiang Ruan felt a sense of loss. She said, "tell me, what have you done in this life? How have you been these years? ""I found myself back many years ago. I thought it was just a dream." Xuan Pei said slowly: "later, I found that it was not a dream. I could not change the fact that my biological mother had passed away. It coincided with the favorite years of imperial concubine Chen, and all the princes in the palace who were slightly valued by her father died inexplicably. Others don''t know why, but I know it''s the mother and son who did it. " Xuan Pei sneered: "it''s a pity that I was too young and too weak to compete with them. He''s a fool in plain clothes. He''s willing to be a prince who won''t be favored. As he has been for a lifetime, he can at least save his life. " Jiang Ruan gently touched his head: "pei''er is doing very well, you are very smart." "But it''s too slow," Xuan Pei murmured. "I can''t just save my life. I have to avenge my mother''s wife and myself. Xuan Pei has always put his chips in the court, but I don''t want him to have a good life. Over the years, I have also cultivated some people secretly. Some are in the court, while others are outside the palace. Even if Xuanli had installed people in all parts of the court, at least for the sake of shops, it would be very easy for me to make trouble with him. " Speaking of this, Xuan Pei gave Jiang Ruan a sly smile: "if he wants to sit on the throne, he needs a steady stream of money. But the silver is in my hands, and he is not so smooth. " Jiang Ruan suddenly realized that it is no wonder that Xuanli was always like a fish in water in his former life, but now he has been going downhill. Even a few years ago, it was not as good as before. Of course, Jiang Ruan contributed a lot to this, but Xuan Pei also pushed it. If the enemy is clear and I am dark, Xuanli will inevitably fall. "You." Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing: "when did it become so slippery?" "My mother''s concubine protected me in my previous life, but I watched her die in front of me. There was nothing I could do about it," said Xuan Pei, who said, "I will protect her in this life. If someone asks for his mother''s trouble, I''ll do everything I can to make him pay a hundred times as much! " Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on Xuan Pei. The boy was not tall, and his face seemed childish. He was beautiful and fragile, like a delicate doll. However, the perseverance between the eyebrows can''t be ignored. When he talks, he is the same xuanpei, but he is not the same xuanpei. "Pei''er, you have grown up." Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "My mother''s concubine, the sum of the past and the present, I will also have the year of weak crown." Xuan Pei blinked: "my mother can''t look at me like a child. Because I''m not a kid. " He took a look at Jiang Ruan and suddenly laughed: "but although she has lived so long, she looks as beautiful as before. I just don''t know if Lord Xiao will be mad when he knows that his wife is so much older than himself. " It''s a digression. I''ve met you www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 197 Jiang Ruan was stunned, angry and funny. He nodded xuanpei''s forehead and said with a smile, "nonsense." However, in my heart, I seriously thought about it. Xiao Shao didn''t know that she had lived for two generations, and she was much older than Xiao Shao. The woman is much older than the man. It''s hard to say. Even if she can''t see anything else on the outside, she doesn''t feel good in the heart. Seeing that Jiang Ruan Guo really thought of this, Xuan Pei flashed a trace of dissatisfaction in his eyes, took Jiang Ruan''s hand and said, "I didn''t know his relationship with you at first. Jin Ying king this pro mention of suddenly, I originally thought mother imperial concubine married him not to calculate to do what good deed. But later on, it seemed that he was the only one who could compete with Xuanli in the world. It''s better to get married to King Jinying''s house than to have something to do with Xuanli. It''s cheaper for King Jinying. " Xuan Pei snorted coldly, but there was something bad about it. In this life, he taught Jiang Ruan to marry Xiao Shao before he knew each other. Originally, he had a wide influence in Jinying palace. No matter how the Dynasty changed in the future, Xiao Shao''s status was unshakable. But if he had known earlier that Jiang Ruan was born again in this world, he would never have let Xiao Shao marry so happily. Jiang Ruan laughed, touched his head: "young age, do not pretend to be mature all day." But he forgot that when he was born again, he was exactly like Xuan Pei. Xuan Pei held her hand: "no matter what, we are always lucky to see you again. When I was in the palace, I always felt something was wrong. Xuanli didn''t do anything else. There''s also the poisoning. Someone is staring at you in the dark. Your mother and concubine should be more careful. " "You don''t have to worry about me." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "I don''t often stay in the palace on weekdays. King Jinying''s palace is heavily guarded. It''s not easy for people to succeed. But it''s you. There are many crises in the deep palace, and you and I know the dangers well. In addition, now you are valued by the emperor. I don''t know how many people are staring at you secretly, waiting to catch hold of you. Pei''er, don''t compete with them. If anything happens, let someone come to the palace immediately. I''ll ask Xiao Shao to find some people to protect you. " Feel from the mother''s long lost care, as if separated a lifetime. This life Xuan Pei in the palace to see the cold, tasted desolate sad. Never trust others and never accept others'' kindness. Only Jiang Ruan can open the soft place in his heart. At the moment, she spoke to him with such tenderness and concern. Xuan Pei''s heart was so sad that she almost burst into tears. However, he was not the child who cried and laughed when he wanted to. He blinked and held back the tears. She said with a smile: "don''t worry too much. The people around me are not vegetarian. Xiao Shao''s people are so eye-catching that it''s hard to avoid suspicion when you put them beside me. Although there are many people in this palace who want to deal with me, if you have the ability, just come. Let''s see who''s in the end. What''s more, my father is trusting me now. If anyone wants to do something, my father will not give up. " When Jiang Ruan heard him talking about the emperor, he couldn''t see any special emotion in his voice. He couldn''t guess what xuanpei really thought for a moment, so he looked at him and said, "pei''er, now your majesty trusts you. It''s a ulterior motive in other people''s eyes. But you know, it''s not out of thin air. What do you think, I want to hear your opinion? " She hesitated. Every prince''s final goal was to sit in that chair. Of course, she didn''t want Xuan Pei to fight for that position and lose the happiness he should have. But if Xuan Pei, who has been living for a lifetime, already has this ambition, she will support him without hesitation. No matter what xuanpei wants to do, she is always on xuanpei''s side. "My mother and concubine are worried," Xuan Pei said with a smile and shook his head. "To please my father and win his trust is just self-protection. With my father''s partiality, at least no one dares to touch me lightly. As for my father''s mind, I don''t want to speculate. I don''t know how it will develop in the future. The first thing I have to do now is to avenge my mother''s wife and myself. Although his surname is Xuan, it''s not his turn to control the whole world. " There was a touch of hostility in his words. Jiang Ruan wanted to comfort him, but he thought of himself. He is full of hostility, just for revenge and blood hatred. The injustice of the previous life is too tragic to forget in this life. She followed with a smile, said: "I will always protect you." After a while, Jiang Ruan couldn''t stay in Nanyuan for a long time, so they told xuanpei to be careful and leave by himself. After Jiang Ruan left, Mingyue came in and stood beside Xuan Pei. After a moment of silence, she suddenly said, "why didn''t your highness tell the princess the truth?" Whether Xuan Pei was intentional or unintentional to the world, at least in Mingyue''s eyes, he was not totally unintentional. Every step he does is to plan to win the country. Including how quietly asked the emperor''s concern. In addition, he began to win over a group of officials in the middle of the court. Although everything was done perfectly, in time, he would certainly be able to add a great help to the capture of the throne. Xuanpei would never answer such a question. He was indifferent in his heart. However, today, I don''t know whether he softened his attitude because of Jiang Ruan. He was mild and tired. He said: "she wants me to be an innocent prince. Why should I tear up this illusion and show her the ugly truth. One more day in her eyes, I''m just a child is also good. It''s just to protect the people I want to protect. "I want to protect Jiang Ruan from being hurt. First of all, we need to stand in a supreme position and trample on those who despise them. Only absolute power is absolute security. For the sake of Jiang Ruan, even if the road of the emperor is full of killing and blood, why not? Mingyue doesn''t speak any more. She knows that xuanpei won''t talk to her any more. She just retreats to one side in silence. But he said that Jiang Ruan was out of Nanyuan. Just a few steps later, he heard a strange voice: "Princess Hong''an." She turned around, only to see a few eunuchs around a person in grey came. The man was dressed in a long gray robe, and his hat almost covered his upper face. He could only see a delicate chin. His voice was indistinguishable between male and female. At first glance, it gave people a beautiful and strange feeling. "Your Excellency is..." She gave a little smile. This person does not call her Princess Jinying, but Princess Hong''an. This is the first time in the imperial palace of the great Jin Dynasty. "I''m Yuanchuan," said the man in grey with a smile. "I''ve come all the way from Tianjin. I''d like to offer my loyalty to your majesty." One side of the eunuch hastily explained: "if you go back to the princess, this Yuanchuan adult is an envoy of Tianjin." Jiang Ruan looked at Yuanchuan in front of him quietly. He only felt that he didn''t look like Tianjin people. He had a feeling that he couldn''t tell. He always made people feel uncomfortable. Yuanchuan faces him with his hat covering his eyes, which makes it impossible for people to see his face and guess his mind. "He used to be an envoy of the state of Tian Jin," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "The Jin Dynasty has a vast territory and abundant resources, so that the envoys can broaden their horizons. Jin Dynasty always welcomes guests. " The irony of what she said is that an envoy of a defeated country just came to bow down and submit a letter of surrender. Why do you have to look like a glorious man. In the words, it is the fact that Tianjin is a small country with short-sighted people. The two little eunuchs on one side turned blue. Although he was an emissary of the defeated country, he always had to show some respect for his face. It was said that the royal family of the great Jin Dynasty bullied others. Princess kehong''an is now the princess of Jinying. Naturally, she can''t offend her. For a moment, the two eunuchs are worried. They just hope that Yuanchuan is soft and doesn''t care too much about it. Yuanchuan was really soft. He didn''t show any anger in the face of Jiang Ruan''s words. Instead, he said with a smile: "I just saw the princess come out of Nanyuan. Yuanchuan knew that Nanyuan lived in the 13th Royal Highness. I didn''t expect that the relationship between the princess and the 13th Royal Highness was so deep, even if there was no blood thicker than water, it was still so deep." The faces of the two eunuchs turned white again. They just thought that Yuanchuan was soft. Looking at him now, they only felt that this man was detestable. This is to say that Jiang Ruan and Xuan Pei are just hypocritical, and even destroy Jiang Ruan''s reputation. If it hadn''t been for Jiang Ruan''s marriage, I don''t know how much trouble it would have caused if it had been spread. With a smile, Jiang Ruan seemed to have no idea of Yuan Chuan''s slander. There was a strange light on her beautiful face, but it disappeared in an instant. He said with a smile: "brother 13 asked our palace to look for some copies outside the palace. It happened that our Palace found them and sent them along with the things the Empress Dowager wanted to give him. Do you have any objection? " She moved the Empress Dowager Yide out, that is, she had already reserved her back hand. That "Yuanchuan adult" is really ironic. How can an envoy of the state of Tianjin discipline the family affairs of the royal family of the great Jin Dynasty? This hand is really too long. Yuanchuan didn''t speak for a long time, but the two eunuchs around him were already angry with him. His own country is determined not to be invaded by outsiders, and an envoy who dares to express his opinion on the Royal affairs has an ulterior motive. For a moment, Yuanchuan has committed public anger. After a long time, Yuanchuan said: "the princess is really gentle and kind, a good elder sister who loves her younger brother." He can''t find out anything, even if he has some doubts, but empress dowager Yide and the copy in her hand are the evidence, and no one can find out what is wrong. Jiang Ruan was very attentive to xuanpei, especially now xuanpei is staring at him in the palace. Jiang Ruan would never do anything that might be his handle. Even an ordinary meeting, also clean up, no one can grasp the handle. "Just like each other." Jiang Ruan smiles. Yuan Chuan slowly lowered his head and said: "in that case, Yuan Chuan will not disturb the princess to leave." After that, it''s a strange ceremony, which is mostly the etiquette of Tianjin kingdom. Jiang Ruan took a look at him and said with a smile, "the envoys also walk slowly." In the daytime, because of xuanpei''s affair, Jiang Ruan reorganized the affair. It''s a surprise to recognize xuanpei, and her sad mood because of the death of Angelica dahurica also becomes cheerful. Dewdrop is a little strange. Forsythia faintly knows that it''s related to xuanpei, but she doesn''t know why. After Jiang Ruan was in a cheerful mood, he even read a lot of the books he had piled up a few days ago. Staying in the study until late at night, forsythia came in and said, "girl, it''s time to have a rest." Jiang Ruan put down the pamphlet in his hand, rubbed his eyes, got up to wash and went back to his bedroom. Xiao Shao had already returned to the house, and now he was just taking off his outer clothes, only wearing a jade inner garment, leaning on the bed, turning a book.As soon as Jiang Ruan walked in, her steps were stiff. Before, she was in bed with Xiao Shao just because of the first night of her marriage. Later, she was poisoned again. When she returned to her house, her mind was completely out of the top because of Angelica dahurica. Now it''s over, but now it''s all piled up in front of you. It''s really embarrassing to be alone with Xiao Shao, especially in the name of husband and wife. The beauty under the lamp is as beautiful as jade. When Xiao Shao was wearing black clothes, he was always quiet. However, every time he took off his black clothes and changed into light colored clothes, that kind of coldness became a kind of elegant and noble, and the quiet became a kind of gentle and gorgeous. His black hair hung on his shoulder and his face was beautiful. He felt as if a piece of jade was shining. Aware of Jiang Ruan''s action, Xiao Shao looks up at her. Jiang Ruan walks to the bed and sits down as if nothing had happened. Xiao Shao slightly a Zheng, put the book in the hand on one side of the table, don''t understand of see to her. Jiang Ruan coughed softly, and then he was a little angry. How could it be that she wanted to be dissatisfied. She quickly abandoned the absurd idea in her mind. She pretended to be very calm and skillful, opened the quilt, lay in it, and covered it again. Turn your head and look at Xiao Shaoruo. Jiang Ruan''s face suddenly became feverish, and he was stunned when he thought of xuanpei''s saying that he was old and Xiao Shao was many. She looked at Xiao Shao and said, "I met Yuanchuan, an envoy of the state of Jin in the palace today." Xiao Shaoxin absent-minded "um" a. "He is not from Tianjin." Jiang Ruan frowned and said, without waiting for Xiao Shao to ask, "I deliberately belittled Tian Jin in front of him, but he didn''t respond at all." No matter how bad people are in the world, they can''t tolerate being bullied by others. In particular, the envoys, who represent the face of a country, will not let him humiliate his country so easily. If Yuanchuan was as soft as it seemed, the emperor of Tianjin would not have sent such a person to fight himself in the face. "You said that he was not a member of Tianjin kingdom. Could he be another spy? What''s the purpose of going to the palace. It''s like thirteen brothers doing something. " Jiang Ruan Wu said, suddenly found that Xiao Shao did not respond, can not help but angry: "are you listening?" As soon as the voice fell, he suddenly felt that his body was so heavy that he was thrown on the bed. Xiao Shao looked down at her with one hand holding up his body. He could not see clearly in his eyes. Jiang Ruan''s whole body was tense. For a moment, he was a little stunned. He didn''t know what to do. Xiao Shao replied slowly, "well, I''m listening." Some of his soft and smooth ink hair hung on Jiang Ruan''s face, tickling his heart. His eyebrows and eyes were picturesque, his long eyelashes were straight and slightly trembling, his thin lips were gently pursed, and his breath was like nothing. Jiang Ruan could almost hear his powerful heartbeat. A pressing sense of oppression can not be ignored so suddenly hit, but also with an imperceptible ambiguity. She said, "you. You get up. It''s too heavy. " She didn''t know the scenery when she said this. She was so bright and gorgeous. Now, with the movement of the quilt, she opened her neckline slightly, and could see the scarlet belly pocket. Her face is charming and charming, just like a newly opened rose. Two threads of purples appear on her white face, which is more moving than the best rouge. And lips not point and Zhu, as if to attract people to a pro Fangze like. Xiao shaoben just wanted to tease her. He thought it was very interesting to see the girl who was indifferent and killed everywhere. Don''t want to now beauty so, Rao is cold hearted, he looked at the scene in front of him also can''t be indifferent, breathing is actually gradually rapid up, head gradually toward her. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were wide open. For a moment, she was at a loss. When she and Xuan Li thought they were in the strongest love, they were just holding hands with each other. I have never been so close to a man, and I don''t know how to fight. Heart a horizontal, simply close your eyes, a nervous heart almost to jump out. Don''t want that kiss in the end didn''t fall down, ear heard Xiao Shao gently laugh, Jiang Ruan suddenly lift eyes, found Xiao Shao looking at her can''t help but smile, seems to think she is so interesting. Jiang Ruan angrily broke away and felt very shameless. In the end, he glared at Xiao Shao again, grabbed the quilt and wrapped himself from head to foot. Xiao Shao helpless, across the quilt will hold her: "careful stuffy." Jiang Ruan didn''t want to pay attention to him. Xiao Shao said in a low voice, "Ruan, I''m wrong. I''m nervous." This words is really too shameless, Jiang Ruan again "Huo" sit up, pull off the quilt and stare at her. Xiao Shao is now more and more interested in Jiang Ruan. No matter how cold and exquisite he is outside, at least he can see this side, and he can''t help but feel proud. Jiang Ruan was his handsome face to see is really no temper, cold voice way: "tomorrow borrow me Jinsan, I have something to do." "Good." Xiao Shao did not think about it and agreed: "they are all your people, you don''t have to tell me." "You''re my man, too?" Jiang Ruan asked, squinting at him. "I''m your man." Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing again. No shame Jiang Ruan couldn''t remember how he slept at night. He just felt that they were a step closer than before. At least now there was one more person on the couch, so he felt more at ease. She is getting used to Xiao Shao''s feeling. But in the early morning, housekeeper Lin came in singing a little song while Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were having dinner. He carefully searched the whole bed and made sure that he didn''t see the trace he wanted. He was depressed and went away with his head drooping.Xiao Shao will go out to work after dinner. Jiang Ruan stays in the house. Jin San rushes over after hearing the orders. Looking at Jiang Ruan who is sorting out the pamphlets on his chair, he says, "what do you want Jin San to do Jiang Ruan tells Jin San exactly what he wants to do. After hearing this, Jin San is stunned: "does the young lady not tell the young master?" "He probably already knew that I was going to do this thing," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "Today I heard that he asked people to take charge of the case department." "The young lady''s action is so big that it is bound to attract people''s attention. Although these words don''t need to be taken seriously, can Jin San dare to ask, why does the young lady want to do it at this time? Does it mean something else? " Jin San asked. Jiang Ruan smile, but did not hide from her: "this thing I always want to do, but sooner or later. At this time, it was just because I was tired of it. On the surface, my spearhead was aimed at him, but in fact it was aimed at the one in the palace. The more I make things worse, the more flustered she is. I''m forcing her to do it, because she''s careful and can''t get hold of it, so I can''t find a chance. People make mistakes only when they are flustered. I only want her to take the initiative to send the handle of mistakes to me when I do all this. " Jin three thought for a while, finally understood her meaning, surprise way: "little madam good clever." She thought: "but today there is bound to be another tough battle to fight, young lady don''t need the master to accompany you?" Now the royal guards are really convinced of Jiang Ruan. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan didn''t want to escape and guard Jinying Palace by himself in a critical moment, but also to hide their strength. The royal guards are full of respect for such a woman. People are meat long, but whenever she has something to do, she is willing to help each other. "No need." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I am also the hostess of the palace. I can''t do this well. I''m too soft. It''s my own business. I can handle it. As for Xiao Shao, he will be busy in the future. " Her bright eyes seem to surge with a strange emotion, like the impulse to try, but also like some ironic heartbreak, complex entanglement together, let her beauty show a kind of determined cruelty. At the moment, the unjust drum was thumped heavily at the entrance of the Department of criminal justice. There were more and more people around to watch the scene. It almost blocked the whole entrance of the Department of criminal justice. And the two young women who beat the drum on the left and right sides were all angry. I do not know how long, there is a man in official uniform came out, shouting: "who fight injustice drum?" "The slaves beat the drum for the eldest daughter of the Chiang family. The writ is on the top. I beg the Lord for a clear trial. The murderer of the first lady of the Shangshu mansion is the real murderer!" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 198 The crowd was in an uproar. The farce of Shangshu mansion was well known in the capital a few years ago. At the beginning, Xia Yan was born with a clear background, and he was born with both virtue and art. Later, he was picked out. In fact, he was disgusted by his shame. At the moment, I heard what the two girls said, and it was like throwing a stone in the calm lake water, rippling. Some of them are a little older, and they recall Zhao Meilai, the former wife of Shangshu mansion. In fact, those who have some impression on Zhao Mei are still very fond of her. Zhao Mei was born beautiful, simple and kind-hearted, and often helped the poor when she married into Shangshu mansion. She never dislikes the poor and loves the rich, and she doesn''t put on the airs of an expensive woman. She is so approachable and astonishing. However, all these good reputations finally came to the head of Shangshu mansion, which added a lot of chips to Jiang Quan''s official career. At the beginning, the reputation of Chiang Kai Shek''s incorruptness among the common people was not necessarily without Zhao Mei''s credit. But later Zhao Mei gradually faded out of people''s vision, and then there was a gentle and virtuous Xia Yan with the name of a talented woman. In addition, Jiang Quan intended to promote her. People only remember that the present lady of shangshufu is Xia Yan, not Zhao Mei. At the moment, as soon as the two girls mentioned it, someone thought of the beautiful and kind young woman at the beginning. In the end, there was something good in her heart. Someone who wanted to fight against injustice said, "Oh, which is the key to her premature life? The first lady is a kind and good person." The official came forward to take the number one in Forsythia''s hand, and took a look at the crowd. Now the princess Hong''an is hot. There is Jinying palace behind this big backer, is to listen to the name of Jiang Ruan, but also dare not neglect. After only a few drinks, the crowd was not allowed to make any noise and took the champion to walk in. Generally speaking, it takes a day for the case division to hear a case. On weekdays, ordinary cases should be heard directly in the yamen, unless the noble family has a big grievance to sue, and they are afraid that the accused person has too much power, and the Yamen people intervene in the case and decide unfairly. The case division can also choose whether to try the case or not. After all, there are too many twists and turns in rich and noble families. If one is not careful, he will get into trouble. Today, however, since an official dares to settle the complaint, it is obvious that he has been called by the adults long before. When he takes over the case, he is going to try it. The crowd around him will know that there will be another scene to watch tomorrow. Dewdrop was not enough, so she said in a loud voice: "Xia Yan, concubine of Shangshu''s house, poisoned his mother, murdered his son and daughter, and the means were cruel. As the head of the family, Jiang Shangshu pretended to be deaf and pushed the boat. My mother died, but she said she was ill and died. Please try the case carefully, and give my lady and my wife a clean and fair The crowd that was about to disperse was boiling again. Dewdrop''s words broke out a shocking scandal. As a matter of fact, there are many cases in which the concubines of big families plot to kill the upper members of the main family. But if Jiang Quanming knew what happened but pretended to be deaf and dumb, and even acquiesced in Xia Yan''s practice, this would be the first time. Any official in the capital who has some reputation and is not a fool will definitely not let this happen. It''s just that once it''s exposed, it''s a huge stain. Women''s fight in the backyard is jealous. Men should not be involved in it, especially when they do things that fall into the pit. A man can be so cruel to his hairy wife, and there is no human nature to speak of. For example, before Jiang Quan was just a ridiculous person who couldn''t deal with the affairs in the backyard. Now when dewdrop''s words come out, Jiang Quan will become the representative of an ugly man in the capital. He is not only benevolent but also vicious in the bottom of his heart. What''s more, he has a determination to abandon his own flesh and blood. It''s one in a million to be a parent. Dewdrop and forsythia look at each other and smile, both of them have a kind of heartbreaking and evil spirit. They have been with Jiang Ruan for many years, and they have a clear idea of how Jiang Quan treats him. It''s better not to have such a father. The injustice of Zhao Mei''s death, and the status of Jiang Ruan''s brothers and sisters in Shangshu mansion have changed from being bullied to not being underestimated. Now it''s a little revenge, and they are very happy. Princess Hong''an sued her father, but in a short time it spread all over the capital. Xia Yan and Xia family are gone, and Jiang Chao and Jiang Susu are dead. Naturally, there is no proof of death. However, the only Jiang Quan is still alive, which is tantamount to pointing all the spearheads at Jiang Quan. In the palace, Jiang Ruan looked at the sun in the sky. Early in the morning, the snow stopped, even a little bit of the sun, the weather is good, she slowly picked up a cup of tea, sipped, just to the side of Jin three and Tianzhu way: "go, time is almost the same." Tianzhu got up, put the silver rat fur cape on her, put a heater in her hand, and then followed her out of the door. Shangshu mansion is very busy today. Since the death of Jiang Chao, no, it should be said that many years ago, when Jiang Quan''s official career began to go downhill, Shangshu mansion is no longer as busy as it used to be. When Jiang Quan was a fish in water in the court, people came to visit him every day, and there were too many posts in the room to put on the table. Jiang Quan discussed the current situation in the middle of the Korean Dynasty with the senior officials and nobles. Xia Yan exchanged greetings and joked with the ladies. They were all exquisite people, and the whole Jiang family heard a lot of laughter. At that time, Jiang Su Su Su was still a fairy who did not follow the common customs. In the garden, he could play a piece of konghou to attract people to stop and linger. How many aristocratic children are bewildered by the beautiful sound of the piano. They stand in the corner of the outer wall and listen to the music. They fall in love with the beauty. And Jiang Chao always came back from the Imperial College and talked with his new family.At that time, Mrs. Jiang was still alive. The second aunt and Jiang Li were angry with Xia Yan every day, and Jiang Dan was timid in the room. In the end, it was a piece of prosperity. People have speculated that the seemingly clean Shangshu mansion will become the mainstay of the imperial court one day. Because they''re loyal enough, and there''s no mistake. All this prosperity seemed to be yesterday, and the excitement had nothing to do with Jiang Ruan, as if their mother and son had never been strangers. Later, when she came, the Shangshu mansion seemed to be infected by evil and gradually declined. The glory of the past is no longer there, and people have said that it''s not that the time has not come, but God is watching. The reason planted by Shangshu mansion in the past has finally caused the evil result of today. In recent years, there have been frequent accidents in Jiang''s house. Now, Jiang Ruan''s complaint tears the real cause to the public. The common people are simple and direct in mind. Some people directly blocked the door of Shangshu mansion and threw eggs, vegetables and leaves at the door. When the guards of Jiang mansion came out to stop them, they were also scolded as bloody. They did not dare to fight any more, so they had to close the door in the anger of the people. It was difficult for them to offend. When they were filled with righteous indignation, they saw a carriage coming slowly from the crowd, and the crowd automatically divided into two groups. The carriage was exquisite, but it didn''t last long. It had a deep aesthetic feeling. The driver was a tall and handsome young man. At first sight, he knew that he was a rich family. People just look at it, they seem to feel that the people in the carriage are rich or expensive. Seeing that it''s coming to shangshufu, they keep silent and wait. The carriage finally stopped, the curtain was lifted, and two tall young women jumped out of it. The two stooped and picked up a woman from the carriage. The woman was dressed in a scarlet velvet embroidered jacket and a bright emerald crepe skirt. The red and green color of the dress was not gaudy. On the contrary, it had a striking beauty. He wore a gold and silver rat hair cape over his head and a heater in his hand. His skin was as white as jade, and his face was very beautiful. He only wore a quiet pony bun, which made the gorgeous color a little heavier. A pair of eyes of water amazing, just plain eyes, teach the soul stirring bright show a bit of inhospitality and indifference. Someone in the crowd recognized her and exclaimed, "that''s the eldest daughter of the Chiang family, Princess Hong''an!" Jiang''s daughter, this is her first name. Even if she was Princess Jinying and Princess Hong''an, she was the daughter of the Jiang family. It is thought-provoking to be here at this moment. Everyone knows that she just sent her own girl to take charge of the case this morning. What''s she doing in Shangshu mansion now? They all wanted to see what she would do next. Jiang Ruan Chong and Tianzhu winked. Tianzhu understood, so she went to the gate of Shangshu mansion and knocked on it three times. Her action was polite and gentle. She didn''t come to find fault. Instead, she looked like a guest. She was very polite. Then she said respectfully, "please let me know. My princess will return to her mansion today." Since Jiang Ruan married into Jinying palace, he was poisoned before he could return to Nanjing. But even so, Shangshu mansion is not a long way from Jinying mansion. If you have a heart, you can always send someone to ask. Unexpectedly, Jiang Quan was able to keep silent and never mentioned it. As if she had no daughter at all, when Tianzhu mentioned guining, the people around her took a breath. I had known that Chiang Kai Shek''s daughter was not very close to Chiang Kai Shek''s power, but it was a joke that she had been married for such a long time. When the people in the house didn''t respond, Tianzhu carefully retreated behind Jiang Ruan, and the three stood quietly at the door of Jiang Ruan''s house. The crowd around them murmured, but they were also shocked by Jiang Ruan''s coldness at this moment. Because her eyes were deep at the moment, as if she was not looking at Jiang''s house, but through the door of Jiang''s house for a long time. Jiang Ruan''s thoughts went back to the last life. It was such a snowy day that she returned to Jiang''s house from Zhuangzi for the first time. This is his own home, but it seems to be under the fence, standing at the door of Shangshu house is both nervous and happy. She was dressed in rags. There were people around her pointing at her and speculating about her identity. She felt ashamed and shameless. At the door, Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su dressed up to greet her. The more gentle and elegant they are, the more vulgar she is. Just under the plaque of Jiang''s house, the closed door opened, and all kinds of injuries and humiliations poured out from it. From the gate of Jiang''s mansion to the gate of Shen Gong, she was more and more embarrassed. The picture of the previous life is like a joke, which reminds her of the unforgettable past all the time. Now? Jiang Ruan raised his head and his eyes fell on the huge plaque of Shangshu mansion. It was a plaque given by the late emperor, the pride of Jiang Quan, but I don''t know when it was covered with dust. Xia Yan''s favorite thing in his former life was to ask his servants to wipe the plaque clean, as if it represented the glory of the Jiang family. Now the Chiang family is about to collapse. When she returned to Jiang''s house in this life, she vowed to kill all the people who had hurt her relatives in her previous life. She planted a seed of revenge here. Now the seed has already broken the ground and grown into a towering tree. With a little more effort, she can uproot the huge grave that buried her and her family. I don''t know how long after that, the door creaked open. Behind the servant behind the door, slowly out of a man in official clothes, his face is gloomy, staring at Jiang Ruan.Maybe Jiang Quan had not yet changed his clothes, or he wanted to use his clothes to suppress Jiang Ruan''s momentum. It''s just that it''s really haggard. Jiang Ruan smile, polite greeting: "father, long time no see." Long time no see, Jiang Quan and Jiang Ruan impression of the middle-aged man is almost different. He has lost a lot of weight, and his skin is very dark. His cheekbones on both sides are deeply sunken. He is surprisingly thin, and his whole body has shown an old state. Jiang Quan has always been a man who pays attention to appearance. At the beginning, he was as young and elegant as he was when he was thirty years old. Now it''s a man who is not so good-looking, and maybe he''s a bit decadent. as like as two peas in the same eyes, Chiang Kai Shek sneered at "the same," you still see my Chiang family in my eyes? Jiang Ruan nodded: "I always keep my father in my heart. I never dare to forget him." How dare you forget blood feud and shame? Her lips slightly Yang: "but the father does not seem to like the daughter so just." The meaning of these words is to accuse Jiang Quan of being unkind to his father. He was so angry that he said, "I''ve shortened your food and clothing. Don''t forget that I''m still your father! How did you grow up without me? Now the wings are hard, and someone supports you. It''s your father! This is the wild rule learned from the wild places in the mountains Jiang Quan, a scholar of his own identity, has never spoken so politely that outsiders have never seen him swear so vulgar. At the moment, I was very anxious, but I didn''t choose what to say. I saw the real appearance in the crowd around me. "No father, no me." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "thanks to my father, when my mother was still alive, my elder brother and I only saw my father dozens of times in a year, but aunt Xia''s second sister and elder brother stayed with my father all day. The second brother could enter his father''s study, but the elder brother even invited the master himself by his mother. The second sister has the best mother of Qin, Qi, calligraphy and painting, but I was taught by my mother herself - but my mother came from a military family and knew nothing about them. Father, do you want to say that it''s because you are considerate of your mother''s heart that you want me and my elder brother to stay around all the time? " This is full of irony, Jiang Quan''s face slowly red, immediately to retort: "this..." "But it''s a pleasure to be with my mother, and it''s nothing. I don''t love music, chess, calligraphy and painting. My elder brother doesn''t learn to be a civil servant now. All this is thanks to my father''s foresight. " There was a trace of irony in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, and he continued: "it''s just that my elder brother is ill and wants to see a doctor at night, but aunt Xia insists that my father has gone to bed. Tomorrow, my mother has to warm my elder brother with her body all night. If it''s not for her fate, my elder brother can''t be safe now. What''s the father going to explain Without waiting for Jiang Quan to speak, Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "my father''s business is busy. I can save it. So when my mother was seriously ill, my father didn''t come, and when I was dying, my father didn''t come either. Only the day when Aunt Xia helped me to put the dish on the table, my father took my second brother and sister and laughed happily. My elder brother left home angrily, but I was sent to Chuang Tzu. " She chuckled gently: "why was sent to Chuang Tzu? Did her father remember? Because a Taoist said that I was a lonely star of Tiansha, Kefu and Kemu. But five years later, I returned to Beijing. The Taoist did the same trick again and was found out to be a liar. Father still remember who was the employer behind the Taoist priest? It was my father''s favorite concubine, and then my mother, aunt Xia. " She said long and sighed, but the people around her were frightened. Even a little girl would not let it go. Xia Yan''s mind was too cruel. "Does my father want to say that he doesn''t know about it at all? I''m afraid there are many things that my father doesn''t know. For example, on the day when my elder brother returned to Beijing, he was ambushed in the woods, but he wanted to kill him. If general Guan hadn''t come to the rescue at that time, I''m afraid it would have been a disaster. Who does the father know? Naturally, my father doesn''t know, because it''s also my father''s favorite concubine, aunt Xia. " Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "my father wants to be an honest and upright official, but he can''t even know the people beside his pillow. It''s really painful for my daughter to look at him." Some people around him sneered and gave some advice. They only said, "it turns out that Shangshu mansion is such a tiger hole and dragon pool. No wonder general Jiang wants to be a warrior. Otherwise, how can he protect himself and his sister? I''m afraid there are no bones left for him!" Xia Yan''s mind was so vicious that he wanted to keep even Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang Ruan. I don''t know what old grudge Zhao Mei had with her. If such a cruel woman said that Jiang Quan didn''t know anything, she really looked down upon the official of the third grade. If we don''t believe it, we just turn a blind eye. If we say that Jiang Quan pushed Zhao Mei''s death along with the current, it would be a reputation of being a wolf. But even his own sons and daughters all work together. If they don''t know, it''s really hard to understand. It is said that tiger poison does not eat son. Is Jiang Quan''s heart beaten by iron? "You. What the hell are you talking about? " Jiang Quan became angry because he was afraid that Jiang Ruan would reveal more secrets: "you talk nonsense without evidence. Who taught you to say that and insult my Shangshu mansion? What is his purpose? " Jiang Quan was an old fox. He quickly thought that it would lead to people''s doubts. As the son and daughter of Shangshu mansion, Jiang Ruan naturally won''t wronged his father for no reason, but what if someone gives advice behind his back? Now that Jiang Ruan is married to King Jinying, the person behind him naturally refers to Xiao Shao.There was a flash of anger in Tianzhu''s and Jinsan''s eyes. At this time, Jiang Quan even wanted to bite. It''s a crime to forgive. Jiang Ruan smile: "father, these are not important. When my aunt in early summer asked someone to prescribe medicine to my mother, I naturally had evidence. My mother told me since childhood, don''t climb and bite others All of a sudden, there was another burst of laughter. Jiang Quan thought that Jiang Ruan was just bluffing. After so many years, Jiang Ruan was just a child and didn''t know anything. Now that Xia Yan is dead, there is no evidence. Jiang Quan was not worried, but after Jiang Ruan''s quarrel, he realized that his face today had been lost. He was furious and said, "do you really want to do this? Evil daughter, how dare you sue your father? Where is the word filial piety? Where is my father? " In this world, in any case, a cap with the word "filial piety" is always going to crush off several layers of skin. No matter how ruthless Jiang Quan may be, he is Jiang Ruan''s father by blood. There is no such thing as a daughter suing his father. Even if your parents want you to die, you have to suffer. Because this is the code of ethics, and it is the rule that all people in the world should follow. Seeing that Jiang and Ruan did not speak, Jiang Quan felt a little proud in his eyes. He only felt that his waist was more straight, and he felt more confident. "Don''t forget, you are my blood! Without me, where did you come from? " The crowd around him was silent. Indeed, even if what Jiang Ruan said was true, his views on Jiang Ruan were very complicated when he denounced Jiang Quan for being merciless. It''s a shocking thing to sue my father, and there are some different opinions about Jinying palace. Jiang Ruan, as a child, has done such a thing, which is not too much. Even if this lawsuit won in the end, Jiang Ruan, who was left behind, had to face the strange eyes of the people. Jiang Ruan was not influenced by people''s eyes at all. She was graceful in the cold wind. It was a brave gesture that could not be blown by any strong wind. It seemed that she would never compromise. And the words were cold and hard, and slowly knocked into people''s ears: "indeed, father, you gave me life, without you, there would be no me. You gave me half the blood and bone, but God knows, "she sneered," how disgusting I am. " Before her voice fell, she saw a delicate dagger in her hand. People were surprised, but they didn''t know what she was going to do. Then they saw that the dagger was lightly scratched on the back of her hand, and big drops of blood came out, blooming brightly in the snow. Her smile was gorgeous and cruel, her words were cold and resolute, and she opened her lips in front of Jiang Quan''s gaping eyes: "now, I''ll give it back to you." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 199 People around him were silent and stared at Jiang Ruan in disbelief. In the world, there is a woman who has a strong determination, but there is no one as determined as she does. Since the Jin Dynasty opened up its territory, Jiang Ruan was the first. Jinsan and Tianzhu stand quietly behind Jiang Ruan, their eyes fluctuate slightly, but no one comes forward to stop them. Jiang Ruan had told them his plan long before. That''s why she didn''t tell Xiao Shao about it immediately. Once Xiao Shao knew that she had made this decision, she would certainly stop her. Although Jin San was a member of Xiao Shao, he was obedient to Jiang Ruan from the bottom of his heart. As a husband, Xiao Shao wanted to protect his wife. But Jin San also knew that Jiang Ruan''s method was the best. It was a kind of courage to announce to the world that the monk Shufu had broken up. It was impossible for Jiang Quan to threaten her with his blood. It may take a lot of courage for her to cut off the last bit of involvement of the monk Shufu, but you can see how much she hates the fact that her surname is Jiang. Jiang Quan clenched his teeth tightly, and the blue veins on his forehead burst up. If he had not been in full view at the moment, he would have wanted to kill Jiang Ruan. What''s more, Jiang Ruan''s actions also made him feel a little flustered. He stabbed himself like this. What Jiang Ruan revealed in her eyes was indifference and hatred. She didn''t care if she was Jiang''s family at all. All along, Jiang Quan regarded Jiang Ruan as a dispensable daughter. She was born by Zhao Mei, which reminded him of the oppressive days. He hated Jiang Ruan and deliberately ignored her. He knew that Jiang Ruan was soft and easy to handle, just like a dog or a cat kept in the house. He kept it everyday just to be useful one day. As long as she eased up a little, she would wag her tail happily. But I don''t know from when, the cat and dog in this house also grow sharp claws and teeth. When she came back from Chuang Tzu, she became eccentric. She seemed calm and calm, and she did not rely on the whole Chiang''s house as before. Jiang Quan didn''t care. Even though Jiang Su Su of the Xia family seemed to have something to do with Jiang Ruan, he firmly believed that no cat or dog would destroy his nest. After all, Jiang Ruan needs a family. Her only family member is Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang Quan. And as long as there is this blood relationship, Jiang Ruan will never be able to stir up much trouble. As long as he talks about filial piety, Jiang Ruan will always be at the disadvantage of justice. But how dare she? Jiang Quan''s eyes were red, as if he were on the verge of death. The woman''s smile is as beautiful and cruel as man Zhu Sha Hua in the legend, just like the skin of a beauty growing out of her bones. And the blood between the wrists, silent in the snow dense out of a large flower, she seems to have no pain. How can a person who is indifferent to life and death be trapped by the little word of filial piety? At this moment, Jiang Quan knew that Jiang Ruan was not ready to turn back. The burning light in her eyes was hatred. She hated this Shangshu mansion, and she really hated the blood of Jiang flowing in her body. At this moment, Jiang Quan was speechless. He did not know what he could do. He could only stare at Jiang Ruan without blinking. Until the bloodstain on the ground had almost dyed the small place where Jiang Ruan was standing, her face became paler and paler. Suddenly, she heard the sound of horse''s hooves coming from far and near. A figure mixed with snowflakes aroused by the wind flashed in front of Jiang Ruan almost instantaneously. The man, who had just arrived from the barracks, was still dressed in military uniform, and his eyes were cold and frosty. One of Jiang Xin pulled Jiang Ruan and said angrily, "Ruan, what are you doing?" Before her voice fell, another black figure appeared beside her. Xiao Shao''s eyes were surprisingly cold. He only glanced at Jiang Quan and said nothing. However, Jiang Quan felt a deep pressure. He turned his head, took up Jiang Ruan''s hand without saying a word, took the medicine bottle and bandage in dark Wei''s hand, and carefully applied the medicine to Jiang Ruan. He didn''t say anything. He pursed his lips tightly. He was serious and handsome. Some young girls recognized him and began to talk: "isn''t that King Jinying? I think it''s a special trip to support the princess. " "No," someone retorted, "the king of Jin Ying is a man who doesn''t mean to be lonely. You can see that he is too gentle to treat the princess. There is no saying of cold side. " Jiang Ruan felt guilty when he saw Xiao Shao coming so soon. But today''s matter she must have, even if Xiao Shao is also unable to change her determination, then shook her head and said: "don''t bother, I will return this half of his blood." This is full of irony, but as soon as she finished, Jiang Xinzhi took a big step forward. Although he inherited Zhao Mei''s bright and handsome appearance, the longer he lived in the army these years, the more he developed a kind of iron and steel temperament. At the moment in the snow, like a statue, immediately like a mountain in front of Jiang Ruan. He fixed his eyes on Jiang Quan, and he could not help feeling guilty under the sharp sword like eyes. Jiang Xinzhi suddenly laughed and said, "why didn''t my sister call me to do this? I''m also the son of the Jiang family, and I''m half of the blood of the Jiang family. In the same way, I hate it. Since I''m a man, I don''t want to let my sister bleed. " He arched his hands to the crowd around him: "please do your personal identification. I will return my sister''s blood for her!"Having said that, Jiang Xinzhi did not hesitate to take the dagger from Jiang Ruan''s hand and cut the back of his hand. His hand was heavier than Jiang Ruan''s, and his blood almost spattered out. Jiang Ruan couldn''t help but be surprised. Subconsciously, he would stretch out his hand to bandage his wound. The crowd was quiet for a few seconds, and suddenly someone clapped and said, "OK! If you are a man "Fast! Protecting his sister like this is the God of war in the great Jin Dynasty Jiang Xinzhi already has a good reputation among the people. At this moment, his expression is open and aboveboard, and his behavior of protecting his sister from injustice is even more admirable. If we say that Jiang Ruan''s practice just now makes us feel that it is a little too much. But Jiang Xinzhi is very different. People felt that the God of war, who could make this just gentleman, was so disgusted. This Shangshu mansion was not a clean place indeed. I was afraid that it was too much deceiving. Jiang Quan was almost aroused by Jiang Xin. He looked up at the tall young man in front of him. In my memory, the child who always wanted to please him was gone. Today, Jiang Xinzhi is very sharp. As a courtier, even he would be shocked by Jiang Xinzhi''s prestige. But when the two brothers and sisters joined hands to deal with him, they really violated Jiang Quan''s taboo. He covered his chest with one hand and gasped, pointing to Jiang Xin''s way: "great treason, no way...". Great treason A trace of disdain flashed over Jiang Xin''s face. Such a father, even if he didn''t want to. Since he was born, he has not been able to fulfill his father''s responsibilities. What he gave them was endless humiliation and pain. At present, he has to use the word "filial piety" to defeat Jiang Ruan. He just loves his sister. He is forced to hurt himself and make a clear relationship with Jiang Ruan. Since Jiang Ruan wants to do so, how can he not agree? Jiang Ruan frowned. She didn''t expect Jiang Xinzhi to come. There''s nothing wrong with Jiang Xinzhi. But as the commander-in-chief of the first army, it is inevitable that his actions today will be said by his colleagues in the DPRK in the future. If someone deliberately wants to fall into the well, maybe they will take it as a raft. Think of here, can''t help but some remorse. I should have found a reason to hide him before. I don''t want to leak the news so soon. Just thinking about it, Xiao Shao patted her hand, Jiang Ruan looked up at him, and Xiao Shao walked forward. He was dressed in black beside Jiang Ruan in his scarlet dress. He was not out of place at all. The mixture of black and red showed a kind of cool gorgeous. Jiang Quan didn''t want to have a head-on collision with him, but he couldn''t swallow it. His tone was not good and he said, "is there something you want to tell me? It''s just that the old minister teaches his children, so they don''t have to worry about the housework. " "Ah Ruan is my wife." Xiao Shao didn''t seem to hear Jiang Quan''s words. He said faintly, "husband and wife are one. She wants to return Jiang Shangshu''s blood. I''ll replace him." As soon as he said this, he saw a delicate dagger sliding out of his sleeve. He turned it in his hand, and then aimed it at the back of his hand. When Jiang Ruan came to the mouth, Xiao Shao did it for her, but more importantly, it blocked the possibility that someone would want to run Jiang Xinzhi in the future. Because of King Jinying''s presence, Jiang Xinzhi would not be a sign of public attack. At least people in the world would not first think of their brother and sister''s aggressiveness. Two men stand side by side in the snow, on the ground is dense blood, one beautiful, cool and elegant, one bright and handsome, resolute as a mountain. The picture is surprisingly harmonious. The snow falls silently, and the perceptual woman in the crowd moistens her eyes, covers her mouth and murmurs: "if you get this brother, if you get this husband, what do you want?" Jiang Ruan slowly lowered his eyes. He didn''t feel any pain in his hand, but he felt sour and astringent in his heart. Two excellent men in this world are bleeding for her. How can she make people sacrifice for her in this life? When he raised his eyes again, Jiang Ruan''s eyes were calm. She looked at Jiang Quan who didn''t know how to end up, and said with a smile: "father, after we have enough blood today, our brother and sister have nothing to do with the Jiang family. From then on, we are no longer members of the Jiang family. Father and son have done their good and righteousness, and their kindness and righteousness have been cut off! " Even after many years, when people in Beijing talk about it, they can''t help but sigh. The face of the woman in red in the snow and the back of the two men are deeply engraved on everyone present. That inadvertently revealed the charm, already enough people relish a lifetime, no matter when it will never fade. That night, when Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi went back, their faces turned a little pale, but they couldn''t see anything else. Both of them have been fighting for so many years, and they have the foundation to practice martial arts. Although they are half flesh and blood, how can they be sure. It''s a gimmick. You can stop it when it''s good. Jiang Ruan never did business at a loss. As early as before, he had more blood bags made of chicken blood in his sleeves. Even if Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi don''t come at last, she will have a way to retreat. Later, she let Tianzhu Jinsan help Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi to plug the blood bag in. In the end, she was stunned by the "half body" blood. Jiang Quan''s angry people turned upside down, but there was nothing he could do. He could only watch them drop the sentence of "no more relationship" and go away in a carriage. Now Jiang Xinzhi doesn''t go back to Shangshu''s residence. The new residence given by the emperor hasn''t been built, so he just went to the general''s residence. Now he has a good relationship with Zhao Guang. When he talks about the art of war, he always seems to be a close friend. After Jiang Xinzhi left, only Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were left in the carriage. Xiao Shao didn''t say a word, and he didn''t know what he was thinking, but he made Jiang Ruan feel guilty.It''s so easy to go back to the palace. As soon as Xiao Shao enters the palace, housekeeper Lin greets him and is about to speak. Xiao Shao says, "young lady has been hurt by a knife. Let Xia Wu boil some medicine." Housekeeper Lin was stunned, and his face immediately wrinkled: "injured again? Oh, my young lady, how can you get hurt every day? If the Lord and his wife in the sky saw this, they would complain that we Jinying palace didn''t take good care of you. Jin San Tian Zhu, you don''t want to stay in the royal guards, do you? I can''t do a good job in protecting the young lady. Can I take over the task in the future? Sooner or later, the reputation of the royal guards will be ruined by you two girls! " Jin San and Tian Zhu don''t open their eyes. But Jiang Ruan didn''t have the heart to grin with housekeeper Lin. he just followed Xiao Shao back to the house with his head down. Jin er jumped down from the tree and said, "master, are you angry with the young lady? Look, it''s not very happy. " Jin Si just finished eating a fruit and wiped his mouth. After hearing Jin Er''s words, he immediately took out a silver bowl from his arms and said, "open a bet, open a bet, buy big and buy small. Make a bet on who will take the initiative to admit his mistake first. " "I''m the buyer." Tianzhu was a very serious person in ordinary days, and basically would not take part in such gambling. Today, for the first time, he found a silver coin from his sleeve: "a man as calm as the young lady, whose master loves her, naturally can''t bear to be angry with her all the time. As long as the young lady frowns, the master will not be angry. " She said this solemnly, and Jin Er laughed and said, "Tianzhu, you are the servant girl of the young lady. Now you are full of the shadow of the young lady. I didn''t see you worship the little Lord so much at the beginning. " Tianzhu gave him a white look and said, "young lady is worthy of my admiration." "Yes, it''s up to you." Brocade two waved a hand, way: "I buy young madam initiative and good." As he felt out a silver note and threw it into the bowl, he said: "the young master is a man. No matter how much he hurts his wife, men always have self-respect. How can we take the initiative to coax women? They will spoil women. No matter how to say it, it''s our little Lord. When did you see him admit his mistake? " After thinking about it, Jin San took out some pearls and threw them into the bowl. He said, "I''ll buy the young master. The young lady is not an ordinary woman. I always feel that the young master is determined by the young lady. Ah, look what I do. I''m a woman, too. Women''s intuition tells me. " On one side, Jin Yi silently picked up the knife and was about to leave. He was held by Jin Si Yi: "Hey, you also said, Jin Yi, which one do you want to buy?" Jin looked at the bowl and silently took out a gold ingot from his sleeve. He only said three words: "support the master." He turned around and left with a knife on his shoulder. "That''s very kind of you." Jin Er gave a thumbs up and was slapped aside by housekeeper Lin. seeing the gold, silver and jewelry in the bowl, he was furious: "I said that gambling in the palace is not allowed to make such a bad atmosphere! I want the master to hold your moon! Why don''t you go to boil the medicine soon No matter how the royal guards mingle in private, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao don''t feel it. After entering the room, Xiao Shao said nothing. He just sat at his desk and looked for a book to read. Jiang Ruan thought that he was angry. Only Xiao Shaoping day angry and not angry are a pair of expression, although can''t see, but still can feel his displeasure. She thought about it. It was her own fault. Anyone would be unhappy if his wife kept it from her. She has always been very magnanimous about these things. When she knew that she was wrong, she wanted to admit it. But Xiao Shao didn''t talk to her all the time, and Jiang Ruan was in trouble. I just feel that Xiao Shao is like Xuan Pei who was angry with her in his previous life. But xuanpei just needs to be angry and make some sweet cakes with him to praise him for his cleverness. Now go to tell Xiao Shao that you are my little darling? Jiang Ruan had a cold war. After a while, she finally got up and went to Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao didn''t lift her head, and her eyes only fell on the page in front of her. Jiang Ruan moved a chair from one side and sat down beside him. He said softly, "Xiao Shao, how do you know I went to Shangshu mansion?" "Jin Er checked it." Xiao Shao light answer, still did not turn his eyes to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan nodded: "I was wrong about today. I shouldn''t have kept it from you. " She recognized the mistake so quickly that she hardly hesitated. She always speaks directly in front of familiar people and doesn''t hide anything. Xiao Shao dropped his eyes: "you are not wrong." "Are you angry?" Asked Jiang Ruan. "No This is clearly angry. Xiao Shao was so awkward that Jiang Ruan moved his chair closer to the table. With one hand on the table and one hand on his cheek, he was almost half lying on the table and staring at Xiao Shao without blinking. The young man''s expression is indifferent, not affected by foreign things at all. His long eyelashes draw a beautiful arc, and his eyes are as deep as the vast sea of stars, which only sets off the beautiful man who is not like a villain. Jiang Ruan was watching with appreciative eyes. Beauty, especially the beauty of people who don''t hate, will never make people unhappy. Someone pretending to be indifferent can''t stand the too big eyes. After a little patience, he finally puts down his book and raises his eyes. When he returns to the house, he faces Jiang Ruan''s eyes for the first time. "I shouldn''t have kept it from you." Without waiting for Xiao Shao to speak, Jiang Ruan took the initiative and said, "I''m sorry that I only care about myself and don''t care about your feelings." She sighed: "only Xiao Shao, if I tell you this, you will not allow it. I thought it was done. I''ll tell you later. It''s my fault I''m used to dealing with these things by myself. I forget that you are my husband. I never thought that you would worry about me. "Xiao Shao lightly stares at her: "you didn''t think I would worry." Seeing that his attitude had been relaxed, Jiang Ruan quickly said, "I have thought that I am not a fool. So much blood all flowed out, wouldn''t it take my life. My life was saved by you and your master. How can I lose it because of an unimportant Shangshu mansion? I''m not such a person without proper control. Don''t you see those chicken blood? That''s all I prepared. I know how to protect myself. " Xiao Shao pursed her lips, still with a cold face, although she was angry and funny when she heard Jiang Ruan talking about chicken blood. But what I remember more is the shock and heartache when he and Jiang Xinzhi arrived and saw the bright blood in the snow, and the overwhelming worry at that moment. Seeing that he didn''t speak, Jiang Ruan knew that the man was angry today. He wanted to comfort him a few more words. Then he saw dewdrop coming in with a bowl of medicine and said: "the medicine ordered by housekeeper Lin has been boiled. Young lady, drink it while it''s hot." She also wants to ease the stiff atmosphere between the two, thinking that mentioning Jiang Ruan''s injury can always make Xiao Shao feel a little distressed, maybe not so angry with her own girls. Xiao Shaoguo''s cold feeling eased. Jiang Ruan took the medicine. Xiao Shao didn''t open his eyes. Jiang Ruan drank the medicine obediently. As soon as housekeeper Lin came back to the kitchen, Jin San ran out in a big sweat: "ah, Lao Lin, the medicine for the young lady is ready. Let Forsythia send it." Dew back empty bowl, just heard Jin three words, can''t help but be surprised, way: "what medicine?" "It''s the medicine that doctor Xia prescribed for his wife." Jin three way: "young madam is not injured today, what is the empty bowl in your hand?" Dewdrop stupidly looked at her: "just now there is a bowl of medicine here. I thought it was for the girl, so I took it to the room and gave it to my wife." "What''s the matter?" Jin San turned his head and looked at housekeeper Lin: "Lao Lin, is there anyone else ill in the house?" "What''s wrong! I''m sick Housekeeper Lin was dull for a moment, and then he twisted his face. He didn''t know whether he was laughing or crying. He jumped and said, "that''s the medicine that I used to cook for the young master. Today, I wanted to cook it for the young master, but I didn''t expect that the young lady was hurt. Ah, it''s not a good time to drink that medicine now. Ah, I can''t tell you what to do? I''ll go out to hide first. Jinsan dew drops. When the young master asked, he said, "I''m suffering from the cold. Don''t talk!" Lao Lin''s cold sweat all came down. Who could have thought that Xiao Shao was not fit before, so he didn''t come round. Now the prescription that Xia wukai gave to Jiang Ruan was used. I don''t know what the effect of taking the medicine is. Today it''s a big mess. But why do you still have some expectations? If you want to call the title of the next chapter Lao Lin ~ , you can see that China is a good assistant www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 200 After Jiang Ruan used the medicine, he wanted to go to the couch early to have a rest, but he couldn''t sleep when he got to the couch. He just felt that he was upset for no reason. It was a cold winter day, but he didn''t feel cold. On the contrary, a layer of sweat came out from his forehead. She thought it was the problem of medicinal materials, but she didn''t pay attention to it. She just turned over and pulled the quilt down. But after a while, it became more and more hot. Not only that, but there was a strange feeling in her body. She guessed something vaguely, but it was incredible. Originally, I wanted to sit up, but when I moved, I felt strangely soft. "Xiao Shao." Jiang Ruan couldn''t help calling, and the voice startled her. It is charming and graceful, soft and charming. Xiao Shao smell speech, lift Mou to see, see the appearance of Jiang Ruan is also tiny a Zheng. Simply put down the book, went to the bed to sit down, although the face is still cold, in the end or can''t help but concern: "what''s the matter?" When he saw that Jiang Ruan''s face was very red, he frowned and reached for Jiang Ruan''s forehead. Xiao Shao''s cold hands and slender bones touched Jiang Ruan''s head. Jiang Ruan could not help sighing. She was startled. She felt that she had no face to face Xiao Shao. However, her body is more honest than her reason. She is very hot now, and she is really greedy for Xiao Shao''s cold body. Subconsciously, she leans to Xiao Shao''s side. "You..." Xiao Shao suddenly took back his hand and grasped Jiang Ruan''s wrist to feel her pulse. Jiang Ruan''s body trembles, and Xiao Shao moves slightly. It seems that he suddenly finds something. A pair of dark eyes look at Jiang Ruan. Seeing his look, Jiang Ruan probably knew what had happened. For a time, he was ashamed and embarrassed, but he couldn''t resist the impulse to linger around Xiao Shao, so he had to bite his teeth all the time and try his best to resist the anger in his heart. Xiao Shao took back his hand, and his voice was cold: "I''ll call Xia Qing to come here." Nevertheless, there was a trace of anger in the words. No matter who wrote today''s story, it''s too much to take Jiang Ruan''s body seriously, even if it''s a prank. "Xiao Shao." Jiang Ruan grabbed him. In fact, she did not use a lot of strength. At the moment, her whole mind was fighting against the fire in her body. Where was the extra strength. Xiao Shao steps a meal, turn round, way: "it''s OK, just make a mistake prescription." He is still comforted. Jiang Ruan''s eyes are half open. It seems that she is split into two people. One is full of strange feelings and can''t help herself. The other is very sober looking at everything in front of her. The young man in front of him is always dressed in black, which makes his cold temperament more like a layer of ice, as if he had abandoned all his desires. It''s hard to imagine that there will be such a cold man as him in the world. Now handsome face, thin lips tightly pursed, slightly frowning brow looked very delicious. Delicious? Jiang Ruan grabbed him by the corner of his coat and spat out three words: "don''t go." "Don''t worry." Xiao Shao didn''t seem to understand her meaning. Looking at her insistence, he was afraid that she would fall. Instead, he sat down on the couch and said in a deep voice, "I''ll be back soon." Jiang Ruan was a little annoyed. Now that she had understood what she said, Xiao Shao was still so stupid. At the moment, her whole body was as hot as a brand iron. As soon as she got close to Xiao Shao, the cold and cool breath from the man almost made her stick it. In fact, Jiang Ruan did post it. She encircled Xiao Shao''s neck and rubbed him with some impatience. Xiao Shao''s white face was flushed. He wanted to push Jiang Ruan away. He just said, "be obedient and let go." The next moment, he felt that his body was heavily hit. He was knocked down on the couch, and then a soft body jumped on him. Jiang Ruan propped up his body hard and glared at him fiercely. His face was already flushed by the medicine. His eyes were so beautiful that he could almost drip water, and his voice was even softer. He had to show his full momentum and almost roared: "I told you not to leave!" But at the moment, no matter how loud, Xiao Shao''s ears are just like coquetry. Xiao Shao quietly stared at Jiang Ruan, who was lying on him. His voice was light: "do you know what you are doing?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes were ferocious as if they were hungry wolves. Piansheng was worthy of a beautiful face that turned all living beings upside down. His eyes were wet as if they were little foxes in the forest. If they were not saints, they would be emotional. Xiao Shao''s body was cold as expected. When he fell down, it was like lying on a piece of ice. Jiang Ruan sighed with satisfaction. She naturally knew what it meant to do so. The relationship with Xiao Shao has become a little unusual since detoxification, but she has always been a slow-moving person. If she has been in accordance with her own temperament, I don''t know what time she will have to wait. She and Xiao shaoben are husband and wife. What''s more, she doesn''t exclude the closer relationship with Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao is too upright. If she didn''t agree, she would not ask for roommates. And with her temperament, I don''t think she will say it. It''s better to take advantage of this opportunity, as if she had also given herself a step down. If she missed this time, she didn''t know whether she would have the courage to take the initiative to show her attitude to Xiao Shao in the future.It''s rare that her mind is so clear at this time, but when she looks at Xiao Shao''s indifferent and dark eyes, she suddenly feels as if she is going to be sucked in. Jiang Ruan heart a horizontal, suddenly Yang lip a smile way: "do this." Then he raised his hand and pulled Xiao Shao''s belt down with all his strength. Xiao Shao''s body was stiff, and the suspicious flush on his face became clearer. I don''t know why. The cold body under me seems not as cold as it was just now. Jiang Ruan Qi sat on him and looked down at him: "you and I are husband and wife. I am doing what my wife should do." Xiao Shao''s long eyelashes trembled slightly, his eyes were sharp, but his tone was soft: "Ruan, do you not regret it?" Jiang Ruan didn''t speak. He leaned down slowly and got up the courage to nibble at his neck. She has always been a person who knows how to restrain. In fact, this medicine is not as strong as she imagined, at least not as heavy as last time. But now she''s half pretending to be stupid, and then this opportunity. Fortunately, her face turned red at the moment, but she couldn''t see her special mood. Xiao Shao''s eyes narrowed, and his whole body seemed to be tight, while Jiang Ruan''s neck arched like a cat. Jiang Ruan was inexperienced, and most of them were from the church in the pamphlet she had read before she entered the palace. She was kissing and thinking about what to do with her hand. Before she remembered, her hand was caught in a cold palm. Jiang Ruan slightly propped up, a little puzzled, but she did not expect that when she bent over to see Xiao Shao with her snow complexion and beautiful appearance, her long black hair hung behind her, and one of them was naughty in front of her. Her eyes were like silk, and her lips were delicious, as if she had fallen into the world. Every move was enchanting. Jiang Ruan had always known that he was beautiful. He expected that he was not bad at the moment. However, she didn''t expect Xiao Shao''s action. Xiao Shao stares at her tightly. Her eyes are deep and dark. The affection in her long dark eyes almost engulfs people. Jiang Ruan pauses and suddenly grabs Xiao Shao''s waist like a provocation. She feels that Xiao Shao''s body is tight at once. As soon as she is proud of herself, she feels that the world is turning around and her position with Xiao Shao is reversed. Xiao Shao looked down at her with a hand beside her pillow. His eyes were cold, and his dark eyes were like a deep pool. At this moment, the pool was overflowing with strange emotions, while his breath was burning hot and dangerous. Jiang Ruan min sensed that something was wrong. He only felt that Xiao Shao was very different from the past. He felt guilty for a moment under such direct pressure. At the moment, she struggles to get rid of Xiao Shao. However, she has no strength at the moment and is sweating all over. The charm of the woman is revealed inadvertently, and the style of the corner of her eyes is really heartbreaking. Xiao Shao''s voice suddenly became hoarse, as if he was trying to restrain something and said, "don''t move." Jiang Ruan responded immediately, and now he did not dare to move. Originally, I wanted to make a quick decision on this matter, but today I am so bold with my courage. But now it''s hard to ride a tiger. The tension in her heart at the moment had already drowned the original emotion. It''s not until the last minute that I start to wake up. Just hesitating about what to do next, Xiao Shao suddenly turned over and sat up. He decided to stop. Jiang Ruan''s inexplicable heart was a little lost. After sitting up, Xiao Shao did take off his boots and coat, turned his head and met Jiang Ruan''s lost eyes. He was slightly stunned and couldn''t help laughing. Jiang Ruan was stunned, and then he was annoyed to be caught. Why did she lose in such a thing? It was as if she was greedy for Xiao Shao''s beauty. She was about to find a way out, but she saw that Xiao Shao had already bent over. Her body did not dare to move, and then her lips were blocked by a soft thing. Jiang Ruan could clearly hear the heartbeat of himself and Xiao Shao. Most of his life, he had never done anything so intimate with anyone. The kiss was very long. When he let go, Jiang Ruan was just breathing for a while, and his body was already soft. At the moment, Jiang Ruan is loved by Fang Ze, and her lips are more and more delicate, just like the red cherry in May. And she tilted her head back slightly, her long black hair curled on the red pillow, her eyes were beautiful, her eyebrows were bent, her lips were red and her teeth were white, which was really the best in the world. Jiang Ruan''s face became more and more hot, but he didn''t want to be seen guilty by Xiao Shao. He just wanted to blow out the light, but he didn''t want to move a little. Xiao Shao bullied him again. He didn''t look as cold as usual. In her past and present life, although she has experienced all kinds of storms, the love affair between men and women is mostly the first time. Strange and nervous, the first bold provocation has all gone, but the bow did not turn back. At this moment, it is impossible for Xiao Shao to stop. She couldn''t stop. Xiao Shao was really grinding her. Jiang Ruan said with his teeth: "you Hurry up Xiao Shao was a little stunned again. At the moment, the light was still on. Xiao Shao''s face was really a disaster to the country, and his deep eyes seemed to be shining with stars. He whispered, "ah Ruan." Jiang Ruan pinched his thin waist and looked at him with some sadness: "I. I''ll do it. Hurry up. " Xiao Shao smile, voice light way: "Ruan, you now regret too late." It''s like a silent blooming of red plum in winter. It''s gorgeous and eye-catching. The beauty of this plum is the only one in the world. It''s enchanting and breathtaking to the heart of the plum admirers. The petals are trembling and delicate. In the cold winter, they will bloom with different beauty. Snow is cold and crystal clear, red plum is charming and warm. This is a beautiful scenery made in heaven. Anyone will be absent-minded when they see it. However, they bloom quietly in the night, no one knows, which presents the beauty in front of the world in an intimate manner. The beautiful sound of the night almost spread far away, even in the cold winter, the house seems to be burning with enthusiasm. Life a period of a while, most likely in this night to complete the most intimate communication. As if the estrangement of displeasure in this vanishing, two people with the most frank attitude from then on into one. The darkness and sorrow of previous life, the endless pain hidden in the bottom of my heart, and the secrets that can''t be appealed to by people, all seem to have changed after tonight. There is a person in the world who will share weal and woe with you in the name of husband and wife. This is a strange period in Beijing, but it is also expected. Xiao Shao turned over from Jiang Ruan. After Fang''s fierce fight, he was sweating all over. Jiang Ruan was lying on the couch. As long as he remembered his warm and active picture, he wanted to sleep in the quilt. Just think of the first time will be so active, Xiao Shao will think of it in the future, I''m afraid it will be funny. Xiao Shao stroked her long hair and said gently, "I''ll have someone draw water in." "No need." Cried Jiang Ruan in a hurry. At first, he looked at Xiao Shao with embarrassment. However, to ask for water at this moment is undoubtedly to show the whole palace what they have done today. She is also used to presenting herself in front of others, especially such private things. But look at your sticky body. If you don''t get water, you can''t say it. You''ll get tangled. Xiao Shaoruo looked at her thoughtfully and nodded: "I''ll fight, you Does the body still hurt? " He saw Jiang Ruan''s concerns at a glance, and his words were very considerate. Just a body pain immediately let Jiang Ruan treat each other, just those fierce pictures. "No more pain." Jiang Ruan replied quickly. As soon as he finished his words, he felt a pang of pain coming from his body. He could not help complaining to himself. They all looked at Xiao Shaoping''s cold and pure appearance in the day. It seemed that he had changed his personality on the bed. If he was really a martial arts practitioner, his physical strength was surprisingly good. She has always been able to bear it, but also feel a little overwhelmed. Because this guy is so mean, I want her to cry out. She had never felt so humiliated in her life. Xiao Shaoguo was really black in her stomach. I don''t see it on weekdays. Xiao Shao couldn''t help pulling the corners of his lips and said slowly, "OK, I''ll go to boil the medicine." He said the word "decocting herbs" with profound meaning, as if it contained extremely meaningful meaning, and his expression was indifferent. Jiang Ruan choked for a moment and thought of the bowl of medicine that had just become the medicine of the soup. He wanted to use the medicine of the soup to make today''s thing, but it was probably nothing. Who knows that when the effect of medicine receded, it was so out of control. Now think about it, it''s really embarrassing. The royal guards in the palace always have excellent ears. Maybe they still listen to the movements in their room. At the thought of this, Jiang Ruan looks a little ashamed and angry. You can come into the group and play together. The group number is the first item in the comment area. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 201 Xiao Shao really soon came to the water, as if he had said a few words outside. If it was not the royal guards or forsythia, Jiang Ruan was a little embarrassed. When Xiao Shao came to the edge of collapse, he would bend down to hold her. Jiang Ruan was stunned and said, "what are you doing?" "If you don''t let the servant girl serve you, I''ll take you to clean up." Xiao Shao''s good-natured reply. "No need." Jiang Ruan lifted the quilt and was about to jump down: "I''ll just wash it myself." If she wants to wash her body with Xiao Shao like this, she can''t be calm even if she pretends to be calm. But as soon as he moved, he felt weak and aching, and stopped immediately. Xiao Shao looked at her in her spare time and said with a smile, "I won''t do anything." Jiang Ruan thought that at the moment, he was afraid that it was really hard to clean himself up, and he was hypocritical to refuse again. Then nodded, Xiao Shao stooped to hold her to screen the wind behind the barrel. After a toss, Jiang Ruan was very tired, but Xiao Shao looked at her with a clear mind, and picked her up effortlessly. When she was allowed to sit in the bucket, the gentle water was very comfortable. As soon as Jiang Ruan relaxed, he felt that his eyelids were heavy and he didn''t know when he would sleep. After Xiao Shao carefully helps to dry her body, Jiang Ruan is already asleep. Xiao Shao laughs and takes her back to the couch to tuck her in. He was afraid that Jiang Ruan would be tired, so he would always be considerate for the first time. At the moment, seeing her sleeping soundly, he felt distressed and bent down to kiss her on the forehead. Forsythia came in with a medicine bowl. Xiao Shao shook her head silently. Forsythia knew it and walked out with a smile. That night, how many people in King Jinying''s mansion knew the beauty of it, only the dark guards who were lying on the eaves of the branches and walls knew it. But Jin four dozen that bet, the final winner is the banker himself. Jin forty Fen generously took the gambling money to invite everyone to have a drink. When he was drunk, several dark guards all cried with joy. It seemed that he saw that the next little master of Jinying palace had already come on the way to and from the palace. It was the next morning when Jiang Ruan woke up. After a night''s sleep, he seemed to have been run over by something, even worse than last night. Xiao Shao was not on the couch. She sat up and the door opened. Xiao Shao came in with a bowl of medicine. Seeing that Jiang Ruan woke up, he put the medicine bowl on the small table beside the collapse, reached out and touched her forehead, and asked, "is the body still painful?" Jiang Ruan Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing again. These days, he often laughs. He was born well as he was. He looks like a peach blossom at dawn. He is very happy when he is full. Jiang Ruan compared himself, stretched out his hand, took one side of the medicine bowl, blew it, and poured it down with a few mouthfuls. The medicine was about the prescription Xiao Shao ordered. It was also sensitive. After drinking it, I felt warm and the pain was relieved. After she finished drinking, Xiao Shao took the empty bowl in Jiang Ruan''s hand and said, "you''ll have a rest in the room today." "No way." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "today, I have to go to the case department for trial." After thinking about it, she said, "my body is almost ready after taking the medicine. It''s always OK to listen to the case. You don''t have to worry Xiao Shao knew that Jiang Ruan always had his own ideas. It was good to admit his mistakes. Next time, he should ignore his body or his body. About is a spelling, he is distressed but also helpless, then said: "I let Jin three they follow you. The people in charge of the case will not embarrass you. " What he meant by this was that he hinted at the person who had been a bit bigger than the Secretary before. Jiang Ruan looked at him and said, "I sue my biological father. There are always people in the capital who say it. It will even damage your reputation and put King Jinying''s house in an embarrassing situation. Do you think I did something wrong?" "He''s not your father." Xiao Shao said faintly: "you have nothing to do with the Jiang family now." Jiang Ruan was stunned, but Xiao Shao said: "you married into Jinying palace, and you are my Xiao family. Whether you want to revenge or overturn the case, the Xiao family is your backer." He has a firm look and gentle words. He is clearly the coldest person, but his heart is always warm and happy. Jiang Ruan laughed: "Xiao Shao, thank you." It''s not a perfunctory thank you in words, nor a general thank you as an ally for trading with an ally. This thank you is sincere and sincere. In the world, it is always rare for someone to stand behind you forever without asking the reason. No matter what kind of things they do, that person will stick to work with you. This is love and righteousness. "No need." Xiao Shao said with a smile: "thank you very much. Just be more enthusiastic at night." Jiang Ruan In a corner of the palace, Xuan Pei was listening to the news of the return of Mingyue Bao. He sneered and said, "Jiang Quan''s good days have come to an end. He dared to attack her in the early years, but now it''s time to bear the responsibility. The death of Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su is not everything. Does he think there is still a chance of life? It''s ridiculous. " Mingyue stood silently. She knew that her little master had a special relationship with Jiang Ruan. It seemed that they had a special relationship. But even Xiao Shao couldn''t find out, she couldn''t find out a secret guard. Although he was puzzled, he knew that xuanpei always protected Jiang Ruan all the time. Now the story of Jiang Quan has spread all over the capital. As a father, he was so unkind to his own daughter. Ordinary people have to scold xuanpei, who is close to Jiang Ruan?"The person who will let you go to the case department will be good?" Xuan Pei is playing with the big night pearl in his hand. It was a gift given by the emperor when he saw his excellent answers to his lessons and strategies. There are many bright pearls in the Palace this night. Even if they are placed in Xuanhua, they will be red eyed. Now xuanpei doesn''t care about it. It is enough to explain xuanpei''s position in the imperial court. The useless prince, who was not favored before, has disappeared. No one dares to underestimate him. "Your Highness," Mingyue asked, puzzled, "Prince Xiao must have said hello to the Secretary for case. Even if your highness doesn''t do it, the people of the Secretary for case won''t let Jiang Ruan get any benefits. Why is that so, your highness?" Xuanpei''s every move has been monitored by people who have a heart. If he is found to have interfered in the case of Jiang Ruan, I don''t know what message will come out. The best thing in the palace is to be wise and protect oneself, especially Jiang Quan''s case this time can be solved successfully without his help. "What Xiao Shao does is what he should do, and what we do is what we do. What do we want to do? Do we need his light? " Xuan Pei snorted coldly: "the people in charge of the case department have always been slippery. King Jinying put pressure on him. With another one in our hall, they will realize that this is not a trivial matter. Naturally, they will spare no effort to attack Jiang Quan. In any case, if we can add more criminal law to Jiang Quan, we will be very happy. " Mingyue shrugs helplessly. Xuanpei''s hostility to Xiao Shao never decreases. However, as an adult, Mingyue seems to be a bit childish, which is hard to show in xuanpei, who has always been a mature man. And I always feel that I''m a bit jealous of Xiao Shao. Naturally, I''m jealous of Jiang Ruan. However, Xuan Pei''s age is only now, and Mingyue''s only way is that he''s more thoughtful. The front door of the case division hall is already full of people watching the scene. The case Division has always been known for its fair trial, and each trial is about the private affairs of the aristocrats of the big families in Beijing. Naturally, people want to watch the scene and dictate the secret. Therefore, if they are not really forced to a dead end, most people will not fight a lawsuit to the head of the court. After all, family scandals should not be publicized. No one wants to take out those private scandals in his family and make them the talk of others in broad daylight. When Jiang Ruan arrived, he naturally caused an uproar again. It was the first time in history that he sued his biological father. It''s Jiang Ruan who did this. The red princess who was unknown in Jiang''s mansion and later in front of empress Yide is now the princess who is a secret and shameful subject. Jiang Ruan''s every identity is deplorable. It''s true that there are many envious eyes, but more of them are envious. What Jiang Quan did was unforgivable, but what Jiang Ruan did was not recognize his relatives. People''s attitudes were divided into two groups. A group of people insisted that Jiang Quan deserved to die. Although Jiang Ruan''s practice was out of line, it was justifiable. A group of people thought that Jiang Ruan had violated the human relations since the beginning of the great Jin Dynasty, and it was really unfilial to sue his biological father. No matter what others think, Jiang Ruan never cares. She came down from the carriage. Today, she was wearing a dress with a pattern of treasure. The pattern was complex and solemn, which set off her dignity. But the color of a satin fox pleated cloak outside was as warm as a burning fire. It snowed last night. This morning, the snow was half a foot high. In a piece of plain silver, she was the only one who was graceful in red, pretty and cold Stay where you are. That gorgeous almost to people involuntarily hold their breath. Rao is the Secretary of the case department. He never treats people who come to court the same way. He can''t help showing some respect when facing Jiang Ruan. The daughter of the Chiang family can''t be underestimated. Their chief, sun Xu, told their men last night to be polite to Jiang Ruan. Even sun Xu, who is not afraid of power and status, can be treated so seriously. I think we can''t underestimate her. By comparison, Chiang''s treatment was far worse. Sun Xu has a strange temper in the court. He is almost fearless. Even in the face of his former colleagues, he doesn''t give a good face. What Jiang Quan cares most about is his face. Now he is short in front of sun Xu for no reason. He seems to be a criminal tried by sun Xu. He is already burning with anger. Jiang Xinzhi was discussing military affairs with the former general in the barracks today, but he couldn''t make it. Jiang Ruan went into the hall and found Zhao Guang and the three brothers of the Zhao family were also there. When Zhao Yuanfeng saw her, he warmly said, "ah Ruan." Zhao Mei is a member of the Zhao family. Many years ago, although she broke off her relationship with the Zhao family, the Zhao family thought that she had never raised her unfilial daughter, but in fact, her blood and bone were cut off. Especially the Pearl in the palm of Zhao''s hand, when Zhao''s family knew that Jiang Ruan had sued his superior, they were furious. If it had not been for Jiang Xinzhi''s help, I''m afraid Zhao Guang would have rushed into Shangshu''s house and chopped down Jiang Quan and buried Zhao Mei. The Zhao family has always protected their weaknesses. Today''s visit to the case division undoubtedly shows the attitude of the Zhao family. Zhao Mei is the daughter of the Zhao family. If Zhao Mei''s death is not accidental, or even related to Jiang Quan, then the Zhao family will never give up. Jiang Ruan went forward to greet the Zhao family one by one, but the Zhao family members and several grandchildren never came. Li had regretted Zhao Mei''s affair. If he knew the truth in court, he would be in a mood for a while. Jiang Ruan said hello to the Zhao family, but he only missed Jiang Quan. On one side, Jiang Quan felt that his eyes were all around him. He felt very ashamed and indignant. He angrily scolded, "bad son!"As soon as Zhao Guang glared, he wanted to scold him back. He didn''t want Jiang Ruan, but he opened his mouth first and asked Jiang Quan, "who is Jiang Shangshu talking about?" Jiang Quan didn''t expect that she would be so ruthless as soon as she came out, so he said angrily, "I don''t know where I''ve learned to face my father with such an attitude "I''m afraid Jiang Shangshu is wrong." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "yesterday, half of the blood has been paid off. My palace has nothing to do with Shangshu mansion. Where is my father?" Jiang Quan was speechless, and everyone recalled the way Jiang Ruan used a dagger to cut the back of his hand in the snow yesterday. Jiang Quan''s face turned red. The face, which was always elegant, was somewhat distorted. "Silence The opening master sang that the guards on both sides stood in silence. Sun Xu, a judge of the government, strode in and sat down on the highest seat in the center. He glanced down and handed the champion to the master on one side. The master took the charge, cleared his throat, and was alone with the contents of the complaint. The content of the complaint is how Xia Yan and the Xia family planned to murder Zhao Mei, his mother and son, including the ambush against Jiang Xinzhi in the woods, and the vicious means they used when they were young. In the complaint, Jiang Quan''s indifference surprised everyone. It''s not uncommon for big families to engage in such intrigues. What''s rare is that Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi are the legitimate sons and daughters of Shangshu mansion, and Jiang Quan''s relatives. Jiang Quan is so indifferent and let go. That master is also a character. This number one is very angry, and he is full of emotion. The men in the direct education crowd rolled their sleeves and wanted to rush in and beat Jiang Quan immediately, while the women wiped their tears with their handkerchiefs. Zhao Guang and the three brothers of the Zhao family knew that Zhao Mei had a bad life in Shangshu mansion for a long time, but now the number one scholar read out one by one, which made them feel worried. There is no one in the world who knows better than Jiang Ruan how painful and dangerous Zhao Mei''s mother and son''s life in Jiang''s house is. Because of her earnest writing, the more the Zhao family listened, the more angry they were. Their eyes were split, and they wanted to rush to kill Jiang Quan immediately. Jiang Quan frowned. Now all the people here look at him without a trace of goodwill. He became the target of public criticism. He didn''t know when Jiang Ruan had such influence. Sun Xu''s temperament is clear to his colleagues for many years. When he faced Jiang Ruan, his subordinates were respectful and humble. How could Jiang Ruan have such ability? I don''t know when the original confidence has been replaced by uneasiness. Jiang Quan''s look is no longer as straightforward as just now. The accusations in front of the indictment were all attempted, but at the end of the story, it turned to the poisoning of Zhao Mei. It is clear in the complaint that Xia Institute was responsible for the poison, and Jiang Quan was the accomplice, because he knew it all, but stood by and even encouraged him secretly! After reading a complaint, Jiang Quan could not help but stand up and said: "nonsense! That''s bullshit! What? I didn''t let anyone poison her at all? Zhao Mei is dead. How can you slander me? " When he resented Jiang Ruan, he even hated Zhao Mei, who had passed away early. I just feel that everything starts from Zhao Mei. Zhao Guang suddenly stood up from his seat and said angrily, "Jiang Quan, do you think I dare not kill you here?" He had been trained from the battlefield. Usually he would blow his beard and stare at a child to scare and cry. Now he was really angry. His bloodthirsty momentum came to his face. Jiang Quan shivered and suddenly swallowed what he wanted to say. There was a trace of disdain in Zhao Yuanping''s eyes. He said with a smile, "what''s Jiang Shangshu''s urgency? You haven''t been convicted. Maybe things will turn for the better. If you really want to complain, you might as well wait until the last moment. " There was a chill in his words, which made his heart tremble. Jiang quanzheng still wanted to speak, but he heard Jiang Ruan''s voice with a smile: "not only that, I have evidence. Jiang Shangshu, please read the evidence first." Jiang Quan was surprised. He did not expect that Jiang Ruan would have evidence. After all, things have been going on for so many years. He thinks that even if Chiang and Ruan turn over old stories, they can''t stir up big waves. What''s the final result of the old case without evidence? But as soon as Jiang Ruan said the evidence, he could not help feeling guilty, but he still said, "what are you making up?" Sun Xu a clap startles a hall wood, shout a way: "take witness!" His subordinates soon brought up the so-called witness. She was a thin young woman. She was pretty when she looked at her face carefully. But I don''t know why she looked a little haggard. Life forced her to look older than her age. As soon as he saw it, Jiang Quan sneered and said, "I don''t know this man. If you are a witness, you have to invite someone from the minister''s office." The woman raised her head when she heard the words. Her voice was a little hoarse and she said, "I don''t know the slave for a long time, but the slave still knows the master." Jiang Quan was surprised and looked at the woman carefully. After a long time, he was surprised and said, "are you...". Butterfly Butterfly light smile for a while: "hard for master still remember slave." "Why are you here?" Jiang Quan''s hand trembled when he pointed to her. He had heard about Jiang Su Su''s expelling butterflies. As a maid, he didn''t do a good job. He confused the Ziheche bought in the drugstore with the miscarriage of the male fetus in the mansion, which made Jiang Su Su''s reputation bad. Jiang Su Su was shocked. It''s not too much to kill such a maid. But Jiang Su Su had sold her at the beginning. Jiang Quan thought that such a servant girl had died, but he didn''t know why she was here.Butterfly smiles, but the smile is a little strange. She looks at Jiang Quan''s eyes, and a trace of hatred flashed quickly: "the maidservant will come here, naturally because she can''t stand the condemnation of conscience. She came to testify for the innocent first lady, the young master and the young lady in person." "Nonsense Jiang Quan''s face turned blue when he heard the words: "what are you talking about?" He turned his head and looked at Jiang Ruan, who was smiling. He suddenly realized, "what good has she given you? Do you want to slander me like this? Butterfly, do you know the criminal responsibility of slandering the official of the imperial court? " Jiang Quan seems to have lost his sense, but the people in the hall are busy watching, including the judge sun Xu. The more flustered Jiang Quan jumps over the wall, the more ugly he is. Sun Xu got the help of others in advance. He was very happy to see Jiang Ruan and Zhao''s family. Naturally, he would not stand in the way. Faced with Jiang Quan''s crazy questions, butterfly shook her head and said, "the eldest lady didn''t do me any good. The master knows what he has done. Why should he make such an innocent gesture? You should know that there is a fixed number in the world. When people are doing things, they should think of the day when the east window incident happened. " "You. Why on earth do you harm me so much! " Jiang Quan said angrily. The butterfly bows its head and turns a deaf ear. Sitting on one side of Jiang Ruan smile, butterfly will certainly come out to testify for her, not only because of her promise, but also because butterfly deeply hates Jiang family. At the beginning, Jiang Su Su sold butterflies because of the Ziheche incident. It was Jiang Su Su''s own sin. Anyway, she was also a servant girl who had been with her since childhood. She sold butterflies directly to the ninth class kiln. Where is the kiln? If a girl goes in, she is in the pit of fire. Butterfly''s life can be imagined. In fact, as soon as Jiang Su Su sold the butterfly, Jiang Ruan let dew go out and bribe the Madame in the kiln. He has been paying close attention to the butterfly''s every move. It won''t make her die, but it won''t make her better. Butterfly has been with Jiang Su Su for so many years. Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su know something about what they do. Jiang Ruan knows that this is an excellent chess piece, which will come into use one day. For example, at this moment, the appearance of this chess piece has already made Jiang Quan lose most of his time. She appeared in front of the butterfly and promised to save her as long as the butterfly was willing to testify. Maybe when butterfly was just sold, she would not agree to this condition, because Xia Yan was a smart man, and the servant girls she chose for Jiang Su Su were extremely loyal. But after such a long time, the tortured dying butterfly can''t even keep her own life. How can she care about loyalty? Over the years, she had only a deep hatred for Jiang Fu. If it wasn''t for Xia Yan''s mother and daughter, if it wasn''t for Jiang Quan, how could she be sold to such a cheap place? Time is a wonderful thing. Hate can be turned into love, and love can also be turned into hate. So when Jiang Ruan said the conditions, butterfly agreed without saying a word. Ruan Mei didn''t serve the emperor in her last life. In her last life, the status of the Jiang family was high, and that of the Xia family was also high. The emperor brought Ruan Mei into the palace just to control and monitor the Jiang family. The former soft sister is a vase beauty, and the emperor is not a stallion who doesn''t look at anything. There''s no need for the empress to look at the soft sister. The promotion of imperial concubine was all due to the relationship of the Jiang family. Soft younger sister''s previous life is very traditional. If she is not innocent, she will break the idea of Xuanli. It''s because he is still innocent that he has illusions about Xuanli. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 202 "Jiang Shangshu," Sun Xu said with a straight face, "the court is not a place where you come at random. You''d better listen to the witness first." Before Jiang Quan had time to speak, butterfly kowtowed to sun Xu and said, "Lord Hui, I''m here to account for my wife''s crimes." She lowered her head, but her voice was clear and clear, which could be heard by the people watching the crowd: "at that time, my wife was only an aunt. Although the master loved his aunt and miss, she was the master''s mother. My aunt has always been arrogant and comes from the family of high-ranking officials and nobles. Naturally, she is not willing to be subordinated to others. Although she does not eat badly in Shangshu mansion, sometimes she even has a higher status than her first wife, she is still dissatisfied. " Although butterfly''s words are just a statement of facts, they are very different when they are heard by others. Who doesn''t know how Xia Cheng''s title came from. If it wasn''t for brother Zao''s early death, he would never have been a concubine. Even after Xia Yan entered the Shangshu mansion, she was just the daughter of a little official and a concubine. She was not a noble in the official family, and preferred to have the face to say so. How could Jiang Quan marry Zhao Mei instead of Xia Yan? The daughter of a common son is so vain. According to butterfly, Xia Yan''s position in Shangshu mansion is even higher than Zhao Mei''s. This is not to spoil his concubine and destroy his wife. What is it? Although people had heard the rumor that Jiang Quan favored Xia Yan, they thought it was after Zhao Mei''s death. It was not long after Zhao Mei married into Shangshu mansion that Jiang Quan went so far. Is it that you have a fancy to the power in other people''s house? Once you find that you can''t bring any benefits to your official career, you will show your true face. Butterfly continued: "later, later, my aunt thought, as the official of the imperial court, the master couldn''t find a way to divorce his wife for no reason, so he had to live under others all his life. If he didn''t want to, he wanted to poison his wife. On that day, my aunt bought a lot of exotic poisons and mixed them in her daily meals. The first lady was poisoned bit by bit. Later, the toxin accumulated more and more, and she died. And all this, the master also knows, once my aunt''s poison was found by the master, the master also said to my aunt to be careful, don''t leave any handle Butterfly then kowtowed two heads to sun Xu: "my Lord, what the daughter of the people said is true, and she never dares to cheat." "Nonsense! What nonsense Pointing at the butterfly, Jiang Quan angrily scolded: "who gives you the courage to talk nonsense here to disturb people''s hearts, butterfly, don''t forget who you are! You are my servant of Chiang''s house Butterfly shook his head: "master probably forgot that butterfly''s deed of sale is no longer there, and butterfly is not a member of Shangshu mansion." When she said this, although she tried to suppress something, there was still a trace of hatred in her eyes. Jiang Quan''s words stopped, and sun Xu was shocked by another beat: "silence!" Butterfly knelt on the ground, language out of surprise: "back to adult words, women still have evidence to say!" When Jiang Quan was stunned, sun Xu said in a deep voice, "where is the evidence?" Butterfly looks at Jiang Ruan, who is sitting on one side of the seat safely. The smile on her lips seems to have not been shaken from the beginning to now. Butterfly is calm in her heart and says frankly: "it was in the house where the wife lived. Because the medicine was so precious at the beginning, the husband didn''t know when the wife would be the first to be terminally ill. She thought that the medicine would be useful in the future Then he ordered the women to keep it. On the same day, the woman buried the medicine package under the tree in the lady''s yard. But the prescription was still there. Later the master said it was useful, so he received it in the study box. Coincidentally, later, somehow, the master forgot about the box. Once the lady asked the maid to clean up the study, and the maid sent the box to the innermost wooden box. That wooden box won''t be touched for many years, because it''s full of old things. " Zhao Guangchong, sun Xu arched his hand, and the voice was already unquestionable: "Mr. Sun, since the evidence has been put out, do you want to ask someone to search it?" "Naturally." Sun Xu looked serious and said, "I have ordered officers and soldiers to search Shangshu mansion." Jiang Quan sneered: "it''s ridiculous. Do you think you can convict me with a few words of nonsense? Butterfly, I think you are not afraid of death! " He felt that he had a plan in mind. The officers and soldiers would not find anything in the room. Not to mention when Xia Yan poisoned at the beginning, he didn''t directly intervene, even Xia Yan himself would not be stupid enough to leave evidence. Xia Yan is careful and thorough in his work. He will clean up any handle. Although he didn''t know what advantage butterfly had received from Jiang Ruan to make a false evidence, Jiang Quan also admitted that not everyone in Shangshu mansion could come in. Especially the most important study, he had to check several times a day. He had never heard of wooden cases or boxes. Butterfly is about to lie, but the real evidence is not out. If you can''t get it out, you can''t be convicted. What about butterfly? He thought so and went to see Jiang Ruan''s look. But seeing Jiang and Ruan sitting upright, he seemed to notice his eyes and turned to smile at him. Jiang Ruan''s smile was even more calm than Jiang Quan''s, and there seemed to be some subtle sarcasm. The sight made Jiang Quan''s heart wake up immediately, and he could not help being afraid. Jiang Quan didn''t know how evil her daughter was. For so many years, neither the Xia family nor she had been able to get any advantage from her. Jiang''s house is a copper wall and iron wall, and she can''t keep it. What strange way can she come up with to harm others.Just at this time, the officers and men in charge of the search have come back. With a report, the officers and men in charge of the search stride into the court. They bend over and whisper a few words with sun Xu. Sun Xu listens and takes a look at Jiang Quan. Jiang Quan "clatters" in his heart. Before he could think about it, sun Xu clapped his head in amazement and said, "bold Jiang Quan! As an official of the imperial court, you are not strict in governing your family. You let your concubine harm others, or even collude with others, to murder your wife. What''s your crime? The officers and soldiers have found evidence in the wooden boxes and boxes in your house. What else do you have to say? "After that, the official around him presented an iron box, which everyone could see clearly. A piece of shallow paper floated out of the box opened by sun Xu himself, and he could not do it in full view of the public. Zhao Yuanping got up and went to sun Xu. Please take it and watch it. After reading it at a glance, Zhao Yuanping returned the paper to sun Xu. When he looked at Jiang Quan again, his smile was full of Indifference: "Jiang Shangshu is really good at planning and scheming. If he didn''t see it with his own eyes, I didn''t know there would be such a wolf in the world." Zhao Yuanping has always been used to silent sarcasm. When Jiang Quan heard this, he was very angry, but he couldn''t believe it. He came out today to accept the case, but before he left, he had a good inspection of his study. He didn''t see any wooden cases or boxes. How could they suddenly come out. What the hell is going on? He cried out: "this is not what I did, sun Xu. As the case department, you must pay attention to finding out the truth. That is, with a small prescription, how dare you bring me to justice? This is clearly someone deliberately framed me? Don''t you know? " "I always look at evidence." Sun Xu is not tight and slow. He didn''t receive the threat in Jiang Quan''s words, but what kind of case was this? It was Xiao Shao''s wife, now Princess Jinying, and the former Princess Hong''an who complained in person. What kind of power is Jinying palace behind her? No one knows the officialdom of Jin Dynasty. Xiao Shao has said hello in person. How dare he neglect it. Moreover, the woman who was killed in this case is still the apple of the eye of the general''s mansion. If she doesn''t give an explanation, with the character of Zhao Guang''s family, I''m afraid she will tear down this case, not to mention the one in the palace. Although the case division is in charge of the cases that ordinary people do not dare to deal with, even if it involves many bureaucrats in Beijing, it is because sun Xu himself relies on the emperor for his official career and does not need to rely on anyone''s face. But if the emperor''s confidants, water to clear, then no fish, sun Xu knows this truth. After so many years of sitting in such an offending official position, sun Xu still stands firm in the court. He is also very good at being a man. Now xuanpei''s position in the palace is rising, and the emperor has a green eye on him. The fifth Prince and the eighth prince are only fighting openly and secretly, but who can tell exactly who will take the throne. Maybe the future Prince of Dajin Dynasty is the newly emerged thirteen highness. Xuan Pei specially asked people to come and say hello. Although he didn''t know why, sun Xu felt a lot of pressure. It is precisely because of his colleagues'' many years that sun Xu can see clearly that it is very difficult for Jiang Quan to do good this time, because everyone he offends has the ability to kill him. Zhao Yuanfeng said leisurely: "Jiang Shangshu, that Shangshu mansion is your mansion. Naturally, only your people can go in. You don''t know when the box was put in. You can''t ask us outsiders for answers. You know, since the founding of your Shangshu mansion, except for my little sister, the Zhao family has never set foot in it. " What Zhao Yuanfeng said is not without irony. At the beginning, Zhao Mei broke off contact with the Zhao family. Later, after Zhao Mei died, the Jiang family also banned all contact with the general''s house. Even secretly regard the general''s house as a strong enemy. The Zhao and Jiang families never deal with it. It''s impossible for the Zhao family to enter the Jiang''s house. Jiang Quan met a nail, but he didn''t want to fight with Zhao Yuanfeng. Now he is aware of the importance of the matter. With all the human and material evidence, sun Xu''s attitude is very difficult to get rid of the crime. By this time, Jiang Quan, who was always full of confidence, was already in a panic. He desperately thought about how the box would appear in the study, and his eyes swept around the crowd without focus, and suddenly stopped. A familiar figure mingled in the crowd. It was a pretty young woman. Jiang Ruan was stunned. A few thoughts flashed through his mind and immediately roared out: "Xia Yue! You cunt, you hurt me The figure of the woman in the crowd is Xia Yue, who is now the master mother of Shangshu mansion. Originally, she looked at Jiang Quan with her head down to avoid Jiang Quan''s eyes. Now when she heard that Jiang Quan called out so loudly, she was a little annoyed and turned red for a moment. However, Jiang Quan seemed to understand in a flash, and regardless of the occasion, he angrily scolded: "that''s her! It''s this bitch who colludes with outsiders to harm me. Only she can enter my study everyday! She is the only one who can''t help but put things in in the shortest time. Xia Yue, I treat you well. You are so cruel to murder your husband! You wicked woman Xia Yue was in the crowd, and everyone turned their eyes on her. She forbeared, and suddenly shed two lines of tears: "master, since yueniang married you, what''s wrong with you? How can you treat me like this, or even throw such a terrible charge on yueniang? How can yueniang frame up the master? If there is anything wrong with the master, what can yueniang, a lonely and helpless woman, do? Yueniang knows that master and sister Yan are very close to each other. Yueniang can''t be loved by master since she passed by. But master, yueniang is also your wife. How can you treat yueniang like this? " She was born a little thin and timid, and her words showed a very sad state. She knelt down and kowtowed to the front door of the court: "just, master, since you and I have a fight, if yueniang can save master, yueniang will willingly save master''s life! That box and wooden box were put by yueniang, right! "When she said this, she burst into tears and almost fainted. People naturally sympathize with the weak. If the weak is a good woman, their compassion will be doubled. The more Xia Yue said that, the more people suspected that Jiang Quan had framed his new wife. He was really a selfish man. Xia Yue''s words are reasonable. Indeed, now that the Xia family is gone, why should she frame up Jiang Quan? When Jiang''s house falls down, she becomes a widow and it''s not easy for her to live. As for Xia Yue''s saying that Jiang Quan still remembers Xia Yan''s story, people sneer in their hearts. They are afraid that only a man like Jiang Quan in the world will never forget a woman who is unfaithful and unclean and wears a green hat on herself. It''s really a pot with a lid. Jiang Ruan smiles and looks at Xia Yue''s performance in the crowd, only to find it interesting. Xia family women seem to have a natural talent for acting, especially in the matter of attracting tears and sympathy. What Jiang Quan ate most in those days was Xia Yan''s style. Now Xia Yan is replaced by Xia Yue. I don''t know that Jiang Quan can stand it now. Women''s lies and tears, only really experienced to know. Now Jiang Quan is afraid to hate the Xia family. Xia Yue is a smart man. Since Xia''s family has fallen down, her chess piece to maintain the relationship between Xia and Jiang has no effect. Xia Yue herself knows that with Jiang Quan''s ambition, she will one day kick her useless stumbling block aside. Besides, she is now the mother of the Chiang family. She knows exactly what the Chiang family looks like. A mansion with an empty shell will collapse sooner or later. How can Jiang Quan be reconciled to her when Xia Yue is young again. Xia''s women are always ambitious. Even if Xia Yue is a distant cousin, she won''t be willing to bury herself for a lifetime. Jiang Ruan made a deal with her. Xia Yue sold Jiang Quan for her future without hesitation. Jiang Quan was already mad. People around him looked at him with suspicion in their eyes. He wanted to find someone who could help him speak, but in the end he found that all the people who could speak for him were gone. His wife, his children, his colleagues, even his allies, are not around now. He suddenly found that he has become a abandoned one, he has become a useless abandoned son. "Is that what you want?" Jiang Quan stared at Jiang Ruan with a deep smile: "you let everyone betray me, my good daughter, ha ha, I didn''t know I had such a good daughter!" "If you do more injustice, you will die." Jiang Ruan lightly replied: "Jiang Shangshu, there are gods in his head. When you did all this to my mother that day, you should think of this ending. " Yes, she wanted Jiang Quan to taste the end of betrayal. In his former life, his father planned strategies to turn all the people he didn''t pay attention to into chessmen in his hands and stepping stones of Jiang''s house, paving the way for Jiang Susu''s empress step by step. Every step of the glory of the Chiang family was created by stepping on the blood of their mother and son. Now it''s time for Jiang Quan to try it. This kind of struggle has no door, lonely despair, and suddenly found betrayed by all people, found himself worthless ridiculous. Like playing chess? sure! In this life, let the person in charge of the game transpose. She will write the game, but he is just a useless piece in the last step of the game! Jiang Quan suddenly shut up, he looked straight at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan''s undisguised hatred and crazy eyes fell on his eyes, he suddenly felt a burst of fear. He did not know where Jiang Ruan''s hatred came from. How could a man show such a terrible look like a man eating beast. "Jiang Quan, can you plead guilty?" Sun Xu saw that it was almost noisy now. He clapped and cheered. He looked at Sun Xu in the hall and suddenly began to laugh. He stood in the middle and said with disdain, "Sun Xu, what kind of high-profile do you pretend to be? Since we are officials in the same Dynasty, there is no innocence. When you treat me like this today, I admit that I am inferior to others in power and have nothing to say. I also admit this sin! But remember, I''m just submissive to power. Today, if my power can compete with it any more, I''ll fight for it anyway! " When Jiang Ruan heard what he said, the corners of his eyes slowly bent down and began to smile. He is worthy of Jiang Quan. He has been an official for many years, and he can see the importance at a glance. In fact, human evidence is not the most important thing, and material evidence is not the most important. It depends on how the case is tried. Sun Xu''s attitude is the most important thing. Jiang Quan thought that sun Xu would not dare to do too much for the sake of his colleagues. But Sun Xu''s attitude can only show one thing. Someone is supporting Jiang Ruan. No matter who that person is, it is inevitable that sun Xu will bow down for him. When Jiang Quan confessed, he even kept his hand. He pretended to be so generous, but the last few sentences were imaginative and made people think of other things involuntarily. It''s really sinister to admit guilt and pour a basin of dirty water on Jiang Ruan and sun Xu. But how could Jiang Quan do such a thing? Jiang Ruan smiles. Jiang Quan never wastes time on useless things. Now that you''ve confessed, what''s the effect of this innocuous splashing of dirty water? This kind of incompetent man, who seems to be able to do anything, finally scrambled and bit at random. In Jiang Ruan''s eyes, he only felt ridiculous. She slowly stood up and went to Jiang Quan. Everyone looked at the father and daughter in silence. Jiang Quan was very emotional. His old face was red and twisted, and his thin protruding cheekbones turned black. He was no longer a handsome young official. But Jiang Ruan was just a young man, with a snow complexion and a calm look, even with a gentle smile.They are ugly, beautiful, manic, calm, angry and smiling. There is no father daughter attitude. Jiang Ruan walked up to Jiang Quan, who glared at her tightly. There was anger and resentment in his eyes, even a trace of fear, but he couldn''t find a trace of warmth. Jiang Ruan was used to it. She stopped in front of Jiang Quan, suddenly sighed and said softly, "it turns out that Jiang Shangshu, who has always been ambitious and ambitious, will succumb to power." She sighed, but it was like a thump on Jiang Quan''s heart. What vaguely appeared before his eyes was when he became a new rich man in the imperial court. Although his ambition was bigger than heaven, his fortune was thinner than paper. He has always wanted to make the appearance of being clean and free from worldly pollution, but now he wants to take the initiative to admit that he has fallen in the footsteps of power. It was a fatal blow to him and an unbearable shame. And the shame came from his daughter, who was grinding the earth from the bottom of his heart. Jiang Ruan Yue was brilliant, and the more Jiang Quan felt humble. He is a cowardly and hypocritical man from the bottom of his heart. He always valued the eyes of others. That''s why he used so many years to make himself a clean and honest man. At this moment, as soon as the skin was torn open, Jiang Quan couldn''t help but feel that he couldn''t lift it up in one breath, and he fainted. Two officials rushed to take Jiang Quan down. Sun Xu was shocked and said, "the guilty Minister Jiang Quan pleaded guilty in court. He conspired with his concubine Xia to harm his wife and his children. The crime is unforgivable. The evidence is clear. There are thousands of people''s eyes, state-owned laws, family rules, and all kinds of evils. According to the law, he will be sent to the prison and the case will be declared the next day." The crowd outside was boiling. Zhao Guang clenched his fists tightly. Today, he had restrained himself very well. But even when he heard Jiang Quan plead guilty, he knew that he would not be able to escape the blame. Zhao Guang still couldn''t stop losing control. Zhao Yuanjia comforted him, but Zhao Yuanping and Zhao Yuanfeng looked at each other with heavy eyes. Jiang Ruan stood indifferently in the same place, watching Jiang Quan dragged away, slowly drooping his eyes, this is the end? Of course not. I have another exam tonight. I''m worried about it. I''m looking for personal qualities_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 203 In a corner of the palace, Jiang Dan changed her usual leisurely attitude and became a little anxious. Even the maid in waiting around her saw that she was wrong. She forced herself to sit down on the chair again and slowly grasped the back of the chair. At last, the maid in waiting could not help saying, "is the empress concerned about the affairs of Jiang Shangshu? Your majesty will be worried when she knows. " Jiang Ruan''s face changed. He forced out a smile and sighed: "I just didn''t expect that my eldest sister was so heartless. At least she was also her own father. How could she be so cruel. Although my palace is not very close to my father, I can''t bear to see him fall into such a situation. " She said, and then she pressed her forehead as if she were sad. "Niang Niang is too kind-hearted," the maid of honor couldn''t help persuading: "just take good care of yourself now." Jiang Dan waved his hand, shook his head and said, "I know. Go down first." The maid of honor took a worried look, and Jiang Dan stepped down. There was only Jiang Dan left in the big hall. Her face was a bit ferocious, with her fingernails sliding on the armrest of the stool. Jiang Quan has been sent to the prison. I didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan''s ability is so great that after so many years, he can produce evidence. Now it''s only Jiang Quan involved, but butterfly knew that she worked for Xia Yan, so why didn''t she poke the matter out. Butterfly naturally won''t keep secrets for Jiang Dan. In fact, Jiang Dan has already guessed the possibility, that is, Jiang Ruan deliberately suppressed the fact. She has already known that she poisoned her and Zhao Mei. As long as he thought about it, Jiang Dan felt guilty. She couldn''t be clearer about Jiang Ruan''s tactics. From Shanye''s daughter, whom nobody paid attention to at the beginning, to Jinying''s princess, who no one dares to underestimate now, Jiang Ruan almost devoured Shangshu''s house and eradicated the people who were against her. Jiang Ruan''s six relatives didn''t recognize her, and he was very careful. How could he let her go alone? The reason why there is no movement now must be because there are some back moves left? Jiang Dan was more and more afraid and could not help biting her lower lip. A moment later, she suddenly told her confidant pearl to come in and said, "I have something to tell you." At the same time, on the carriage back to the house, Jin San asked Jiang Ruan: "since the young lady knows that Jiang Zhaoyi is also the murderer who killed her, why don''t she let the butterfly bite her out? It is the concubine, as long as it involves the life of the official wife, it also comes from the trial, even his majesty can not intervene. Why did the young lady let her go? " "I won''t let her go." Jiang Ruan smile: "just don''t want to be so cheap. There are too many loopholes in butterfly''s words. The reason why Jiang Quan was caught is that Xiao Shao intervened in it. Now Jiang Quan''s official career seems to have come to an end, and he has little power in the court, and his majesty will not have much objection to it. But Jiang Dan is involved. Now she is in favor. If someone wants to take this case seriously, it''s not difficult to find the doubts. Don''t forget that the butterfly and the so-called evidence are all made by ourselves. It''s impossible to keep a trace of things in the world. " Jin three thought for a while, then nodded: "that said, it seems a pity to give up this opportunity for nothing. Does the young lady already have a good way? " "Jiang Dan is suspicious. Although he is fierce, he is still cowardly in his heart for so many years. She was afraid of the east window incident. She thought she was already in the palace now. Eagerly, where can we think out the mystery in this case? We should be full of how to avoid being found. Jin San, when you get back to the mansion, you''ll send some royal guards to protect Jiang Quan secretly. You can''t be killed before Jiang Quan is sentenced. " Jiang Danfen asked. Jin San was surprised: "she wanted to kill people?" Then a trace of disdain flashed in her eyes: "such a woman, in order to protect herself, could have done such a thing. No wonder she would have done it to her then. But madam, although she protected Chiang Kai Shek''s power, what would she do after that? " Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I don''t want to take the initiative. Once I take the initiative, I will always expose myself first. What I want to do now is to lead the snake out of the hole. The more anxious she is, the more prone she is to make mistakes. I will lure her into action. It''s just that the tomb she dug out buries herself. " She said gentle, Jin three but feel as if there is cold, heart can''t help a Lin, see Jiang Ruan language smile, then understand that she must be in mind, simply put down her heart. When he returned to Jiang''s house, unexpectedly, there were some strange bodyguards at the door of the house. Although these bodyguards only dressed as the bodyguards in the house, Jiang Ruan could see the difference at a glance. She has always been good at observing the details. These bodyguards have a solemn look and regular appearance, even the royal guards. Jiang Ruan frowned. She had been in the palace for so many years in her previous life. These people looked like the imperial guards. Seeing her coming, the guards nodded and said, "I''ve seen the princess." Jinsan and Tianzhu''s face slightly changed, but housekeeper Lin trotted all the way. He saw that Jiang Ruan was also slightly stunned. It seemed that he didn''t expect that she would come back so early. He was stunned for a moment and then said, "young lady, why are you so early?" Assuming that he didn''t see the abnormality of these people, Jiang Ruan acted calmly and said, "I''m a little tired. Housekeeper Lin, I''ll go and sit in my study. I''ll wait for Xiao Shao to come back if I have anything to do."When it comes to the "study", housekeeper Lin has another meal. Among those strange bodyguards around, a leading bodyguard suddenly said, "princess, please don''t go to the study?" Jiang Ruan didn''t pay any attention, as if he didn''t hear him at all. He just stepped forward to the direction of the study in the mansion. As soon as the head of the bodyguard''s face changed, he immediately stopped in front of Jiang Ruan and said in a deep voice, "please move." Jiang Ruan quietly looked at him, her eyes calm, as if there is no mood of blessing, so indifferent looking at the man. At last, the man was puzzled by her eyes. Jiang Ruan Cai said faintly: "housekeeper Lin, is this the new bodyguard? I don''t know the rules. " "I''m not a new bodyguard." The bodyguard leader has been walking for many years. He has never seen any kind of high-ranking officials, but some of them still have to give him some noodles. It''s the first time I''ve hit someone in the face without hesitation. However, although he was a little embarrassed, he had a good temper and didn''t have a theory with Jiang Ruan. He also looked very humble. "What''s so strange here?" Jiang Ruan smiles: "since he is the bodyguard of the foreign house, he is also an outsider. The outsider has to intervene in the affairs of King Jinying''s house. No matter how powerful your master is, as long as he doesn''t have the surname Xiao, he can''t intervene here." Jiang Ruan light way. The bodyguard was surprised and looked at Jiang Ruan with some inquiry. Jiang Ruan looked at her calmly, and the man was smart. Knowing that Jiang Ruan knew the identity of the man inside, but even so, how could she dare? Jiang Ruan''s heart was cold. She did seem to have guessed the identity of the people inside. Although she didn''t understand, it was more of a slight disgust. On weekdays, she would just avoid walking away, but now it is related to Jinying palace, so she is unhappy. Although the culprit in the previous life was not that person, she always hated the people in this ancestral temple from then on. This life can avoid then avoid, do not want to actually still want to mix together? But why is he qualified to interfere in other people''s lives? Jiang Ruan said with a slight smile, but the smile was not soft, with a trace of unquestionable strength: "the bodyguard of the foreign government, can you get out of the way now?" "This..." The bodyguard wanted to refuse directly, but he couldn''t say anything to Jiang Ruan''s eyes. He recalled that the woman in front of him could even bring her father to court. If she didn''t pay attention to the common customs, she would be very arrogant. "Come in, young lady." But housekeeper Lin opened his mouth and said, "the palace is your home. You can go wherever you want. How can you have your own home that you can''t go? The young master is in the study, and the young lady is working hard today. When she turns back, the old slave asks the kitchen to send some sweet soup. " Housekeeper Lin said with a smile, but the leader of the guard looked at him incredulously and said: "you..." "I''ll take care of anything." Housekeeper Lin was a little impatient: "besides, what the young lady said is right. The affairs of the Xiao family have nothing to do with you. It''s better for outsiders not to interfere." This is a bit tough and even rude. Although housekeeper Lin is usually unreliable in Xiao Shao''s affairs, as a housekeeper, he is very tactful the rest of the time. Today''s ruthless speech is very special. The bodyguards behind the leader of the bodyguard were indignant. They seemed to be dissatisfied with their master''s being insulted like this. They almost jumped up and had a general theory. They didn''t want Jin San Tian Zhu to stand in front of Jiang Ruan. They also looked slightly alert and said to Jiang Ruan, "little lady, go ahead first. The provincial people are infected with the cold." It''s well known that people in Jinying palace protect their concubines, but I didn''t expect that a newly married Princess would also protect her concubines. The bodyguards had never been treated like this in their life. They were very angry for a moment. But it''s not good to fight in King Jinying''s mansion. There are so many royal guards here that they can only look at Jiang ruanyang''s figure angrily. Housekeeper Lin followed Jiang Ruan, looking cold and stern as he walked. He was always jumping off and happy. It was the first time he was so nervous. He said, "young lady, you are a member of the Xiao family when you enter the palace. You are one with the young master. You should know something about the little Lord. " He had something to say, and Jiang Ruan didn''t speak. He just waited for housekeeper Lin to say it himself. Sure enough, housekeeper Lin continued: "it''s not easy for the young master to live these years. Outsiders can only see his scenery outside, but the old slave has been watching him grow up from the baby to the present. The young master is just not used to saying everything. Not long after the old prince and the princess had an accident, the young master took over the royal guards, and then he went to southern Xinjiang alone. I came back alive, but I lost half of my life, and I had been treated for three days without sleep. " "There are many people in the capital who want the life of the little Lord, some from southern Xinjiang, some from the Jin Dynasty, and all kinds of people. In order to protect the royal guards, I don''t know how much I have suffered these years. Now seeing him marry his wife, the old slave is very pleased. He has such a disposition that he pays no attention to anything and lives for his mission all his life. Now it''s rare to have something you want to grasp, so you look like an ordinary young man. " Housekeeper Lin looked at Jiang Ruan, and the beard on the corner of his mouth turned up: "young lady is a good girl. When Jin San talked about the difference between young master and young lady, I knew that only young lady could help him. Our Jinying palace, though invincible, has been standing for so many years in the ups and downs of the Jin Dynasty. It seems that nothing can knock it down, and there are too many things to bear. Ordinary ladies can''t bear it, but the young lady can. "Then they arrived at the door of the study. Housekeeper Lin stopped, looked at Jiang Ruan seriously and said, "young lady, you are the only one in the world who can stand beside him." Jiang Ruan stopped. The door of the study was not closed. He opened a crack, but there was no guard outside. It was obvious that he deliberately opened all the people here. The voice of the people inside clearly spread to the two ears. One of them had a thick voice, very familiar, with a kind of condescending arrogance that always gives orders. But at the moment, he was about impatient, his voice was a little unsteady, and he completely lost his usual grace. He said heavily: "don''t be stubborn! What''s good about that woman? The matter of suing her biological father is now known to the civil and military of the Manchu Dynasty. What do the people of the Dajin Dynasty think of her? What do others think of you? I thought that as long as you like it, as long as she lives in peace, I will endure it. Look at her. She''s making such a big storm? Push you to the top of the storm, where there is the appearance of a wife! " As soon as he came over, he heard the accusation against Jiang Ruan. Housekeeper Lin was a little ashamed, and he couldn''t help but turn his head and take a sneak look at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked calm and didn''t feel uncomfortable to be scolded at all. Even heard the voice did not show a bit surprised, as if already know who is inside the general. Jiang Ruan listened in silence. The people inside were as she had imagined. Now, the emperor. At the beginning, before she got married with Xiao Shao, she realized the emperor''s different attitude towards Xiao Shao, including empress Yide. However, it is certain that both of them were extremely tolerant towards Xiao Shao. That''s why even though the couple were charged with making trouble, Xiao Shao was safe and sound, and even trusted by the emperor. Although it''s not clear what the reason is, Jiang Ruan can guess that it''s not because the emperor is a Ming monarch, who only has talent, and he can''t let others sleep on his side. In fact, no emperor can tolerate the descendants of anti ministers to be officials alive. There must be some reasons for this. Then the emperor''s angry voice was followed by Xiao Shao''s cold voice: "Your Majesty, this is my minister''s housework." "Shut up The emperor seems to have been stabbed: "don''t forget what your surname is. You don''t have Xiao''s surname. What''s on your body is the blood of Xuan''s family. Any housework, your housework is my housework!" Jiang Ruan''s eyes widened in shock. Rao Shi never showed her emotion. When she heard this, she couldn''t help losing her mind. The words of the people inside are very clear, and there is almost no possibility of listening wrong. She thought about a million possibilities, but she never thought it would be like this. Xiao Shao, Xuan Shao? "Your Majesty, why do you insist on going your own way?" Xiao Shao''s tone was indifferent. "I have nothing to do with the royal family. Your majesty should be careful." His words were cold and almost provocative. "It''s not up to you!" The emperor snorted coldly: "I''ve done so much for you. I''ve hidden you in King Jinying''s residence for so many years without restoring your identity and secret. It''s to pave the way. The rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty will be handed over to you one day. You are the Royal people, the future Prince of the great Jin Dynasty! How dare you say it doesn''t matter? " Housekeeper Lin buries his head and dares not look at Jiang Ruan''s expression. Jiang Ruan holds his fist and calms down slowly. Yes, Xiao Shao killed Xuanli in the end, but he also sits on the throne. So, he was the Huang family, and the emperor was going to pass the position to him? "There are differences between the monarch and the minister," Xiao Shao remained unmoved: "Your Majesty''s country should be handed over to a more talented person. I will not accept your Majesty''s arrangement. " "You I''m stubborn The emperor was so angry that he suddenly thought of something. The front of the story changed and said, "do you insist on not taking the throne for the sake of that girl? I heard you spoil her. How can you do that? I was just when you were young, I didn''t know what was at stake. Since you really like that girl, you can marry her back. Now you spoil her alone. How can you convince the public in the future? The people of Jin Dynasty don''t need an emperor who is only obsessed with the love between men and women! " "I have already said that," it seems to mention that Jiang Ruan made Xiao Shao a little unhappy, and his tone suddenly increased: "I don''t agree with your arrangement. Your majesty should choose another one." Not only Xiao Shao was a little unhappy, but also housekeeper Lin was a little unhappy. What kind of existence Jiang Ruan is now in Jinying palace? That is the young lady whom we all admire. What does the emperor mean by beating people to death like this? Even the emperor can not arbitrarily deny the merits of a person. What''s more, we all agree that the perfect young lady. Three people inside and outside were unhappy, but Jiang Ruan was the calmest. She didn''t feel sad about it. Since ancient times, she has been bothered by the emperor, and she didn''t care about the past and the present. "Ah Shao," the emperor suddenly softened his voice and seemed to admit defeat. "Have you forgotten your father? I promised him... " "Your Majesty," interrupted Xiao Shao, with a sharp tone, "you promised my mother, too." The emperor suddenly shut up. A big wave of lethal serial tests is coming OTZ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 205 I don''t know that after a long time, the emperor''s voice was a little tired: "no matter what, a Shao, what I said today, you''d better think about it." After saying that, Jiang Ruan and Lin Chamberlain were about to leave the house, and they avoided to one side of the house. After the emperor left, housekeeper Lin looked at Jiang Ruan, hesitated for a moment, and said, "what does the young lady want to know? You might as well go to ask the young master now. The young master won''t hide anything from you." Jiang Ruan nodded, thought about it, then Shi ran entered the study. In the study, Xiao Shao sat at his desk. He didn''t know what to think. He was not surprised to see her, but said, "did you hear that?" Jiang Ruan nodded. Xiao Shao is a person with martial arts skills. Her martial arts skills are not weak. Just now, she stayed outside with housekeeper Lin to breathe. The emperor couldn''t hear the sound, but Xiao Shao didn''t hear it. I''m afraid she wanted to hear it. She sat down beside Xiao Shao. The black background of Xiao Shao''s collar was inlaid with Kirin pattern, showing a deep golden luster and cold light, which made him look very cold. "Ah Ruan, I have something to tell you." Xiao shaodao. "Just right," Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "I have something to tell you." Xiao Shao slightly a Leng, some doubt of see to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at the thick pamphlet on the table, which was neat and neat, as if to show how often the master read them. Xiao Shao was careful and cautious. Many things he didn''t say didn''t mean he didn''t know. The husband and wife each have their own secrets. Jiang Ruan always wants to confess. Now Xiao Shao mentions them first, but she feels that it''s better to let her tell them first. "Do you remember that when I came back from Mount Canaan, I had a word with you," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "I said I had something to tell you." Xiao Shao said: "I remember." "That''s what I''m going to tell you now." Jiang Ruan sighed, and his eyes were a little disappointed: "in fact, I don''t know what you will think of me after listening to it. Maybe you keep away from me, maybe nothing will happen. But anyway, I will go on. I think we should be honest. " Her tone is magnanimous, even if there is a trace of indeterminate hesitation, but also after a short stay to continue. "You probably asked the royal guards to check me about the disaster relief food in the general''s residence, my elder brother''s ambush in the forest and master huijue. You must have a lot of doubts, and sometimes you may even think that I''m a prophet. You don''t know that I''m fighting against Xia''s family because of Xia Yan''s harm to his mother, but now I''m also blocking Xuanli. Including Li Dongquan''s family. " Xiao Shao stares at her deeply. It''s true that all the things she said are what he doubted at the beginning. The royal guards still can''t find out how magical they are, and the only possible thing seems too absurd. "You must be surprised why your highness thirteen has a lot to do with me, and Liu Taifu seems to want to help me. I always know something about the court. It''s no coincidence, Xiao Shao. " Jiang Ruan looked at him and suddenly laughed: "because I already knew what would happen. I have experienced all these things myself. I have died once, Xiao Shao." "Ah Ruan." Xiao Shao suddenly export, he frowned: "you don''t have to tell me." Even if it''s just a few words, it''s shocking enough. Every one of these words is not acceptable to normal people. And Jiang Ruan himself did not find that, even if she tried to cover up, in speaking of these words, the eyes in the end showed a strange crazy. "You don''t believe me?" Jiang Ruan asked. "No, I believe you." Xiao Shao said: "I just feel that if you want to say something that makes you miserable, you can not say it. I don''t have to know. I don''t care what happened in the past, as long as you are by my side now. You will always be my princess. " His tone is insipid, his look is also cold, without waves, but his eyes flash a little imperceptible connivance. Jiang Ruan looked at him and suddenly laughed: "but I''d like to tell you that some things have been held in my heart for a long time. If you can share some with me, I''ll be much more relaxed. At least let me feel, this life I am not a person Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, and did not speak for a moment. After a pause, Jiang Ruan said slowly, "what you see now, I shouldn''t have been like this. When I was five years old, my mother died and Xia Yan became my own mother. On the surface, she was very kind to me. Jiang Su Su was also very amiable, but my servants always bullied me. I didn''t understand at that time. I just thought there were many slaves in the house. I didn''t understand until later that if there was no command from the master, how could the maidservant dare to bully the girl in the house like this. But anyway, I was finally sent to Chuang Tzu, and my elder brother was secretly hinted by Xia Yan that as long as he left, they would not treat me badly. He left home when he was young, and we were separated from each other. " "Later, I lived in Chuang Tzu. Chuang Tzu''s life was very bad. Everyone forgot that I was actually the legitimate daughter of Shangshu mansion. Many times I didn''t live as well as my servants. Zhang Lan and her daughter took all my belongings and made me a slave. Their dandy son even wants to fight with me. " Jiang Ruan noticed Xiao Shao''s frowning and said with a smile, "I think the royal guards also told you about these things. You know"I didn''t meet Wang Yushi that year, and I didn''t get vindication for it. I stayed in Chuang Tzu for eight years, and got the news that my elder brother died in the battle. I thought that life was hopeless. Shangshu mansion in the capital seems to leave me behind. I have written many letters, but I have never received a reply. I thought that all my life I lived in Zhuangzi until I died. But in the eighth year, someone came from Jingzhong and wanted to take me back to Shangshu mansion. I was very happy that my father finally remembered me. " What she said is mindless. If ordinary people don''t understand what she is saying, Xiao Shao just stares at her quietly. Her eyes seem to be mixed with complicated emotions, and her wristband hand clenches into a fist, trying to suppress her amazement and look at her calmly. "When I was taken back to Shangshu mansion, I was in front of the gate of Shangshu mansion. Under the attention of all the onlookers, I was shabby and had no rules and regulations. Like a beggar, I accepted the warm greetings of Xia Yan and Jiang Su Su Su. The more pure and virtuous she is like a fairy, the more dirty I look. At that moment, I feel deeply ashamed. " She said these words in a flat tone, but her nails were sinking deeper and deeper: "not long after returning to Beijing, it was the annual Lantern Festival, on Linglong boat. That time, you didn''t come, and all the noble children in Beijing were there. Jiang Su Su asked me to do a dance, so that I would not lose the face of Shangshu mansion. She told me that I only need to do the dance at the banquet of Chuang Tzu. On that day, I fell down from the Linglong boat and was fished up, becoming the laughing stock of the whole capital. " She pinched her fingernails deeper and deeper without any sense, even the blood stains appeared. There are many injuries in the world that will not fade with the passage of time. If she doesn''t think about it, she won''t feel pain. When she thinks about it, every memory is painful and unwilling. Just at this time, a slender and cool hand stretched out and gently opened the finger that she deeply pinched into the palm. For fear that she would hurt herself again, she wrapped her little hand in her slender palm. Jiang Ruan looked at his actions blankly until he realized the warmth of his palm. She took a deep breath and gradually calmed down: "later, Jiang Su Su and I went to all kinds of parties together in the name of the daughter of Shangshu mansion. Xia Yan invited a husband for me, but never taught me how to read, write or take charge of Zhongfu. She only said that women didn''t have to learn those, just let me learn music, dance and zither. I don''t know anything. When I go out with Jiang Su Su every day, outsiders will only praise her for her excellent color and art, but they are gaudy and vulgar women with me. " "Later on, the name of the" grass bag beauty "disappeared. I don''t know when rumors came out of Beijing. Chen Zhao bullied me in Chuang Tzu. I just said that I didn''t know how to love myself when I was young and that I knew how to seduce men. It''s really bad virtue. At that time, I was just around the corner, and my reputation was in a mess. " Xiao Shao slowly grasped her shoulder, straightened her half body and leaned against his arms. When he took her into his arms, he found that Jiang Ruan''s body was as stiff as a piece of wood, and her whole body was very tight, as if she was extremely nervous. Xiao Shao patted her on the back and comforted her. Jiang Ruan continued: "when the reputation is so bad, there is only one person who treats me kindly, that is Xuanli." When Xiao Shao was stunned, Jiang Ruan''s tone flashed a trace of sadness: "that day, on the day when Linglong boat made a fool of me, he ignored all people''s eyes to comfort me. I thought that he was kind and gentle in his heart. Later, he often came to Shangshu mansion to talk with Jiang Quan, and he would bring some small gifts with me. He never called me a plain beauty like others, and he would not look at me in a different way. When Jiang Su Su and I appeared at the same time, he would not only look at Jiang Su Su and ignore me. At that time, I was really happy. " "In the year of Ji and I, your majesty will summon a new group of beautiful girls to the palace, and all the common girls of the official family will be able to enter the palace. But at that time, the rising of the two families of Jiang and Xia had already made the emperor afraid. It was called the draft. It was not like the hostage was lost in the palace, in order to warn the palace. It is not important that Jiang Li and Jiang Dan are only common women, and the emperor will not be satisfied. Jiang Quan stops the portrait of Jiang Su Su and reports it to me. " Xiao Shao stroked her hair, even now, when she talked about it, there was a trace of deep self mockery in her tone. Perhaps one of the things that Jiang Ruan never understood in his previous and present life was why Jiang Quan treated her like this. As a biological father and daughter, no matter how indifferent it is, it is better to treat an outsider than her. The tiger poison still does not eat her son. Maybe Jiang Quan and her are feuds formed in previous lives. In this life, they have to pay back in the name of father and daughter. "I don''t want to go into the palace. I don''t want to live with a man I''ve never met, and I don''t want to fight with many women in the deep palace. But Jiang Quan said that if I didn''t go, the whole Shangshu mansion would be buried with me for my willfulness. Xuanli also advised me at that time. He said that he could always protect me in the palace. One day, he would let me be his right wife. " Xiao Shao quietly picked to pick eyebrow, probably think Xuan Li this words is also too arrogant some. Now Xuanli''s wife is not Jiang Ruan. The fight between men is never based on big talk, but on real ability. "I didn''t know about human feelings, so I believed it. He volunteered to take the place of Jiang Su Su After a pause, Jiang Ruan seemed to hear the clothes or the loving or grateful faces made by those people in Shangshu mansion before entering the palace. Every sentence was disgusting. If she knew that she was going to die for such a group of cannibal jackals, she would take the whole Shangshu mansion to make amends."The days in the palace were the darkest in my life. Being ridiculed by the imperial concubine and bullied by the palace maids, everyone knows that I can''t be spoiled. Sometimes I''m even regarded as a dancer of your Majesty''s favorite concubine. Even if I have a grade, I''m not seen in the eye. I don''t have a family to rely on. In order to show their loyalty, Shangshu government won''t interfere in the affairs of the harem and never give me any support. They even hope that I will die, which may win the emperor a trace of guilt. " She didn''t know what she thought, and she began to smile: "later, the Emperor gave me pei''er and raised him in my name. Pei''er is also a spoiled prince in the palace. We are neglected people. I am very grateful. Maybe he was God''s gift to me in his previous life. He gave me such a child when he knew that I couldn''t survive alone. " Xiao Shao''s eyes moved slightly, and suddenly understood why Xuan Pei was very attached to Jiang Ruan. Just as Guan Lianghan said unintentionally, pei''er was like a chick attached to his mother. If she was a mother and son of a previous life, she would be like this in this life. But in this way, pei''er could not have the memory of a previous life. So far, what Xiao Shao heard about Jiang Ruan''s past is also very tragic. He can''t understand what happened to Jiang Ruan. Even more can''t imagine in front of this powerful, don''t care about everything woman also had helpless despair time. "Xuanli has his great task to accomplish. He wants me to be a good chess piece in the palace. Some things that he is inconvenient to do can be done by my hand. Later, he did so. On that day, they killed the emperor, but they put all the charges on me. Say that I have poisoned your majesty, and that I am the evil girl of the evil country. " Her palms were gradually sweating, but her body was a little chilly: "they pushed me down the nine high steps. My father ordered people to catch me. He didn''t protect me as he said. All he wants is a paving stone. When the road is paved, the stone will be useless. " "Ah Ruan..." Xiao Shao could not help hugging her and was shocked and distressed by her words. But he could do nothing but comfort him at the moment. But only he knew that comfort at the moment was of no use to Jiang Ruan at that time. "Xiao Shao, do you think this is the end?" Jiang Ruan shook his head and said with a smile, "my hell has just begun. I was sent to the prison, the cell of death row, and someone rescued me. I thought that escaping from heaven was the beginning of torture. Jiang Su Su told me that more than 100 people were killed in the general''s family, all of them were executed in the name of traitors after Xuanli ascended the throne of God. She told me that her elder brother was killed by others, and so was her mother. The culprit is my sister. She said that she was already displeased. I had been the name of the girl for a long time. On that day, I blinded my eyes, cut my nose, pulled out my tongue, cut off my limbs, and made me a * man. Xiao Shao, you are the master of Jinyi Wei for so many years, I know what the human * s are. I am like a monster. It is disgusting to look at it more often. "Ah Ruan!" Xiao Shao couldn''t help cheering. He took a deep breath. He always knew that a strong heart must come from a very deep torture. Jiang Quan''s strength was different from that of ordinary people, and he must have suffered a lot of pain that ordinary people didn''t experience. But all the conjectures could not resist the pain of Jiang Ruan''s own words. At this moment, he deeply understood Jiang Ruan''s pain and despair. He understood why Jiang Ruan always hated Xia''s family and Jiang Quan. If it was him, his hatred would not be less than Jiang Ruan''s. Xiao Shao, who has always been indifferent and not moved by any foreign objects, actually felt a trace of panic. If we lose Jiang Ruan, what will happen? Jiang Ruan didn''t move. He held himself tightly and said slowly:. Later, she asked someone to hand me over to Li Dong. In prime minister''s mansion, in front of me, I saw pei''er given by Li Dong with my own eyes. " At last, she couldn''t speak. She choked in her voice: "I can stand anything. I recognize what''s aimed at me, but they don''t even let go of their children. In this life, I will never forgive them! I will always remember the pain they brought me. In this life, I came for revenge! " Looking at Xiao Shao, she said slowly, "in the 18th year of Xuande, Jiang Su Su was the empress. Jiang''s powerful officials worshipped Yipin, Xia''s chickens and dogs ascended to heaven, and I died." "I died under the chaotic staff of the prime minister''s family. As soon as I opened my eyes, I found that I had returned to the moment of Zhuangzi. I''m very glad that this is another chance given to me by God. I try my best to climb up, meet Wang Yushi, save my elder brother and take the general''s house to avoid disaster. All I do is to prevent what happened in my previous life from happening again. All I do is to come back and ask for a blood debt. " She looked at Xiao Shao, her eyes gradually burst into tears: "I am a dead man, Xiao Shao, do you understand?" This is so frightening, but Xiao Shao is looking at her. Suddenly he pulls her into his arms again. He holds her tightly. She is weak in his arms, like a newborn animal. She will be broken gently. He was biting his teeth. His beautiful face was patient. He was biting his teeth hard and his eyes were red. However, the tone was flat, still with the usual expression of no doubt: "I understand, but I don''t care." "You are my wife, you are from the Xiao family. I don''t hate you for that, and I don''t think you''re different. I just regret why I didn''t meet you earlier in my previous life, "he continued with a hard breath." I regret that I missed my previous life and let you suffer so much. "Jiang Ruan was stunned. He slowly reached back and hugged his waist, half smiling and half sighing: "fool, what does this have to do with you?" The master of the royal guards, who was always cold-blooded and invincible, was not unhappy that he was said to be a fool. At the moment, Xiao Shao just wanted to protect the people in front of him forever. As long as he thought that in a life he didn''t know, he lost the person in front of him, he couldn''t breathe. In Jiang Ruan''s words, every understatement of the pain he suffered in the past is a slap in the face of his present life. He never knew that his wife had so many secrets. In this life, she came with secrets and lived for hatred. In those years when no one knew the secrets, how lonely she was. He didn''t dare to think. Jiang Ruan slowly released his hand and looked up at him. The young man leaned slightly. His dark eyes were as calm and gentle as ever. It was reassuring to look at them. There was no trace of evasion and disgust in his eyes. He was so sincere that Jiang Ruan suddenly put out his hand to cover his eyes. His long eyelashes crossed Jiang Ruan''s palms. With itchy touch, Jiang Ruan slowly closed his eyes and kissed him. "Fortunately, you haven''t missed it in your life, neither have I Housekeeper Lin was fidgeting outside for a long time. Finally, he still wanted to see what was going on inside. He carefully stood at the door of the study, took a needle and opened a small hole in the flower window to look inside. He was stunned and jumped all the way back to the yard. Jin four curiously looking at him: "Lao Lin, little Lord and little wife quarreled? What are you hiding from? " Housekeeper Lin didn''t hear her. He just frowned and thought. How could he kiss her? What Shao mainly said should be very serious and should not deviate from this. But why does the young lady want to cover the eyes of the young master again As soon as Lao Lin''s eyes brightened, the little lady showed him the book that he ordered to hide under Xiao Shao''s bedroom mattress? The young lady is really a heroine. She is good at learning and using. Blindfold is very fresh. It''s just that she is not too bold in her study. However, it''s good to learn the future master of Jinying palace early. It just can''t be found. Housekeeper Lin changed his face and said to Jin Si: "young lady and young master are talking about important things in the study. Don''t disturb them. If it is the Emperor Those bodyguards came to make trouble again, and they all beat me out with sticks. Not everyone can act wild in the palace. " Then he went to the kitchen: "I have to tell the cook to do something to mend his body. I''m afraid the young lady is working hard now." Brocade four shrugged, brocade three emerge from behind, touched to touch a head way: "how do I feel, Lao Lin is to run to slant of that?" www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 206 In the eighth Prince''s house, Xuan Li throws the letter paper into the fire. In an instant, the fire licks the writing on the paper and turns it into a pile of ashes. The staff behind him finally couldn''t help asking: "why did your highness refute Jiang Zhaoyi''s meaning?" Jiang Dan mentioned that he wanted to unite with Xuanli to overthrow King Jinying''s house. It was not surprising to hear that. Since Jiang Dan said so, he must have an idea. Xuanli should have listened to it because he was cautious, but Xuanli refused Jiang Dan without hesitation. It''s really strange. "She''s in such a hurry now that she can''t hold her breath. I think there''s something wrong with Jiang Ruan. I want to use my hand to deal with Jiang Ruan. By the way, I mention the Jinying palace. What good way can she do? Besides, it''s not worth my hand. " Xuan Li looked at the beating flames: "moreover, this woman is very scheming, and now she has mixed with Lao Wu." The staff followed Xuan Li''s eyes and looked at the fire. Most of them knew that it was a secret guard from the palace. Jiang Dan had a relationship with Xuan Hua in such a short period of time. It was really urgent. The staff pondered: "Your Highness means..." "Just a fool." Xuanhuaman said: "if these two people can unite to overthrow Jinying palace, it''s good. Xiao Shao''s existence is always a stumbling block. One day I''ll clean up this stone. Someone will do it for me. Why not?" He seemed to find it amusing: "if they are inferior to others, with Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan''s temperament, what do you think they can gain?" Xuanli said: "old five has been in the eye of the court for a long time. Now there is another xuanpei. If old five disappears from this world, it will be a good thing for me." He looked at the golden button on his sleeve and said, "I don''t have any loss, so why do I have to run this muddy water?" "Your Highness is wise." The aide sighed: "when the snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman will benefit. His Highness has picked up the advantage." After thinking about it, he suddenly said, "it''s just that Jiang Zhaoyi, who was originally a member of his highness, suddenly joined hands with the fifth prince, which can''t be used by us. He became an abandoned son. The news that she will be in the palace in the future..." "She''s useless." Xuanli interrupted: "Yuanchuan has arrived in the palace. What''s the use of Jiang Dan. It''s better to use the last one to help me do something. It''s not in vain. " The staff nodded: "in that case, I will be at ease and wait for the good news. Your highness deserves to be the best chess holder. At the end of the game, you still have to finish the game. " Jiang Ruan stretched his waist, subconsciously hugged the source of warmth in his hands, vaguely opened his eyes, but found that his hands were still around Xiao Shao''s waist, Xiao Shao''s quiet sleeping face was in front of him. The sunlight dimly shines in through the curtain for one or two minutes, which makes her chaotic mind clear, and suddenly reminds her of what happened yesterday. However, he told the whole story of his past life, and finally, somehow, he kisses Xiao Shao. Suddenly, Xiao Shao takes advantage of her vagueness to carry her out of her study. It''s about that the tide of emotion can also dilute some of the pain, and release all the painful emotions in those intimate moments of intense sweat. And then what? Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised and felt the pain of being crushed all over his body. It has to be said that Xiao Shao is really smart. What others have learned several times can be perfected only once. It is the same in these things, where such a good coincidence, almost make her dizzy in the strange bliss. And this man is usually calm and cold, but I don''t know why he is very bad on the couch. He often deliberately bullies people who can''t speak, so he just gives up when he looks at people struggling. She supported her chin with one hand and looked carefully at the young man lying on her side. Xiao Shao''s eyelashes were long and straight, and there was a shadow under his eyelids. The bridge of nose is high and pretty, and the lips are thin and ruddy. Xiao Shao, who was asleep, looked very quiet. It was hard to imagine the sweat and madness of such a quiet and indifferent person at night. As long as there are those memories in my mind, I feel embarrassed. When he was thinking about it, he suddenly pulled his hand and fell into a warm embrace. Xiao Shao didn''t open his eyes, but his voice was very clear. With the light satisfaction of a glutton, he said: "it''s still early." "It''s getting late." Jiang Ruan replied casually, then reacted and said, "are you awake?" Xiao Shao bent his lips, opened his eyes, looked at her and said, "well." It seems that this person seems to be wilting as long as he is not under those genera. Occasionally, he is very childish. He probably thinks that the game of playing tricks on people is very interesting. In Jiang Ruan''s eyes, such a move is very similar to xuanpei''s. It''s just that Xuan Pei is cute when he does these things. It''s a little strange when he looks at Xiao Shao, who always has a cold face on weekdays. "You..." Jiang Ruan pushed him, but Xiao Shao didn''t let go. His strength was great. With a little skillful force, Jiang Ruan couldn''t help it. At the moment, he had to lie in his arms, but he thought of something and asked, "I said those words to you yesterday, but you didn''t hear them at last. When are you going to say them?" Thinking of this, Jiang Ruan was very uncomfortable. Yesterday, she was in a violent mood. When Xiao Shao took her back to her room, she was also seen by the servants of the palace. What do those people think? As soon as the princess returns to the palace, she can''t wait to have sex with her master in her study. Does it seem that she is too thirsty? As for housekeeper Lin, I''m afraid he''s even more puzzled. Let''s have a good secret. How can we finally talk about staying on the couch?Now that he had lost all his face, Jiang Ruan felt that it was more difficult for him to stand up in front of his servants, and he could not help sighing. Xiao Shao looked slightly and said, "yesterday you were too eager. I thought you wanted to do something more important." "More important?" Jiang Ruan glared at him: "what is more important?" It''s clear that this man has a ghost in his heart. He just wanted to gently comfort him, but he took advantage of the danger. Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing again. Jiang Ruan glared at him for a while and then followed him. She pushed Xiao Shao: "OK, get up first. I have nothing to do today. I can hear what you want to say. " She joked: "even if you say you are the same as me who died once, I will not dislike it." "If you want to hear it, I''ll tell you." Xiao Shao touched her hair: "get up first." After breakfast, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao went to the yard. The pavilion in the yard was adjacent to the pond. The water in the pond was green and blue. Among them, red fish swam around, dotted with monotonous winter days. Jiang Ruan thought about Xiao Shao''s words. Seeing that he was not as relaxed as he was in the morning, or even a little sad, he realized that there was something different about it. He just followed him silently. "Ruan," Xiao Shao said, "you have worshipped my parents'' tablets." "Yes," Jiang Ruan nodded, "on the day of marriage." On the day of her marriage to King Jinying''s house, she paid homage to her mother-in-law in front of the tablets of the old king Jinying and his wife. At the moment, I heard Xiao Shao talk about it, but I think of it. "In fact, you didn''t worship them." Xiao Shao lowered his eyes, but he didn''t know what he thought of. He said slowly, "there''s nothing for you to worship." Jiang Ruan was stunned and looked at him. It''s really thought-provoking to say that the memorial tablet in the ancestral hall is not the Jinying couple? It means something else. "Do you remember that one day you came to your house and saw me worship others here?" Xiao Shao stood up with his hands down, and his straight body showed a little Xiaosuo at the moment: "that''s the one you should worship." Jiang Ruan was surprised, but he remembered that there was a day when Xiao Shao was drunk and kissing her. It was she who saw Xiao Shao worshiping someone. On that day, she was just strange, because it was not the memorial day of the king and his wife. But she couldn''t think of any other reason. The suspicion at that time was finally confirmed at this moment. She was thinking about Xiao Shao''s words, and only heard Xiao Shao''s voice coming from her body: "I''m not the son of King Jinying." Jiang Ruan raised his head. Xiao Shao couldn''t tell what emotion was in his dark eyes. He said: "my father is Prince Hongxi." Jiang Ruan was stunned, and then there was a huge storm in his heart. Prince Hongxi, the eldest son of empress Yide and the elder brother of the emperor, was supposed to be the king of Dajin Dynasty, but the prince who died under the trample of ten thousand horses on the eve of the founding of the people''s Republic was Xiao Shao''s father? Xiao Shao took a look at Jiang Ruan. He stopped at the edge of the pavilion and began to talk slowly. Empress Yide has two sons and a daughter. The eldest daughter, Princess Yuanrong, is intelligent, gentle, generous and decent. The second son, Prince Hongxi, is also young and famous in Kyoto. Today, the emperor is the youngest. He is spoiled by his two elder sisters and brothers. He is smart after all. The relationship between these three people has always been good. When the former Emperor was alive, he was quite afraid of empress Yide''s strong style, that is, even her mother''s family was suppressed at the same time. Although empress Yide was resolute and had a lot of means in the imperial court, the biggest blow came from her husband-in-law. The former Emperor was afraid of empress Yide''s autocracy, so he was always spoiling the imperial concubines, and even intended to promote other princes to balance power. But after the death of the first emperor, the original balance of the situation was disrupted, and the great Jin Dynasty ushered in an unprecedented crisis, and the eight kings seized the throne. Prince Hongxi is the prince in name, but this prince is not very stable. Not to mention the eight ambitious brothers, there are few courtiers who support him. The former Emperor left a mess to empress Yide, but asked Prince Hongxi to evaluate the chaotic situation. Each of the eight brothers was king of the mountain and wanted to be forced into the palace. Empress Yide has no choice but to seek outside help. At that time, there was a princess, Qiman, from southern Xinjiang. Prince Hongxi is not only a real man with both ability and political integrity, but also a man of beauty and elegant demeanor. Southern Xinjiang had not been destroyed at that time, and its strength should not be underestimated. The princess once met Prince Hongxi when she came to Dajin from afar. She secretly agreed with him, but Prince Hongxi declined politely. The Crown Princess of Prince Hongxi was Xiang Xiaoyuan, the first medical woman in the Dajin Dynasty. Although Xiang Xiaoyuan was not as beautiful as Qiman, she had good medical skills and had many strange things in her mind. She didn''t come from an official family, but came out of the mountains. Once she helped a dying Yipin minister recover her life. It is said that she had some "operation" and got the official position of medical woman in the palace. Prince Hongxi and she finally get married, which is also a good toss. Fortunately, she finally got the beauty back. Prince Hongxi has always been clean in the affairs of men and women. He and Xiang Xiaoyuan really love each other. When Xiang Xiaoyuan comes out of the backyard, the crown prince and concubine will leave the house. How can he promise the princess of Southern Xinjiang to give up the proposal of marrying Xiang Xiaoyuan.However, it seems irrational to empress dowager Yide. It is true that she also likes Xiang Xiaoyuan''s intelligence and vision, which is different from any woman. However, it is not a wise monarch who gives up the great cause because of a woman. Maybe Prince Hongxi is not a competent emperor, his heart is not hard enough, but he is a good husband and father. Qiman says that if Prince Hongxi agrees, southern Xinjiang will be able to borrow 100000 troops to help the eight king rebellion of Dajin Dynasty. Prince Hongxi should not, but now the emperor is quitting. The emperor and Prince Hongxi have been affectionate since they were young. The two brothers thought of everything from childhood. Even the women they like are the same. Xiang Xiaoyuan is different from any woman. Prince Hongxi likes it and the emperor likes it. But in Xiang Xiaoyuan''s eyes, the emperor is just a little brother. He can only watch her marry his brother. Maybe it''s because of his jealousy and unwillingness. Maybe he is more suitable to be an Emperor than Prince Hongxi. He promised Qiman that he could find a way to let Qiman get Prince Hongxi first, and then send troops to help Dajin Dynasty. In fact, the emperor''s original intention was just an expedient measure. He thought it was just men''s love and women''s love. Prince Hongxi had no loss in the end. As long as we pacify Qiman for the time being, we can find a reason to kick Qiman away after the eight kings'' rebellion is vindicated. The only variable is Xiang Xiaoyuan, who is emotionally different from any woman in the world. She stresses that a man can only have one woman in his life. Three wives and four concubines are a crime. This is very rebellious in Jin Dynasty, but Prince Hongxi agreed. No matter how many people used to show their power, Prince Hongxi''s attitude was always very firm. The emperor thought that he could not be prince Hongxi. He was not and did not sneer at the disappointment he was waiting to see Xiaoyuan. However, he shocked everyone and made Xiaoyuan smile happily. Prince Hongxi did it. If this matter was known to Xiaoyuan, I don''t know how many variables it would cause, but for the sake of the great Jin Dynasty, and perhaps for the sake of the dark thoughts in the emperor''s own heart, he finally made this decision that he regretted all his life. At that time, Xiang Xiaoyuan just gave birth to Xiao Shao. Xiao Shaogang had a full moon. On the day of full moon wine, countless guests came and went, and it was very lively. Take an exam in the morning and ask for your character www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 207 How did Qiman and Prince Hongxi finally roll on the bed? The emperor must have made a lot of efforts. However, when he saw the picture in front of Xiaoyuan that day, he was not as furious as many people thought. Her words and smiles, almost the slightest bit can not make a mistake, the whole face of Prince Hongxi, but also let the original provocation to watch Qiman finally speechless. Xiang Xiaoyuan personally married Qiman for Prince Hongxi. Xiang Xiaoyuan has a hot temper and a desire to monopolize his emotions. However, he is also a general person. In many things to get the clear priorities, only silently swallow the heart of the bad taste, for the Jin Dynasty Anping. Prince Hongxi was calculated by his own brother. He hated Qiman very much. He was so complacent to Xiaoyuan that he felt more pity for his wife. Instead of estrangement, they became more intimate. But for Qiman who lives in the palace, they just don''t have this person. It is also that people underestimate the means of Nanjiang princess, or think that she is just a woman, and can''t make any trouble. Who knows that a woman''s jealousy is very terrible. Qiman can''t bear that her beloved treats her with contempt, but whispers to other women. Nanjiang is good at using witches and insects. She controls xiangxiaoyuan, and she gets extremely terrible witches and insects on her. She wanted to use Xiang Xiaoyuan to control Prince Hongxi, but Xiang Xiaoyuan was strong. She knew that the prince of a country could not be controlled by a woman, so she just left on her own. She had superb medical skills, and wanted to find a place to solve the problem herself. If she didn''t succeed, it would be good to die outside. Fate is always silent to give people a fatal blow, to the garden to leave, finally became and Hongxi Prince farewell. In the end, she didn''t get rid of the poisonous insects. Before long, someone came to the door with the ashes of Xiang Xiaoyuan. It was Mr. Baqi. Although Mr. Baqi is older than Xiang Xiaoyuan, he can be regarded as Xiang Xiaoyuan''s Apprentice. Before Xiang Xiaoyuan entered Beijing, he lived in the mountains with Mr. Baqi. Xiang Xiaoyuan devoted all his life''s medical skills to each other. Mr. Baqi inherited her medical skills and recognized her as a young master. Prince Hongxi suffered a huge blow and was about to kill Qiman. Empress Yide stopped him. Qiman said that as long as Prince Hongxi treated himself well, 100000 soldiers in southern Xinjiang could still be lent. But Prince Hongxi refused. He was brave enough to take Xiao Shao, who was still in his infancy, to go out to pacify the chaos. He only left a letter saying that the throne was not suitable for him after all. However, before that, since Xiang Xiaoyuan had sacrificed for the overall situation, he always wanted to hand over the country to the emperor. It is recorded in historical books how the prince who ruled the country and pacified the world took the lead in the rebellion of the eight kings. It''s just that the books can''t record one of them. Prince Hongxi himself paid a lot of costs. In the last war, he had captured the enemy, but at the last moment he was surrounded by 100000 soldiers from southern Xinjiang who were killed in the middle of the journey. The soldiers came for him. Prince Hongxi would rather die than surrender. He fought to the end and finally died under the trample of ten thousand horses. And the little prince died in that war. But in fact, Xiao Shao did not die. Long before that, Prince Hongxi had a premonition that Nanjiang might come to this place. So he replaced Xiao Shao. Li Daitao was stiff, and another baby was with him. The real Xiao Shao was raised in Jinying palace. Although Prince Hongxi died, the rebellion of the eight kings was finally calmed down in a tragic way. When the emperor ascended the throne, the struggle in troubled times finally came to an end. At the beginning of the emperor''s accession to the throne, the foundation was unstable. Prince Hongxi, one of the few old subordinates, also died at the time of pacification. Empress Yide had to go out with Princess Yuanrong to get support. After the emperor took the throne, the first thing he did was to destroy Nanjiang, which had caused everything. The skinny camel is bigger than the horse. The princess of Southern Xinjiang bullied people so much that she wanted their land and the blood of their people to pay for it. The southern Xinjiang kingdom was destroyed, but the princess''s whereabouts were not found. And the dead will not survive. As time goes by, the rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty gradually settle down. When the old ministers go to the earth, the new ministers go to the court. It seems that there are very few people who can remember the tragedy of seizing the throne. It seems that everyone has a conventional belief that the rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty are handed over to the present emperor by the former Emperor. There is no prince Hongxi or princess Yuanrong, History only records the winners, and the people who have been sacrificed always pass by. But some people always remember that King Jinying was one. King Jinying and Princess Jinying were the old subordinates of Prince Hongxi. They were more close friends than subordinates. Prince Hongxi made a lot of friends and was a righteous man. He once had great kindness with King Jinying. Jinying palace has always been a part of Prince Hongxi''s power. Prince Hongxi entrusted Xiao Shao to King Jinying long before the accident. He didn''t leave Xiao Shao in the palace. He also told King Jinying to keep the secret of Xiao Shao''s life experience. Maybe he didn''t want to let his flesh and blood go the same way as himself. Maybe he looked bright in the Royal family, but who knows the helplessness. I was born in the city, but I''m happier. Jin Ying Wang and his wife really keep their faith, but they call Xiao Shao their own flesh and blood. After the two did not give birth to children, Xiao Shao is really a true love.In the twinkling of an eye, Xiao Shao grew from a babbling child into a cold youth, but his identity was eventually exposed one day. People from southern Xinjiang seem to have mixed up in the capital, and even more they seem to be the people who knew about the incident. Xiao Shao began to have more and more assassins around him. The people in southern Xinjiang seem to have found his identity. At the same time, the emperor finally found him. If it had not been for Prince Hongxi''s death, today''s emperor would have been inherited by Prince Hongxi. Xiang Xiaoyuan and his elder brother have always felt guilty for their unintentional actions. For so many years, they thought Xiao Shao had already died. They didn''t want to find that the people who had died were actually living under their eyes. Naturally, they wanted to cultivate Xiao Shao as a future prince. But king Jinying was tied with the emperor. King Jinying kept his promise with Prince Hongxi that he would never let Xiao Shao''s identity be exposed or let Xiao Shao return to the palace. The emperor was furious, but he had nothing to do. Xiao Shao didn''t know his life experience at that time. At this time, there was an accomplice who was rebellious in Beijing, and the bandits broke the law. The Emperor gave King Jinying a difficult problem. He didn''t give him a military amulet, but asked him to put an end to the rebellion. He wanted to use this to coerce King Jinying, but he didn''t want to go out of Beijing to pacify the chaos at night. He thought that he would die as a confidant, and his eldest husband should die properly. King Jinying was also a wonderful man. In this doomed war, he finally overcame the emperor. He used secret orders to mobilize the royal guards to rebel. King Jinying died on the way to pacify the chaos. However, the rebellion of the royal guards in central Beijing was very popular. King Jinying used his life to protect Xiao Shao''s secret. From then on, Xiao Shao was a bandit. If he wanted to enter the court, there must be many obstacles, and if the emperor wanted to make arrangements, it would not be so simple. More importantly, Xiao Shao himself would not like to. And those people in southern Xinjiang who are aware of it will be confused by it. Even in a short time, it is enough for Xiao Shao to grow up. Princess Jinying tells Xiao Shao all about her life experience. The next day, she kills herself and follows King Jinying. Xiao Shao suffered great changes overnight. His famous palace became a burglar overnight, and his life experience was unpredictable. Jin Ying Wang and his wife treat him sincerely, and they have already formed the same feelings with their own flesh and blood for so many years. However, they suddenly find that there is another person in their own parents, which is not surprising to him. The royal guards have always been under the command of King Jinying''s house, but king Jinying is the person of Prince Hongxi. The hundred thousand royal guards were not so much left by King Jinying to Xiao Shao as by Prince Hongxi many years ago. Just before that, Xiao Shao had never accepted the royal guards, and the royal guards would not submit to a little master for no reason. In those short years, Xiao Shao learned the skills of killers from Canaan mountain, grew up quickly, and finally won the recognition of the royal guards, and was able to use the token of mobilizing soldiers. And the first thing he wants to do is revenge. The state of Southern Xinjiang is like a hundred legged insect that died but did not die. Although the state has long been destroyed, the residual forces have repeatedly tried to make a comeback. Qiman''s old Department is ready to move, waiting for the big Jin Dynasty. When he was young, Xiao Shao repeatedly went deep into southern Xinjiang. He found out that there seemed to be a very mysterious force in southern Xinjiang, which was uniting those scattered people in southern Xinjiang. Although it seemed inconspicuous on the surface, one day, their purpose would face the great Jin Dynasty. After Xiao Shao''s words, Jiang Ruan looked at him quietly. From beginning to end, Xiao Shao''s expression is very calm, long eyelashes cover his eyes, people can''t see clearly his mood. It seems that he is used to not showing his mind, or because in the past years, he has experienced enough things, so that now nothing can easily move his pain. Jiang Ruan slowly came to him and put his hand around his waist. No matter who he was, if he could feel some warmth at this time, he always felt good. Xiao Shao''s body was stiff and seemed to tremble. She slowly stretched out her hand to cover rouyi around her waist. "Since you don''t want to be an emperor in the palace, and he treats you like this, why do you care about the affairs of Southern Xinjiang?" "You want revenge, you can''t let it go, can you?" he said softly "He" naturally refers to the emperor, who seems to play a very unpleasant role in the whole affair. Maybe it''s because of his position, but in Jiang Ruan''s opinion, among the sons and daughters of empress Yide, Prince Hongxi and the emperor are not suitable for the position of the ninth five-year-old. It''s Princess Yuanrong who is calm, but also a daughter. Prince Hongxi is too soft hearted and sentimental, but he is suitable to be a leisurely childe with free attitude. Today''s emperor is like a spoiled child. Although he has changed a lot because of his high position over the years, he is still the same, selfish and willful. "It''s something they sacrificed their lives to get, and I''ll always guard it." Xiao Shao light way. "They" refer to Prince Hongxi and Xiang Xiaoyuan, or Jin Yingwang and his wife. They are Xiao Shao''s biological parents and Xiao Shao''s adoptive parents, but they all love him the same way. Xiao Shao''s words are right. Even if his close relatives don''t come to sit in that position, they don''t want it to decline and be occupied by outsiders. "Do you hate him?" Asked Jiang Ruan. She is talking about the emperor. If it were not for the emperor, Xiang Xiaoyuan would not have had an accident at the beginning, and Prince Hongxi would not have been disheartened and would not have gone out of the pass with a burning heart. If it wasn''t for the emperor, Xiao Shao''s life experience would always be a secret. He might just be king Xiao of Jinying palace, just a little colder boy. Jin Ying Wang and his wife may also be alive."It doesn''t matter." Xiao Shao replied. Jiang Ruan gave a little hand and then laughed: "in this way, you are somewhat similar to me. Originally I thought I was not worthy of you, but now I also think. It''s not as bad as it seems. You have said that you hope to avenge me. Ah Shao, I have also recorded your revenge for you. " When she called Xiao Shao "a Shao" tenderly, Xiao Shao was stunned and whispered "eh". Jiang Ruan blinked, intending to teach him not to immerse himself in those memories, and then said, "in that case, housekeeper Lin is not an ordinary person. He''s your father''s Under the old ministry "He used to be a former dynasty explorer." Xiao Shao said: "after my father died, he went to Jinying palace and became a housekeeper. He lived in anonymity." Jiang Ruan was surprised: "exploring flowers?" In a word, housekeeper Lin, formerly known as Lin Wei, came from a poor family and was appreciated by Prince Hongxi. He spent money to help him enter the Imperial College. As a young man, tanhualang was very elegant. He was a young man in Chinese clothes. He was also a bosom friend of Prince Hongxi at that time. Prince Hongxi entrusted Xiao Shao to King Jinying before he died. At that time, Lin Wei''s family had no relatives, so he even lost his official career. He only said that he wanted to resign and go back to seclusion, but he did not know his name. He even took Mr. Baqi''s medicine to change his appearance. He became housekeeper Lin and took care of Xiao Shao all the time. Over the years, he seemed unreliable, but he helped Xiao Shao with many things in silence. Jinyingwang couple negligence, Lin housekeeper is very cautious. He learned to be rich, but pretended to be vulgar and ignorant. No one will associate this crazy, wordy and vulgar man with the beautiful tanhualang of the former dynasty. Lin Guan used his own way to imperceptibly teach Xiao Shao a lot of things. Such a person has great benevolence, righteousness and wisdom. It''s a digression. because Shenma has to take the exam in the morning, I feel tired. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 208 In a twinkling of an eye, the day of the annual royal hunting came. Before New Year''s Eve, the royal family also wanted to ask for a prize, so they went to the hunting ground to hunt. All the nobility''s sons and ministers have to take part in it to dispel the evil spirit of one year and relax. The hunting ground is located in beiguanglin, where the mountains and valleys are complex, but there are many rare birds and animals, which is a strange challenge for the children of these rich officials. This time, it is more lively than ever. It was easy for Jiang Dan to persuade the emperor to take her with him. On that day, the maid in the palace chose clothes for her, because she was already a concubine rather than the daughter of a noble family. She could not wear bright riding clothes like them. At the end of his suit, Jiang Dan looked at the woman in the mirror and finally pulled down the hairpin with pearls and said, "what is it? This hairpin is too old-fashioned to look at. Do you think this palace should wear something like this? " Startled, the maid in waiting knelt down to beg for mercy. In fact, there was nothing wrong with the hairpin, which was often used by the ladies in the palace. The quality of this one is very good, which is also because the emperor dotes on her now. However, Jiang Dan was a little impatient. He turned up the dresser box by himself and only looked at the pearly enamel in the dresser box. He was very dissatisfied. Different from Jiang Li, although Jiang Dan pursues the promotion of status, he is not as vulgar as her in hanging rich things on her body. She valued and cared for her youth and beauty. Nowadays, as the emperor''s concubines, they should always pay attention to their identity. They can''t dress up like young girls. Sometimes she even felt that the little maids around her had to look younger than her. When you enter the palace, you will live with an old man who can be your father. You will compete with all kinds of women for the favor of this man. What''s more, you will dress up to be more mature than your peers. Why, she is the same age as Hua. Her eyes fell on a bright red velvet flower in the dressing box, and she suddenly thought of Jiang Ruan Lai. Jiang Ruan is also the daughter of Jiang''s family, but she can wear the clothes she wants as she likes. She doesn''t have to worry about whether she will be inappropriate. Even though she is also a lady of Gaoming and a princess of Jinying, she can dress like other young girls, because Xiao Shao doesn''t mind these things at all. What''s more, Xiao Shao was much younger than the emperor. He was just the right age and was born handsome. Why did Jiang Ruan live so well? Even if she was driven to a desperate situation by Xia Yan, she had enough good luck to turn over. However, she could only sell her youth and freedom in exchange for temporary supremacy. But all the wealth in front of us is still like the moon in the mirror, which may disappear at any time. "Lady..." Seeing that she didn''t speak for a long time, the maid in waiting looked a little ferocious. For a moment, she was a little afraid, and reminded her. Jiang Dan came back and slowly held the big red velvet flower tightly in her hand. She was so strong that she almost crushed the petals, but a strange smile appeared at the corner of her mouth. It doesn''t matter. Anyway, everything is coming to an end. After this matter is over, she will be the only one left in the daughter of Jiang''s family. Nothing in the world can threaten her any more. She''s always on top. In Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan has a headache when he looks at the huge luggage in front of him, so he has to stare at Xiao Shao. However, Xiao Shao turns her head unintentionally, apparently pretending not to see her. Housekeeper Lin continued to chatter: "young lady, this is the cake that the old slave specially asked the kitchen to prepare, as well as the sweet scented osmanthus wine. You young couples are young people. For the first time, when you go out for a serious visit like this, you should also prepare something to eat. However, I''m afraid that the young lady will drink too much wine. I also prepared some wake-up soup with some honey in it. I won''t find it hard to taste it. It tastes sweet and long. By the way, there are also some miscellaneous notes of poetry books, which may be available at that time. The old slave has already asked people to carry jiaoweiqin to the carriage. I''m afraid the young lady doesn''t know yet. The master caresses the piano very well. Well, there are still some medicines. Cough, ah, I think there are still some things I can''t move. Maybe I should make some more camping things. How about candlesticks? It looks good when you light it at night Jiang Ruan wants to stick to housekeeper Lin''s mouth. Since Xiao Shao told her all about her life last time, she can no longer look directly at housekeeper Lin. Occasionally, looking at housekeeper Lin''s wrinkled old face, I can''t help but want to tear his face. It''s better to tear the face off at once to see if the real face below is as half of the jade tree in the legend. No matter what their true features are, it''s really hard for them to talk more than the nanny in the courtyard under the guise of the former dynasty. Jiang Ruan admired housekeeper Lin a little. Housekeeper Lin went to the street and said that he was a flower scout of the former dynasty. No one believed him. It was too far away. Jiang Ruan finally interrupted her: "steward Lin, we are just going to hunt, not to play." "Hunting is playing," said Butler Lin with a big hand. "By the way, let the young master play with some wild animals for you. The fur can be peeled off to make a cloak. If there are cubs, they can be raised by the young lady. Young master, please take tiger bully with you. " "What are you going to do with the pigeons?" It was dewdrop that opened his mouth. Xiao Shao''s snow pigeon named "Huba" is really something that people can''t understand. "Do you have any letters to send?" said the dew"Take it with you to deter the prey." Lin Guanjia said: "tiger bully is very smart." The dewdrop didn''t speak any more. I don''t know how to "deter" the prey. It''s almost like confusing the prey. Is this the beauty trick in legend? Jiang Ruan thought and burst out laughing. Xiao Shao turned his head to look at her, and Jiang Ruan said hastily, "feel free. It''s late. Get on the carriage first, and the man at the hunting ground will wait. If you arrive late, you''ll save your breath." Housekeeper Lin is busy cleaning up the carriage outside the house. Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan come out of the house. The sky outside is clear. The land where they have learned is white, and the trees are covered with white icicles. It''s a snowy scenery. Today, Jiang Ruan is wearing a golden and silver silk Ruyi cloud pattern riding suit. His upper body is a neat little coat with a pan collar, and his lower body is a knee length brocade trousers. He can embroider fox leather boots with white fur edges, and he is covered with a thick brocade fire rat fur cape. His bright red is extraordinary, which sets off his usual bright and charming face. Today, he is a little more natural and neat, but more beautiful. In the snow, however, Xiao Shao was still dressed in black, with a golden unicorn embroidered on the hem and a black golden crane cloak of the same color on the outside. He was picturesque, handsome and indifferent, and looked as cold as a lonely moon in the sky. Jiang Ruan looked at him and said with a smile, "you are so good. Take it to the hunting ground, and I think all the prey is not as good as you The head is precious. " Xiao Shao picked her eyebrows and turned to look at her: "prey?" "I''ll see to it." Jiang Ruan said with a smile. He turned his head and jumped into the carriage that housekeeper Lin had prepared for them. Xiao Shao also jumped in. After the two of them sat down, forsythia and the three dark guards of Jin followed the carriage. Housekeeper Lin gave a careful instruction, and then pulled down the curtain. The coachman gave a whiplash, and the carriage drove slowly. Beiguanglin is more than ten miles away from the capital. The terrain is very complex, so it''s always boring. Jiang Ruan looked at the small table in front of him. Housekeeper Lin was very considerate in the carriage. When he came in alone, it was like the small building of a rich family. There is even a pot of wine and a few dishes of snacks on the table. Do you want them to drink? Jiang Ruan saw that the wine pot was lovely and exquisite. The gilded body seemed to have a figure protruding on it, which was lifelike. At that time, it was carved by a skillful craftsman. She turned the wine pot for a while and aimed someone''s point at herself. At first glance, she was stunned. It was clear that there were two bare bottomed people together. She was not a fool. No matter how hard she looked, she could understand what it was. Before he could react, Xiao Shao suddenly grabbed the wine pot in her hand and put it aside. As if nothing had happened, he said: "nothing to see." After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan picked up the wine cup on one side and wanted to ease the atmosphere. He said, "this wine cup is also very good..." Before her voice fell, she stared at the figure on the glass and stopped talking. Xiao Shao quietly put away the wine cup again. Jiang Ruan glared at the contents of the carriage, and finally found that there were holes in the legs of the table, the table cloth, the candlestick, the box for snacks, and even the curtain inside the carriage, except for the wine pot and the wine cup. The pictures are so vivid that people are really envious. Steward Lin is very considerate. It''s all pervasive. Maybe he is the most suitable person to be the leader of the royal guards. It''s so pervasive that people can''t laugh or cry. Jiang Ruan turned his head, and Xiao Shao''s white face was flushed. He was still a little uncomfortable and turned his head, but maybe he thought it was really a cover up, so he quickly turned back and looked at Jiang Ruan, as if to prove that he was not guilty. Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing. Xiao Shao is really persistent and lovely in some things, especially when she is always holding on to her face. Xiao Shao, who was laughing at her, was a little annoyed. He simply took her and wrapped him in his arms with a black golden crane cloak. "Still laughing." He said coldly. Jiang Ruan was not afraid of him. In fact, Xiao Shao was nothing to be afraid of. At most, he just put a cold face on his face. Besides, he could not even put a cold face on his face. There is really no deterrent force. Xiao Shao picked eyebrows, it seems that now Jiang Ruan is more and more open, a time will hold her more tightly, bowed his head slowly over. He may have just wanted to scare Jiang Ruan, but somehow his eyes finally fell on Jiang Ruan''s lips, and his movements slowly softened up. Jiang Ruan quietly watched his handsome face get closer and closer. Others can''t imagine how Xiao Shao, who has always been indifferent, became emotional. However, she was the only one who had ever seen Xiao Shao like this. It seemed that all the coldness and indifference in an instant faded away, only a kind of deep-rooted tenderness. She slowly closed her eyes, and then the car body staggered. Jiang Ruan almost fell over. Xiao Shao reached out in time to help her, so as not to hurt her head. The driver''s sorry voice came from the front: "Madam master, just now there was a stone with feet burned. The horse kicked it. It didn''t surprise you." Xiao Shao Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing. Xiao Shao looked at her helplessly and laughed for a while. Finally, Jiang Ruan stopped smiling and touched Xiao Shao with his hand: "seriously, are you nervous about this hunting?"Xiao Shao brought her back into his arms, carefully wrapped her tightly with a crane cloak, and only showed a small face as big as a palm. He said in a light voice, "don''t be nervous." Jiang Ruan allowed him to hold him across the crane cloak and said, "I''m a little nervous. Jiang Dan will take advantage of this time to take action. I heard from your royal guards that Jiang Dan has been colluding with Xuan Hua now. She''s very quick and saves me a lot of trouble." "You don''t have to care about anything." Xiao Shao''s eyes flashed a cool color. "I don''t care about anything, they are anxious to die." Jiang Ruan said faintly: "there''s nothing wrong with Jiang Dan''s calculation. Our hatred was settled many years ago, and we will never die in this life. As for pei''er, she also wants to calculate, which really makes me very unhappy. Now I can''t wait to see her defeat. " Xiao Shao tightened her arms, pursed her lips, and did not speak. Jiang Ruan smiles. Xiao Shaohe''s cloak is very warm. In her previous life, she also yearned for the royal hunting. At that time, Jiang Susu could take part in it, because she was an unmarried official woman, but she could only be in the deep palace, across the red walls and green tiles, longing for eternal freedom. Now I''ve been to a place I''ve never been before, but this time I''ve been to a scuffle. This is really a hunting. Everyone wants to be a hunter instead of a prey. She takes a look at Xiao Shao. She is greedy for the warmth under the crane''s cloak, and then leans on him again. The most brilliant hunter is around. At least she has nothing to worry about. In the afternoon, the carriage finally arrived in beiguanglin, and Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were the latest people except Yujia. This year''s royal hunting ground is much more lively than in previous years, and the enthusiasm of the officials'' children to participate is very high. When Jiang Ruan arrived, he was pulled over by Lin Zixiang and said, "it''s too late for you to come. I thought you wouldn''t come." There are many aristocratic daughters around. When they see the carriage of King Jinying''s house coming, they point at him. When they see Xiao Shao, they stick to him with the same kind of admiration. When Xiao Shao said something to Jiang Ruan and went to the husband''s side, his eyes were full of hostility. Jiang Ruan was not a fool. Naturally, he knew why the hostility came from. He could not help but wonder: "how could he be so popular? But before I got married, it was not as hot as it is today. " "Fool," Lin Zixiang said to her: "at the beginning, those people were cold faced and cold hearted when they looked at your Lord Xiao. They were afraid that they would not be able to get into other people''s eyes. Anyone who dared to open this mouth easily would have given up his mind. Who knows that now I see that your Lord Xiao is gentle and considerate to you, and you''re born well. I''m sorry, but I don''t want to squeeze into your palace. " When Jiang Ruan thought about it, he was calm. Xiao Shao was one of the most powerful people in the great Jin Dynasty. When she married, everyone said that Xiao Shao''s cabbage had been arched by her pig. Now it seems that there are countless people thinking about this cabbage. When Jiang Ruan thought about when to raise this cabbage in captivity, Lin Zixiang was angry and said, "you see, it''s not easy Is it a regret? " Jiang ruanshun looked into her eyes and saw a woman standing beside the crown princess. She was about seventeen or eighteen years old and was wearing a light green double breasted feather dress. There is a dark black cape on the outside. Among the women in all kinds of beautiful clothes, this kind of dress is really plain, which can be called a little dull. The woman seemed to be aware of their eyes. She turned around and happened to be opposite Jiang Ruan. She didn''t show a look of surprise, but a smile. This woman has light eyebrows and small mouth, and her facial features are not special. But when she is with her, she has a special beauty. It''s too delicate. Then, the most important thing is that there is a graceful aura between her eyebrows, which adds a lot of color to her. In short, she is a woman who feels very comfortable and appropriate at a glance. Jiang Ruan guessed the woman''s identity in his heart. Lin Zixiang said, "you don''t know who she is, do you? Yao Niannian is the apple of the palm of the Yao family, governor of Binhai. " The Yao family''s daughter and Jiang Ruan''s eyes drooped. I have heard many times that the emperor intended to make the Yao family''s daughter Jinying princess, but somehow Xiao Shao finally fell in love with Jiang Ruan. In this way, Xiao Shao was still very aggrieved. Jiang Ruan always laughs at these rumors, but it''s a little strange to hear about Yao Niannian. It''s different from Jiang Su Su''s so-called talented woman who only knows Qing chess, calligraphy and painting. Yao Niannian knows the power of the temple and the hardships of the world. Yao Niannian''s contribution is even part of the reason why the Yao family is thriving. Jiang Ruan also knew that in the name of rebellion, the officials of the old king and his wife were aggressive to King Jinying''s house, but the Yao family supported King Jinying''s house, even for Xiao Shaoming''s injustice. It is said that it was Yao Niannian who came back to the government to persuade his father. Therefore, Yao Niannian and Xiao Shao, at least, were not hostile. Jiang Ruan had a look at Yao Niannian by accident, but he didn''t have any other thoughts. First, Xiao Shao was not a philanderer. Second, Yao Niannian was always the emperor''s wishful thinking, and she didn''t pay attention to it. But just at the moment when she looked at Yao Niannian, she felt something wrong. The woman''s eyes seemed to be hostile. Maybe it was a good cover up. But for Jiang Ruan, who was so young and had been attracted by "hostility", such eyes were too familiar."You talk nonsense again," Wen Feifei after giving birth to a child, this is the first time to go out, this time with his husband to the hunting ground, the mood is good. After listening to Lin Zixiang and Jiang Ruan''s chatting, he couldn''t help interrupting: "what regret? It''s said that Yao family''s daughter is a man with lofty ideals. It''s hard to be lenient. As for what you said about Xiao, don''t block sister Ruan. I don''t see anyone. The couple just want to mix honey with oil. " "I''m not afraid of thieves, but I''m afraid of them." Unfortunately, Lin Zixiang was ungrateful and insisted on his own view: "all the so-called talented women in this world are the same. It''s magnanimous, but I don''t want to be a laughing stock. It''s not two words, hypocrisy. " Lin Zixiang has a keen intuition about human nature. In many things, such people are the smartest. This time, Jiang Ruan''s idea coincided with her. It was just a look in her eyes, and she knew that the Yao family''s daughter was not as broad and magnanimous as she looked at her. At least she had noticed a lot of inexplicable emotions just now. If it''s true, our Chinese cabbage is precious, and it''s thought of by others. Just thinking about it, I suddenly heard a familiar voice: "sister Ruan, you are coming too!" Jiang Ruan looks back, and Zhao JinFang turns over and dismounts. Today, she is dressed in bright yellow riding clothes. Because her family is a military general, she is also very particular about this aspect. In this way, she almost compares all the women''s family members. It''s very witty and heroic. Many of the men''s family members in the field look straight at her, and some of them don''t hide their eyes . "Ah Ruan." Jiang Xinzhi just came by. Today, he is also regarded as a new rich man in the court. Today''s scene is indispensable. Jiang Ruan had not seen him for a long time. These days, he was busy with the affairs in the camp, so he ran less to King Jinying''s residence. Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "brother, you are only here now." Zhao Jin wanted to talk to Jiang Ruan, but before she said a word, Jiang Xinzhi arrived. For a moment, she was in a daze. Then she quickly lowered her head for fear that Jiang Xinzhi would notice her. When Lin Zixiang saw it, he was surprised and said, "Zhao Jin, what are you looking down at? Is there silver on the ground At this moment, Zhao Jin just wanted to cover up, so she had to harden her head and say hello dryly: "general Jiang." Then he lowered his head and looked at the stones under his feet, with or without kicking, as if something would happen when he raised his head. Jiang Xinzhi looked at her and frowned, as if he was angry. Jiang Ruan''s eyes turned on them, and his lips turned up. She didn''t know what was between them, but she didn''t know that Zhao Jin''s influence was bigger than she imagined. Who is Jiang Xinzhi? He is probably a rare good man in the world. Except for his enemies, he is always gentle and gentle. He is a real gentleman. But such people, in the face of Zhao Jin, have their own emotions, about Jiang Xinzhi himself did not find this problem. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 209 A few people are saying, but hear that the chamber has a long eunuch Xuan sound, the emperor came. A few people turned their heads and saw the Royal chariot. The emperor and some women in Chinese dress came late. They were the three favorite concubines in the palace, Wang lianer, mu Xirou and Jiang Dan. Zhao Jin also forgot Jiang Xinzhi''s embarrassment and said to Jiang Ruan, "sister Ruan, your fourth sister is very popular now." Jiang Ruan laughs but does not speak. Jiang Dan has always been desperate to grasp all the things just to climb up. With so much effort, he naturally wants to be favored. Her eyes fell on the little figure beside the emperor. She couldn''t help smiling. Xuanpei also came. When the emperor came, it was quiet. Today we are all young officials'' children and women''s families. Hunting is the business of young people, and it is also a good choice. Every year, the man who hunts the most wins the lottery. The emperor can make him a wish. In previous years, Guan Lianghan and Xuan Li fought for hunting. Xiao Shao was not interested in this kind of thing. Guan Lianghan was an excellent archery general, and Xuan Li was not willing to be outdone. They both grew up in the Canaan mountains. Since childhood, they were able to ride and shoot. They were familiar with hunting. But this year, with the participation of Jiang Xinzhi, it''s still unclear what the outcome will be. All the people showed great interest in Jiang Xinzhi, the new God of war and young general. All want to see his fruitful appearance, and among them, the women''s family is the winner. Guan Lianghan is too rude. Xuanli is gentle, but his status is unattainable. Only Jiang Xinzhi is not afraid to think about it. He is also elegant and handsome. Without the rudeness of generals, he has more perseverance from those who have been to the battlefield. He is really outstanding. The emperor also saw the formality of the people, so he laughed again and said a few words, which means that there is no need to stick to the situation. As long as the men and women who are present today enter the hunting ground, there is no distinction between nobility and inferiority. They are all friends. If they gather here tomorrow afternoon, the winner will be the one who has the most prey. In fact, even so, what the emperor said was not entirely true. Naturally, the men were fighting for breath, while the women were just thinking about the hunters. And if everyone is friends, there is no way to talk about it. Every time there is an open fight in the hunting ground, many bloodless fights also arise. However, the face is always friendly, Zhao Jin said: "why don''t we go hunting together?" Lin Zixiang waved his hand: "come on, I don''t know how to hunt. You belong to the general family, but I''m not. In this deep forest, Xia Qing said that it''s easy to meet a blind bear in the snow. I don''t know how to fight. I''m afraid I''ll be eaten. I''ll stay in the camp with those young ladies. You can go She never even pretends. Zhao Jin knows that she can''t help it, so she turns to Wen Feifei. Wen Feifei shakes her head: "no, my husband doesn''t allow me to do such violent activities. Moreover, we have not had a baby long ago. It''s really inconvenient. " "Sister Ruan, you can always join me." Zhao Jin looked at her, the annual hunting is rare, Zhao Jin is also very cherish this almost. At first, Wen Feifei was with her. Since Wen Feifei got married and had a baby, she couldn''t go alone. Now, she can''t go alone. She can''t play together with those who are different from each other. It''s too unwillingly for Zhao Jin to stay in the camp, so she places all her hopes on Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan smile: "sorry sister Zhao, I said with Xiao Shao, today is to accompany him." Zhao Jin frowned. It was hard for her to say the same thing when the couple got along with each other. After all, people can''t be so blind. But today, two brothers did not come with her. She was not a woman, and it was too dangerous to go into the jungle alone. Jiang Xin''s face turned black when he saw her like this. "Although I can''t, my elder brother can." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "he is a man, and he can always protect you. Sister Zhao, you might as well join my elder brother. You can take care of me on the way. Maybe you can help each other hunt together. " Zhao Jin was worried. Hearing this, she couldn''t help but startled. She quickly waved her hand and said, "no, no Thanks for Ruan''s kindness. I suddenly didn''t want to go, so I stayed in the camp and chatted with Zixiang. " Jiang Xinzhi''s face was blacker, and he said: "the royal hunting is once a year. It''s not good to waste. You and I are in a group. It''s settled. I''ll bring the horse." After that, she turned around and left. Zhao Jin was stunned and quickly followed: "what I''m not going to. Ah, general Jiang, I said I don''t want to go. Jiang Xinzhi, you wait... " "Zhao Jin is a fool." Lin Zixiang commented: "if you really have developed limbs." Hunting officially started. All the people and horses could be grouped by themselves. Of course, they could also act alone. To say that hunting was just a pleasure for the aristocratic children. Jiang Ruan goes to stand with Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao and she choose a red pony, and they choose a pure black horse. The two horses stand side by side, just as Yao Niannian passes by with his maid. They didn''t plan to go hunting in the forest, so they didn''t pick a horse. They just walked by with a piano in their arms. When they passed by Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan, Yao Niannian stopped and said hello to them with a smile.Jiang Ruan returned a smile, but Xiao Shao''s face was expressionless. After Yao Niannian passed by, Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao askance: "cabbage, someone wants to arch you again." Xiao Shao is slightly a Leng, as if just want to understand what Jiang Ruan said to mean, helplessly looked at her one eye, did not speak. When Jiang Ruan saw that he didn''t speak, he gave him a white look and turned over to mount the horse. Her movements were very neat, and even had some dazzling eyes. For example, young master Gu Yi in the distance looked straight to this side. Jiang Ruan didn''t notice his eyes, but just tightened the reins. Xiao Shao turned over and got on the horse immediately. His voice came to Jiang Ruan''s ear faintly: "only for you." Jiang Ruan. Who''s going to hurt you? " Xiao Shao couldn''t help but smile, and made a clean and elegant manner: "you." Once this man had no face and skin, it was really unbearable. Jiang Ruan was speechless, tightened the reins, and the horse ran to the forest. At this time of the year, people fight openly and secretly, but only to win a prize. It is not so much a prize as a means for princes to show their abilities. Xuanhua and Xuanli have been fighting each other for many years since they came. However, as the situation is changing in today''s times, they don''t know when another xuanpei will come. Although Xuan Pei was young, he took a group of bodyguards with bow and arrow to enter the deep forest for fun. Jiang Ruan was a little worried. There were many beasts in the forest. Xiao Shao only said that he had arranged people and horses to follow him closely. After all, nothing would happen. Time passed quickly. It seemed that Xiao Shao was really just hunting. He was very accurate and didn''t blindly pursue quantity. Instead, he made a special train for some rare wild animals. In the end, he hunted a blue eyed fox wolf cub to Jiang Ruan. Because he caught it in person, the fox cub was still relatively strong. When he was held by Jiang Ruan in his arms, he bit her. Xiao Shao, who was very vindictive, picked up the fur from its back neck and threw it into the bag. Before he knew it, it was getting late, and he could camp in the forest. When Jiang Ruan Zheng wanted to find a place to put up the tent, he heard the voice of exclamation coming from the dense forest ahead. Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao look at each other, and Xiao Shao runs in that direction. Jiang Ruan also feels that he is not right. When he goes there, he sees a huge white tiger in the deep forest. He grinds his paws fiercely and looks at several people, growls in a low voice. In front of the white tiger, there are many people, including Xuan Pei and his bodyguards. Although so many people are good at martial arts, they may not be able to do anything about it. The reason is that this white tiger is on the mountain, and it happens to be snowy in the new year. Such a beast will become very ferocious when it is hungry. It''s just that this hunting ground should have been cleaned up. Such beasts should not appear. How can they appear? It''s really thought-provoking. At present, there is no time to think deeply. The guards protect Xuan Pei and want to escape first, but the white tiger seems to recognize Xuan Pei and rushes straight at him. Although Xuan Pei had a bow and arrow, he was not strong enough. The arrow he shot just rubbed the white tiger and fell to the ground. Jiang Ruan didn''t have time to worry. Xiao Shao had already reached for an arrow. He took a bow and aimed at it. The white tiger just came straight up to Xuan Pei, showing a bloody mouth. Xiao Shao''s arrow came with the wind and nailed it in the mouth of the white tiger. The blood spattered out. Xiao Shao''s arrows are all forged with special technology. Each arrow is densely covered with small teeth, which is much more powerful than ordinary arrows. Xiao Shao this arrow down, the white tiger was directly overturned on the ground, the bodyguard a Leng, then a surge up, the white tiger subdued. Xuanpei looked back, saw them and said, "Lord Xiao." Jiang Ruan immediately dismounted, but no bodyguard was on the scene. He went forward and asked, "isn''t your highness thirteen hurt?" Xuan Pei shook his head, looked at Xiao Shao, and bent his mouth: "today, I''d like to thank Lord Xiao for his help. Speaking of it, Lord Xiao''s archery is really outstanding. I can see that the best part of this hunting is Lord Xiao. Just like this white tiger at the moment, I peel the tiger''s skin to Lord Xiao, which is also very precious. " Jiang Ruan didn''t care about this, only frowned and said: "how can there be tigers in the hunting ground?" "It''s not just tigers." Xuan Pei looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile: "there are still many wild wolves. It seems that he heard some noise in front of him. It seems that there are still wolves howling. This hunting ground is not peaceful now, and the rare animals in it are also eye opening A good hunting ground suddenly turned into a Shura field. Tonight, they met Xuan Pei by chance. In other places, as Xuan Pei said, there were other ferocious beasts attacking people. Some of the young men who come here are just for fun. If they come across such a scene, they can''t do anything except rely on bodyguards. If you want to come to every corner of the hunting ground, it''s already bloody now. What is the purpose of the people who do all this to make things so chaotic. Jiang Ruan knew who the man was, but he had a new understanding of her willingness to make such a big contribution and her ruthless means. In order to harm a certain person, so many royal nobility children directly lost their lives. Fortunately, xuanpei had nothing to do with it. She finally couldn''t let go and said, "Your Highness, there are many beasts deep in the forest. It''s too late to go back to camp now. It''s better for your highness to go with my husband and wife tonight, or you can take care of them."Xuanpei was stunned. He seemed to want to refuse. But after thinking about it, he said with a smile: "in this way, we will not respect you." Xiao Shao turned his head and told the following Jin Er Jin San Jin Si: "go ahead and have a look." Several people were ordered to leave. Then Xiao Shao turned around and said, "find a place to camp first, and follow me." As many people think, at the moment, the hunting ground is in chaos. Gu Yi is followed by a group of wolves. Every wolf is so hungry that he seems to have been released from the trap for several days. His eyes are shining green. The head wolf is huge and ferocious. His bodyguards are bitten by the neck. He is riding on a horse and his heart beats fast. It''s not the first time that Gu Yi has come to the hunting ground. As the son of the chief soldier''s family, he has participated in it every year. He also knew about the hunting ground. It was the first time that such a ferocious beast appeared. I don''t know what went wrong, but now he is the only one left, and Gu Yi has no way at the moment. Then just at this moment, the wolf behind him suddenly ran forward, biting the tail of the horse he sat down on. The horse screamed, and suddenly tilted. Gu Yi fell to the ground. He rolled around in the snow. He was shocked and said that he must have died here today. Who knows the next moment, but suddenly feel a hand was pulled, ear came a smiling voice: "little brother, so you give up and die?" Gu Yi was surprised to see that on the top of the steed, a woman dressed in strong clothes made fun of him. Her slender hand seemed to contain infinite power. If the will to survive is really strong, Gu Yi has no time to speak, so he makes an effort on his hand and is dragged onto the horse by the woman. At this time, he saw clearly that the woman in front of him was the one who had met him when Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao got married. The woman felt that he was cold all over. She seemed to smile and said, "young master Gu, don''t be afraid. It''s just a few flat haired animals." As soon as the words came to an end, several concealed weapons flew out of her sleeve. It was so fast that Gu Yi didn''t see it clearly. He only saw the wolf howl, and his footsteps slowed down suddenly. He only rolled in the snow and didn''t move any more. "What''s that?" Gu Yi can''t help but scream out. This woman is too powerful. Just now, he was chased by these wolves. This woman solved the problem with her hand. It''s really terrible. In his heart, he was still in suspense. Xun GUI''s daughter''s family had never heard of anyone who was so good at it. It''s not bad to look at the courage. His surprised expression is very obvious, brocade three then laughed: "you just posture is quite lovely, especially from the horse fell down, like a mallet." Gu Yi It''s different from Gu Yi''s leisurely life. At the moment, Jiang Xinzhi and Zhao Jin''s situation is more dangerous. A black bear stood up tall, tall and burly, like a hill, and its mouth was dripping with saliva. Zhao Jin, together with Jiang Xinzhi, is now too distant to attend to. As soon as she is worried, her original insistence is broken, and she says, "ah, what should we do now? The bear looks hard to deal with. Let''s run first. " "You can''t run, unless you climb up a tree. The trees here are very thin. If you climb up, it will break the branches. At that time, you can''t help but become its dish." Jiang Xin''s explanation with Zhao Jin is not slow. Zhao Jin was angry when she heard the words: "what should we do then? You don''t have any bow and arrow. I lost mine when I just ran. We don''t have any weapons. Are we going to sit here and die? If you don''t want me to stay, you can run first. You are a general after all. You can''t be eaten by bears. " Smell speech, Jiang Xin''s vision moved to move, look to her way: "I run first?" "Yes, one is better than two. There are two brothers in our family. If you die, sister Ruan is alone. You''d better go first. If I''m lucky enough to find someone to save me, it''s my destiny. " Jiang Xinzhi interrupted: "since that night, you have deliberately avoided me. You don''t hate me very much. Why do you want to save me now?" "I I don''t hate you. " Zhao Jin was a little annoyed. A few days ago, she was drunk at night and ran out secretly without telling her family. She ran into Jiang Xinzhi outside the general''s house. When Jiang Xinzhi was holding her, Zhao Jin was so hot that she was drunk that she knew all about her love for Jiang Xinzhi. When he woke up later, he was naturally ashamed and embarrassed. He had no face to see Jiang Xinzhi again, so he simply hid. Don''t want to go to the hunting ground today, Jiang Xinzhi took the initiative to ask her to join him. At the moment, facing such a desperate situation, Zhao Jin is really sad. Is this what Lin Zixiang said: a mother should be born and a nest should be died? "At present, black bear, you''d better think about what to do now." Don''t open your eyes to Zhao Jin. The huge body of the black bear makes people tremble. No matter how bold she is, she is just a girl. She should be afraid. Now I''m going to die. It''s terrible to think about it. I Jiang Xinzhi''s lips seemed to bend. He looked at Zhao Jin and suddenly asked, "Zhao Jin, do you like me?" Zhao Jin asked him, subconsciously nodded: "you are so wordy, if not like you, how can I die for you."As an aside, Gu Yi is a five scum fighter, and his elder brother is also bad at it_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 210 As soon as Zhao Jin''s words came out, she knew that she had made a mistake. She was annoyed in her heart, and some of them did not dare to look at Jiang Xinzhi''s eyes. No matter how brave and useless a girl is, she is always shy when facing her sweetheart. But now the situation in this place is all wrong, Zhao Jin almost wants to cry. She stared at the huge black bear and said, "it''s too late to say anything. You can tell me a story about what I think of you. Today, when you go back, you will still be your general. Now the famous lady in the capital who wants to marry you is like a crucian carp crossing the river. You can always choose one who is in your favor. Then you will have white hair and eyebrows with her, and the zither will sing harmoniously... " She is a person who doesn''t like to study and dislikes the most elegant poems. She used two such idioms for the first time. She was probably saddened by her own words, but the more she thought about it, the more sad she was. Since Jiang Xinzhi became a general, he has been regarded as a minister of the humerus in the court. He is so young, handsome and gentle. How many women want to marry him. She has also asked her two brothers about what kind of women they like. They all said that they should be gentle and graceful, proficient in all kinds of music, chess, calligraphy and painting, and have a kind of weak and pitiful appearance. When Zhao Jin thought about the appearance of stabbing a cursive model in the yard with a long gun, she felt more and more disheartened. Now I was thinking of persuading Jiang Xinzhi to leave as soon as possible, but the thought that Jiang Xinzhi might really be in love with a weak and lovely woman made me feel more and more sad. She sniffed and her eyes turned red. But he still held up his head stubbornly, forced his tears back, and said: "since I have no chance with you in this life, it''s better to turn my heart for you into friendship between friends. I have no regrets to die for a general like you in this life. We used to get along with each other in the people''s camp in southern Xinjiang before, and now we are friends of life and death when we face this situation together! " Jiang Xinzhi''s heart was softened by Zhao Jin''s words, and he was distressed to see her red eyes. Unexpectedly, as soon as Zhao Jin''s words came out, Jiang Xinzhi''s face became black again. What is that? What will become friendship between friends? She looks like a man protecting himself on the battlefield. I wanted to wait for Nizi to understand, but now I feel that, in her opinion, I can''t understand even waiting for a lifetime. Well, since he is a man, he should take the initiative. "You''d better get on the horse first." Jiang Xinzhi drags her to her horse. Zhao Jin''s horse has been scratched by the black bear, but Jiang Xinzhi''s "injured" horse can run again. Zhao Jin was slightly surprised. Jiang Xinzhi suddenly drew out his soft sword and cut down the thorns in front of him with one sword, which just opened up a road for two people to gallop. The black bear is huge. Although his hair is hard, he has no choice but to stand behind and roar. The horse ran so fast that Zhao Jin finally came back to her senses and asked, "how can this horse run again? Isn''t it hurt? " "Now it''s all right." Jiang Xinzhi replied. "Then your arrow is not missing..." Zhao Jin was hugged in front of him, leaning on Jiang Xinzhi''s chest. It was the first time that she was so close to a man''s body. In the past, contact with men was either a contest or a fight, but it was not so gentle. "There''s no arrow, there''s a sword." Jiang Xinzhi replied. No matter how careless Zhao Jin was, she felt something was wrong. Suddenly she sat up straight and looked at Jiang Xinzhi. She was shocked and said, "you lied to me?" The horse ran a distance, and it was safe. The horse slowed down. Jiang Xinzhi had time to look at Zhao Jin. He said, "why do you think I lied to you?" Zhao Jin is quite straightforward. She never likes to beat around the bush. She hates being cheated by others in her life. So she was very angry when she knew that Jiang Xinzhi had cheated her. Jiang Xinzhi asked, but she forgot to be angry, and looked at him with some doubts: "why?" "I just saved you." Jiang Xin said, "how can you repay me?" Zhao Jin looked at him in a daze and didn''t understand what he meant. Jiang Xinzhi is so strange today that her words are often incomprehensible. However, she honestly replied, "I''ll ask my brother to pick out some weapons to give you. If you don''t like them, you can send some silver notes back..." This man is too sincere. Jiang Xinzhi is a little bit embarrassed. He suddenly doesn''t understand why Zhao Jin is a few years older than Jiang Ruan, but he is not as smart as Jiang Ruan. He is surprisingly slow in some things. "None of that is necessary," Jiang Xinzhi interrupted. "Just promise each other by example." Zhao Jin blinks her eyes. Her brain is a little confused for a moment. This man has no reason to speak. She agrees with each other by example By example? She was suddenly excited and couldn''t control her reverie. She stammered: "this This. When I was in the camp in southern Xinjiang, I also saved your... " "That''s OK," Jiang Xinzhi finally had no patience. He pulled her over and bent down his head to kiss her. "I''ll make a promise." The bonfire started to burn slowly, making a sound of "beeping, beeping, beeping". Jiang and Ruan sat in front of the fire, and the tent had been set up. There were three of them, xuanpei, Xiaoshao, Jiang and Ruan, and the royal guards. Xuanpei''s bodyguards were not so lucky, so they looked for a big tree to rest.Jiang Ruan touched Xiao Shao: "how about elder brother?" Since there are so many wild animals in this hunting ground, it seems that they are not just for scaring those noble children. What''s the meaning of them can only be revealed tomorrow. But even so, Jiang Ruan could not help worrying about Jiang Xinzhi. "Yingjing sent someone to protect him. Don''t worry." Xiao Shao shook her hand. Just then, suddenly Xuan Pei stretched out his head from the center of the two. He sat in the middle of Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao as if nothing had happened. He blinked at Jiang Ruan and said, "princess, I''m so scared." Thanks, xuanpei''s bodyguards sat far away. They didn''t hear xuanpei''s words, otherwise they would be so surprised that their eyes would fall. Even so, the royal guards who heard Xuan Pei''s words were all wide eyed. The child usually looks calm like a second Xiao Shao, but also the most unfathomable, so he has no intention to show weakness to Jiang Ruan. Where does a prince look like? It''s like a chick nestling up to its mother. Even though Xuan Pei has changed her name, Jiang Ruan still regards him as the last life. He immediately rubbed xuanpei''s hair and said, "don''t be afraid. I''m here to guard your highness." The chin of the royal guards fell down again. Although Jiang Ruan looked gentle on weekdays, everyone knew that she was not easy to provoke. The gentleness on the surface is just courtesy, but in fact it is as cold as the master. Even his master didn''t seem to get such a gentle smile from Jiang Ruan, which could melt people''s hearts. Eyes are full of love, straight teach a group of people to see the creepy. Jin San said: "young lady, it''s not to look at your highness. It''s to look at your son. That''s what my aunt next door saw when I was on a mission. " "I was inspired to be a mother by your highness?" Jin Er touched his nose: "young lady, do you want a child? The thirteen princes are lovely. Maybe the young lady likes them too. " Jin Si shook his head: "no, the appearance of the young lady and the master must be more beautiful than that of the thirteen his highness." The brocade that has been watching coldly came a long time: "that also has to be born to just go." After a moment''s silence, Jin San said: "it seems that the young master still needs to work hard. Even for the sake of the young lady, he can''t sit back and ignore me. Ah, I''ll talk to Lao Lin later. He always has a way. " Sitting in front of the bonfire, Jiang Ruan obviously didn''t know that the royal guards were looking at him because of his warmth towards xuanpei, which had already become the evidence to conclude that Xiao Shao couldn''t do it. She and xuanpei mother and son love each other deeply, and there is nothing wrong in Xiao Shao''s eyes. When Xiao Shao knew Jiang Ruan''s past, he changed his outlook on Xuan Pei. Sometimes he even ordered the secret guards in the palace to take care of him. However, Xuan Pei obviously did not understand the good intentions of his cheap father. When he saw Jiang Ruan and Xiao SHAOHAO, he felt a sense of loss that his important things had been seized. Therefore, seeing that Xiao Shao was unmoved, he said, "if Lord Xiao is really rich today, he just saw the abundance of prey. I think you should be the leader tomorrow. Do you want to ask your father what to ask for Without waiting for Xiao Shao to speak, Xuan Pei said, "do you want to ask your father for some beauties? Recently, a group of beauties have been recruited in the palace. Perhaps our palace heard that the Yao family''s daughter is also in love with you. It happens that our palace sees that she is here today. Don''t you go along with the trend? " What he said was half joking and half serious, so that it was not clear what he meant. After listening to this, several royal guards secretly scolded the child for being too bear. They came to stir up the couple''s feelings. In the eyes of the royal guards, this is true, but not in the eyes of Jiang Ruan. She has lived with Xuan PEI for many years and is clear about what Xuan Pei thinks. Xuanpei''s asking is just forcing Xiao Shao to make a statement. It seems that the Yao family''s affairs are not small, and even xuanpei is shocked. Xuan Pei is supporting her for fear that she will be bullied by Xiao Shao. "Since I got the lottery, what I said is what I said." Xiao Shao''s face was frosty. He said coldly, "when I introduce you, I will ask your majesty to marry your highness and Miss Yao." "Hello," Xuan Pei jumped up angrily, "do you want me to marry that old woman? How dare you Xiao Shao''s silence is clearly a provocation. Jiang Ruan has a headache. Once they stay together, they can''t be at ease. Yao Niannian is also one of the most beautiful women in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty. This year, he is only seventeen or eighteen years old. Although he is a little older with Xuan Pei, he is not going to be an "old woman". However, if Xuan Pei really married Yao Niannian, Jiang Ruan always thought it was wrong. The day before yesterday, Xiao thought of Xiao Shao and coveted her husband. She really wanted to be her son''s daughter-in-law. She, as a mother, didn''t agree. However, Yao Niannian and Xuan Pei have become princesses and concubines. Isn''t it to call her a mother''s concubine for life? At the thought of Yao Niannian and Xuan Pei calling her mother together, Jiang Ruan''s expression was inexpressible. "What''s the matter with you?" Xuanpei saw that Jiang Ruan was distracted and touched his hand: "I. This temple is just joking at will. Don''t be sad for it. King Jinying, if he dares to come here, our hall will never spare her. As for the laborer, Miss Yao, hum, unless her father doesn''t want to hang out in the court. " "Why does your highness look like a young lady''s family?" The brocade three thought, suddenly changed color way: "bad, he should not be covet little madam beauty, want to obstruct." The more you think about it, the more likely it is. Jin San looks at several people nervously.Jiang Ruan smiles, but Xuan Pei is nervous. She goes to one side to look through Xiao Shao''s luggage. She wants to see if there are any snacks for Xuan Pei, but she doesn''t want to see that there is a jiaoweiqin in the luggage. Jiaowei Qin''s box is very precious, so Xiao Shao put it in the cloth bag at will. But what surprised Jiang Ruan most was that Xiao Shao had this with him, so he asked, "are you still carrying a piano?" Xiao Shao let out a "um". Looking at the long and narrow box in front of her, Jiang Ruan suddenly felt that Xiao Shaoguo really respected Lao Lin from the bottom of her heart. She thought the piano was just a decoration. Who would take a piano with him in the hunting ground? Xiao Shao is not the woman who plays the piano and plays the moon in the brothel. Now she is stunned. She was stunned for a while, but she remembered the rumor in Beijing that Yao Niannian was also good at playing the piano. Suddenly she picked up the piano box and went to Xiao Shao: "you brought it too. It''s better to play a song. I haven''t heard your music." Housekeeper Lin says Xiao Shao plays the piano well. Jiang Ruan knows that housekeeper Lin can''t lie about these things, but he is still curious. She had never heard Xiao Shao play the piano well in her last life. Her own piano is also good, but Jiao Wei''s piano is more difficult to play than other ones since she came. She needs extreme peace of mind. Since her rebirth, she is full of anger. How can she play a good piano? What''s more, she should play as little as possible, so as not to reveal her mood. Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, but he did not expect that Jiang Ruan would raise such a request. He takes a look at Xuan Pei, and his eyes fall on the Royal Guards not far away. Jin Er busily pretends to look at flowers everywhere and doesn''t look at him. Xiao Shao coughed softly: "there are so many people here. When I get back to my house..." "Can''t lord Xiao play the piano?" Xuanpei was afraid that the world would not be in chaos: "well, it''s rare that the princess wants to listen to the music. I heard that newlyweds all want to play Guqin together to get the beauty of harmonizing. However, looking at the appearance of Lord Xiao, we must have never played the piano with the princess. Ah, if the princess is a woman in any way, which woman in the world doesn''t want her husband to play harmoniously with her Xuanpei people are exquisitely beautiful, but if they are still young this year, they are still a little childish. In the past, when they were in the Imperial Palace, they all talked and behaved with airs, and even their childishness disappeared. But in front of Jiang Ruan, he always involuntarily showed his childish manner, which was the liveliness of a child of his age. These words are very reasonable and have the appearance of being young and mature. Xiao Shao did not speak, only turned to look at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan looked at him as if nothing had happened, rarely showed a bit persistent. He no longer refused, only took out the burnt tail from the box. I don''t know what kind of wood the body is made of. The texture on the top is clear and gives off a deep color. And the taste is full-bodied fragrance, refreshing. This piano alone is attractive enough. Jin Si rubbed his eyes and said, "my God, I''m not wrong. The master is going to play the piano. Since the death of the prince and princess, the master has never touched the piano again. I thought he would never touch the Jiaowei family again in his life. " "I haven''t heard the master''s zither for more than ten years. Do you remember when master Fang learned to use this zither, I don''t know how many people were listening outside the wall every day. Even women wanted to go over the wall to see our master''s face. It''s said that the music of the Qin is better than that of the master. I don''t think it''s born yet. " It''s really many years since Xiao Shao didn''t touch jiaoweiqin. At the beginning, Jinying palace was not born, and Xiao Shao didn''t have the reputation of being a bandit. He was not as indifferent as he is now, but he was a little bit colder. At the beginning, his appearance was beautiful, and his calmness made him more outstanding. He was very eye-catching. At that time, he was in a peaceful mood, The music is beautiful and moving. I don''t know how many people stop across the wall. If it is not a man, I am afraid that all the men in Dajin Dynasty will be crazy, and all the swineherd will be ashamed. Xiao Shao took out the zither and put it on his leg. Now, he doesn''t have to stick to the form, so he doesn''t have to burn incense. He just adjusted and fiddled with the strings at will. Even if it''s just such a simple action, it doesn''t seem vulgar and rash. On the contrary, because of his elegant temperament, he is more natural and unrestrained. The melody flows down from the hands and flies along the strings. It is very clear in the snow. The music is ethereal and peaceful, like a small stream trickling into the sea, in which the waves and sand are slowly contained, and can no longer stimulate a trace of water. It''s a calm that can only be achieved after experiencing strong winds and waves. It''s an invincible method. It''s a powerful mind. Nothing can shake the calm and tranquility. Behind such a strong, it seems that there is a trace of shallow tenderness, which unconsciously flows out, making the ice and snow seem to have a trace of warmth. Holding his cheek, Jiang Ruan looked at the young man in black who was playing the piano. He seems to be just an elegant young man from a famous family in Shengjing. He is reserved, noble and elegant. The bonfire sets off his white face like an immortal on a picture scroll, with sword eyebrows, star eyes, nose and thin lips. Every time his long eyelashes hang down quietly, thousands of emotions in his eyes are covered, leaving only mystery and tenderness. It is extremely beautiful and cold, just like the ice spring on the mountain stream, and just like the lonely moon shining into the carved window railing in autumn.Beauty is picturesque, drawing into the beauty. Xiao Shaoguo, who plays the piano, is indeed a beautiful scene in the golden age, as housekeeper Lin said. Most of those people have seen such a disaster, and they want to arch it. It''s very dangerous for people to be seduced by beauty and evil in this world. Jiang Ruan sighed, approached Xiao Shao a little, and suddenly stretched out his hand to cover the strings. Xiao Shao was slightly stunned. Jiang Ruan was already playing. She played slowly and slowly, which was quite different from Xiao Shao. If Xiao Shao was cold, lonely moon and cold star, her tone was fire, warmth and burning sun. Her bright beat was in people''s heart, with a kind of bright and aggressive that could not be ignored. Then in the collision of ice and fire, there is a wonderful blend of harmony. Let two people''s two kinds of music into one, the tacit understanding is amazing. Xiao Shao''s lips were slightly crooked, and her hands kept moving. Jiang Ruan also laughed. She was never afraid to expose her heart and dare not play the piano. Now she dare not say that the music is absolutely calm, which is much more peaceful than before. Maybe it''s because she is as strong as Xiao Shao, so strong that she can face all the ups and downs calmly. Maybe it''s just because Xiao Shao is around. Xuan Pei sat quietly, looking at Jiang Ruan''s eyes as if they were somewhat complicated and somewhat gratified. Both of these two lives are unique in beauty, temperament and demeanor. But it''s the first ensemble, but it also appears very harmonious, as if born together. Jin two way: "if really Qin Se and Ming." "It''s a perfect match." Jin Si shook his head. Jiang Ruan Wei smiles and feels funny. It''s clearly a hunting game with bloody life. Each of them is pregnant with his own ghost. It''s clearly a crisis trap everywhere. But she and Xiao Shao are playing the piano here. There is a burning bonfire in front of them. Housekeeper Lin said it was just a game before he left, but now he really answers his words. She had thought that she had never been able to come to the hunting ground in the last life, but this life experience was a means of seeing it. Unexpectedly, it was such a different experience. It was a new feeling that she had never experienced before, but it was not bad. In the camp at the entrance of Beiguang forest, women''s families who could not hunt began to take a rest. A lady in daiyi was sitting in front of the tent. The maid beside her said with a smile, "Miss, a bodyguard just came back from the forest. She said that she seems to have heard someone playing the piano. It''s said that the music of the piano is wonderful. I don''t know who has such leisure?" Yao Niannian said with a smile: "wild animals are rampant in the forest, and people are fighting against each other. It''s rare to have a peaceful heart to play the piano. It''s not only beautiful, but also not ordinary people. It''s admirable." "Who is such a person?" The maid said strangely, "is it your royal highness? His royal highness is an excellent man with a peaceful mind. " Yao Niannian shakes his head, smiles but doesn''t speak. He just looks at the deep forest and sighs. His eyes seem to be a little sad. After the sweet end, there was a big plot. Now it''s free to sprinkle sugar www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 211 The next morning, Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan got out of the tent and went back to the direction of milinkou camp. Xiao Shao had a good night''s sleep last night. He came to walk outside and had a lot of experience in dispersing wild animals. In addition, he carried the powder to prevent snakes, insects, rats and ants from coming near, but nothing bothered him. Today is also the time to go back to compare the prey, the emperor''s color head also does not know who the flower falls. Xiao Shao''s prey was tied up in a pile on the back of the horse. He didn''t want to be here, and Jiang Ruan didn''t have much interest in the so-called colorful head. They said it was hunting, rather than playing. There are not many prey, but each has its own characteristics. When I got back to the camp, I found that many people had already come back, and they were all fruitful. When they saw their husband and wife coming back together with Xuan Pei, they were surprised. Xuanpei explained the matter to the emperor. Hearing that there were fierce wild animals in the forest, the emperor frowned and immediately sent someone to interrogate the officials in charge of the hunting ground. Jiang Ruan pondered in his heart that it was clear that the emperor''s action was that he had not heard anyone reply about it earlier, which meant that the beast had not met other hunting boys, and it was definitely aimed at them? I think the wolves Gu Yi met before were just because he was walking in front of Xuan Pei. Just thinking, Jiang Xinzhi and Zhao Jin also came back, Gu Yi with the rest of the entourage followed. Zhao Jin''s relationship with Jiang Xinzhi is no longer as strange as before. Naturally, it has changed a lot. Jiang Xinzhi got off his horse and went to the emperor first. He was probably talking about the beast. The emperor''s face was as heavy as water, and his previous lightness was swept away. Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the beauties sitting at ease in front of the camp. Wang lianer was delicate and gentle, with a faint air of book. Mu Xirou is as cold as ice and as gorgeous as peach and plum. As for Jiang Dan, he looked at the people around him with a smile, as if he was very satisfied with today''s good atmosphere. Jiang Ruan silently said goodbye. Jiang Dan tried his best to make this happen, but only aimed at a few of them. He deeply understood that the beast could not kill them, and there must be some intention. Jiang Ruan can guess about one or two, but Her eyes circled around the people who came back, and her heart was clear. If that was the case, Jiang Dan would bet too much this time. Then he saw a man in the distance. He was bloody and could be identified as a palace guard. As soon as such a bloody man appeared, there were a lot of female dependents on the scene, and they immediately screamed in panic. The emperor''s bodyguard quickly stopped the man. It seemed that he could not support him, so he fell to the ground. It was only then that people could see clearly that behind him was an arrow. It was obvious that he could not live. When he raised his face, someone could see that he was the bodyguard in front of the prince. At the next moment, the dying man hardly spat out a few words: "save Save your Highness the prince. " After that, he tilted his head to the side and died. The emperor was surprised. For so many years, although the crown prince had no virtue or talent, he only had a false name. He could not give the whole world to such a person. The prince will be replaced sooner or later, but among all the sons with different ideas, the prince is at least a man with no city. In the palace, his original offspring flourished, but all the more simple sons died in all kinds of open gun fighting. The crown prince is his eldest son and also the son of the queen. The emperor always wants to show some affection for the crown prince. So for so many years in the palace, although he ignored him, he did not abolish his crown prince position, and sometimes even made his subordinates secretly protect him. Today, the emperor''s face changed when he heard that the prince had an accident. Wang lian''er also stood up, went to the emperor and patted the emperor on the back to help him with his anger. She was used to doing such gentle things and said in a soft voice: "don''t worry, your majesty. Let someone search in the dense forest. Besides, your highness is blessed by heaven." The emperor sent people to search in the dense forest. When this happened, people no longer paid attention to the hunting. When this happened to the prince, they prayed that his royal highness would be safe. They didn''t make the 95% ruler angry and hurt the pond fish. But a moment later, the search of the Imperial Army really came back, one of them is the dying prince on his back, the emperor saw, his face sank down. The prince was covered with blood, and the bodyguard at the head said: "Your Highness has been seriously injured. Your majesty, all the bodyguards around your highness have been killed. It seems that they have been ambushed." "What are you doing? Why don''t you go and get the doctor The emperor cried angrily. The accompanying doctor quickly stood up. The bodyguard took the prince back to the tent and laid him on the couch. The doctor went in for a moment and then came out again. Everyone dared not come out. Looking at him, the doctor wiped the sweat on his forehead and knelt down, saying: "Your Majesty, I''m incompetent. The prince''s injury is too serious. I''m afraid I''m weak when I go back to heaven." "Nonsense The emperor kicked the old doctor who was kneeling at his feet aside and said angrily, "I only give you one way. If you can''t cure the prince, don''t keep your head! I''m not raising you to hear the word "heaven is weak!" The old doctor had no choice but to return to the account. But I don''t have much medicine with me. The prince''s injury can''t be delayed. I have to go back to the Palace first. The emperor was already mad. No one thought that a good hunting would end like this. The emperor walked away, leaving a group of people at a loss. Xuanli''s smile was like spring breeze. He took a meaningful look at Xuanhua around him and sighed: "brother five, it''s a pity that his Highness the prince has an accident."Xuanhua also gave him a smile and said, "yes, it''s a pity." Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes and quietly looked at Jiang Dan not far away. Jiang Dan also seemed to feel her eyes. He turned his head and gave Jiang Ruan a smile. He was a bit proud. Xuan Pei came over from one side, frowned and said, "this woman is really eye-catching." Poor means, narrow vision, but often out of some venomous tricks, just like the snake, keep sooner or later is a disaster. "Don''t worry," Jiang Dan''s eyes flashed a strange light: "soon it won''t get in the way." There was a strange smell in the palace. Since the dying prince was carried back, the emperor''s face was colder than ice in June. The servants in the palace were surprised to realize that the emperor had such a heart for his eldest son, who usually didn''t care much. The prince''s accident must have been designed by someone. He was ambushed in the dense forest. The other party was extremely arrogant and hardly paid attention to the emperor. It''s just that there are different opinions about who is behind. Now five princes and eight princes are fighting secretly, and there is another thirteen princes who don''t know the depth. Each of them may want to make his highness lose his life. If it turns out to be one of them, I''m afraid the wind direction in the middle will change again. Not only in the former dynasty, but also in the back palace. The queen learned the news of the prince''s accident and had a big fight with the emperor. The empress has been in the palace for so many years, she has no real name and doesn''t pay attention to the affairs of the harem. Now, the only son had such a thing under his nose. The complaints about the emperor for so many years broke out overnight, and he was rude to the emperor. Although the emperor understood that she said so because she was nervous, he had developed an unquestionable temperament in high position for many years. At that moment, he severely punished the queen. In the past, no matter how weak the feelings between the emperor and the empress were, they would not be able to tear their faces. There were different opinions. Finally, the emperor lost his respect for the empress. After all, the master of the harem will change his master. Now, for the sake of the fifth prince, Princess de has become the master, and hardly appears. Now the three most popular beauties have their own advantages. It''s really unknown who the flowers will fall to. No matter what we talk about outside, everyone still follows their own way. Jiang Dan is in a good mood. It''s about that the matter has been completed. The emperor is in front of the prince these days. He is even more upset when he quarrels with the queen. He doesn''t come to visit the harem at all. She sweeps away the haze brought about by Jiang''s power affairs a few days ago. Jiang Quan''s affairs haven''t gone down yet, but Jiang Ruan is going to have bad luck. She wore a gold-plated yarn skirt, combed a bun, and carefully put on her earrings, hairpin and jingle. The woman in the mirror was more beautiful because of her good color. It seems that such a dress no longer looks old-fashioned, Jiang Dan himself is also satisfied with the pursed mouth, put on the last bit of rouge. "Is Jiang Zhaoyi dressed like this for his father?" After a low male voice itself rings out, it seems to bring some strange frivolity: "father Huang Guo is so gorgeous." Jiang Dan turns around, Xuanhua comes from outside and sits down in Jiang Dan''s bedroom. Now it''s almost night outside. The emperor is going to Wang lian''er''s palace tonight, but he won''t come here. When Xuanhua came in like this, Jiang Dan was surprised. Then he put down his heart. After hearing the words, he was half bitter and half joking: "Your Highness, where is your majesty now? Why do you say such words to make my concubine sad? Your majesty will not come here, no matter how you dress and dress Xuanhua originally just wanted to come to discuss with Jiang Dan about the arrangements behind the prince''s affairs. He didn''t want to come in and saw the beauty dressing up. At the moment, he saw Jiang Dan''s pitiful look and words. His eyes could not help floating. honestly. Jiang Dansheng is not bad. Most of the women in the Jiang family have inherited some of Jiang Quan''s good looks. Although Jiang Dan''s color is much inferior to that of Jiang Ruan and Jiang Susu, it is just like a fresh flower in the palace. She is charming and simple, and has a kind of ChuChu posture, which can make men''s heart break. But no matter how touching, it''s her father''s woman. Although Xuanhua''s form is absurd in private, the German imperial concubine''s influence on him has played a certain role in the end. She knows that some women can provoke him, and some women will bring fatal disaster to themselves if they are not careful. So the rippling in the heart was put away by himself. Only way: "Jiang Zhaoyi is multi-minded, father emperor now dotes on you a lot." But Jiang Dan noticed Xuanhua''s infatuation. She was proud and surprised. People are always greedy. When Jiang Dan entered the palace, she wanted to seek wealth and status and be a good person. For this reason, she sacrificed all her freedom as an ordinary girl. When she got to the position she wanted step by step, she was not satisfied and wanted more. For example, with the accumulation of discontent with the emperor day after day, Jiang Ruan can find a handsome young man like Xiao Shao, but she wants to get along with a man of the same age as her father. She is now the age of flowers, which girl does not miss spring, difficult not achievement, in the palace, guarding an old man, looking at their beauty like flowers withered? She was not reconciled. Xuanhua is too far away from the city. Even now, Jiang Dan can''t see through this man. Xuanhua is simpler. At the moment, Xuanhua looks beautiful. What''s more, he is so young that he matches his age just right. Jiang Dan thought in a trance, suddenly raised his lips with a smile and said, "no matter how much love you have, when you come here, it''s just a drop." She stroked her broad sleeve, revealing a piece of white wrist as white as jade, and the kordan painted on it was more like fresh flowers. She said softly: "many times, the palace is empty, and there is no smoke at all. My concubine is always a woman, and she will be lonely and afraid."Xuanhua seemed to hear a lot from Jiang Dan''s words. Looking at the woman sitting alone in the huge palace, she was beautiful and deeply resentful. She looked at her with a pair of eyes, and seemed to have infinite affection and desire. Xuanhua couldn''t sit still at last. If Jiang DanZhuang accidentally lit one side of the incense, it was a tribute from the western regions. It was very light and refreshing, but it could make people crazy unconsciously. Every time the emperor came, she would light it. Today, it is the first time that she used it on other men. However, there is an exciting pleasure, as if it is a kind of crazy catharsis. The faint light in the bedroom slowly reflects on people. Slowly, the low breath of depression comes from the night sky and slowly dissipates in the cold wind. Jiang Ruan put down the book in his hand, and the spy who reported back had been back for a long time. As soon as Xiao Shao came out, he saw Jiang Ruan sitting on the couch thinking. He even took the book in his hand backwards. He didn''t know what to think. He was so absorbed. He went over and took away the book from Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan turned around. Xiao Shao made the quilt more strict with her and asked, "what''s the matter?" "I was thinking Tomorrow, they will find out that the arrow that stabbed the prince belongs to our palace. " Jiang Ruan Dao. Although Jiang Ruan''s words of "our palace" were unintentionally uttered, they obviously pleased Xiao Shao. He seemed to laugh and said, "there''s nothing to think about." Since he has made arrangements, he will not let anything against the Royal Palace happen. Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua have a good plan, but they always underestimate their opponents. They think that all the people in the world are as stupid as them. Jiang Ruan took a look at him and found that it was always easier to have people like Xiao Shao around. Anyway, he would arrange everything. She said: "in fact, you don''t do anything. If you really do as they wish, the emperor will not blame you." The emperor is indecisive, willful and short-sighted, but one of the advantages he has never changed from beginning to end is that he always gives Xiao Shao 120000 yuan of trust. Jiang Dan doesn''t know Xiao Shao''s life experience. He Xuanhua thinks that as long as he blindly pushes the matter to Xiao Shao, it can be done. He doesn''t know that it was wrong from the beginning. Once it is found out that it has something to do with Jinying palace, the emperor''s first thought is that someone is slandering Xiao Shao. Instead, he has to find out from Xiao Shao''s opponent. If we push the boat with the current, we may find out Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua in the end, but it will take some time. Xiao Shao said, "no, you are in trouble again." Jiang Ruan was not liked by the emperor. Xuanhua hadn''t done anything rash to King Jinying''s house for so many years. How could he do it suddenly. The mastermind must be Jiang Dan. Why should Jiang Dan encourage Xuanhua when he is good? Naturally, it is because of Jiang Ruan. In this way, the emperor would think that Jiang Ruan was an evil spirit, and his preconceived idea was always very long. In order to avoid such trouble, Xiao Shao himself dealt with the later trouble first. Jiang Ruan didn''t expect Xiao Shao to think of this layer. He was stunned for a moment, and then laughed: "do you know about Xuanhua and Jiang Dan?" Xiao Shao nodded silently, which was regarded as the default. Jiang Ruan shook his head: "she really has a lot of courage." It was inconceivable for Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua to get together. In fact, Jiang Dan is not so clever or skillful. The reason why we have come to this stage step by step is because of the word "forbearance". It''s about the same as Xuanli xuanlang. Once upon a time in Shangshu mansion, she looked harmless and cowardly. At that time, she was only a child. Jiang Dan is good at dormancy. He is more careful and doesn''t leave any handle to others. How can such a person do things that are compatible with Xuanhua? Once it is done, there will be endless disasters in the future. It''s not in line with her cautious nature that Jiang Daning wants to be with Xuanhua even though she is in trouble. After all, it''s not that she wants to make a deal with Xuanhua. Jiang Ruan''s face has become a little strange. That''s why. Xuan Hua? Jiang Dan probably didn''t like Xuanhua either, but Jiang Ruan had heard of the love affair between the unwilling concubines in the deep palace and the outsiders. There is no difference between Jiang Dan and those women. He also has a desire for * in his heart. But the emperor is old. How can he bear with her age? Jiang Ruan asked Xiao Shao, "do you want to intervene in this matter?" "It''s all up to you," said Xiao Shao. "I''ll take it in the back." Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing, looked Xiao Shao up and down, and said, "now it seems that I''m lucky. When Jiang Dan found someone as old as the emperor, no wonder he chose Xuanhua instead. And I''ve lived two lives, my age added up. Maybe it''s also your elder. In this way, I took advantage of it. Even the red apricot leaves the wall "Red apricot out of the wall?" Xiao Shao narrowed his eyes, and his tone suddenly became dangerous. Jiang ruanping was the most stable person in his daily life. Today, he didn''t recognize the difference in Xiao Shao''s words. He still said, "you are so beautiful. Naturally, I can''t bear it." The next moment, he was knocked down on the couch by Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao''s eyes were deep and his tone was cold: "well, if I work harder, you won''t have any other energy to get out of the wall." Jiang Ruan After a silent night, Jiang Dan straightened his clothes, and the people around him didn''t know when to leave. She felt a kind of ache all over her body. Last night''s madness seemed to leave a lingering charm in the room. In Xuanhua, she found her own freshness and age, and finally felt that she was different from those old women in the palace. Xuanhua was quite different from the emperor. He was young and had incredible energy. Jiang Dan thought that this was always good. Last night, Xuanhua said: "you are a smart and beautiful woman, but I am a little reluctant to give up. In the future, when our hall is completed, you can change your name and stay by our side." Jiang Dan was only joking at that time, but now he began to seriously think about Xuanhua''s words. Indeed, she did not want to guard the emperor for a lifetime. After the death of the emperor, these concubines were either buried or sent to an nunnery. Why not consider for the rest of her life? After all, Xuanli or Xuanhua is in charge of this world. Now Xuanli has regarded her as an abandoned son, but Xuanhua is an excellent candidate. Jiang Dan called the people around him: "what happened to the prince?" "It''s as if the arrow had been found," Pearl replied, "but now your majesty seems very angry, but he hasn''t heard anything." Jiang Dan first frowned, then thought of something, eyebrows gradually spread, nothing, no news is good news. In order to get as like as two peas of the king''s palace, they spent a lot of time, but also the arrow of Xiao Hu shooting the white tiger that day. As for coming back together with Xuan Pei, it attracted many people''s attention. King Jinying''s mansion and the 13th Prince conspire to kill the prince, intending to usurp the throne. The name of conspiracy comes down. King Jinying''s mansion has a lesson to learn. It''s hard to get rid of the crime. The emperor must be angry at the moment. It''s only about his prince that he can''t be heard by outsiders. It''s normal. Xuanpei, the little wild race, always sneers at her because he is the prince. Now he has to pay the price. With a smile, Jiang Dan looked at himself in the mirror, pulled off the hairpin and replaced it with a plain silver hairpin. He said, "let''s go. Since the accident happened to his highness, my palace is also very worried. It''s also my intention to visit you together." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 212 In the East Palace, the crown prince''s eyes were closed, and the queen sat beside him, looking worried and anxious. The prince was seriously injured, and people in the hospital said that he was powerless. Now it''s the end of the road. Although the crown prince has been out of favor for so many years, the queen also knows that the emperor is not completely merciless to the crown prince. Now when she goes out to the royal hunting, it''s the end of the road. Raoshi, the queen, regardless of the affairs of the harem for many years, can''t help but be angry. Now the emperor and she had a quarrel, it must be to find out the talent behind the scenes. In the empress''s opinion, although xuanpei is valued by the emperor now, there is no support from his mother''s family behind him. Moreover, he is too young to be alert. Xuanli and Xuanhua were the two. At the beginning, imperial concubine Chen and imperial concubine de fought with her all their lives. Now these two little ones are not sparing the life of the prince. One of them must have done it. Just thinking about it, he heard the eunuch report, and Jiang Dan came to see the prince. The queen turned around, and Jiang Dan had already met her. She looked at the pale prince on the couch, took the Queen''s hand, and said, "empress, your highness will be safe and sound. These days, my ministers and concubines are praying for his royal highness in the Buddhist Hall of the palace. I only hope that he will get better soon. We can''t lose his royal highness in the future Her expression is sincere and her words are intimate. It''s easier said than done to pray for the crown prince. Especially in the back palace, women are eager for the crown prince to give up her position in case of an accident. How can they think of praying for the crown prince. After hearing this, the empress had a good feeling for Jiang Dan. Since he entered the palace, Jiang Dan has been doing things very well, neither inviting favors nor taking credit. He is modest and kind. The queen took her as her own person and said, "you have a heart. In the future of the great Jin Dynasty, my palace only hopes that he can recover well. Take the crown prince''s position if you want. He who saves money is calculated to lose his life. " When the queen said this, she could not help being angry and complaining. She obviously complained about the emperor taking the prince out, but something happened to the prince. Jiang Dan was stunned, then said: "the empress must not say that. Her royal highness will be fine. Besides, the person behind the scenes has not been caught, and the empress will take revenge for her royal highness. " The queen seemed to be reminded by Jiang Dan''s words and said, "yes, you are right. Our palace is going to avenge the emperor''s son. Who has done him such a harm, our palace must let him pay back thousands of times. " After that, he looked at Jiang Dan and said, "I know you were there that day, but did you see anything unusual?" Jiang Dan a Leng, immediately draw to wave a hand, seem to think of what, dodge empress''s vision, stammer a way: "have no, have not." When the queen frowned, Jiang Dan''s appearance was really suspicious. She had just asked casually, because Jiang Dan was also at the hunting ground that day, but Jiang Dan''s immediate reaction showed that she probably knew something, and there must be something strange. The empress grabbed Jiang Dan''s hand and held her hand very close. She said eagerly, "tell the palace quickly. Don''t be afraid of anything. If something goes wrong, the palace will hold it for you. As long as you tell the palace who is going to harm the prince?" Jiang Dan allowed her to hold hands, and finally sighed softly: "empress, I shouldn''t have said these things. But since entering the palace, the empress has treated her ministers and concubines very well. Besides, the prince''s Royal Highness is sincere and has no city. I really see something and I can''t sit still in my heart. No matter what the result is, I will admit it. Empress, the person who has made the crown prince look like this is because his majesty wants him to be three feet. That''s why he is so unscrupulous. " "Who is it?" When the queen heard this, she couldn''t help but feel that her teeth were going to be broken. "King Jin Ying." King Jin Ying? The look on the Queen''s face changed a few times. The name of King Jinying was never unfamiliar to her. Since married to the royal family, later became Queen, and then slowly left out, finally became a nominal person in the harem. The name of King Jinying has always been known to the queen. At the beginning, she was watching the Jinying palace accident. She thought that the palace would be uprooted, but I don''t know why the emperor was so kind-hearted that he even saved Xiao Shao''s life. Not only that, in the future affairs, the emperor even helped Xiao Shao many times, and even empress dowager Yide showed a different attitude towards Xiao Shao. The queen has been in the palace for many years, and has been married to the emperor for so many years. She is not a fool. Naturally, she can understand that there must be some reasons. But she didn''t ask much wisely. The royal family has its own reasons. But now listen to Jiang Dan talk about Jinying king is the culprit of the prince, the queen is still some unbelievable. She didn''t dislike Xiao Shao very much, because Xiao Shao had always been neutral in the court. When many ministers began to stand in line for Xuanli and Xuanhua, only Xiao Shao revealed that he was on the side of the prince. Since Xiao Shao was on the side of the prince, how could he attack him? The queen frowned and said, "how could it be him?" Seeing the doubt in the Queen''s eyes, Jiang Dan said: "I think that the Jinying palace has followed the rules for so many years. There is really no reason to harm the prince, but..." When Jiang Dan said this, he stopped talking and looked at the prince on the couch. Seeing this, the queen said eagerly, "but what? I know what you have to say. If something really happened, in front of the emperor, the emperor was not totally incompetent. " Any woman will never be indifferent in the face of her child''s injury. The queen is a queen, but before that, she was first and foremost a mother. She can sit by and ignore the quarrel in the harem for so many years, but she can''t tolerate her own flesh and blood being calculated. Really find out the person behind, really is to fight their own lives, the queen is also to revenge for the prince."King Jinying won''t, but my concubine knows that Princess Jinying has a good relationship with her 13 highness." Jiang Dan said slowly. "Hong An?" The queen wondered. Princess Jinying is Princess Hong''an. The queen had no special feelings for Jiang Ruan, but the prince once even mentioned Jiang Ruan in front of her for the first time, saying that she was an interesting woman. Later, when she went to the Empress Dowager Yide, she had the chance to meet her several times. She remembered that she was a quiet and gentle woman, and she was very beautiful. But the flightiness in her beauty was suppressed by her life. At this age, it is very rare. So the queen couldn''t help looking more. For Jiang Ruan''s feeling, it can be called good. "The empress doesn''t know," sighed Jiang Danshi. "She and her concubines are sisters of the same father and compatriots. They shouldn''t have said that, but. Ah, she has a strong disposition. She looks obedient on the surface, but in fact she is the most intolerant. When the first lady passed away, her father carried aunt Xia, and her second sister became her daughter. She was rushed to Chuang Tzu. Now the empress and see, in the Shangshu mansion, aunt Xia is dead, the second elder sister is dead, the third elder sister is also dead, the second elder brother has an accident, and now even his father is in the heaven. If it wasn''t for my concubine''s entering the palace, it might have been an end. Now she is rising, say a sentence should not listen to, thirteen his highness and Princess Hong an are not relatives, how to have such a close brotherhood? It''s hard to say that they have such a good relationship. " The queen frowned tightly and said, "don''t play Tai Chi with our palace. If you have any words, just say it." Jiang Dan answered quickly and said: "in fact, before leaving in the tent that day, my concubine had seen thirteen highness and Princess Jinying saying something together. When I passed by, I was lucky to hear some words in [arrow] [dense forest]. When my concubine approached, they stopped talking. At that time, I didn''t feel anything wrong. Now I think of it, but there are many doubts. It''s probably this time. " Jiang Dan looked at the Queen''s face and continued: "after the hunting, when everyone came back to the camp the next day, his royal highness 13 came back with the king Jin Ying and his wife. On that day, everyone saw it. The queen would know when she asked." After listening to all Jiang Dan''s words, the queen slowly sighed and said, "so do you think it''s Prince 13 and King Jinying who have harmed his royal highness so much?" "I dare not make a false assertion." Jiang Dan bowed his head and said: "Jinying palace is powerful now, so it''s hard to do such a thing. But if Princess Jinying and her royal highness 13 have a deep love, it''s very different if she wants to help her royal highness 13. You should know that now his royal highness 13 is playing a very important role in the court. If his Royal Highness the prince has some weaknesses, the remaining princes will fight with each other, but as long as his royal highness 13 has the trump card of Jinying palace, he will not lose in any case. " The queen drooped her head, and Jiang Dan could not see her face clearly. After a long time, the queen raised her head and said, "what you said is true?" Jiang Dan breathed a sigh of relief in his heart, and his tone was very sincere: "absolutely true. Today, I dare to say something to the empress, but I can''t watch the evildoers get away with it. My royal highness is also the future Prince of Dajin Dynasty. I have to think about Dajin Dynasty and let those ambitious people continue to harm others with masks. " The empress looked at Jiang Dan carefully. Her eyes, which were no longer young, were not as angry and out of control as Jiang Dan thought, but with some examination. Jiang Dan''s heart, then some regret that he was too anxious, said so much in a moment, it is hard to avoid suspicion. We should not speculate about the Royal seizing the throne at will. We should use a more euphemistic way to remind them. Jiang Dansheng is afraid that his idea will be seen through by the queen, so he looks at the queen calmly. "Thank you for your hard work," said the queen, a little tired suddenly. "Thank you for saying these words." Jiang Dan looked at the Queen''s face carefully, and the stone in his heart just fell into the second place. He showed a somewhat embarrassed smile and said, "the queen doesn''t blame her for her tongue. She is very satisfied." "That''s it." "The queen said:" the palace also want to stay for a while, Jiang Zhaoyi no matter will leave first, a while too doctor to come is not convenient Jiang Dan hurriedly retreated. After Jiang Dan left, the maid next to the queen hesitated and asked, "did the empress believe what Jiang Zhaoyi said?" As soon as the Queen''s face changed, her gentle and kind eyes disappeared for a moment, and she became extremely indifferent as if she were reading a book. She said, "she is just a smart woman. She even went to our palace to teach a lesson. Do you really think that our palace is a woman with short knowledge, and can''t be intimidated by her simple words? If you want to use this palace to fight against Fu Jinying''s palace, it depends on whether she has that ability or not. " Although the empress has been in the palace for so many years, she has the attitude of the emperor. On the other hand, it is also because she is not stupid, but she is just hiding. Zhaoyi, who has been in the palace for a long time, and the head of Liugong, who has been in the latter position for many years, are only young and beautiful. The meaning of provocation in Jiang Dan''s words is too obvious. If there is such a discovery, why should we say it now? Since we have made up our mind not to say it, why should we show such an expression to arouse people''s suspicion. "Is that lady going to...""She reminds the palace." The empress sneered, and the Nine Tailed Phoenix hairpin on her head gently shook: "this matter may not be aimed at the prince. Since someone has the intention to set up, it has nothing to do with it." The queen looked at the prince on the couch. The prince''s eyes were closed and his lips were pale. When she thought of the doctor saying that the prince was at the end of his life, the queen could not help but feel sad. Then she gritted her teeth and said, "I''d like to see who has the courage to fight for his life and seize the person behind him. I''m sure the palace will call him to pieces!" The emperor slapped the fold in front of him and fell on the minister''s face: "waste!" The minister knelt down to beg for mercy. The Emperor gave him a cold look, but he couldn''t suppress his anger: "this matter has no result in three days, you don''t have to do it, and you don''t have to keep your head! Go away With sweat on his forehead, the minister quickly retired. A group of bodyguards led by the prince were ambushed in the hunting ground, and the whole army was destroyed. Now they give the case to the Minister of Dali temple, but they still have no clue. The emperor couldn''t help feeling the pain in his chest. As he grew older, his body was not as good as before. After all, the rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty should be inherited by young people. But look at his sons, the undercurrent between Xuanli and Xuanhua is surging. Xuanpei looks good now, but his background is too low. If Xiao Shao can take over. Thinking of Xiao Shao, the emperor sighed heavily. What the world is chasing is not worth mentioning when it comes to him. When Jiang Ruan went to the palace, he met empress Yide. When they talked about the prince''s injury, they both felt a little sad. Empress Dowager Yide always held a fair view of the emperor''s sons in the palace, as if the grandson was not a grandson. She only looked at these men from a qualified emperor. Although the crown prince was not satisfied to be the future crown prince of Dajin Dynasty, the Empress Dowager Yide has a clear heart. The crown prince is the most direct and frank one of these princes. Empress Yide will not be hurt if the crown prince is hit this time. As people get older, they think more about their children''s affairs than before. Maybe they think of many years in the past, and the Empress Dowager Yide is not very happy these days. The Empress Dowager Yide asked some questions about Jinying palace, and Jiang Ruan answered them one by one. Once upon a time, she didn''t understand why empress Yide was so devoted to Xiao Shao, and her attitude was really a little strange. Now when she knows Xiao Shao''s life experience, she also understands it. I think empress Yide also has a lot of guilt for Xiao Shao. Prince Hongxi had to experience such a great change because of the separation of his wife and children in Jin Dynasty. As a grandson, she can''t recognize her ancestors. Maybe she doesn''t want to. As a mother, as a grandmother, empress Yide must feel bad in her heart. No wonder when Xiao Shao proposed to marry him, the emperor strongly opposed it, but empress Yide almost agreed without thinking about it. Maybe it''s because of his debt to his eldest son. I know that Prince Hongxi is just like Xiang Xiaoyuan. So for Xiao Shao, I''m afraid he will repeat his father''s mistakes. He compensated Xiao Shao for his guilt towards Prince Hongxi. Jiang Ruan talked with empress dowager Yide for a while before he got up to leave. Aunt Yang sent Jiang Ruan to the gate of the palace. Seeing that there was no one around, she said in a low voice, "the Empress Dowager is in a bad mood these days." "Still worried about the prince?" Jiang Ruan looked at the palace gate and said, "aunt Yang, please comfort the Empress Dowager. The matter of the prince will come to light. As for his Highness the crown prince, he is blessed by the Royal Dragon. " Aunt Yang shook her head and thought about it in embarrassment. Finally she could not help biting her teeth. It seemed that she had made an extremely important decision. She said in a low voice: "the princess can''t help herself. The Empress Dowager has been very strange these days. A few days ago, when she learned that her royal highness had an accident, she took out the royal robes and swords that the eight kings wore when they rebelled. Last night, I looked at the map of Southern Xinjiang for a long time. I suspected that it had something to do with southern Xinjiang. If the princess is willing to make it convenient, please tell it to King Xiao. Mr. Xiao may be able to help Jiang Ruan staring at her: "and Xiao Shao?" Aunt Yang was a little nervous and said, "I''ve been waiting on the Empress Dowager for many years. The Empress Dowager is tough and agile, and I won''t tell her some decisions. I always feel that the Empress Dowager is very strange these days. I have been serving her all my life. I ask the princess for help. I will repay the princess in the future. " Aunt Yang is the aunt beside the Empress Dowager in the palace. She has a certain face since she came here. Even in front of her Princess, it is not so hard to beg. Although what she said is not very clear, it can be seen that this matter is of great importance. Maybe Xiao Shao can help. Maybe aunt Yang also knows Xiao Shao''s life experience? Jiang Ruan picked her up and said, "I''m a princess, and I won''t ignore the Empress Dowager. Don''t worry, I''ll tell Xiao Shao about it. But aunt Yang, if there is something wrong with the empress dowager, please let me know immediately. " Aunt Yang looked at Jiang Ruan gratefully and said, "I thank the princess." Jiang Ruan frowned, shook his head and left. After leaving aunt Yang, Jiang Ruan came to the Royal Buddhist hall. Nowadays, the prince is seriously injured. Whether he is acting or not, he always has to have a full score. It''s also natural to come to Buddha Hall to pray for the prince. When Jiang Ruan Fang went to the edge of the Buddhist hall, she saw a familiar figure coming out. She pondered for a moment, hid to one side, and went into the Buddhist hall after seeing Jiang Dan go far away.Master huijue is sitting in the Buddhist hall in the center, holding a string of rosary beads and meditating silently with his eyes closed. His hand moves solemnly and his breath is peaceful. If he doesn''t really know his details, he will think that he is indeed laoshizi''s eminent monk, who has made the most of all living beings. Jiang Ruan stood still in front of him and said with a smile, "master, long time no see." Master huijue suddenly opened his eyes. He had not seen Jiang Ruan for a long time. Now his position as a national teacher is stable, and his son''s condition has gradually stabilized in those expensive medicinal materials. The power that he had never thought about before is firmly in his own hands. Master huijue will also feel that it is just a dream. In front of Jiang Ruan, master huijue never held the airs of a national teacher. He politely said, "princess." Jiang Ruan is now the princess of Jinying, even more precious than the former princess. Master huijue can see clearly that from a daughter who was in trouble everywhere in Shangshu mansion to such a beautiful position, Jiang Ruan can''t be underestimated. What''s more, her magical powers of foretelling were enough to frighten him. "I''m just here to pray for his Highness the prince, and by the way, I''ll talk with the master about Buddhism. The master doesn''t have to be nervous." Jiang Ruan sat down at a small table on one side, turned away from the guests and poured himself a cup of tea. With a smile, he looked at huijue who sat down with him and said, "there are many people praying for blessings recently. I watched Jiang Zhaoyi pass by." I know that Jiang Dan and Jiang Ruan are sisters from Shangshu mansion, though I don''t know what kind of grudge they have. But the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words was to ask for Jiang Dan. Master huijue thought for a while, and then said, "Jiang Zhaoyi has come here very often. Recently, she has been here almost every day. His highness Wu has been here frequently recently. Occasionally, they meet each other. They will discuss some sutras together in the Zen room. They are all Buddhists. " Although huijue didn''t make it clear, the meaning of the words was about the same. Xu Shi felt that it was ridiculous, and Hui Jue''s eyes flashed a little narrow. Jiang Ruan smiles. There are many scandals in the royal family. The adultery between the imperial concubine and the prince has never been less since ancient times. However, Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua are too bold. They are really in the Zen room. It''s true that the Zen room is a pure place for Buddhism. Ordinary people pray for blessings and will not go to the Zen room at all. Huijue, a monk, would not want to go to a pickled place. It''s a pity that huijue is not a clean master. He is a liar who comes out of the market. No one can hide his deception from his eyes. "The important place of Buddhism is really indecent." Jiang Ruan low way, and then raised his head, already showed a very bright smile: "master, also want to ask you to help me a favor." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 213 Lord Wang, the Minister of Dali temple, tried the case all night. The emperor was angry and fell dead. This time, it was related to the life of the prince. If the person behind could not be caught, he would lose his head. At last, someone revealed that when Mr. Wang was investigating the evidence, he found some clues in the arrow that injured the prince. The arrows are made of high-quality black iron, and the arrows are covered with dense inverted hooks. Compared with ordinary bows and arrows, such arrows are more hurtful. And this kind of arrow, all over the world, is the arrow commonly used by the guards in Jinying palace in the capital. The emperor rushed to Dali temple to hear the case in person. The king and his wife were afraid that they would be doomed this time. Rumors spread in the palace include not only the king and his wife, but also the recently popular Prince Xuan Pei. The reason why King Jinying and his wife so murdered the crown prince was that they colluded with the 13th Prince and wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to support the 13th prince. Although we are reasonable, the situation between the DPRK and China is tense. Can act so bold and unrestrained, is the king of Jin Ying has always been a fearless Lord, Hong an princess can never be so arrogant. This matter is complicated again. However, no matter what people think, the evidence on the arrow is a matter of nailing on the iron plate. As long as it has something to do with it, Jin Yingwang and his wife will not want to retreat. As for the thirteen princes, if they were suspected, they would lose the favor of the emperor. In the palace of CI Ning, Empress Dowager Yide tightly pressed the Buddhist beads in her hand and slowly frowned: "the arrow of King Jinying''s mansion?" "Exactly." Aunt yang beat her leg carefully to the Empress Dowager: "I heard that your Majesty was very angry. She had taken people to Dali Temple an hour ago, but she hasn''t come back yet. Now it''s the bustle in the palace. " "There are more and more ghosts and gods in this palace now." Empress Dowager Yide sneered, and a cruel smile rose on her face: "since they want to make trouble, let them make it. I''ll see what happens in the end. " "The Empress Dowager means..." Aunt Yang was surprised and said, "no matter what?" "What are you worried about?" Empress Yide raised her eyelids, looked at her and said, "do you think King Jinying''s residence is easy to provoke? I''m afraid I''ll be swallowed up before I see the place where I''m going. " In front of Liu Min was an open book, but there was no way to make a speech. Finally, even Xuan Pei couldn''t see it. He leaned back lazily and said, "Liu Taifu, you have made a mistake in the law again." Liu Min suddenly recovered, some embarrassed, said: "I''m guilty, please punish your highness." "You are also my master. You are my teacher one day and my father all your life. How can we do such unfilial things?" Xuan peihun unconcerned opened the cup in front of him and took a drink. He turned to see Liu Min''s haunted appearance and said with a smile, "why, are you still worried about Princess Jinying?" He used "Jinying Princess" instead of "Jinying Palace". Liu Min had a sense of shame that his secret was broken. But even so, he can''t help worrying. The charge of murdering the prince is not small. As a newly rich man in the imperial court, he can''t plead for mercy in front of the emperor. On the contrary, he is bad. His eyes fell on Xuan Pei. Xuan Pei has always been so indifferent since he learned the news. He does nothing different on peacetime. It is clear that this matter is also related to him, but he is still so calm. Liu Min can''t see through this young man. He also knows that this young man is not in the pool. In time, he will be Jackie Chan. He said, "Your Highness, don''t you worry that it will affect you?" "If you are clear, you will be clear; if you are turbid, you will be turbid." Xuan Peiyang said with a smile: "Taifu often says that he doesn''t touch his heart with foreign things. How can he not even understand this truth. You didn''t teach me that? " Playing with the white jade Paperweight in his hand, he said: "besides, we have always believed that there are gods, good and evil, and there will always be retribution in this world. God can see clearly who has done something. One day, it will happen. " His words are so quiet that people can''t help but feel cold in their hearts. It seems that there is a trace of special emotion in them. Liu Min felt that Xuan Pei seemed to be alluding to something, but he couldn''t figure out what it was. In the Buddhist hall, green smoke curls. Huijue is dressed in a red and yellow cassock. Even if he is in a high position, he still wears plain cassock. He always wears a simple cassock, which makes people have a sincere respect for him. It seems that he is really like an expert in the world. He doesn''t touch any worldly things. He ordered his disciples to clean the Buddha statues and went into each room to clean them. A generation of national teachers condescended to do these things, and Hui Jue was not at all uncomfortable, as if this was the most natural thing. When the disciples and eunuchs outside saw it, they said one after another: if you are really an expert, don''t stick to the identity of foreign things. It''s easy to win the awe of a group of people, but it''s hard to win the deep respect of a group of people. The so-called national teacher is just a false name, and will disappear one day with the change of emperor''s attitude. Only by implanting the image of Buddha into people''s mind is Mahayana and cunning. Once the Buddha is mentioned, the first thing people think of is this eminent monk. This is the grand realm of deception - belief. Huijue walked slowly through every Zen room. It was quiet and deep. The curtain covered the noisy sunlight outside, giving people a sense of peace. Chess pieces and wooden fish are placed on the chessboard, and sandalwood is slowly burning in the niche, which makes people quiet. Every small Zen room is clean and tidy. It''s a good place for guests to talk about Buddhism and scriptures. On weekdays, there is no one to disturb, that is, one afternoon, no one will come in.Huijue went to the last meditation room to have a look. After a long time, she finally moved a pot of flowers on the windowsill to a corner of the room. The flower is as clean as a orchid. It looks elegant and elegant. Huijue looked down again at the shrine where sandalwood was set off. His sleeves waved clearly, as if something had been added to it. After a while, he took back his sleeve, stroked the Buddhist beads in his hand, and slowly retreated out. His spiritual love remained unchanged, as if he just went to tidy up the Zen room. As soon as I left the Zen room, I saw that there was a man standing in the hall. He was proud and arrogant. When I saw him, I just said hello. It''s Xuanhua. Xuanhua never believed in ghosts and gods. He also complained about huijue''s ability to become a national teacher by some tricks. But the emperor was determined to believe in huijue, and he could not brush his hair against the tiger''s hair. It''s just that in the end, I still don''t like huijue. The attitude I often show is not respectful. "Amitabha. Benefactor, come to worship Buddha again. " Hui Jue said faintly. "Your Highness, what a coincidence." A clear female voice came at the right time. It was Jiang Dan. When she saw Xuanhua, she was also very surprised and said, "I wanted to pray for the crown prince, but I didn''t want to meet his fifth highness again. Most often, you can meet your five Highnesses here. That''s what Buddhism says about predestination. " Huijue droops her head and says nothing. Jiang Dan wears a light pink twelve broken immortal long skirt, which sets off her slim posture. Her large white skin appears on her chest, which makes her eyes straight. Her smile was pretty, and she bowed to huijue with her hands together, saying: "in that case, I''d like to finish the chess game that I didn''t finish last time with your highness five. Thank you, master. I''m going to disturb you again and occupy your meditation room. " "Benefactor, all living beings are equal at the feet of the Buddha, Dharma is the original heart, and everything has no appearance." Huijue made a Zen speech. Xuanhua''s face showed some impatience, and the little monk beside huijue led them into the innermost Zen room. When they entered the Zen room, they closed the door. The Zen room is far away from the main hall of the Buddhist hall. In fact, the Zen room here is empty every day. Everyone can do the things of offering incense and praying for blessings, but they have to go to the Chan room to talk about Buddhism. People in this palace are busy with other intrigues every day. Where can they have such leisure. And huijue would not take the initiative to mention who was in the Zen room. This was the only place in the palace where he could do whatever he wanted. "What do you want me to do?" Xuanhua pinched Jiang Dan''s face. He couldn''t put it down because of his smooth face, and his hands were heavier. Zhijiao Jiang Dan''s white face was pinched by him to show a touch of bright red. Jiang Dan angrily pushed his hand away and said, "don''t move. Didn''t I teach you to come here and discuss things after today? " "What to discuss?" Xuanhua is itching. Jiang Dan looks like a real water. He can''t help but think of the madness with Jiang Dan at night. This woman looks pretty and pure on the surface, but she is actually an old hand of all kinds. He can''t help but be absent-minded when he is taught to read so many people. She is a natural beauty. No wonder the emperor loves her. Jiang Dan noticed Xuanhua''s expression, and he couldn''t help but feel proud. He blinked Yingrun''s eyes to see him: "naturally, we are discussing how to overthrow Jinying palace. Now it''s all spread in the palace. That arrow is exactly Jin Ying Wang Fu''s right, after this, just push the accusation to Xiao''s house. His Highness has to do something. This time, it''s a good chance to root out the thirteen princes and Jinying palace together. " What she said was very touching. Xuanhua laughed and said, "I''ve already known this. What are you worried about, but what the ancients said is right. You are the most vicious woman. I think you hate your sister to the core, and you can''t wait to take over the hand of this temple except her. " Jiang Dan is not upset when his mind is exposed. Although Xuan Hua is impatient, he is not a fool. She uses Xuanhua, and Xuanhua is not willing to be used by her. It''s all because he can get what he wants from it. It is not so much a use as an equal deal. She said with a smile: "is it because I''m so vicious that my highness doesn''t want me?" She has a smile and eyes like silk. Today, she''s dressed up to show her blood. Xuanhua''s Adam''s Apple moved. I don''t know why, but I think today''s niche incense is particularly intoxicating. Jiang Dan is also ready to move. Today, he talks with Xuanhua about what happened behind him. It''s only true that he secretly comes out to meet him. *It''s like the water breaking the ice. Jiang Dan is infatuated with the violence Xuanhua brings her, and also falls in love with the pleasure of stealing. Too heavy a man''s * will make his mind go wrong. Jiang Dan is already a man without reason. Even in ordinary times, she would not have done such a bold thing. However, she was not worried about the Buddhist temple. Recently, the emperor went out to Dali temple, but Jiang Ruan was more likely to be ill fated. Without any fear, she took the initiative to make an appointment with Xuanhua for the first time. At the moment, the spacious Zen room suddenly feels cramped, and a hot breath is brewing in the air. Jiang Dan understood Xuanhua''s plunder and wildness. She leaned over slowly, her soft waist was like the wind, and her posture was graceful every step. She slowly stretched out her arms and hooked Xuanhua''s neck. However, outside the Buddhist hall, the emperor and his party appeared in the main hall like a magic weapon. Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan stood together, Xuanli not far away. Wang lian''er followed carefully, obviously very afraid of the emperor at the moment.Huijue put down the wooden fish in his hand and said, "Amitabha, your majesty has come here. Is it a gift to Buddha?" The emperor waved his hand. Seeing huijue, he looked a little slower and said, "I''m not here to worship Buddha today. I''ve come to find Lao Wu. I heard that he''s with you. Why is he not seen? " "Your Highness five worships the Buddha and just meets lady Zhaoyi. They are discussing scriptures in the Zen room at the moment." Huijue''s reply was neither humble nor overbearing, but it made the emperor stupefied. A prince and the emperor''s concubine discuss the Scriptures. The people present are not fools, and the emperor has not experienced it. He thought about it almost immediately. But I think it''s incredible. After all, it''s an important place for Buddhism. I just think too much about it. What''s more, huijue doesn''t get into the dust on weekdays. It''s hard to teach him to see his mind like this. So the Emperor just thought for a moment and said, "take me to see them." Huijue bowed his head and went to the Zen room. Xuanli fell behind, just side by side with Jiang Ruan. He looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile and said, "princess, good means. Is there a good play next?" "It''s the same with each other," Jiang Ruan replied with a smile. "This play is just arranged by his highness. Why do you ask me?" Xiao Shao quietly guards Jiang Ruan to the side of the road, blocking Xuanli''s eyes to Jiang Ruan. Xuanli was not angry either. He just kept up with the emperor with a smile. When Fang went to the last room in the Zen room, the little monk who led the way knocked on the door and said, "benefactor, your majesty is here." There was no sound in the door, and no one seemed to hear the knock. Little monk a little flustered, milk voice milk way: "master, this is right." It was true that no one answered the door, but there was a slight gasp, which seemed to be extremely painful and oppressive. Some of the people present understood it. Wang lian''er was shocked and subconsciously went to see the emperor''s face. Sure enough, the emperor''s face was very blue, and the veins on his forehead almost seemed to jump out. Someone had to open the door. Wang lian''er gloated at the disaster and said in a soft voice, "it''s about the Buddha''s coming to God. Don''t go ahead and have a look." Then he reached out and opened the door. After hearing "ah ah", Wang lian''er covered her face and stepped back. She accidentally stepped on her skirt and almost tripped. Jiang Ruan helped her. Then Wang lian''er stood firm. She was busy with Jiang Ruan''s thanks. Then she trembled and pointed to the Zen room: "it''s just. That''s ridiculous Everyone looked into the Zen room, and it was exactly the same as what they expected. No, it was even more fragrant. Then he saw that the chessboard on the small table had been overturned, and the pieces on it were scattered all over the ground. The floor was littered with clothes. Two people in that small several together, and the state of shame appeared in front of the public. When they had obviously forgotten their love, it seemed that they did not hear the footsteps of the people. It was only when the strange air-conditioning came and the smell of the smell in the air gradually faded that the people above seemed to understand it. They suddenly turned back and turned pale when they saw the people. The emperor looked at him coldly. At this moment, this gentle and charming woman, compared with the deliberate flattery of other favorite imperial concubines, was as comfortable as a mountain woman. She was already disgusting and shameless. It''s not that the Emperor didn''t get along with the prince, but he didn''t go so far. He was so shameless that he did it in the Zen chamber! "Your Majesty Your majesty... " Jiang Dan suddenly recovered. The indifference in the eyes of the emperor shocked her. Somehow, she caught the cruelty of the superior. She knew that even in ordinary families, wives who did not obey the law of womanhood would be invaded into pig cages. What''s more, Jiang Dan''s body couldn''t help shaking, and his whole heart almost jumped out of his throat. Before the lingering charm of satisfying after eating, Jiang Dan left first. Xuanhua was very dissatisfied, but when the cold wind came outside, his hot body was slightly sober. When he heard Jiang Dan''s words, he turned away in disbelief. Sure enough, everyone''s faces were wonderful. He looked at them as if they were watching a monkey play. Shame, shock, fear and exasperation all rush into my heart. Xuanhua, who always relies on her ability, is at a loss. Nono''s shout "father emperor" then no more sound. Finally, the emperor could not help but quickly step up and kick Xuanhua to one side with a heavy kick. He said angrily, "son of a bitch His eyes slowly turned to the naked Jiang Dan, and suddenly sneered: "I''ll kill this woman in the harem!" "Your Majesty. Your majesty Jiang Dan was so scared that she was shaking all over. She regretted how she could turn Xuanhua upside down at this time. If it''s not for the moment, it''s the emperor who comes to find it. They can do the scriptures on the pretext. How can they be caught. How could it be out of control for a while. Jiang Dan''s flashy thought suddenly reminded him of the intoxicating sandalwood that he had just come in and smelled. Now it had disappeared. She was looking at Jiang Ruan, who was standing beside the emperor. There was a slight smile on his lips, as if he had always been so polite and gentle. But Jiang Dan clearly saw contempt and irony in it. With a blank in her mind, she rushed to Jiang Ruan and said, "Your Majesty, she framed me. She framed me. My fifth highness and I are innocent!""Jiang Zhaoyi," Xiao Shao said, his voice as cold as ice: "my wife has no ability to frame you on the couch of his fifth highness." "Xiao Shao, please keep your mouth clean!" Hearing Xiao Shao''s sarcastic words, Xuan Hua said angrily. "Shut up The emperor roared again, and Xuanhua did not dare to say anything. As Jiang Dan shrinks, she looks at Xiao Shao. The young man in black is beautiful and unmarried. Although Xuan Hua is also handsome, she is not as good as Xiao Shao. Her eyebrows and eyes are calm. The look at Jiang Ruan is soft, especially the posture of protecting Jiang Ruan all the time. Suddenly, it hurts her heart. She suddenly felt that the scene before her was so dazzling. Why could Jiang Ruan be loved by her young husband? How could she be better than herself? How can the situations of people be so different? The more jealous Jiang Dan was, the more unwilling she was. She fell at the emperor''s feet and cried sadly, "no, your majesty, she wronged me. She took medicine here. My concubine and her fifth highness are innocent. She was caught playing chess here. Your majesty, your majesty, you have to believe that I treat you sincerely. It''s the incense. There''s something wrong with the incense! " She suddenly looked at Hui Jue, who looked down and said nothing: "you bribed the national teacher. What good did you give him?" Jiang Ruan could hardly help laughing. In fact, Jiang Dan''s words were well founded, and soon he could think of the key. As usual, perhaps the emperor would seriously think about her words, and might even report a little doubt to huijue. It''s a pity that Jiang Dan said at this time that everyone would only think that she was a reckless climber at the end of her life. From the emperor''s point of view, she will only be more angry and think that she is playing tricks on the emperor. If a person wants to achieve something, he must first have enough understanding of it. Jiang Dan thought that he had become the emperor''s favorite concubine. With the emperor''s love for her, he could fully understand the emperor''s mind. What he thought was too simple. Accompanying a king is like accompanying a tiger. The emperor''s mind is unfathomable. Even in her previous life, she could only barely feel it when she heard Xuanli say so many words. The emperor is a dictatorial man, and the things he thinks will never change. At this time, no matter how Jiang Dan said it, the emperor would not believe it without evidence. Ten thousand steps back, she really came up with some strong evidence. A spoiled concubine, a spoiled concubine who had an affair with the prince, was wronged. How could she stay in the palace? Anyway, Jiang Dan''s life had been in the hands of the king of hell from the moment she was knocked down by the emperor and Xuanhua reversed luanfeng. But it''s not the end. It''s not enough to have only one crime of disorderly harem. Maybe Yu Dan should get more. Jiang Ruan smiles and slowly puts his fingers into his sleeve. There is a strange light in his eyes. It''s a digression. recently, I went to sleep after taking medicine every day. Only the second day''s temporary code qwq is available www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 214 "Jiang Zhaoyi, you know better than I do what''s the end of random climbing and biting." Jiang Ruan''s posture was leisurely and elegant, with a trace of just right surprise on his face. He said, "as you said, what good is it for me to climb and bite with you?" While Jiang Dan''s words were blocked, Xuanhua on one side finally understood the situation at this time. Even now, he began to understand that he had been schemed by others. Although his form was absurd, he could not help but was a little strange today. He figured out the key point immediately. When he looked at Jiang Ruan again, he was sure that he would have something to do with it. Thinking of what happened before, he said: "no, father, my son and Jiang Zhaoyi are indeed Qingqingbai, it''s Princess Jinying. It''s her. She and shisan united to kill the prince and his elder brother. Now they want to frame up their children''s ministers. They are just wolves. Father, don''t be cheated by them! " Xuanhua said that he was sincere. He probably knew that the matter of seizing the emperor''s right had been the heart of every emperor since ancient times, so he would spare no effort to put a needle here. He thought, although he didn''t know how Xiao Shao and his family were here again, the arrow thing could not be false. It was Xiao Shao''s sweet words that temporarily eased his doubts, but the doubts were deeply rooted in the emperor''s heart. What good could Xiao Shao get? And as long as you mention the dying prince, you can point out one or two. A son is bedridden, a son is framed and colludes with beloved concubine. Xuanpei can be excused for doing such things by virtue of Jinying palace, a family of anti thieves with a good example. Xuanhua was right. He thought that at least the emperor would doubt Xiao Shao and xuanpei. Jiang Dan also breathed a sigh of relief. Xuanhua''s words really relieved a lot of pressure, and he wanted to fight for sympathy through the emperor''s past favor. With tears in his eyes, Jiang Dan said, "I have 10000 courage and dare not betray your majesty. If I had not been calculated, I would have no face now. I just hope your majesty can give me a whole body and make me face.". But if it is said that collusion is so absurd, I will not admit it! " She looks like she would rather die than surrender. Jiang Dan knows that the emperor''s favorite women always have their own brilliance, which is not bound by the aristocratic family. They seem to come from a gust of wind in the mountains, stubborn and full of vitality. It was because of this that Princess Chen was so popular. Now she is valued by the emperor, and it is because of her efforts to make herself different from other ladies. Now she is full of tears, holding her head high with pride, as if she really has some courage to die rather than surrender, such as a lotus standing in the storm, and her appearance is not vulgar, which really has some unique beauty. But Jiang Dan didn''t know that the reason why the emperor liked such a woman was that Xiang Xiaoyuan, the Crown Princess of Prince Hongxi, was born in the mountains, mysterious and free, with a kind of aura that the imperial family didn''t have. The emperor especially appreciated this kind of aura. He was a concubine who had been spoiled in the future. More or less, he would have such a free and brilliant temperament. Such a disposition is eye-catching, but it is based on Xiang Xiaoyuan himself. Jiang Dan now in doing such a move, it seems that some copycat, nondescript. Let the emperor''s heart more indignant, feel that she is insulting to the garden''s purity and pride. Jiang Dan didn''t touch the affection in the eyes of the emperor. Instead, he saw a lot of Yin. He felt like a basin of cold water pouring from head to foot. He was a little at a loss. He didn''t know what was wrong. With a little smile, Jiang Ruan said, "Your Highness, you can eat food without saying anything. Where did I get the news that I colluded with the prince and his royal highness 13 to murder his royal highness? His Highness the prince and his Highness the thirteen are all your brothers. Where do you say that? " Xuanhua took a bold look at the emperor. The coldness in the emperor''s eyes shocked him, but now it''s a dead word. Xuanhua said with his neck in his hand: "now everyone in the palace knows that the arrow that hurt the prince''s eldest brother came from your Jinying palace. What''s the matter if it''s not your hands and feet? Hum, I''ve already heard that Princess Jinying and thirteen younger brothers are very close. Thirteen younger brothers, if they are young this year, don''t know anything about it. Naturally, they don''t know the power of it. I''m afraid that thirteen younger brothers will make a big mistake at the instigation of someone who wants to do it. Princess Jinying, you want to use thirteen younger brothers to achieve your ambition of being a wolf, or even catch up with Jinying palace. Am I right What else can you say? " Jiang Ruan laughed again: "the words of the fifth highness are really wonderful. I think they are the same thing, but the fifth highness," she slowly lengthened her voice, looked over Xiao Shao, and fell on Xuan Li who was watching on the wall: "there is something wrong with you. You should know that, as you say, it involves not only me and the thirteenth highness, but also the eighth hall Next time. " Xuan Li? Xuanhua''s face changed. Some confused chaoxuan looked away. The emperor''s face was very blue. He was completely disappointed when he looked at Xuanhua. Xuanhua was cool in his heart. He was not unfamiliar with that look, which meant that the emperor was going to give up his son completely. But he still didn''t know what had happened. He looked warily at Jiang Ruan and said, "what''s the meaning of this?" Jiang Ruan shook Xiao Shao''s hand. Then he looked at Xuanhua and said with a smile, "Your Highness has no idea. The arrow that your Highness the prince injured is really the one in our palace. However, there is one thing that his highness five doesn''t know. The arrows that ambush His Highness the prince''s bodyguards have the arrows of his highness eight. "Xuanhua was stunned and looked at Xuanli in disbelief. Xuan Li, with a smile on his face, sighed softly, as if in infinite confusion: "brother five, I don''t know much about this. Today, it is the Minister of the Dali Temple who called me to stand up in front of my father. It''s true that my family is right. " "Well It is you who conspire against me Xuanhua yelled: "Lao Ba, you and shisan joined hands. You were provoked by this woman to harm the eldest brother of the crown prince. You also framed me and wanted to kill me. You are so cruel and cruel that you don''t pay attention to brotherhood. Father, father, I am wronged, father "Dare you say I have wronged you?" The emperor was not angry but laughed, and his face became more scornful. Xuanhua could not help fighting a cold war. Just listen to Jiang Ruan''s voice continue to spread: "five his highness is very strange, how will eight his highness also involved?"? How can we say that his royal highness eight has done harm to his royal highness together with us? " "What can I say?" Xuanhua said in a loud voice, "your arrows are all there. The evidence is solid. It''s not just the murder weapon!" Jiang Dan''s heart is not good. She subconsciously wants to go to Meng Xuanhua''s mouth. She knows that Jiang Ruan is the best at digging holes in his mouth. She doesn''t know when he falls in. But Xuanhua was a stupid person, and he jumped other people''s way. At the moment, Jiang Ruan smiles and leads Xuanhua to speak quietly. Although he doesn''t know what she plans to do, Jiang Dan knows that Xuanhua will show up sooner or later if she keeps following her words. But after all, it was still late. As soon as Xuanhua''s words came out, Jiang Dan froze. "Those five Highnesses are too arbitrary." Jiang Ruan said softly: "you know, in addition to the arrows of the eighth prince, there are also the arrows of the imperial guards. As your highness five said, is it possible that your majesty wants to murder your Highness the prince? That''s very generous. " Xuanhua was surprised and said eagerly: "it''s impossible to be a bodyguard in front of the emperor! I ordered... " As soon as the words came out, he suddenly realized that it was wrong. He suddenly shut up, but there was only a moment of silence around him. Wang lian''er covers her mouth and looks at him in horror. Jiang Ruan''s smile is bright, Xiao Shao''s face is frosty, Xuanli''s face is as gentle as ever, and huijue''s several disciples are silent, as if isolated from the world. Xuanhua did not hesitate to believe that if there were no one at the moment, his father would have finished himself. He didn''t understand why it was like this. How could the arrows of the imperial guards be there. Xuanli''s arrow appeared. He thought it was Jiang Dan''s own arrangement. It would be good if he could bring Xuanli down at one stroke. Xuanhua would not refuse to shoot more than one arrow. But the arrow of the former imperial bodyguard was also in it. It must not have been arranged by Jiang Dan. In a hurry, he said what was in his heart. All the people present were those who heard the string sound and knew the elegance. There was nothing they didn''t understand. At that moment, he knew the whole story and stared at him as if facing the enemy. Jiang Dan can''t stop shaking. Once Xuan Hua is stabbed out, it is inevitable that she will also be involved. She looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan seemed to be aware of her eyes. She looked over her slowly. She looked down at her with a condescending smile, as if she were looking at another tiny insect. Jiang Dan began to cool from his scalp. All of a sudden, she felt that what she had done had already been firmly grasped by Jiang Ruan. Among them, it was Jiang Ruan who pushed the boat with the current that she had come to this point. Xuanli looks at Jiang Ruan with a smile, but he can''t help feeling strange about this woman. Originally, this was a fight between King Jinying''s mansion and Xuan Hua. If Xuan Pei was involved, no matter what, he would not suffer losses and would always benefit. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ruan''s hand was so cruel that he simply pulled him in. Most of Xiao Shao''s actions were not so tactful but vicious, while Xuan Pei was not so sophisticated. All these things were written by Jiang Ruan. As a matter of fact, Xuanhua lost the game even if he didn''t put in the arrow of the imperial guards. Xuanli, xuanpei and King Jinying conspired to frame the crown prince. Among the princes, Xuanhua was the only one who could retreat. This was an abnormal situation. Jiang Ruan''s cleverness lies in the fact that she just added a piece to it, which made the situation of the whole game suddenly reverse, winning or losing. Xuan Li sighed in his heart. If such a smart woman stood by her side, she could match her then. If she follows herself, in fact, the Queen''s position can also be controlled. When she follows Xiao Shao, his eyes gradually turn deep, but he has to be more wary of Jinying palace. "Father..." Xuanhua said in a trembling voice, "my son and Jiang Zhaoyi are really innocent. My son didn''t do anything. My father, they really framed me..." He had been dazzled by fear at the moment, and could not distinguish the primary from the secondary. At the moment, the affair of cheating with Jiang Dan is no longer important. What makes the emperor more concerned is his ambition to encircle and kill his brother in an attempt to usurp the throne! When the emperor came back from Dali temple, he went to the Buddhist hall first. No one in the palace told him what had happened here. If the imperial concubine didn''t come to save the place, Xuanhua was like a useless waste. He couldn''t think of anything but begging for mercy. Jiang Dan was also silly. She didn''t expect that not only she didn''t get rid of her guilt, but she also made Xuanhua admit the big crime of murdering the prince. If she was involved, it would be more or less bad. At the moment, he has to insist that he and Xuanhua have been framed. Maybe he can find a chance of life. Thinking of this, Jiang Dan kept kowtowing on the ground and crying out: "I really didn''t betray your majesty. Your majesty is very observant and gives me back my innocence. Please your majesty. I am wronged Blood oozed from her forehead, and the ground was red.Who is the emperor? The ninth five-year-old said that the things he decided would not change. What''s more, Xuanhua''s murder of the crown prince has almost come to light. Looking at the two people in front of him, we can only see that they are adulterers. I don''t want to say a word more, but everyone ignores that there is Wang lian''er on one side. Wang lian''er usually looks gentle, knowledgeable and considerate, but she has fought fiercely with Jiang Danming secretly. Now that Jiang Dan is defeated, how can she not take this opportunity to step on her feet? At that moment, Chuang Ruo said unintentionally, "maybe Jiang Zhaoyi has been framed. There are so many opportunities in the palace, it''s hard to avoid Your majesty, haven''t you heard that Xia Shen''s medical prescription has sent a pulse to the Empress Dowager? It''s better to teach him to come and see if it''s that. By the way, the problem of incense. " This is not to seek opportunities for Jiang Dan. Everyone knows that Xia Qing and Xiao Shao have a good relationship, so they must help Xiao Shao. Now that Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua are planning for Jinying palace, it''s Jiang Dan''s turn to accept the power. Wang lian''er comes from a scholarly family, but she is also very smart. She can see that both jinyingwang and his wife are unwilling to suffer losses. Jiang Dan is too tender in front of them. Call Xia Qing to come here, not to let Jiang Dan have a chance to survive, but to really put her to death, no chance to turn over. Jiang Ruan smile, this Wang lian''er is a smart, also not in vain she on the road "see" her, take advantage of her together. It''s only strange that Jiang Danping''s daily fighting is too fast and too high. Once he loses power, someone can''t wait to step on it. She winked at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao looked at the emperor again and said faintly, "I would like to ask your majesty to call the doctor of Xia to come here for consultation, and return my wife''s innocence." This is to follow Wang lian''er''s words and ask Xia Qing to come and clear away the injustice. Since the emperor came to Xiao Shao, he has always responded to his requests. Moreover, today''s incident is really outrageous. After all, it can''t be known by outsiders. Xia Qing is a member of Xiao Shao''s family and abides by medical ethics. There''s no need to worry about spreading it outside. If I had changed to another doctor, I would have no life to go out today. The emperor sneered and said, "I will let you die happily. Come and bring Xia Qing to me!" Jiang Dan is lying on the ground, looking at the emperor with empty eyes. His once affectionate love is just a cold word "death". She deeply understood that when she was finished, it was like falling into a big net that had already been formed. No matter how she struggled, the result was that she was getting tighter and tighter, unable to break free. Xia Qing really asked empress Yide for help in the palace. When she heard that the emperor wanted someone, empress Yide didn''t say much, so she let them go. Xia Qing came in a hurry. He thought something had happened. Seeing Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan here, he could see that the emperor''s face was very blue. He could not help but look down on his face and said, "Your Majesty, what''s the order for the people to come here?" The emperor coldly pointed to the two people on the ground and said, "please show me what''s wrong with these two people? Is there any special medicine? " When it comes to the word "medicine", the emperor specially accentuated his tone. Xuanhua and Jiang Dan on the direct education ground could not help but tremble. The emperor''s anger made him lay dead. Today, they can be regarded as brushing the dragon''s scales. The reason why they are still living here is also regarded as luck. Xia Qing Dynasty two people see, can''t help but Jun face slightly red, Jiang Dan this just notice his clothes not neat appearance. Just now she was only worried, but she didn''t notice her clothes. She was almost half naked. This just hastily picked up clothes to put on, but in the heart more and more uneasy, the body has been seen by other men, the emperor really can accommodate her? It''s like It''s meaningless because it''s the one who''s going to die. Xia Qing stood far away from Jiang Dan and knelt down slowly. Although he was a doctor, it was the first time for him to feel his pulse with a disheveled woman. He was a little embarrassed. Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua held their breath and paid attention to his movements. Jiang Dan still has a little luck in her heart. She knows that although Xia Qing and Xiao Shao have a good personal relationship, Xia Qing is a famous master of Jinling. She has her own medical ethics and will not make a decision about the illness. She is an honest man and probably won''t lie. And recently, something happened suddenly. It was Wang lian''er who called him over. Jiang Ruan didn''t say hello to him in advance. Maybe he could tell them that they would do so if they were attacked. She is so full of the look of hope is a trace does not fall in the eyes of the public, Wang lian''er pulled the corners of the mouth silent smile, full of contempt and excitement. Jiang Ruan slowly dropped his eyes, and his hands clasped with Xiao Shao tightly in his sleeve were full of silence. Jiang Dan is doomed to be disappointed. Xia Qing shakes her sleeve and stands up slowly. She looks at Jiang Dan hesitantly. Jiang Dan looks at him as if he had caught a straw and says, "doctor Xia, what''s the matter? Is it because I''ve been drugged?" Xuanhua also stares at Xia Qing. Xia Qing shakes her head. Then she looks at the emperor and says seriously, "my Lord, the empress is in good health. She hasn''t been hurt by any medicine, but..." He hesitated for a moment, then said: "I just felt the pulse for my mother, and found that it was slippery pulse. The pulse was like a bead. My mother was happy." After a meal, Jiang Dan turned his head. The emperor had a smile on his face, which he couldn''t tell. He just repeated it slowly: "are you happy?" Jiang Dan never expected that what Xia Qing found out was Ximai. The only way for her now is not to be misunderstood by the emperor. In fact, Xuanhua and she are not Xuanhua''s children. What she has is a real dragon seed. Jiang Dan suddenly stood up and said, "no, your majesty, it''s clear that someone is scheming with me today. I have your child in my belly. Maybe he is a little son. Don''t you like him?""You say this wild seed is my son?" The emperor asked slowly. Jiang Dan was stunned. He suddenly seized Xia Qing''s robe and asked, "doctor Xia, look at the sandalwood in this room. The smell is not right. When you look at the time, you tell your majesty that the child in my belly belongs to your majesty, right?" He shakes the corner of Xia Qing''s robe. Xia Qing is most afraid of women''s madness in her life. He hurriedly frowned and jumped out. He pulled the corner of his robe out of Jiang Dan''s hand and said in a straight way: "Niang, the grass people said that there is no medicine in this room, and Niang is very healthy. She has nothing to say. As for the children... " Xia Qing was in a bit of a dilemma: "the grass people really have no way to judge. If you don''t believe me, you can find another doctor to come and have a look. There''s no need to doubt Cao min''s medical skills. " When it comes to the end, I have some pride. These people with special talents are born with the greatest capacity for others to doubt their abilities. Xia Qing is a miracle doctor. Of course, he has a certain temper. He is doubted that there is a good look in front of people. However, Jiang Dan''s words are probably in vain. Xia Qing is the most skillful person in the Dajin Dynasty. He can''t even see the medicine. What''s the use of Taiyi. Now, how can we publicize this scandal? It''s too late to hide it. How can we invite other people to come and see this good play. Xia Qing''s words are almost final, and there is no possibility of reversal. Jiang Dan slowly collapsed to the ground. When she was at the end of her life, she suddenly cried out, "no, it''s you, you quack, who colluded with them to set me up. There is something strange in this room, and the laoshizi national master is just a liar. Don''t think that you and Jiang Ruan are cheating on each other. I don''t know. You cheated into the palace. Now you still want to buckle this Shipan on my head! " She was so scared that she couldn''t even take care of the emperor''s presence. She was so charming and charming. In the eyes of everyone, she felt even more ironic. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 215 Things in the world are mostly like this. When people are calculating others, they don''t know that they have already become a pawn in other people''s hands. Jiang Dan put all his chips on the arrow to frame King Jinying''s house, but he didn''t know that Jiang Ruan only added two more things to make the situation change quickly, and the real killing move was here. This is a muddle headed account. While Xia Qing is happy for Jiang Dan, Jiang Dan''s fate is doomed. Between the prince and his beloved concubine, the emperor would not hesitate to strangle any child that might have something to do with Xuanhua. Royal blood is the most intolerable. The palace that has the most affairs is also the palace that has the most abhorrence for such affairs. The emperor looked at Xuanhua with deep eyes. At the moment, there was no heartache and care for his son as a father. That was the cruelty and ruthlessness of a monarch to his traitor. It was a kind of murder, he said slowly: "old five, you killed the prince, but also want to blame others, and even my concubines collude with each other, are you going against the sky?" Xuanhua''s forehead was dripping with sweat. He also looked at the emperor. For a long time, he suddenly showed a smile. In this game, he has been defeated. He has been teasing Xuanli for so many years. With the guidance of Princess De, he has survived all the way in the palace. He thinks that there will be his place in the world. But he fails at the last moment. Now, it''s hard for him to imagine why he agreed to cooperate with Jiang Dan. Maybe he was too anxious, and finally he ruined his future. Lost at this point. He looked at Jiang Dan in disgust and said, "fool, if it wasn''t for you, why should our palace be in such a situation." Jiang Dan looks at him with a pale face. Xuan Hua''s words are a tacit admission of their relationship. He unexpectedly So fast to confess. Jiang Dan said: "Your Highness, what are you talking about...". I don''t understand... " "Put away your tears, little wretch," Xuan Hua said with a sneer, "up to now, do you think you will survive if you shout injustice?" Xuanhua, after all, was the one who had been with the emperor for a longer time than Jiang Dan. The emperor''s eyes, especially the eyes of killing people, he knew best. Today, he and Jiang Dan could not escape death. Murder the prince, frame others, collude with beloved imperial concubine, the final goal is not to point at the Dragon chair? No emperor can tolerate his courtiers coveting his country, even his son. There is no family in the royal family. They were born to fight for that chair. When Jiang Dan heard the speech, he couldn''t support it any more, as if he had been taken away from him in an instant, and his face was decidedly dispirited. The emperor did not speak, Xuanhua said with a smile: "father, you are sitting on the whole river and mountain, holding the power of life and death of the people, and the life and death of your children and ministers are just between your thoughts. You are a chair, and the people sitting on it are really beautiful. But what about that? " Xuanhua took a look at Jiang Dan, and said with a smile, "you have countless beauties. But how do you know that they are loyal to you? For example, your beloved little concubine was gentle and considerate when she looked at you, but..." He stretched out a finger and frivolously raised Jiang Dan''s chin. His smile was indescribable strange and sarcastic: "under me, she is also very happy." "Stop it!" Jiang Dan panicked. The emperor''s face had returned to calm, and he was not moved by the almost provocative words, as if Xuanhua was just talking about other people''s family. But Wang lian''er is a little uneasy. She is happy to see Jiang Dan lose. But it''s about the secrets between the emperor and his son. It''s not a good thing for her to know too much. The emperor would not like to see a person who knows too much about the Royal Scandal, but now she is in a dilemma. She does not know how to avoid hearing the following words. Jiang Ruan dropped his smiling eyes. Xuanhua was such a man. He was impatient and reckless. The reason why Xuanli has been fighting with her for so many years is nothing more than the guidance of Princess de and the strong influence of the ministers behind her. In the previous life, Xuanhua was easily beheaded by Xuanli after the death of Princess de. If it wasn''t for this time that Jiang Dan took the initiative to find Xuanhua, in fact, she wanted to stay in Xuanhua longer to deal with Xuanli. Compared with Xuanli, Xuanhua was not afraid. But now that they''ve all figured it out, it''s impossible not to fight back. Thanks to Xuanli''s previous life, Jiang Ruan knew Xuanhua''s temper and temperament. Xuanhua looked reckless on the surface, but at the bottom of his heart, he was a very vengeful person. Today, there must be a big reason for Jiang Dan''s falling into such a field. Xuanhua will put this account on Jiang Dan''s head. He will not make Jiang Dan feel better until he dies. For example, just now, Xuanhua deliberately angered the emperor, just to make Jiang Dan''s muddy water worse. Like father, like son. On the contrary, the emperor''s mind may not be so generous. If a woman who betrays herself simply gives her death, it will be Jiang Dan''s blessing. "Father, no matter how you look at your son''s ministers, they all recognize that they have been defeated since ancient times. The prince''s affairs are really done by his son''s ministers, and he really wants to frame the Jinying palace. However, all this is proposed by your favorite princess, isn''t it, Danniang?" The gentler Xuanhua''s tone was, the more Jiang Dan shrank. She wanted to cover Xuanhua''s mouth, but she didn''t dare to do anything. She only dared to shrink herself into a ball and shake her head desperately. "Your beloved imperial concubine told me that her father would return one day for a hundred years. This deep palace is lonely and vast. She always has to find a way to rely on herself. So they found the palace, as for the prince''s affairs, but she instigated. If you are a crouching tiger, hidden dragon in your father''s palace, you will be a little concubine who knows so many things Xuanhua laughed at himself: "my son can''t resist the temptation, so he agreed to her request. But it''s not a bright future. This woman thinks herself smart and wants to frame Princess Jinying, but she is not as good as others. " Xuanhua takes another deep look at Jiang Ruan. He looks at her calmly. Xuanhua''s heart jumps. Now that he is dead, he thought that it would be better to pull all the people involved in this matter down to be buried with him. Don''t want to Jiang Ruan''s eyes but let him some heart, just crazy also spread a few minutes, heart can''t help but some tight.But after a while, Xuanhua said with a smile: "eight younger brother, I didn''t expect to find you at this time. Today I''m defeated, and the world is in your hands." Regardless of the emperor''s face, he commented on these private affairs wantonly, as if he wanted to make things big: "I''ve been fighting with you all my life, but I don''t know if you are in love with me. Badi is extremely smart. I think you''ve already expected the end of today''s affair. I still can''t fight you. Even if imperial concubine Chen has arrived in the cold palace, you always have a way to make a living. " Xuanli is speechless. Now Xuanhua is able to pull more than one person on his back. Before he dies, he wants to make a stumbling block for him. If it''s not good to argue with it, it''s not good to listen quietly. After all, the emperor always knew right and wrong. Xuanhua said, suddenly looking up at the sky and laughing, only said: "originally I didn''t believe in fate, but now I have to believe it, about this life I really have no chance with that position, but I''m not reconciled!" "Are you not willing to murder your brother or even frame others?" The emperor was about to get angry. Instead, he said with a smile, "I don''t know my son''s ability. Even my favorite concubine has gone to bed. I''m afraid I won''t expose you today. Your knife will be on my head sooner or later." "Why should my father say that?" Xuanhua also laughed. At this moment, the desperate man broke the pot and fell. He was different from xuanlang, who was always begging for mercy. With a trace of impatience, Xuanli was not as patient as xuanlang. Once he was defeated, he would never want to make a comeback. He would not be afraid to leave the Castle Peak without firewood. He would only utter all his failures, even his last words You have to block the way back. He said: "among these sons, father, who have you ever loved personally? How do you look like you love the Prince now? When the prince was forced to make a fool of himself at the royal ceremony, you didn''t ask. You ask yourself that you like eight younger brothers, but when you hear that imperial concubine Chen treats the country unfavourably, you don''t care about her at all. When the fourth brother died, you didn''t ask. Why does my mother want me to take that position? It''s because she knows better than everyone that your mind is not on any son at all! Father, we all have your blood, inherited the same cruel temperament as you, your eyes only Jiangshan, only your throne. We can only look at him. But Er Chen has to admit that Jiang is still hot. Father Huang, in this game, er Chen lost. " At this time, Jiang Ruan felt that Xuanhua was admirable. Although his mind was useless, he was a man who could afford to lose. At least his words helped him a lot. Xuanhua continued: "my father''s thoughts have never been understood by my son. Sometimes I even feel that you are much better than my son in treating such a disorderly minister and thief." He looked at the indifferent Xiao Shao and said with a bitter smile, "maybe the son minister is really insignificant in your heart. When you can sacrifice, you can sacrifice without hesitation." The emperor looked at him in silence, his expression was not moved after hearing Xuanhua''s words. Xuanhua said with a smile: "when a man is dying, his words are good. I''m afraid I can''t do anything good today. At the beginning, when he was trying to seize this position, he knew the possibility of losing. Just did not expect this day to come so fast. Father, after all, father and son, but also to remind you that your pillow is not what you want to be with. The more beautiful a woman is, the more vicious her mind is. Sometimes, you are not the only one who wants you to die. " He took a look at Jiang Dan, who collapsed to the ground. A cruel smile flashed in his eyes. He said, "but my son can guarantee that what is bad in her stomach is indeed the Royal offspring." Xuanhua said slowly, "your real grandson." "No -" Jiang Dan screamed, with a look of despair on his face. Xuanhua''s words of recognition clearly reflect the fact that she does not abide by women''s principles. It''s a great sin to be pregnant with the offspring of the royal family. Now even if she wants to die happily, it''s very difficult. She looked at Xuanhua in disbelief, threw herself down in front of Xuanhua, opened her hand and grabbed Xuanhua''s face: "I didn''t, you know it''s impossible, why did you frame me? We didn''t..." In the fight, she didn''t realize the mistake in her words. The emperor''s face can''t be described with anger, just like watching two clowns. Finally, he ordered: "Lao Ba, I''ll leave it to you. Lock these two up first." After a pause, he said, "hold your tongue." This is to hide the adultery. All the people present are royal people, but they don''t have to worry about the possibility of divulging it. Hearing Xuanhua''s smile, Jiang Dan shook his head in disbelief. When the bodyguard dragged her out forced her to stand up, he was still struggling, saying, "no, no, it''s not me, your majesty. You believe me. I really don''t betray you. I don''t want to die. No, your majesty --" only when my life is threatened, can Jiang Dan''s life be saved She was not as calm as she thought, but it was a troublesome thing to be able to afford to lose. She was already the princess of the emperor''s side. She even had a dragon seed. What she could have done was that she could have Rong Huafugui. If she really had a prince, her identity would rise in the future. Jiang was also going to salute her when she saw her. But in the foreground, everything was gone. All the good things had become a bubble. Species, became a wild species, became a life charm on her way to the yellow spring.Jiang Dan''s scream in the ears of all people only feel very sad, the emperor has turned to go out, today he suffered no less than others. The emperor is always a little arrogant. He finds that his own flesh and blood betray him with the pillow people, and even kill each other, or the royal family. No matter which one is spread out, it is a fatal blow to him. Jiang Dan is still screaming, suddenly dragging his soldiers to stop, in front of a crimson skirt. She slowly raised her head. Jiang Ruan looked at her with a smile. Her smile was bright and moving, her skirt was still, and her hands were folded in front of her chest, forming a very dignified and dignified posture. The more noble she was, the more humble Jiang Dan was. Jiang Dan looked at her biting his teeth and said, "Jiang Ruan!" "Shh," Jiang Ruan Chao said with a silent gesture and a smile, "the fourth sister''s voice is low and low. If you let others hear your voice and come to question, and know what happened today, then my sister will die and become the laughing stock of the whole capital. I''ve been generous since I died in the great Jin Dynasty for thousands of years. It''s because we were raised by the same mother I can''t bear it. " When she heard the word "death", Jiang Dan suddenly trembled, and her whole body began to shake. She didn''t want to die. She was so young that she easily entered the palace and achieved her position as a superior person. It was only because she made a small mistake that she would lose her life. The price was too cruel. Looking at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Dan suddenly grabbed his skirt and tears welled up in his eyes. He said: "elder sister, elder sister, you save me. In the past, it was my sister''s fault. Everything was my sister''s fault. Look at our sisters, sister, you save me, I don''t want to die, brother-in-law so your Majesty''s trust, you let brother-in-law and your majesty plead. Elder sister, I really don''t have an affair with the fifth highness. The child in my belly belongs to your majesty. Elder sister, please help me. Do you remember the days when we were together with our mother when we were children? Elder sister, the only family I have in the world is you... " As she spoke, she knelt down and kowtowed to Jiang Ruan. The bodyguard who was holding Jiang Dan did not dare to move in front of him. She just stood on one side and said nothing. Jiang Ruan looked at her faintly. Jiang Dan''s look was pitiful enough, as if he was no longer the complacent Jiang Zhaoyi, but the orphan girl in Shangshu mansion. She looked at her faintly, and suddenly stretched out her hand to slowly wipe away the tears on Jiang Dan''s face. Her action was very gentle. Jiang Dan looked at her in a daze, and her eyes could not help flashing a trace of joy. Most of all, Jiang Ruan was still reading a little bit of love, and she said more energetically: "at the beginning, only the elder sister and mother were the best to treat Danniang in Shangshu mansion..." "Yes, only my mother and I are the best to treat my fourth sister," Jiang Ruan sighed, interrupting Jiang Dan''s words: "but my fourth sister wants to poison me and my mother. It''s really chilling." Jiang Dan trembled and slowly looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan looked at her with a gentle smile, as if she were really a elder sister who loved her sister. But Jiang Dan himself clearly felt how cold Jiang Ruan''s fingertips crossed his face. Colder than her fingers is her words, Jiang Ruan said: "fourth sister, you owe my mother a life, how can I save you? You slowly go to Yama and repent with my mother. See if hell is really like the 18th floor in the picture book, and you can suffer from those extreme criminal laws. I think it should be very pleasant. " Jiang Ruan''s tone was gentle and his smile was bright, but he had a kind of gloomy feeling from hell, which only made people feel like a ghost who wanted to die. Jiang Dan put away the tears on his face and said, "you already know that you did all this. Do you want me to die?" "No," Jiang Ruan took back his hand and poked the tip of his hair. "Your life has already been in my hands. I''ve spent so much effort. Naturally, it''s not just to make you die happily." She slightly smile: "want to come now, you want to die heartily, also very difficult." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 216 When Jiang Ruan walked out of the Buddha Hall, Xiao Shao was waiting for her outside. When he met Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao put the silver plated stove into her hand and tightened her cloak. Then he said, "are you ok?" "Very happy." Jiang Ruan Chao said with a smile, "go back and talk." It''s inconvenient for Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao to stay in the palace. At least the emperor should want to think about it now. Xuanli looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile before he left, as if he knew everything. Jiang Ruan was not afraid. Before he left, he even told huijue not to send incense to the crown prince. Then he slowly went out of the palace and got on the carriage back to the palace. On the carriage, Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan with a good face, not a trace of displeasure, and said, "you are too dangerous today." Although he had known that Jiang Ruan was taking some risks, he would get angry if he was not careful. Jiang Ruan did it. Even if there is Jinying palace behind her, but this kind of thing, if you don''t do it well, you will also be involved in it. "I''ve already thought about it carefully," Jiang Ruan said comfortingly. "Xuanhua did better than I thought. At least it''s hard for Jiang Dan to turn over this time." What''s the layout? In particular, it''s only based on the accurate grasp of people''s minds. In fact, it''s closely linked. She expects everyone''s reaction. Xuanhua is reckless and takes revenge. He always takes the last chance to pull Jiang Dan into the water. After all, it is Jiang Dan who directly causes him to fall into such a situation. But the emperor is dictatorial. In order to pull out a thorn in his heart, Xuanhua can''t escape death. But Jiang Dan, a woman whom the emperor once trusted and spoiled, betrayed by Jiang Dan and colluded with his own life, is a great event for the emperor to despise the dignity of the royal family. In addition, Jiang Dan now has a child in his belly, which will only thoroughly stimulate the dark side of the emperor''s heart. It is impossible for Jiang Dan to die happily. To avenge Zhao Mei, Jiang Dan always wants to die, one life for another, but he wants to let her die easily, but he thinks it''s too cheap for her to go. For so many years, Jiang Dan betrayed Zhao Mei and killed her. Jiang Ruan decided not to let her go lightly, because Jiang Dan had to pay a price. The emperor would not let Jiang Dan die easily. This was the price she had to pay. Jiang Ruan turned to look at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao noticed her eyes and said, "what''s the matter?" "Do you think I''m cruel?" Jiang Ruan asked hesitantly. No one will like their pillow, people are addicted to how to revenge every day, not to mention her heart has been immersed in all things, the sword and gun does not enter the heart like a rock. Xiao Shao lips slightly a hook, seems to feel some funny, way: "this is just right." Not a false veto, he frankly admitted that she was indeed a cruel person, but did not show the slightest disgust, even a little appreciation. "I like it," he said Jiang Ruan raised his eyebrows and began to laugh. When he got back to his house, Xia Qing came back one step earlier than them. He looked at Jiang Ruan''s words, and his eyes fell on Xiao Shao. Finally, I couldn''t help but say angrily to Jiang Ruan: "sister-in-law, now you have to keep your word. Now you can always let me find a way to see Lin Zixiang." Jiang Ruan was laughing in his heart. He wanted to deal with Xia Qing. Only Lin Zixiang could work. She said with a smile: "of course, I always say that I will go out and get results. I''ll tell you how to see her when I''ve cleaned up. " Xia Qing was extremely wronged. He practiced medicine countless times in his life. He attached great importance to medical ethics and integrity. He never spoke without conscience, and he would not give people a diagnosis casually. Today, Jiang Dan''s smooth pulse is that he has done something. Jiang Dan is not pregnant at all. The first time he did something wrong, he was very afraid. Later, when he learned that the emperor misunderstood Jiang Dan and Xuan Hua, he felt even more uneasy. Originally, he would never do such a thing. Doctors have their own terms to abide by. But recently, Lin Zixiang didn''t show up. Even the dim sum shop she went to most often didn''t see their servant girl come to buy it. It was originally Lin Changshi who was anxious about Lin Zixiang''s marriage recently. He met her in a marriage. Lin Zixiang didn''t know what the idea was. Xia Qing always quarrels with Lin Zixiang on weekdays. She is tired of seeing each other. But at this time, she just realizes that she doesn''t want to teach her to marry someone else. But Xia Qing is a fool. He doesn''t know how to express his mind. Besides, Lin Zixiang doesn''t go out of the house now. How can he find an opportunity? But Xia Qing had no choice but to turn to Jiang Ruan, who was willing to suffer losses. Now he made a deal with him. As long as he played a play in front of the emperor, he told him how to win the heart of a beautiful woman. On the one hand, he insisted on his medical ethics, and on the other hand, his beloved might marry someone else. Xia Xiaoshen finally made up his mind to think that Jiang Dan was not a good man after all. He even wanted to pour dirty water on King Jinying''s mansion. Such a person would cheat him, and it would be OK to cheat him. Finally, there was a scene of Jiang Dan being taken out of the Buddhist temple. So it''s not a coincidence that Xia Qing appeared in the palace before that. It''s just the arrangement of Jiang Ruan. When Xia Qing thought of this, she would be more afraid of her third sister-in-law. How can there be such a deep-seated person in the world who has even calculated such things? Xuanhua and Jiang Dan want to calculate Jiang Ruan, but they are just playing tricks. When Jiang Ruan saw Xia Qing''s awkward appearance, he just thought it was funny. Xia Qing and Lin Zixiang are happy enemies, but they are onlookers. However, Lin Zixiang''s shocking temperament can only be tolerated by Xia Qing, who is not confined to the common customs. In fact, it is a perfect match. Lin Zixiang has been bedridden because of the cold these days, and Lin Changshi has just been involved in the compilation of history books. So Lin''s family is busy, and Xia Qing has no chance to see Lin Zixiang. On the one hand, she not only helped herself, but also became a matchmaker, which is a good business. If they are successful in the future, they will have to thank her.After sending Xia Qing, Dewdrop said curiously, "I don''t know what your majesty will do with the fourth lady. The fourth lady has lost such a big face of the royal family. Your Majesty would be very angry. It should be a big deal. " "May it be a thousand cuts?" Forsythia had a cold war: "I heard that the executioners were all good at cutting a thousand pieces of meat. They had to cut a thousand pieces of meat until the last one. Before, we have to teach people to feel the pain alive. It''s very painful. We can only watch ourselves being bullied one by one "Ah, that''s terrible." Dewdrop also followed to shake: "this is about the most torture method in the world." The most torture way? Jiang Ruan smile, of course not, royal, palace secret punishment countless, one of the cruelty of the outside world can know but one in ten million. For example, the pain she suffered before her last death in the last life is not a kind of torture. It depends on whether anyone finds out. Lu Zhu noticed Jiang Ruan''s expression, and said in her heart, "has the girl guessed what method it is?" "She''s pregnant. There''s no other way. I have already thought about this criminal law for her. " Jiang Ruan''s tone was gentle: "stone punishment." The night in the palace was very lively. The murderer of the prince was found out to be Xuanli, the fifth prince, who could not be beaten by eight staff members. It is said that it was found by Dali temple, and the Emperor himself questioned. The evidence is conclusive, and Xuanhua pleaded guilty in front of the emperor. After hearing the news, Princess de fainted. When she woke up, she went to see the emperor in person. Everyone guessed that she had been in love for decades. Moreover, Princess de always followed the rules, but she always had to think about her face. Unexpectedly, when Princess de entered the emperor''s imperial study, she came out half an hour later with a dead face. She seemed to be ten years old overnight. She seemed to know that the trend had gone and asked herself to become a monk. Xuanhua''s death is inevitable. Xuanhua''s defeat has completely changed the situation of the imperial court. The Xuanhua faction, which once fought against Xuanli, quickly withered and went to their new masters. Xuanli, after all, was the enemy of the old master, and it was hard to get close to him Most of Hua''s subordinates chose xuanpei, a new rising force in the central court. This is always the case with people, especially those in the imperial court, who have to plan for their future when they go to the tea cooler. As soon as Xuanhua got off the horse, the people behind him rushed to the next master. Xuanhua''s contacts and relationship wealth in the first half of his life was unintentionally making clothes for others, which made xuanpei cheap. As for xuanpei''s power, xuanpei''s power rose rapidly, which made up for the lack of a strong mother''s family, and almost equaled Xuanli''s. The situation in the imperial court has become tense again. This is a later story. At the same time, Jiang Dan, the favorite imperial concubine beside the emperor, made a vicious remark in front of the emperor because she was disrespectful to the emperor, and got a dead end. As for Wang lian''er, she was suddenly infected and sent out of the palace for treatment. Outsiders speculated that something must have happened in the harem, but there was no news of it. They let people speculate endlessly, but there was no answer, which became a mystery. Only two of the emperor''s new three favorite concubines suddenly disappeared, leaving a cold mu Xirou around. It''s really sad that the world changes so fast. The night is overcast and cold. In an abandoned palace in the palace, jackdaws inhabit and owls make strange calls. Many people were standing in a garden. The people in the middle were surrounded by people and fell to the ground. Their hands and feet were tied up by thick ropes. This is a deserted courtyard. Even in the palace, it seems that no one has lived in it for many years. It seems that there are no people at all. The woman on the ground looked embarrassed, with a rag in her mouth, whimpering in vain, and her eyes were so big that they almost jumped out of her eyes. Obviously, she was scared to the extreme. Surprisingly, beside the woman, there was a black buffalo with a plow. It was very rare to have such a cow in the palace. The ox is also surprisingly big. Behind the plow is a round rolling thing made of solid stone, which seems to be a roller. It has a full weight at a glance. The head eunuch pointed his voice, yin and Yang strange way: "be careful, be careful, don''t crush people now." After that, she turned to the woman in the big red cape and said, "please step back, princess. The blood stains on the train." "No harm," said the woman in a gentle voice, "since she came to see off her fourth sister, I don''t care about these." She looked at the woman who was still struggling on the ground and said with a smile: "don''t be afraid, fourth sister. In order to make you feel better, my sister specially came here to accompany you and watch you suffer. There is always an old friend by your side. Maybe you will feel better." "Wuwu..." The woman on the ground was rolling in vain, but her eyes couldn''t help shooting hatred at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan didn''t give in to her eyes at all. Her eyes were gentle and said: "the fourth sister is the most kind. She never looks at the bloody things. I don''t know what the criminal law is. Since my sister is here, I''ll tell her first, and I''ll save time. She feels strange and doesn''t know what she''s going to face. "Jiang Dan body trembles, no longer move, just a pair of eyes are still staring at Jiang Ruan. "This is called stone punishment, which has been in existence since the founding of the great Jin Dynasty. It''s just for women who don''t obey women''s morality. This kind of criminal law is specially aimed at people who have broken their body. If a woman comes out of the wall, spoils the wild seed of a man outside and is caught, it is such a criminal law. The criminal law is to let people on the ground slowly run over their stomachs with the big stone roller pulled by the buffalo, and gradually roll the wild seed out on both sides of their stomachs. The people who roll over need skills most. They can''t make people hurt to death. They have to grasp the strength. It''s over and over again from a woman''s belly. Zhijiao will grind out all the intestines. The stomach will be flattened and become a thin human skin. Only then can Qi fall out. Four younger sisters, this is the stone punishment. " Her smile is gorgeous and charming, and her tone is soft. The words she utters are chilling. She just feels that every word is chilly and chilly. When Jiang Dan heard the speech, he struggled fiercely. He almost tried his best to break free from the shackles. Such a criminal law is too terrible. Jiang Ruan looked at her in his spare time, then at the hourglass on one side, and suddenly said, "it seems that the time has come. Let''s start the execution." If the emperor did use the stone punishment as she expected, it was the criminal law for the case of having a adulterer''s child in the womb. The emperor wanted to deal with Jiang Dan secretly, but she also wanted to see him off with her own eyes. Jiang Dan struggled desperately. The old eunuch on one side immediately waved her hand and said in a sharp voice: "execution -" four people pulled the four ropes that bound Jiang Dan''s hands and feet and spread her flat on the ground. The buffalo on the other side sneezed heavily. Even far away, it seemed that they could smell the bloody gas from the stone mill. At the bottom of the stone mill, there are some strange bright red stains, which are about blood stains. Jiang Dan shook his head desperately. The buffalo dragged the heavy stone mill roller behind him step by step towards her. Finally, the stone mill roller got along with her skin. Her upper body was * originally, and the cold touch immediately made her eyes widened, as if she wanted to scream, but her mouth was blocked, and her eyes were almost staring out of her eyes. Jiang Ruan stood on one side indifferently, and the stone mill rolled over Jiang Dan. It was aimed at her belly. Although there was no so-called wild seed in Jiang Dan''s belly, the first time he pressed it down, there were still some bloodstains, and Jiang Dan''s expression became very painful, even his hatred eyes could not be sent out. People who pull the buffalo dare not rest, and immediately start the second time. This thing is the most skillful. It can''t hurt people to death. It''s necessary to make sure that people are breathing from beginning to end. After the first rolling, someone immediately came to sprinkle a thin layer of salt on Jiang Dan''s belly. As time goes by, it is not the first time that all the people present on that day have seen such a scene, but even those who have been through many battles can not be indifferent to see such a cruel criminal law. The woman''s shrill scream hovered over the palace for a long time, painting the gloomy palace with a layer of bleak color, like hell on earth. I don''t know how long it took before the eunuch waved and the cart puller backed away. There was only a piece of human skin on the snow, which was spread out thinly. Next to it was a pile of colorful filth. There was a huge smell of smell in the air. The accompanying bodyguards were a little nauseous. Looking at the woman standing in front of them, they all shuddered. This kind of scene is that these big men will be scared when they see it. Why was Jiang Ruan so calm from beginning to end, and he didn''t even feel uncomfortable. Jiang Ruan looks down. Jiang Dan hides his wolf ambition and follows Zhao Mei. Zhao Mei has never been kind to her, but she returns so vicious. Such a person is probably heartless, or her heart and lungs are all black. She has to come to see for herself, and design to let Jiang Dan die empty, to see if her heart and liver are as black as she imagined. "Father in law, I can take this human skin with me." Jiang Ruan said in a low voice, and Tianzhu told the old eunuch a heavy treasure. The old eunuch laughed: "nature, nature, as long as the princess clean up, this is convenient, slaves also have to do." "Thank you very much." Jiang Ruan smiles and tells Tianzhu: "send this thing to Tianlao. At least it''s also his own daughter. Their father and daughter should see each other for the last time. " It''s a digression - Cha Cha is back. It''s back to be renewed www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 217 In the twinkling of an eye, it''s the end of the year. On New Year''s Eve, King Jinying''s residence is busy, especially housekeeper Lin, who is busy all day. It''s about the new year for many years. Xiao Shao is either outside the capital, or busy with government affairs, so everything is simple. Now, the arrival of Jiang Ruan has added a lot of popularity to Jinying palace, and the people of Jinying Palace also find that their master is more popular than he came here. Finally, it looks like a "home". Jiang Ruan wore a peach blossom cloud narrow waist jacket, a loose flowered crepe skirt, and lost a bun. He had no extra decoration, only a rose hairpin and two pearls on his earlobes, which made his skin as white as jade. She is usually dressed in bright and moving, but also some quietly charming. Today, Forsythia suspense and dewdrop rarely dress up as clever as a little girl, without a bit of sharp edge, put away all the rage, but it''s rare to be gentle, looking like an unmarried beauty. It was dusk, Tianzhu opened the door, never how expression of the face also showed a smile: "little lady, outside the snow." At this time, snow will not feel cold with people, but some new year''s feeling. Jiang Ruan gets up and goes out. Xiao shaozheng stands in the courtyard and orders Yefeng to do something. Hearing the sound, he turned his head and saw that Jiang Ruan was stunned. After Xuanhua was beheaded, the wind in the court was in a mess, and Xiao Shao was busy. He often goes out in the morning and comes back in the middle of the night. When he comes back, Jiang Ruan has already gone to bed. It''s hard for the couple to meet each other. It''s unexpected that Xiao Shao came back so early today. Night Maple several days also follow busy, rarely stay in the house, see Jiang Ruan busy warm say hello: "young lady, happy new year." Jiang Ruan answered with a smile and went to Xiao Shao. Yefeng took a look at forsythia and said, "my subordinates are leaving." I went out by myself. Jiang Ruan also said to dewdrop: "you can have a rest. I''ll go out with him for a while." Dew from is a wink, busy pull Tianzhu and forsythia should leave. Xiao Shao pursed her lips and said, "go out for a walk?" "It''s said that every new year''s day, the lanterns in the capital are very beautiful," Jiang Ruan said Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing. He seemed to think of Jiang Ruan''s life experience, and his face slowly sank down. His eyes were a little gentle, and they walked out of the door. At the end of the new year, many people come out to buy new year''s goods and jewelry, and the capital is also very busy. After dusk, every household will light up the red lanterns. From a distance, there is a row of red lanterns hanging on the beams in a street, which is really beautiful. Even if it was light snow, the street didn''t feel cold, on the contrary, there was a kind of ordinary warmth of people. Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were walking side by side. They were born with outstanding appearance and great bearing. From time to time, someone peeked at them. The man was amazed at their beauty and secretly envied Xiao Shao''s good fortune. The woman is more courageous, just took the hand of the silk flower to throw toward Xiao Shao, only Xiao Shao this person is really very cold, not squinting, walked over, the silk flower trampled on the foot, plain and broke the hearts of all. Jiang Ruan Dao is rare. In her previous life, she had no chance to come into contact with such a lively scene. She has always been left in the mansion by Jiang Quan. It''s impossible to go to the streets with her sisters, because the vulgar behavior growing up in the mountains will lose the face of Jiang Fu. In my life, I came back for revenge, and I didn''t care about it. After I married Xiao Shao, I had a lot of anger in my body. I didn''t exclude anything that ordinary people might find interesting. In the words of dewdrop, I had more anger. "You''ve been very busy recently. Something happened in the palace?" Asked Jiang Ruan. She never asks much about Xiao Shao, but it''s rare to see him go out early and return late. There must be something wrong with him. As a wife, it''s right to ask, although she may not be able to help. Xiao Shao shook his head and said, "the people of Southern Xinjiang have mixed into the capital, but they haven''t moved for a long time." After a pause, he bowed his head, approached Jiang Ruan''s ear and said in a low voice, "the emperor is seriously ill." Xiao Shao''s breath was still in his ears, but Jiang Ruan was shocked by his words. The emperor was seriously ill. The previous emperor was not seriously ill at this time. Although the curtain came to an end that she was slandered to poison the king and become the evil maiden of the country, she could not get rid of Xuan. Now Xuanhua died ahead of time, Xuanli might wait for an opportunity to move, so the last moment of seizing the throne actually started ahead of time? Jiang Ruan was so absorbed in his thought that he didn''t notice that he ran into a man for a moment and fell to the ground as soon as he twisted his feet. "Be careful." Xiao Shao frowned and cheered. He quickly grabbed Jiang Ruan''s waist and put her in his arms. Before Jiang Ruan could look up, he heard the familiar voice: "three brothers and three sisters in law." Mo Cong and Qi Feng stand in front of each other. Mo Cong smiles and hammers Xiao Shao''s shoulder: "third brother, I didn''t expect that you would come out to hang out. If you have a lovely wife in your arms, it''s different." Xiao Shao didn''t speak. Qi Feng took a look at Jiang Ruan who was held by Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan just bumped into him. He laughed: "is third sister-in-law OK?" "No harm." Jiang Ruan said, "why didn''t Xia Qing join you?" Guan Lianghan, a big man, is not willing to hang out. Xia Qing and Qi Feng often stay together. If they don''t see each other, it''s strange."Where can he care for his brother?" without waiting for Qi Feng''s reply, Mo Cong himself said preemptively: "now he has a crush on the young lady of the historian, and he''s going to pay attention to her today." Mo Cong murmured: "I don''t know how my eyes look. I have a crush on that girl. She has a strong mouth and doesn''t know the world. It''s really It''s outrageous. " When he found that Jiang Ruan Zheng was looking at him, Mo Cong scratched his head again and said with a smile, "Oh, the people with peach blossoms can''t compare with those of us who are alone." His two brothers good climb Qi Feng, way: "big new year''s two men come out, is really ashamed." Jiang Ruan smile, Qi Feng also smile, eyes fell on Xiao Shao holding Jiang Ruan waist hand, and showed a bit unnatural, only way: "I and old seven still have some things, about is not the way, will not disturb you two." Mo Cong was pulled away by Qi Feng for no reason. He heard a faint voice: "ah, what are we going to do, fourth brother? Where are you dragging me..." After they left, Jiang Ruan stood up straight, but her hand was held by Xiao Shao. She turned her head and looked at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao''s beautiful face was especially deep in the changing light and shadow, and her expression was not clear. Jiang Ruan picked her eyebrows and said nothing. After a few steps, I saw a shop selling lanterns in front of me. The owner of the shop was an old couple, who didn''t show up in all kinds of big shops, but Jiang Ruan only took a fancy to a fox lamp. The fox lamp is small and exquisite, lifelike and delicate. Jiang Ruan thought of a fox cub he had saved in Chuang Tzu and felt a little interested. Xiao shaoshun looked into her eyes and said, "wait for me here." He walked towards the crowded shop. The shop was surrounded by many young girls. Seeing Xiao Shao, he blushed and made way for himself. Jiang Ruan stayed in the same place, and suddenly he smelled a fragrance at the tip of his nose, which was somewhat familiar. She looked up and saw a young woman in a green dress standing before the meeting, accompanied by several servant girls. That woman''s face is pretty, and she has an indescribable taste. It''s the treasure of Binhai governor, Yao Niannian. Yao Niannian should have recognized Jiang Ruan. He stopped in front of Jiang Ruan, gave him a smile and said, "Princess Xiao." "Miss Yao." Jiang Ruan nodded to show that Yao Niannian was probably out to hang out, but she didn''t even have a bodyguard with her, let alone any other friends. She had only a few servant girls. It was strange that Miss Qianjin went out alone. It''s just that Yao Niannian''s reputation is good enough, and he can''t make any waves. Yao Niannian looked at Xiao Shao who was talking to the old couple with a smile and said to Jiang Ruan, "the prince and the princess are really affectionate. The prince treats the princess with sincerity and admiration." When she said this, her eyes did not show any other meaning, as if they were just random praise and sincere. "Miss Yao joked that in the future, Miss Yao will marry her husband, and she has never been better than that." Jiang Ruan smiles back. Yao Niannian was also the best Princess of Jinying in the emperor''s mind. She was a rival in love with Yao Niannian. Jiang Ruan didn''t like her very much. Yao Niannian was calm and not at all uncomfortable when she heard this. "Then don''t disturb the princess." Yao Niannian nodded her head slightly and made a polite gesture. She had a kind of reserved beauty. When she crossed with Jiang Ruan, she looked at Jiang Ruan with a smile, but her eyes seemed to be meaningful. Speculating about Yao Niannian''s smile, Jiang Ruan intuitively felt that something was wrong, but he couldn''t figure out what was wrong. He was so absorbed that he didn''t even notice Xiao Shao''s coming back after buying the lantern. Xiao Shao looked at her in a daze and knocked on her forehead: "how can I be in a daze?" The women who watched Xiao Shao walk up to Jiang Ruan''s side were extremely frustrated when they saw Xiao Shao''s action. They were originally men who had a sweetheart, and then they broke up. Jiang Ruan came back, took the lantern in Xiao Shao''s hand and said, "I just saw Miss Yao." Xiao Shao frowned. He had no impression of Miss Yao in Jiang Ruan''s mouth. He thought about it for a long time, but he misunderstood Jiang Ruan''s meaning and thought she was jealous. He paused and said, "don''t pay attention to outsiders." He took Jiang Ruan''s hand in his palm and walked forward. They strolled in the street for several times. Jiang Ruan is not a little girl now. He can''t talk when he sees something new. Xiao Shao has a steady temper and sharp eyes. Whenever Jiang Ruan''s eyes fall on something small, he immediately takes out money to buy it. In the end, Jiang Ruan almost bought a zither that he saw by accident. It was still because Jiang Ruan said it was inconvenient for him to take it. But even so, Xiao Shao gave a silver note to teach people to pack it up and send it to the house tomorrow. Ordinary passers-by don''t know their identities. Xiao Shao always dresses in a low-key way. Today, Jiang Ruan is acting like a clever daughter. Others only think that they are a newly married couple. It''s time for them to mix honey with oil. As a matter of fact, it''s true. Isn''t it the newlyweds? Jiang Ruan has never been treated like this in his previous life. Rao Shi knew that King Jinying''s house was rich, but he couldn''t help being a little stiff. No wonder that although Xiao Shao was cold tempered and a notorious criminal, there were so many girls flocking to him. The handsome men who were willing to ask for money and women''s favor were still attractive.It was not until it was late that the people on the street began to disperse gradually before they returned to the government. Housekeeper Lin saw that the two came back from the kitchen and ordered them to bring the sweet soup. After Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan had a drink, housekeeper Lin and forsythia said that the general''s house had sent something. Since Jiang Quan was put in prison, the general''s house had more contacts with Jiang Ruan. Maybe they also understood Jiang Ruan''s taboo. Although they didn''t always contact each other, they had to be well-organized during the Spring Festival. Zhao Guang and Jiang Xinzhi are of the same mind. They have a lot to say about the war. Jiang Xinzhi doesn''t even care much about the repair of the palace given by the emperor. He runs to the general''s house when he has time. After Jiang Ruan finished combing and washing, he saw that Xiao Shao had already bathed, changed his snow-white Chinese clothes, and leaned on the head of the bed to read. Jiang Ruan took the book out of his hand, and then collapsed. He plucked his hair and said, "if you have free time these days, please go to the general''s house with me." Xiao Shao pursed her lips and said, "good." Shangshu''s house is gone now. The general''s house is also Xiao Shao''s father-in-law''s house. He wants to go there. Jiang Ruan suddenly thought of something, and said: "by the way, I want to borrow Jin Eryi to teach him to help me find someone." Xiao Shao picked to pick eyebrow, ask: "who." "The great aunt in the mansion." Although the brazier in the room was still burning charcoal, he felt a little cold in his thin Chinese clothes. Without realizing it, Jiang Ruan leaned against Xiao Shao''s chest and took him as a big heater. She frowned and said, "you should also know something about my family. Now that the Shangshu mansion is gone, you haven''t heard the news that my aunt came out to take refuge with someone. For so many years, she seems to be a transparent person in the mansion. She is always fighting, but she is safe. I always feel very strange... " In the world, there are not people who are indifferent, but such people should not appear in Shangshu mansion. Zhao Mei''s temperament is simple, so she can''t survive the battle in the house of Shangshu mansion. Her aunt is safe under Xia Yan''s eyes, so she must have special means. Don''t know why, Jiang Ruan always feel a little strange, Xu is dead once of these things have a kind of inexplicable intuition, Jiang Ruan in any case can''t ignore aunt. Xiao Shao also saw her mind, and then covered the quilt with her tightly, pondering: "this matter to me." Jiang Ruan was also clever. He leaned his head in his arms and said, "there is something wrong with that Miss Yao family today. I can''t tell you I always feel a little uneasy. " Xiao Shao moved slightly, his eyes flashed a smile, then he looked at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan noticed his eyes and said, "don''t think I''m talking about it. You didn''t see it then. What''s more, you didn''t see anything. " "How do you see that?" Xiao Shao asked in a low voice. "Intuition." Women''s intuition is always puzzling, and women always have no reason to believe in their own intuition. Jiang Ruan himself could not tell what he felt about Yao Niannian, but the meaningful smile Yao Niannian gave her at the wrong moment seemed not so simple. This meeting is different from the last one on the hunting ground. It seems that something has changed quietly. "Ah Ruan is so jealous?" Xiao Shao''s cold face suddenly showed a kind of smile. When Jiang Ruan heard that, his face became hot and he said angrily, "when did I get jealous? It''s just Well... " Before the words fell, the rest of the words were blocked in the lips, and the room was slowly getting hot again. It seemed that even the snow on the window would melt. At the same time, Jingzhong Tianlong. The jailer fiddled with the charcoal in the brazier. Even if there was a fire, the cold and damp accumulated over the years in the prison could not be easily dispersed. Especially in this cold winter, it is very cold. It''s hard to avoid some resentment to stay in such a ghost place at the end of the new year. Several jailers got together, and some food and wine were piled on the table. They were drunk. There seems to be a low whimper in the deep part of the dungeon. It is said to be a whimper, but it seems to be a curse. The echo aroused by the rustle sounds strange here. One of the prison guards scolded a few words, only said: "it''s his mother''s bad luck, weeping all day long." "Forget it." Another one holds on to the humanity who wants to teach him a lesson: "anyway, I''m not going to live long enough to save people''s troubles. Come on, don''t worry about those. I''ll have another drink." Then he drank the wine again, as if he had forgotten the sound. In the last room in the dark dungeon, there was a rickety figure lying on the ground. He smelled all over. His hair was long and messy, which seemed to be mixed with a lot of lice. He stretched out his hand and scratched his back. He probably had some skin disease, and his ragged clothes were caught sewing. No one would have thought that this beggar, even dirtier and meaner than a beggar, was Jiang Quan, the former Minister of the Ministry of war. Jiang Ruan raised his head laboriously, and the prison guards chatted every day. He also heard a lot of news from outside. When he heard that Jiang Dan had died and Xuanhua had fallen down, he cried out in his heart. Jiang Dan, a little commoner girl, went to the palace and became an empress. She thought that she had ascended to the heaven step by step and was indifferent to her father. It was best to die like this. As for Xuanhua also died, the crown prince was seriously ill in bed, which should fall into Xuanli''s hands. Jiang Quan had hoped that Xuanli could see their old love on the same boat and find a way to rescue him, but he had never heard of anything in such a long time. He was lucky enough to ask the jailer, who also looked at him with sarcastic eyes, and Jiang Quan gradually understood. Now that the Shangshu mansion has collapsed, he has no use value. As for Xuanli, he is just a useless abandoned son. He has no value at all. Naturally, he does not hesitate to discard it.Jiang Quan suddenly remembered the dream he had just had. In that dream, he was the Minister of the Ministry of war, the Minister of the imperial court, and the scholar in the hearts of the common people. In that dream, Xuanli became emperor, and Jiang Susu became Queen. Jiang Chao had a bright future. He worships a good official and becomes a noble official. Xia Yan became a lady of Gaoming. Shangshu mansion was prosperous and prosperous. In that dream, the second aunt was still there, and so were Jiang Li and Jiang Dan. The only ones who were not there were Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi. In that dream, Jiang Xinzhi died early, Jiang Ruan was sent to the palace by him to do a step, the abandoned son arranged at the beginning, and finally became the stepping stone of the whole Shangshu mansion. Shangshu mansion is stepping on the blood and bone of Jiang Ruan. The dream was so beautiful that it was almost the most wonderful dream Jiang Quan had ever had since he entered the prison. The glory and wealth in the dream is so real, as if that life is also a real existence. It is because of such brilliance that I can''t accept it when I wake up and see my eyes full of decay. Is it true that the debt of the past life should be paid in this life? If the dream is about the past life, it is precisely because of the past life that he harmed Jiang Ruan into such a shape that this life will be defeated by Jiang Ruan. Jiang Quan wiped his face. The night in the prison was very cold. In a trance, he seemed to be able to hear the sound of firecrackers and fireworks outside. This is the end of the new year. If it''s the past year, if it''s the past year in my dream. It''s just the Shangshu mansion with beautiful clothes, beautiful food and colorful dance. But now it has become a wisp of dust for people to trample on, and his ambitious court upstart has now become a prisoner. Jiang Quan''s eyes slowly fell on a thin black blanket on the ground. It''s already a little black, even after a long time, it seems that you can smell the blood in it. What was that? Jiang Quan naturally knew that it was a human skin, which came from Jiang Dan, the youngest concubine in Shangshu mansion. Someone peeled her skin completely and gave it to him as a gift. Jiang Quan knew who she was. At first, when he saw the skin, he also felt nauseous and vomit. He was so scared that he suffered a lot day by day. Now he was a little confused. This is what Jiang Ruan wanted to achieve. It was a solemn threat and seemed to be a warning. She was telling him in Jiang Dan''s face that those who hurt Zhao Mei didn''t come to a good end. Jiang Dan and Xia Yan had already paid the price, and now it was his turn. Jiang Quan never regarded her as his daughter, so the beautiful girl who was always dressed in red did not hesitate to pay her back. Her ruthlessness was even worse than Jiang Quan''s, and she was even crueler and colder. This is not a father and daughter, is clearly the enemy of the past and this life, is just the enemy, and he also lost. It was the new year that a man''s low voice curse came from a prison in Tianlong. The curse seemed to contain some trembling cry, begging for mercy, mixed with the fear of sobbing, and slowly dissipated in the night of Dajin Dynasty. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 218 Even if the atmosphere of the new year has swept the whole capital of the great Jin Dynasty, the palace is unexpectedly lifeless, even in ordinary times. His royal highness had no effect on medicine stone since he was seriously injured last time, but he recovered his life because of the personal diagnosis and treatment of doctor Xia Xiaoshen, the master of Jinling. Even if his life was saved, he would be useless for the rest of his life. This means that the crown prince''s position is bound to be lost. The queen is actually ten years old overnight. She used to be the queen, but now she is reciting sutras and praying in the Buddhist hall day and night. It seems that she wants to give up her post. As usual, the Queen''s action is not in advance of how to look at, at least the palace has been in a mess. After all, the mother of a country means the most respected woman in the world. But now no one cares, just because the emperor is angry about Xuanhua. The fifth Prince wanted to kill the prince and was beheaded. Originally, the most secure princess was also a monk. The newly promoted concubines, Jiang Dan, were killed by the staff, and Wang lian''er was suddenly infected with a bad disease. People with a clear eye could see the mystery. They thought that something must have happened in the harem, and who dares to look for bad luck in this aspect. No matter how tempting it is, it''s time to look forward and flinch. Moreover, the emperor was in a bad mood. It''s just that Xuanhua''s sudden fall from the throne had a great impact on the former dynasty. The courtiers were already secretly divided into two groups. One group supported Xuanli, and the other group was xuanpei''s supporters. Among them, Xuanhua''s former subordinates were almost the same as Xuanli, and even had the potential to catch up with Xuanli. But no matter how, new year''s Eve or new year''s day, but it is not so lively, it is a little bleak. In the palace of CI Ning, the Empress Dowager Yide looked at the list in her hand, nodded and said slowly, "just do as you have done, and add another piece of aloes and Ruby Ruyi." Aunt Yang bowed her head and said yes. She handed the list to the maid in waiting, then went around behind empress Yide and beat her shoulder carefully, saying: "the Empress Dowager asked someone to send a new year''s gift to King Jinying''s house. If you see it..." These annual gifts are sent to Jinying palace. In the past few years, since she knew Xiao Shao''s life experience, the Empress Dowager Yide has always adhered to the idea of protecting Xiao Shao. Except for her secret concern, she never did these suspicious things. Now it is the first time that she has been asked to send gifts to Jinying palace in the new year. "You think those people don''t know if they don''t send it?" The Empress Dowager Yide looked at Aunt Yang with a smile, and said, "the AI family has long wanted to do this. She has been shrinking for so many years. If she doesn''t do it now, I''m afraid she won''t have this chance in the future." This is euphemistic, but also contains a shocking meaning in it. Aunt Yang was so surprised that she couldn''t think of anything else. She quickly passed the Empress Dowager Yide and knelt down in front of her and said, "lady, don''t say that." "That''s all." Empress Yide waved her hand. At the moment, there was no one else in the hall. Her eyelids seemed to close slightly, but her voice was clear: "it''s going to change, the rain is coming, the wind is all over the building. Wan Niang, I''ve lived with you for most of my life. I haven''t seen anything before, and I''ll be blinded by this wind." She sighed: "but there are still many wishes left unfinished. Originally thought, time is still long, do not want this blink of an eye, most of my life will be gone Aunt Yang lowered her head and listened quietly, only to the Empress Dowager Yide''s way: "does the emperor''s body improve?" "Listen to Mr. Li, it seems to be aggravating." Auntie Yang is very happy. The emperor was seriously ill, and no one knew about it except a few cronies and empress Yide. These days, people in the palace thought that the emperor was in a bad mood because of Xuanhua''s affairs, so he was particularly gloomy, and even rarely went out of the palace. In fact, it is because the emperor''s body has become more and more decadent. His illness comes like a mountain, but it goes like a thread. Even the king of a country can''t avoid the common complaint in the face of time. Now that Xuanhua died, the imperial court is in turmoil. I don''t know how much harm the news of the emperor''s serious illness will cause, so I have to hide the news. "It''s all fate." The Empress Dowager Yide''s voice couldn''t tell her joy and anger. She only said, "sooner or later, the new prince will be established, and the ghosts and ghosts under him will start to act." Aunt Yang has been with the Empress Dowager Yide for many years, and she does not avoid many things. There was almost no secret between the master and the servant. Hearing this, aunt Yang said, "does the Empress Dowager want to go to the court?" If the emperor''s illness continues to drag on like this, he can''t hide it. There are many pairs of eyes in the palace, many of them are smart. Once it goes away, it will cause a lot of disaster, not to mention the chaos in the world. When she was young, the Empress Dowager Yide acted vigorously, and it was not that she did not listen to the government from behind the curtain. It was only later that the great Jin Dynasty gradually became stable and the throne was secure that it began to fade out of the view of the court. Now, if it is true that the Empress Dowager Yide came out to control the government, there is nothing wrong with it. "What does the mourning family do in the court?" The smile on empress Yide''s lips was a little chilly, and the silver silk all over her head was set off by the glittering light of her hairpin. Playing with her Ruby armor, she said, "if you don''t mix up the water in this pool, how can you catch it. I also want to see who is coveting the land in the world. " She slowly lowered her head: "I thought that I had no choice but to be trapped in the back palace. It''s really a clown."Aunt Yang said tentatively, "but your majesty means that you want to..." "The AI family thought that this position was prepared for him, and the river and mountain of the great Jin Dynasty were just right. But now it seems that he is not interested in this position. He has the same temperament as his father, even more stubborn than his father. I can''t help but worry about him. No, I''m afraid of him. " It is hard for the old stern woman to show a tired look. The woman looks very beautiful on the outside, but her husband suspects that her mother''s family has collapsed, and she has lost her daughter after losing her son in middle age. No matter how well she conceals, only she knows the inner pain. She thought that she owed Prince Hongxi, and naturally she would not embarrass her son. She had to say that Prince Hongxi''s final result was also due to her reasons. If you don''t want to make the same mistake again, you have to step back. She sighed deeply: "the emperor wants to have his own temperament, but there are things that the emperors can''t do. Both the AI family and the emperor owe him. No matter what the emperor thinks, the AI family wants to help him. " "But if he doesn''t want to," aunt Yang said cautiously, "according to the meaning of the empress dowager, which side should he help?" Xuanli and xuanpei will always have a prince in the future. Empress Dowager Yide did not show much enthusiasm for the two grandchildren, but her attitude is really very important. "Wan Niang, don''t you understand?" The Empress Dowager Yide smiles, but the smile is strange in aunt Yang''s eyes. She says, "I''m sorry for my family''s delay in making an attitude. I just want to watch their actions. The rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty are always the rivers and mountains of the Xuan family. But now there are people with different surnames who want to take a share. The stage has already been set up, and the AI family also wants to see who is singing in this play. " Aunt Yang was shocked and instinctively looked up at empress dowager Yide. The old woman, who had experienced the ups and downs of the great Jin Dynasty and witnessed the stability of the country and the people from the ups and downs to today''s peace and stability, had a sharp look in her eyes. In a flash, I went back to those golden days, as if my hair had not yet been born, and my youth was not yet old. My sword came out of its sheath, and it was fierce. The fireworks and firecrackers on New Year''s Eve came from outside, which should be put off by the concubines and children in the harem. After all, no one knew the news of the emperor''s serious illness, and they thought that the emperor was in a bad mood, so they didn''t have a new year''s banquet. When they were lonely, these women had to have fun on their own. Empress Yide closed her eyes and seemed to be asleep on the soft couch. Aunt Yang gently took one side of the blanket, carefully covered the Empress Dowager Yide, cut the lamp in the candlestick, and then quietly left the bedroom. On this day, Jinying''s mansion was very busy. Jiang Ruan took Xiao Shao back to the general''s house to meet Zhao Guang''s family. The men of Zhao family abducted their daughter quietly. Although they were very dissatisfied, the women of Zhao family were very satisfied with Xiao Shao. Because Xiao Shao was good-looking and had a calm temperament, she didn''t even have a room around her. This was the most satisfying thing for the Zhao women. If there''s anything bad, it''s that his reputation is worse. It can be seen that Xiao Shao takes care of Jiang Ruan carefully. He also thinks that this is not important. Although Xiao Shao''s face is light, his manners are also comprehensive. He can''t pick out any mistakes. In addition, Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang Ruan are used to being good people, so they have to deal with one or two of them, which has also untied the heart knot of the Zhao family. Zhidang Xiao Shao is a son-in-law with a good name. Today is new year''s Eve, to live in Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan thought it was two people, because Xiao Shao has no other relatives. Who knows, there are no relatives, but there are many brothers. Guan Lianghan has gone with his parents, but Mo Cong, Xia Qing and Qi Feng have come uninvited. Recently, Mo congxu has been forced by his family to talk about his marriage, but he escaped on New Year''s Eve. After thinking that there is no place to hide, he came to the palace. Xiao Shao doesn''t know what to say, and Jiang Ruan won''t drive people out. Housekeeper Lin thinks it''s good. The more people there are, the more popular and prosperous the palace is. Happily, he secretly adds some more precious dishes to the dinner without telling Jiang Ruan. Instead, he takes his private money. However, the servants of the king''s mansion are always rich in private money. As a housekeeper, they will not take these money seriously. But when Mo Cong came to see the dishes, he cried out again and said, "I think the food in the imperial dining room is just like this. Third brother, you are too extravagant!" "It''s extravagant!" Xia Qing nodded and agreed, while she crammed vegetables into her mouth. Mo Cong took a look at him and said, "pay attention to your food. At least you''re from a school. You''re also a celebrity. How can you eat like a countryman?" "What do you know?" Xia Qing was unrestrained. She frowned and said, "the best thing for all things in the world is to return to their original heart. What''s the matter with all those miscellaneous things? It''s all false "That''s naturally --" Mo Cong looked at him with a smile. When talking about the mouth fight, Xia Qing naturally said nothing. He deliberately lengthened his voice and shook his head and said: "I heard that the eldest lady of Lin Chang''s historian is a nerd. She is a scholar and pays attention to etiquette." "You, you bullshit." Xia Qing a Leng, some guilty way: "Miss Lin is not such a pedantic person.""Oh, if you don''t believe it, it''s OK. All the people in our circle in Beijing are very clear. What''s Miss Lin''s temperament? If you don''t believe it, I''ll let my three younger sisters talk about you when they see Miss Lin tomorrow. They say that you don''t stick to the etiquette of foreign things. When you eat, you talk about freedom. You''re most free, but..." The half crystal shrimp dumpling in Xia Qing''s mouth flopped down, but he had to ask Xiao Shao for help: "third brother..." Qi Feng put a bun into his mouth and said with a smile, "what a fool." Dew is building a snowman outside. Forsythia squats on the ground to set off fireworks. Tianzhu holds her shoulder and looks at them. I used to think that these women''s home things are not so disdainful in my eyes. Tianzhu''s mouth is slightly upturned. The dewdrop snowman was in a mess. He could barely see a human figure, but his head was bigger than his stomach. Is mumbling of rest, one side of the brocade two came over, puff hiss a smile: "Yo, pile yourself to play?" "What''s your business?" As soon as she saw jin''er, she seemed to have a firefight. Especially when she heard that jin''er had been running to the place of fireworks recently, she felt a little suspicious at first. Later, she saw that jin''er had cheated a leading lady in the brothel. She was an old hand in love. She was angry and sad. She simply ignored jin''er these days. Jin Er touches his nose. He really doesn''t know where he annoys the aunt. Seeing that dewdrop has finished talking, he doesn''t pay any attention to him. The self-care Snowman suddenly feels guilty. After thinking about it, he squats down beside dewdrop and wants to help her pile it together. Dewdrop is not as usual ridicule him, just low head silent snow, brocade two feel a little strange, suddenly feel a hot hand, he Leng for a moment, see his hand on the back of a drop of crystal clear dewdrop, he suddenly aware of what, busy hand to hold dewdrop''s shoulder, pull her to himself, really, Dewdrop''s shoulder Wuzi shrug, he stretched out his hand to lift From the dew chin, he saw a pear with rain face, very poor. "What''s the matter with you?" Brocade two some flustered, busy with his sleeve to wipe tears for dew, way: "I''m wrong, ah, you don''t cry, I if where make you angry, or you hit me a few times, I give you vent?" Jin Er is used to coax women. On weekdays, seeing a woman''s tearful words can make people laugh. But when they face the crying dew, they are at a loss. They don''t know what to say. Dew smell speech to cry more sad, while crying: "you come to coax me to do what? What do you do to provoke me? Go to your sweetheart and stay away from me. " Brocade two Zheng Zheng, pour don''t know dew bead mouth sweetheart is what meaning, in front of more anxious is dew bead how can not cry, urgent way: "I when provoke you, good how became my not, ah you don''t cry, you cry of I don''t know how to do." Dewdrop ignored him and turned to leave. She was frank and came from the market. She was not as shy as other women. She was innocent and had some heroism. She cried and said, "if you have provoked this and that, you are not a good person, you are a disciple! Master Hua Hua Jin two finally heard something, quickly followed up, while to wipe her tears, said: "you speak clearly, who am I provoking? How can I become a young master of Huahua again? I haven''t married yet. I''ve ruined my reputation for no reason. Be careful to be responsible. " Dewdrop glared at him, even with tears, said maliciously: "the number one sister of Fengjiao building, you dare say you haven''t provoked me." See brocade two be in a daze of appearance, dewdrop is a stamp foot again, turn a head to run. Brocade two Zheng for a moment, until one side of Tianzhu coolly throw out a sentence: "don''t chase again, others go to provoke the head card elder brother of small swineherd house." Looking at the back of Jin Er running out, forsythia is very happy. She forgets that there are still fireworks burning in her hands, but she doesn''t want to be held by others. She pulls the fireworks to the side, and the fireworks fly up to the sky. Then she comes back to herself. Looking at the ashes on the ground, she is afraid. A man''s low voice scolds her: "be careful." Forsythia looked up, night maple is also looking at her, two people look at each other, actually have their own shock feeling. Forsythia busy draw back hand, night maple is also a light cough, shape if nothing to see the sky fireworks. Housekeeper Lin walked by with a lantern. When he saw this scene, he burst into tears again. He put his hands together and closed his eyes and prayed: "heaven has eyes, and finally we will have a prosperous population and ten miles of peach blossom." "I don''t know when this old peach blossom will bloom?" Brocade four mouth holding root grass jumped down from the wall, laughing at housekeeper Lin. Lin housekeeper''s old face is red. "What does the little girl know? When the old man was crowning the capital, how many girls threw flowers in the sachet bag, that''s also the red collar of the whole building." "Ah Choo." Brocade three sneezed, pulled brocade four to go out to walk a way: "is really old story how still pestle here, bad old man''s story has what to listen to." "Who''s the bad boss!" Housekeeper Lin was furious: "I am a beautiful man, a beautiful man!" On New Year''s Eve, some people have their own way of life, some people have their own warmth, and some people have their own ice. For example, although the eighth Prince''s house is also a place for singing, dancing, drinking and eating, it seems that it owes something. The man in the main seat had a gentle smile on his mouth, like a spring breeze. He held a white jade cup in his hand and touched the opposite person with a smile.The person on the other side was also dressed in grey, and the long curtain and hat almost covered most of his face. It was not others, but Yuanchuan. He drank all the wine in his hand and sighed: "the wine of Dajin Dynasty is really mellow, your Highness''s family is especially mellow." "It''s just something out of the body," Xuan Li said with a smile. He was sincere, as if he was facing his best friend from childhood to adulthood. "If you like it, I''d like to share it with you." This thing refers to not only the wine in front of us, but also the meaning of the words that we have to guess for ourselves. Yuanchuan put down his wine cup, hung his lips and said, "now that his highness is not here, the crown prince is embarrassed. It''s imminent to establish a new crown prince. His Highness''s great cause is close at hand. Congratulations and congratulations." Having said that, he arched his hand and made a ritual of the Jin Dynasty. Xuanli quietly looked at him, did not stop him, but did not return, the smile did not change, as if this is not a thing worth taking. Yuan Chuan''s eyes narrowed slightly. This young man is not stupid. At least his endurance should not be underestimated. Hearing this, I didn''t show any improvement or worry. I seem to know that I have something to say next. There is no need to hide when dealing with smart people, so Yuanchuan is not ready to hide it. He just says with a smile, "but Yuanchuan thinks that his highness still has some troubles." Xuanli laughed but said nothing. Yuanchuan said, "let Yuanchuan fight bravely. The rivers and mountains of the great Jin Dynasty are all his highness. There is nothing wrong with it. Only now, among the princes, there are thirteen princes besides his highness. Your highness is a man of dragon and Phoenix, and a man of talent and romantic style. This is impeccable. Even if the thirteen princes came from behind, they could not be afraid just because of the new forces. It''s just that... " He dun dun, tone then some regret: "just keep up with a Jinying palace." Xuanli''s finger almost invisible movement, even a small movement, was also captured by Yuanchuan. He said with a smile: "Jinying palace is worth 300000 military power, and the foundation that is hard to shake is unfathomable. There is a saying that it may not be unreasonable for those who get Jinwei to get the world." Xuanli sighed, with a hint of embarrassment on his face: "I tried to make friends with Wang Xiaoshao of Jinying, but it''s hard to move him anyway. I don''t know how he got his green eyes, but he protected each other secretly. Maybe it was the will of heaven. " "Your Highness is wrong." Yuanchuan said with a mysterious smile: "there is no Providence in the world, and the secret that can be seen in it can not be changed overnight. This world should be his highness. As a matter of fact, it was not his royal highness who got the eye of King Jinying, but his royal highness who got the eye of Princess Jinying. " "Can Yuanchuan help me?" Xuan Li asked with a smile. Yuan Chuan bowed his head and said respectfully, "this is nature. The imperial court is in chaos. The thirteen princes are well protected and are not easy to move. Jinying palace is more like an iron wall. The only exit is Jinying princess. " "Oh?" Xuan Li laughs deeper. "A woman''s heart is the best." Yuanchuan also laughed. It''s a digression, and it''s suddenly the CP of housekeeper Lin and Jinsi_ ١ϣ_ My taste is too strong. All of a sudden, it''s a million www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 219 Congratulations on getting a monthly ticket in a word, this new year has been spent in a warm atmosphere. Apart from the unrest in the court, the capital is peaceful and nothing special happens. If it''s really special, I don''t know when Jin Er and Lu Zhu have already said the same thing. Although the couple make a lot of noise every day, their feelings are greatly enhanced. If it''s true, before the end of this year, Jin Er comes to ask for a favor and asks Xiao Shao to talk about Jiang Ruan''s marriage. The maid beside Jiang Ruan and the dark guard beside Xiao Shao, if they were really in terms of identity, would be the dew. Dewdrop was not born at home, but a servant girl bought from outside by Chuang Tzu. After she followed Jiang Ruan, she was lucky and became a second-class servant girl. After that, she made up for the lack of Baizhi and became a first-class servant girl. But even so, it doesn''t mean that she and Jin er are equal. Jin Er has been working with Xiao Shao for many years. The royal guards are also particular about it. Those who can get into Xiao Shao''s life in this way are really close friends. They are dark guards, but they are equal to a military officer of the seventh grade. In addition, Jin Er''s life is very good. The royal guards have a lot of money. If you put it in an ordinary family, the matchmaker can break the threshold, It''s also a loss for Jin Er to follow Xiao Shao. He usually doesn''t have this idea. In addition, his parents are away from home, which makes him less worried. But then again, Jinying''s mansion is always full of Yang and Yin. A large group of masters are trapped together. Dewdrop is such a lovely little girl. She is smart and sweet. She is still very popular in the mansion. On weekdays, there are many servants from the mansion who come to offer hospitality. When they hear that dewdrop and Jiner''s marriage is settled, they are very disappointed and just think about it The maid beside the lady was robbed again. When Lianqiao and Jiang Ruan talked about it, they were still very happy: "one of them is like a firecracker, and the other is very slippery. When they meet, they are the ones who want to quarrel, and somehow they get close to each other. It''s interesting to think about it. " Jiang Ruan was sorting out the new account books. Hearing the words, he took a look at her and said, "she and I have a close eye. Do you have a close eye?" Forsythia''s laughter stopped abruptly, and she blushed and said, "what did the girl say?" As soon as she was worried, she moved out of Jiang Ruan''s name before he got married. Dew opened the curtain, and she said with a smile: "it''s natural for her to have eyes closed. It''s said that the night guard of maple night spent half a night playing flute under the willow tree in the mansion yesterday." Speaking of this, it''s the talk of King Jinying''s house again. Xiao Shao, the young master of King Jinying''s house, is a master of love. Every bodyguard in his hand is a master of love. He has a set of ways to please girls. It''s the night Maple that looks more steady on weekdays, and it''s the direction of Forsythia''s house that is right, just like those literati poets who wrote about blowing the semi Sufeng under the willow tree to seek for love. Forsythia was ashamed and annoyed. She stamped her foot and said, "you can''t say it, girl. You''d better go out!" Then he trotted out of the house. Dew in the back fork waist laugh a way: "this annoyed, this have what can annoy." Forsythia in the end is raised by the head of the house, although pungent, but still abide by the etiquette, to hear their children''s affairs naturally shy back. Dewdrop is a brave one. When she was young, she walked through the streets, and was a little bit more affected by the atmosphere of the river and lake. How could she care about these. Looking at her, Jiang Ruan was in a trance for a moment. He only remembered that when he first met the child, it was the first year after his rebirth. At that time, he was lonely and helpless in Chuang Tzu. The child was kind-hearted and wanted to follow him. In the twinkling of an eye, things were right and people were wrong. The more her enemies died, the more beautiful she was. Fortunately, dew did not fight with her in vain, which was finally considered Is to find happiness. Jiang Ruan put down her tea and pulled the dew to her side. She put away her smile and only looked at the smiling girl in front of her. She said, "dew, do you think it''s ok? It''s him." "He" naturally refers to Jin Er. If he is a servant girl, the master should ask the meaning of the servant girl symbolically. Dewdrop dropped her head and immediately raised her head to smile at Jiang Ruan. Dewdrop''s white teeth were brilliant: "that''s him, girl." Jiang Ruan nodded. Although Jin Er didn''t know what he wanted, he used to look like a young master, but he knew what he wanted better than others. In addition, dewdrop is not a fool, but there is no reason to be bullied by Jin Er. The marriage was proposed by Jin Er, but he was in a hurry. He didn''t know what Jin Er thought. Since both sides agreed, Jin Er also wrote a letter to inform his parents in Jiangnan that the contract of Lu Zhu''s sale was in Jiang Ruan''s hands. Naturally, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao made the decision and ordered their marriage first. Only until the end of next summer. "I''ll let you get married." Jiang Ruan said: "you don''t have parents. I''ll take care of the dowry." Dewdrop was stunned. She raised her head in disbelief and was looking at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan gave her a smile. Dewdrop''s eyes turned red immediately and said, "girl, how dare you..." "There''s nothing I dare to say. At the beginning, I understood that since you gave up your life, you have to gamble with me on a way that you don''t know what the end is. Now it''s time to pay back. Even if you go to the gambling house to bet, you can make money. "What''s the name of this? Dewdrop only wanted to laugh, but she felt that she wanted to cry. She knew that Jiang ruanping was estranged from others. Even the most intimate maids, such as Angelica dahurica and Forsythia suspense, were her own maids at the beginning. She seemed to have her own secret. She was not as kind as other masters and always laughed and joked. With Jiang Ruan, what dewdrop saw was only danger. Jiang Ruan used violence to control violence. It seemed that she was always cold. However, in her heart, she was very protective, and she was not good at expressing herself. In fact, she. He is a very gentle person. Dewdrop with tears, Zheng Zheng thought, but Jiang Ruan is a little laugh, she can''t control dewdrop these. Just then Jin came in and handed the letter to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan let dew down and read it by himself. It was xuanpei''s letter to her, but it didn''t write anything else. First, he wished her all the best in the new year. Then, he complained that he couldn''t meet Jiang Ruan in the palace because he didn''t feel free. Finally, he said that the emperor was in a bad mood recently and the atmosphere in the palace was relatively low. It was better not to enter the palace. After reading the letter, Jiang Ruan put it aside and burned it. But I can''t be calm for a long time. The emperor was not in a bad mood, but seriously ill, which was learned from Xiao Shao. Xuanpei refused to talk about it when he was wronged. After he was born again, his temperament changed a lot. The more he didn''t mention anything about the palace, the more suspicious he was. Jiang Ruan gazed at the burning ashes in the candle fire and began to meditate slowly. At the same time, in a quiet courtyard in Beijing, the man in grey stood in front of the window and put the paper in his hand into the jumping candle, which soon swallowed some yellow paper. I don''t know what it was made of, but it also brought a strange fragrance. After a while, he slowly raised his red lips and said, "I see." "My Lord, the will of the virgin has not yet come." He asked in a voice. Yuan Chuan a smile: "no need." When his subordinates were stunned, they saw that the man in grey suddenly reached out his hand and lifted his hat, revealing a whole face. It was not true that he had a half mask on his face. The face painted with a face full of teeth and claws was very scary, but the half face was very handsome. Such a face with a mask should have given people a mysterious aesthetic feeling. However, when this person appears in front of us, there is mystery, but there is no aesthetic feeling, because it is all destroyed by a pair of blue eyes. The green eyes are narrow and long, like a fox. They look like monsters on people''s faces. They give people a sense of fear for no reason. It''s a very gloomy feeling. His subordinates bowed their heads and did not dare to look at Yuanchuan. But Yuanchuan did not look at him and said slowly, "the saint has gone to Beijing." His subordinates suddenly raised their heads and said, "this..." When Yuanchuan entered the capital, the virgin did not enter the capital. Now it has not been mentioned in a word. Why did she suddenly come to the capital of the great Jin Dynasty. In my heart, I was still speculating, but I saw that pair of fox like blue eyes gave him a light look. I couldn''t help but feel awe inspiring and had no idea. Yuan Chuan slowly smiles again. His lips are red. He seems to be wearing good rouge. He is more beautiful than a woman''s. when he laughs, he has a kind of unspeakable ghost. He said, "the will of the saint is what you can guess at will?" "Dare not, dare not, dare not the little one." The man at the bottom immediately burst out in a cold sweat. He just heard the man at the top smile: "really, I''ll forgive you for your first offence." The man was about to thank him. Suddenly, he felt a chill in his chest. When he looked up, he saw a little silver light on his chest. A small and delicate machete the size of his thumb stabbed his heart accurately. His eyes widened and his face began to turn black, but he fell down in a moment. His blood was black, and he was obviously poisoned. Yuan Chuan gave a cold smile and looked out of the window. He did not know whether it was a happy or sad sigh. In the quiet yard where there was a dead body, he said: "human life is just like grass." He slowly began to laugh again. There seemed to be a strange flash in his blue eyes. Looking at the void, he muttered to himself, "how long can you live?" In the palace. In the imperial study, there was a thick stack of memorials piled on the table in front of the emperor. His body became more and more unbearable, and the speed of reading memorials was much slower. However, the daily affairs of all parts of the country never stopped. The more tired he was, the higher he was. It was also frightening to watch. Mr. Li timely served hot tea and said, "Your Majesty, please take a rest." The emperor shook his head. Fang felt that he was a little hungry again. He frowned and said, "who just came here?" "It''s Dong Xiuyi." Li Gonggong said: "come here to send lotus seed porridge to your majesty." Since Wang lian''er and Jiang Dan disappeared in the palace one after another, the new group of beauties have not been particularly brilliant. The rest of Mu Xirou is cold-blooded and won''t take the initiative to serve others. One day, the emperor happened to see Dong Xiuyi in the garden, and then he thought of the daughter of jingzhaoyin''s family. It is thought-provoking to say that the daughter of jingzhaoyin''s family came to the palace. For one thing, most of the people who were sent to the palace were for the sake of wealth and glory, but Jing Zhaoyin''s life was not so good. Instead, he didn''t need his daughter for the stability of his official career. For another thing, Dong Xiuyi didn''t invite his favor, and even didn''t know about it. If the emperor had not met him that day, he would have continued to live in the dark in the deep palace.Only now, Dong Xiuyi is a little dull, but she makes good porridge. Lotus seed porridge is fresh and delicious, and the emperor always asks her to make it. In this way, Dong Xiuyi becomes a woman close to the emperor. The emperor waved: "take it." Li Gonggong then ordered the little eunuch outside to bring in the lotus seed porridge that Dong Xiuyi put down. At the same time, in the deep corridor of the palace, the woman in royal robes walked alone, and the eunuchs and maids around looked and said hello respectfully. Dong Xiuyi was not a favorite at first. She bullied her a lot. Who knows that she can get close to the emperor now. So it''s the turn of Feng Shui to turn around. Now it''s the turn of this palace man to show others his color. But the gorgeous woman seemed to have never seen her, and her eyes were deep. All the way back to the courtyard of the side hall, Dong Ying''er orders the eunuch maids to go down. She sits down in front of the dressing mirror and takes out a wooden box from the bottom of the wooden cabinet. In the box is a fresh lotus seed, but some honey like things are lit on it. The emperor has a light appetite recently, so he can''t eat too much. Lotus seed clear fire but taste bitter, but many people in the world can''t stand the pain of the star, especially in the nine five''s eating. It must be said that the lotus seed heart is pickled with honey, which makes the porridge more sweet. It''s just. Dong Ying''er took out a sachet from his waist and took out some white powder. The powder also had a strange fragrance. As soon as it was sprinkled on the lotus seed, it was submerged by fresh honey. It only smelled more fragrant. It seems that the eunuch said with a smile: "Xiuyi Niang''s lotus seed porridge is very good. Your majesty can''t leave today. This skill can be compared with the chefs in the imperial dining room. I see that in the future, your majesty and your mother will only get closer and closer, and you can''t leave your mother. " Dong Ying''er put away the sachet, and her eyes fell on the lotus seed which seemed to be the same as other things. A smile slowly opened on her lips. But the smile is a little stiff, as if someone pulled her skin out, it looks strange. Naturally, the emperor could not leave her, not only could he not leave her, but he would even rely more and more on her, or not on her, but on her lotus seed porridge. Things that can make people addicted will not be noticed. Even the most brilliant doctor can''t see them. He will only think that the emperor likes her porridge. In order not to arouse suspicion, she would not make porridge day by day. In fact, everything she did was the same, as long as she could make the emperor addicted. She slowly grabs in her skirt and remembers what the man in the Palace said to her earlier: the general''s office intends to hire Miss Zhao as his wife for the elder brother of the Jiang family, but now it''s discussing how to change the Gengtai. Jiang Xinzhi, the elder of the Jiang family, and Zhao Jin, the younger of the Zhao family. Dong Ying''er suddenly closed her eyes and took a deep breath, but finally she couldn''t bear it. She swept everything in front of her to the ground. The maid waiting outside was startled. She was about to come in and said, "empress!" "Get out of here!" Dong Ying''er yelled angrily, and the people outside immediately kept silent and did not dare to move. She looked at the broken tiles on the ground, and a trace of venom flashed in her eyes. Why is there such a good life in this world. The same origin, which is not as good as others, but to be thrown in this deep palace gradually withered. For what? In this case, it''s better to go to hell together. After all, it''s not so lonely. A courtyard in the south of the Yangtze River is embroidered with black walls and white tiles. It is very exquisite and elegant. You can easily see the wealthy families at a glance. At the moment, the boy outside the door came in in a hurry and cried, "madam, madam!" The woman sitting in the main hall was kind and kind, but she was only in her forties. She looked dignified and virtuous. Although she was old, she could see that she must have been a beauty when she was young. Dressed in honey colored silk satin jacket group, he laughed and scolded: "running so fast, I don''t have to flash my tongue for you. Take your time The little fellow also embarrassed smile, take out a letter from the bosom, way: "madam, young master letter!" "Did Erlang write?" As soon as the woman heard this, she stood up. Her face suddenly showed a sense of surprise and said, "show me a look." The young man quickly presented the letter with both hands. The woman took the letter and opened it impatiently. She read it at a glance. She read it very quickly. After a few times, she finished reading it. On her face, she felt a little angry and a little smiling. Around the maid mother-in-law see her this application, all are some curiosity, way: "madam, how about the second young master?" "This child," said the woman, caressing her heart, "I don''t write back all the year round. If I don''t pay attention to my mother, I will decide such a big event. At this time, I write back and say that it''s really..." The woman who served her tea at the front was even more confused. She asked, "what''s the matter, but the second young master has been promoted?" Since it''s a big event, and my wife doesn''t look sad, she should be promoted. Thinking of this, the old woman also laughed: "it''s really so. It''s a big happy event. We should celebrate it." "It''s a happy event, but not a promotion." The woman also laughed: "it''s Erlang who asked the Lord to be the master and made a promise. I don''t want to say that." "This. This... " The old lady asked, "I don''t know which Lady it is?""It''s the first-class maid beside the princess." The woman said with a smile. "Maid? I''m afraid that the second young master is still a slave. " The woman carefully looked at the woman''s face. Seeing her like this, the woman laughed again and said, "I know what you are thinking. I feel that my Erlang has been wronged. It''s just that since the LORD was kind to our family at the beginning, if not for the Lord, we would have had such a life there. Our family is not an official, but a businessman. Although the girl''s status is not high, it''s not that she''s not in charge of the family. " "Madam," the old lady was still a little reluctant: "although we are not officials, we are also big families here in the south of the Yangtze River. As the second young master, we can''t find any decent ladies, but..." The woman looked at her slowly. The woman knew that she had said something wrong, and immediately became a little uneasy. She only heard the woman sigh and said, "what do you think Erlang is? Erlang is willing to work with the Lord. For so many years, there are very few letters to the end of the year. I''m afraid that what he does is dangerous. This kind of danger, usually that pampered young lady is willing to marry him. In this marriage, Erlang himself begged for it in front of the king. Erlang himself and his children were in favor. What''s the reason for me as a mother to stop him. OK, since Erlang has been given to the Lord as his servant, the Lord can be his master. The LORD looks good at this marriage, and I agree. I don''t think there is anything wrong with the Lord. No one can stand without faith, and the people around the princess can''t be wrong. " She thought of the calm and cold young man in black, with a smile on her face. The woman was so reasonable that her mother-in-law didn''t say anything. What''s more, there was nothing wrong with what she said. Then she began to laugh and said, "it''s a happy event. If you do it early, you will have another golden sun soon." "It''s so lively when you say that you haven''t written a word yet." The woman was angry and strange, but her face was more and more happy with laughter. Just say, then hear someone outside say: "Niang say what say so happy, also let daughter-in-law listen to happy not." "Granny." A group of servant girls are busy smiling and greeting. From outside came a young woman, who was really the eldest daughter-in-law with her head combed. The woman laughed and said, "I''m talking about your second brother''s marriage. It''s very nice of you to come. I''ll talk with you." The woman was suddenly stunned and looked behind the young woman. She was a young girl in a pink jacket and skirt. She was about sixteen or seventeen years old. Hearing this, she raised her head and gave a salute to the woman with a smile: "yes, madam." "This is..." The woman had some doubts. With a smile, the young woman took the hand of the girl in pink and said with a smile, "mother, it''s a coincidence. I was about to tell you about it. Do you remember this young lady? This is Miss Liao of the Liao family in Dingxi. " The girl also smile, seems to be a little shy, raised his face, this time to see clearly, the girl was beautiful, temperament is also very elegant, like a flower bone flower, said: "Liao dream of his wife." The woman''s hand trembled and the cup fell to the ground. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 220 Years later, on the surface, it seems that there is nothing more to do, and the sentence of Jiang Quan''s case has come down, which is the execution of beheading. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of things about pickling in wealthy families. If we cover it up a little bit, we will lose our official hat and lose our reputation. The consequences of losing our lives in this way are a little heavy. However, when people think about who was killed, they will know clearly. Zhao Guang put pressure on the court in this case. In the end, the Emperor himself saw the end of the case. When the wall fell, people pushed and the tree fell, and the sun was scattered. The people who had fawned on Jiang Quan wanted to get away from him, so no one would speak for him. On that day, when Jiang Quan decapitated, Jiang Ruan didn''t go, and even Forsythia didn''t dare to ask. She thought that she was Jiang Ruan''s biological father after all. No matter how hard she said, it was another scene to personally send her father to the guillotine. She was also very sad. Looking at the cautious appearance of forsythia, Jiang Ruan is a little funny. She and Jiang Quan were enemies who never died in their previous lives, and they have not changed in this life. One of them will die in the hands of the other. As for the blood relationship, just as Jiang Xinzhi said to her on that day, this life has nothing to do with the Jiang family. Speaking of this, forsythia thought of something and said, "young lady, the eldest young master has also told the general''s house. The memorial tablet of the young lady will be sent to the ancestral hall of the general''s house some other day. Besides the name on the genealogy of the Jiang family, the family of the Jiang family won''t talk about it any more." Jiang Ruan sent his father to the guillotine, which should have set off a storm in the capital. People''s hearts are like this. If there is anything to talk about, they always regard themselves as wise people who guide the country. But until Jiang Quan decapitated for several days, there was no talk about Jiang Ruan''s unfilial behavior in the streets. This is Xiao Shao''s special means to stop the long crowd Mouth, as for the means, iron and silver or gold and silver, it is a slow intention to protect short, a bad word is not willing to let people mention to Jiang Ruan. "That''s good," Jiang Ruan put down his pen. "I''ll go back to the general''s house another day. It''s also a big event to open the temple." Zhao Mei''s trump card is still in the ancestral hall of Jiang''s mansion. She went to Chuang Tzu at the beginning and returned several years later. Among them, Zhao Mei''s trump card is not worshipped, and the dust is very deep. If she hadn''t wiped it herself later, she would have rotted in the ancestral hall. Now their mother and son are no longer Jiang''s family, and the spirit card should go back to the general''s house. Jiang Ruan then looked outside and asked, "why don''t you see the dew?" These days, what she writes about is all about dewdrop''s marriage. Dewdrop is a trustworthy person since her rebirth. She is not so much a servant girl as a supportive partner. Dewdrop has no father and no mother here, but it can''t do the wedding hastily. In the future, the province always feels like a dwarf. Although we can''t do anything big, we have to do it according to the rules of other people''s ladies. "About embroidering dowry in the house." Forsythia said with a smile: "the young lady is very kind to the dew. The maidservant is a little jealous." Other people''s maids get married with dignity, but they have more money. It''s rare for them to do their best in person. What''s more, Dewdrop''s marriage is not bad. Although Jiner is a bit stubborn, his heart is not bad. What''s more, they love each other. It''s almost impossible for a servant to marry his beloved. But now it is done. Forsythia thinks that several people were struggling in Chuang Tzu at the beginning, and thinks that it is a luxury to live a safe and smooth life. Looking at the good life now, she just feels very sad. "If you marry Yefeng in the future, I''ll do the same with you." Jiang Ruan smiles. Forsythia stamped her foot and said, "the young lady teased her maidservant again." Although she was ashamed and annoyed, she looked at Jiang Ruan and laughed, but she was also happy. I don''t know why. She always feels that Jiang and Ruan have changed a lot now, and she can''t tell where they have changed. She just feels that when she looks at people, she seems to be a little softer. She doesn''t look at people like she used to look at people through the clouds, which makes people feel a little empty for no reason. This is about Xiao Shao''s credit, forsythia thought, in the heart of Xiao Shao also some gratitude. "Go to the house and see if the dew is there," Jiang Ruan said. "If you are there, bring her over. This gift list will have her own purpose." Forsythia answered and ran out. The dew is really in the house, but it''s not to embroider the dowry. It''s to embroider the screen for Mrs. Lin. Mrs. Lin''s birthday will come in a few days. Jiang Ruan and Lin Zixiang make friends, so they also need to send some gifts. Lin Changshi is an elegant man. It''s better to give a pine crane screen. But the screen looks simple, but the embroidery is complicated. The double-sided needle happened to be the handiwork of dewdrop, so it was embroidered in the room, but it forgot to go out. Forsythia pushed the door and came in. Seeing this, she said, "Why are you still thinking about this? Young lady asked you to look at the gift list." "Well, I''d like to have this crane mouth embroidered earlier. It won''t be long. If there''s anything bad, I can change it." Dewdrop said with a smile: "what can I see in the gift list? How can the young lady''s eyes be bad? I feel at ease." Forsythia laughed and scolded: "it''s all nonsense, but if it''s not enough, why don''t you ask the master? I don''t know how you can be a bride to be. I''m not anxious about the dowry. I''m really more and more tired. " The dew knew that it was wrong, so she picked up the embroidery needle, got up and shook her train and followed forsythia. Jiang Ruan Zheng added a few things. When she came, he handed the list to him: "look what''s missing?"The dewdrop took it over with a smile and looked at it quickly. At first, she was smiling. Later, she was a little surprised. At last, she was a little frightened and said, "young lady, this, this is too expensive." "What are you afraid of?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "it''s all from the palace. Your Lord has plenty of money." Forsythia chuckled. It seemed that Xiao Shao was a master. The dewdrop''s eyes turned around. Although she was relieved, she was still a little uneasy and said, "but..." The gift list here is too valuable for a maid. Even those big maids who have been with high officials for the longest time may not have such dignity. However, what moved her most was that not only gold and silver, but also some dowry ornaments and trivia were well arranged, which meant that she had to be careful. "Nothing, but." Jiang Ruan interrupted her: "you can afford it." Dewdrop did not speak, but bit her lip and knelt down slowly. Forsythia and Jiang Ruan were stunned. Dewdrop kowtowed Jiang Ruan three times solemnly and said: "girls treat dewdrop like a mountain of kindness. Dewdrop has no relatives. Girls and girls are the relatives in dewdrop''s heart. Dew will serve the girl well all her life and stay with her forever. " With a smile, Jiang Ruan said, "get up, don''t kneel down and say you can''t be gracious. You and I came together from the most difficult time. You had a good time then. Now is the time for you to enjoy yourself. Besides, it''s not a big deal. In the future, you have to live well by yourself. " This words say of is brocade two, the dew seem to think of what, also followed bashful smile. At the same time, Jin Er, whom Jiang Ruan and Lu Zhu were talking about, was standing in front of a house in the east city. He went forward and knocked a few times. Soon, a little guy came out and opened the door. After a few words with Jin Er, he went in to have a look. Fang went into the yard and saw that the door of the house had been opened. From there came out a short, fat middle-aged woman. When the woman saw Jin Er, she was stunned, and then called out in surprise: "second young master." Jin Er also laughed: "mother Zhou, why did she come to the capital all of a sudden?" "I asked you to come to see someone by my wife''s order," mother Zhou also laughed. After the door of the house, another person came out. This is a young woman. She was born with beautiful appearance and outstanding demeanor. The style of the clothes she wore was a few years ago, and the color was a little white. Even so, she looked quite cultured. Looking at Jin Er, she said with a smile: "second young master." In the night, the wind soon began to blow. The cold wind outside made the windows sound, but the Jingyang palace was silent. Occasionally, there were a few urgent coughing sounds, which were vaguely untrue. Li Gonggong handed over to Bai Juan and worried: "the sky is cool and the dew is heavy. Your majesty, you''d better have a rest earlier." "There are also many memorials." The emperor waved his hand: "if it goes on like this, it may not be finished..." "You can''t say that." Li Gonggong immediately knelt down on the ground: "Your Majesty." "OK," the emperor laughed first. "I haven''t said anything yet. How can you kneel down?" Perhaps his illness had made him look haggard, and his expression of not angry and self-respect had eased, as if his former domineering spirit had subsided a lot overnight, showing some old style. At that time, he was still a little eunuch, and his adoptive father accompanied the emperor back home. Now, the emperor''s manner is not Li Gonggong had a cold war and didn''t dare to think about it. "Go down, I''ll be alone." The emperor said suddenly. Mr. Li was busy pushing it down. There was only a bright yellow figure sitting alone on the soft seat in the middle of the empty hall. The emperor''s hand was on the armrest. The armrest was carved into a roaring dragon. The giant dragon had teeth and claws. The scales on its body were lifelike. The Dragon had counter scales, and those who touched it died. He chuckled, then took out a piece of bright yellow silk from one side of the table, which was the imperial edict. After thinking about it, he picked up his pen and began to write. The emperor''s writing was very slow, as if he was struggling with every stroke. However, there was no pause. It was obvious that the content of the imperial edict had been pondered in his mind for many times before he wrote so steadily. After thinking for a while, he picked up another piece of bright yellow silk again, which was another imperial edict. He slowed down and began to write slowly. Candlelight leaped on the emperor''s face. The pale face because of his illness was very bright now, just like the reflection of a dying man. For a moment, it seemed as if he had returned to his youth. Finally, this imperial edict was finished. He slowly raised his hand, picked up the imperial seal on one side, first pressed it on an imperial edict, and then lifted it up, as if to take a breath. His fingers unconsciously rubbed the tap on the imperial seal, his eyes became a little hazy for a moment, and his mouth hummed a country song that he didn''t know where he came from. "In February, Lang Chunfeng was born. My little brother went to Shuiwan city. Ouch, whose mother called Qiusheng and wanted to come into the house..." In this magnificent hall, the drama in the countryside is really a bit abrupt, but the emperor''s expression is gradually relaxed. He slowly sings, looking at the empty hall in front of him, as if through the void he saw the pretty girl who came from the country road with a medicine box that year. He suddenly coughs heavily while singing. The singing stopped suddenly, and he was fascinated by the blood on Bai Juan.A moment later, the emperor slowly closed his eyes and dropped the imperial seal on another imperial edict: Dong - When Jin Er came back to the house, it was already dark. When Fang went to the yard, he saw a man standing under the tree. The man also saw him, and came bouncing. It was the dew. Dew saw him and said, "you are not here at noon. Are you on a mission?" Brocade two one Zheng, immediately subconscious of nod, way: "en." "Won''t you go to the brothel again to find the number one girl over there?" Asked the dew on purpose. Jin Er was asked by dewdrop coldly. He was embarrassed and said, "no..." "Just a smile," said the dew, waving her hand. "Why are you so nervous? I''m not a tigress." This from than the tiger''s words let brocade two also can''t help laughing, patted her head, way: "is really a tiger." After a pause, he asked, "you''ve come here specially to wait for me. What''s the matter?" Dew saw him smile, but did not quarrel with him as usual, only said: "you look a little different today, about tired, first go back to wash and rest.". I have nothing to do but come to see you. " Think you two words by dewdrop swallow into the mouth, listen to forsythia and brocade three said women should be more reserved, if the whole person will mind all said, in the future will be eaten by men. Now she and Jin Er haven''t married yet, but they can''t be as beautiful as him. The brocade two smile, unexpectedly also didn''t have as usual that tease a few words, only said a few words with the dew bead to have a good rest and then left. As soon as jin''er left, the smile on the dewdrop''s face was removed. Instead, she was confused. Standing in the same place, Dewdrop said to herself, "it looks like I''m not in high spirits, isn''t it...". Did the mission fail? " After thinking about it, I didn''t think of any reason, so I turned back to my room. Jiang Ruan put down his book and put his hand into Xiao Shao''s chest. This man''s body is not colder than his appearance. It''s really a big stove. Her hands were warm, and Xiao Shao was attacked by her cold hands, but for a moment, she couldn''t laugh or cry. But she didn''t have the heart to teach her to take it out, only said: "how so cold." "Help dew draw up a marriage list." Jiang Ruan pasted a note on him again: "it turns out that getting married is so complicated. At the beginning, the marriage between you and me depended on housekeeper Lin alone. It was really hard for him." Dewdrop''s simple marriage is so complicated. At the beginning, she and Xiao Shao made it more crowded, and their tricks were even more dazzling. They didn''t feel anything when they looked at them, but once they sat up by themselves, they felt very difficult. Xiao Shao looked at her, looked at her for a while, and suddenly said, "I also have a question." "What?" Jiang Ruan did not understand his words, but Xiao Shao said lightly: "nothing." But his expression was a little unnatural. After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan guessed a little more and said, "don''t tell me the pattern. You''ve also thought a lot about it." Xiao Shao did not answer, that is default. Jiang Ruan was stunned. He didn''t care much about the marriage. How could he even inquire about these trifles in private. Naturally, she didn''t know that housekeeper Lin was responsible for the general affairs of the marriage, but those terms and conditions were given to Xiao Shao personally. Xiao Shao did it according to the most valuable wedding when the emperor was alive. Otherwise, housekeeper Lin alone could not have thrown money into the house without saying a word. Jiang Ruan laughed. Xiao Shao was a little annoyed. He looked at her and said, "you are as serious as marrying a daughter." Since his rebirth, apart from revenge, Jiang Ruan has never done such a thing well. It was the first time for her. Xiao Shao''s words seemed to be jealous. These days, he was busy asking about manager Lin''s dewdrop. He really ignored him. Thinking about this, Jiang Ruan reached out and pinched Xiao Shao''s cheek and said, "if I had a daughter, I would be as serious as ever. Don''t mention me. I think you would be more nervous than me." "Daughter?" Xiao Shaoruo looked at her thoughtfully. His eyes were as deep as stars. When Jiang Ruan was looked at by his black eyes, he felt numb all over and said, "what are you doing?" As soon as the voice fell, he felt a whirl of heaven. He and Xiao Shao had already become a up and down posture. Xiao Shao looked at her and said faintly, "yes, but first of all, you have to have a daughter." At the eighth Prince''s house, the staff looked at Xuanli, who was drinking and enjoying himself. For a moment, they were a little confused. It seemed that Xuanli had not been so happy for a long time. Although Xuan Li used to smile for many years, everyone around him knew that it was just a kind of appearance. The pride from the bottom of his heart had not been seen on their master''s face for a long time. The staff asked cautiously, "Your Highness is so happy, but have you made an appointment with Yuanchuan?" That day, the envoys of the state of Jin acted mysteriously and strangely. Although they were envoys, they were not servile, and even some of them were naturally superior. The aides followed Xuanli and met a lot of people in his life. At a glance, he saw that Yuanchuan was not a man to control. It was a very dangerous thing to get involved with such a person or even to form an alliance. If he was not careful, he would lose himself. But this yuan Chuan does not seek fame and wealth, is lets the human guard. No doubt they used each other. Xuanli used Yuanchuan to win a great cause. What was Yuanchuan trying to do with Xuanli?The staff couldn''t see through, so they had to dispel their doubts to Xuanli. "No, no big deal." Xuanli slowly raised the wine cup on the table, took a sip, and said with a smile: "there is no ally, only a knife that can be used for me. Besides, it''s a good knife. " "This..." The staff thought of something in an instant and said in surprise, "how does your highness use this knife?" "It''s not you or me who make the knife." Xuanli said, "but the tree cut by the knife is also in my way." it''s time to take advantage of Xuanli. Although the staff are still a little confused, Xuanli doesn''t seem to want to tell him. Although the eighth prince had numerous members and staff, he had his own unique ideas on many things, and even didn''t trust them all. In fact, there are few such people in the world who can always keep an alert heart and not be shaken by any external things. This is the quality of emperors. "Your Highness thinks it can be done this time?" The aide asked, "it seems that Yuanchuan hasn''t done anything from beginning to end. How can his royal highness identify him by his mouth?" "As I said, a knife is a good one." Xuanli drank the wine in his hand with a smile: "I hope it can make the best use of everything." Just then, a man dressed as a bodyguard rushed outside and took out a letter from his hand to present it: "Your Highness, the secret letter of the palace." Xuanli took a look at it without caring. There were only two simple words on it: success. Xuanli smiles again. The smile in the eyes of the staff means different. Compared with the pleasure of just now, it is more cruel. That look soon disappeared, as if it had never existed on Xuanli''s face. He sighed and said in a low voice: "Your Majesty, you are seriously ill." On this night, a young woman stood under a tree in a house in the capital, looking a little sad. The short and fat woman on one side advised: "girl, you''d better have a rest earlier. It''s windy here. The girl is not in good health. She needs to be well raised here. " Woman wry smile, voice is very Xiaosuo: "Mom, I feel sick." "Miss, don''t think too much," said the woman. "The second young master will understand. You are serious. The child of the second young master is a slave. He grew up with a good heart. Now that he is here, he won''t shirk responsibility. The second young master asked the girl for a doctor. After a long time, he could see the girl''s heart clearly. If you are kind, lady and master, you will be the master. " "But he did." The woman shook her head again: "what''s the difference between me and the villains who break up people?" "How can you be a villain?" Zhou''s mother comforted her: "the girl is a serious girl. At the beginning, she was an old acquaintance. This will not go wrong. If it is really not possible, how can your wife and master promise you to go to Beijing? Since the princess is a sensible person, she also knows the truth. She will never embarrass the girl. As for the second young master, the old slave said that the girl is beautiful, kind-hearted and decent. If she can''t compare with a servant girl, the second young master will like it. How can a man not like a well bred girl? So the girl can put her heart into her stomach. Now she''d better have a good rest. Don''t hurt herself After listening to the words of mother Zhou, the woman''s expression slowed down and said with a smile, "I think more. Well, it''s a matter of fate. Since I''ve come here, I just want to ask him what he means. Since I''ve met him, I''m not in good health, so I have to rest here first. When you are well, go back. " Mother Zhou wanted to say more. Seeing the woman''s expression, she stopped again and had to nod her head. The story of jin''er Luzhu is not a branch line of procrastination, but a plot related to the main line. In addition, if there is no update in the morning, the update will be delayed. If the tea breaks, you will ask for leave in advance. If you don''t ask for leave, you won''t break the change. Of course, it''s estimated that the change won''t be broken later ~ in the morning www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 221 Dewdrop is finally busy these days. She probably realizes that it''s really bad for her master to worry about this. She starts to embroider her dowry. After all, she is a girl of seventeen or eighteen years old. She still looks forward to getting married. But Jin Er is very busy, but not because of the marriage. All day long, there is no one in the house. Dewdrop has to ask Jin San, but Jin San is also vague. He doesn''t know what Jin Er is doing. It''s about the task arranged by the master, so dewdrop goes back. But in this way, more than ten times in a row, the time for dew to see Jiner was less and less. On this day, Dewdrop learned from Jin San that Jin Er was not in the house, so she left disappointed. Jin three see dew left, just jump to the tree, sit and talk with Jin four, way: "Jin two recently is how to return a responsibility, how always not in the house, the master also didn''t seem to have any task with him, have never seen him busy like this, even dew that wench all don''t care." Once upon a time, although Jin Er was busy, he always wanted to stay in the house. His favorite thing was to make dew angry. Now they have a good relationship. It''s easy to settle down. How can Jin Er, the principal, not be seen? Jin Si shook his head and said, "I don''t know, but I saw him at Huitong bank a few days ago. It seems that he is cashing a silver note, and I don''t know what to do." "Cash it?" Jin three strange way: "he does not lack what silver, change what silver note?" There is a lot of silver scattered on the royal guards. At least it is enough to cope with the daily expenses. It is strange for Jin Er to collect the silver ticket alone. Jin three thinks, suddenly clap thigh way: "I know! Ah, the boy finally realized that he was also a man who wanted to marry his daughter-in-law. He always wanted to buy something with his daughter-in-law. Although the dowry is given by the family, Jin Er has accumulated a lot of money over the years, and it''s the same for him to give the dowry. " Jin Si nodded his head and said: "it''s reasonable for you to say that. Jin Er has seen the world again. He is used to doing things to please women. It''s necessary for his daughter-in-law to pay more attention. No wonder he''s not in the house these days. He''s probably looking for a present for dewdrop. " "But it''s really not good to neglect others because of this," Jin San thought. "This woman always wants to coax her. He doesn''t say what he''s busy with. If I''m dewdrop, I must be angry." Brocade four also want to talk, has been holding a sword silence brocade one but suddenly way: "he is not buy a gift." "Why?" Jin three surprised to see over, way: "not buy a gift, that is to do what, Jin one, do you know what?" Brocade one is to shake head, turn round to walk, brocade three brocade four have already been used to brocade one stuffy voice don''t utter of temperament, then Wu from shrug shoulder, just don''t see. Brocade a square walk to a corner, then see night Maple come over, the facial expression of leaf maple is also very some delicate, he looked at brocade one eye, ask a way: "do you also know brocade two seek doctor''s affair?" Brocade one should a, hesitated a way: "I followed up to see, you..." "I saw it, too." Ye Feng interrupts him. It seems that they are in a dilemma. They seem to have encountered a very difficult problem. They are silent for a while. Ye Feng says: "don''t tell anyone about it. I''ll ask after Jin Er goes back to the house. If it hurts the harmony, it will be bad." Jin a nod says is. In a courtyard in the east of the capital city, a squat woman stood at the door of the house, wiping her apron with her hands. She was very nervous. Soon, an old man with white hair and beard came out. The old man was carrying a medicine box. After he came out, he arched his hand to the short and fat woman. From the other side came a young man, who was also pretty. He was dressed in a clean dark green robe and looked like a rich young man. The old man arched his hand to the man again and said, "young master, I have prescribed some medicine for my wife''s illness. I''m already weak and have a long journey. Now it''s better not to act any more so that I won''t be hurt. It''s better to stay for a few months. I''ve prescribed some solid prescriptions. I''ll ask someone to take some medicine and fry it for my wife. Don''t let her hurt herself. I''ll have nothing to do with it." The man smell speech some embarrassed: "she is not..." Then he said, "well, thank you, doctor. I''m afraid the disease will recur. I''ll have to trouble the doctor several times in the future." After that, he took out a ingot of silver from his sleeve and put it into the old man''s palm: "this is the cost of this consultation." The man''s hand was generous. Naturally, the old man had nothing else to say, so he just made a bow and left. After the old man left, the short and fat woman said, "second young master, according to the doctor, Miss Liao had better stay in the capital more days to save..." "Mother Zhou," Jin Er said with a smile, "do you think I will send Miss Liao out? Nothing. You''ll stay here for the time being. I''ll repair books and send letters to my mother. These days, I''ll trouble my mother to take care of Miss Liao. " "What does the second young master say?" Zhou''s mother was terrified and said, "I want to take good care of Miss Liao." Just as he said that, he heard a woman''s cough coming from the room. Then, a slightly weak voice came: "second young master, please stay. Liao Meng still has something to say to second young master." Seeing this, Liao''s mother said, "I''m going to see the doctor off. Let''s go inside." After that, he left the room. Jin Er hesitated for a moment. Although he used to linger in the brothel flower shop, he always played tricks on occasion. It''s not true. After all, no one will investigate the reputation of these women. This is different from other people''s girls. After all, it''s a little difficult for them to live alone. However, thinking that Liao Meng was a patient and that his mother had sent people all the way to the capital, he gave up. He lifted the corner of his robe and went into the inner room.The house was clean and tidy, and there was a faint smell of medicine. There was even a pot of orchids on the windowsill. It was obvious that the owner was a person with elegant taste. Even if he was sick, he still lived a very elegant life. And that woman leans on the bed, the facial expression is still some pale, but more and more appear pitiful, she respectfully to brocade two nod a way: "two young masters." Jin Er then said: "don''t be polite. You are still very weak. Don''t move easily." "Second young master, Bodhisattva''s heart." The woman said with a smile: "Liao Meng knows that his body is not good enough for the second young master. What the two families said at the beginning was a joke. When he is well, Liao Meng will go back to Jiangnan and won''t disturb the second young master. It''s just that I''m really sorry for the trouble I''ve had during this period of time. After thinking about it, I''d like to say thank you to the second young master. " "You don''t have to thank me, but I..." Jin Er hesitated for a moment, and finally seemed to make a great determination, and said: "this is our Shen family. I''m sorry for you. I... " "The second young master is wrong," Liao Meng said with a smile. "What does this have to do with the second young master? When the two families talked about things, you and I were just children. Now, now that my parents are gone, what I said at the beginning is a joke, which can''t be true. It''s just that mother Zhou loves me. I''m afraid she wants me to say that the second young master must not blame her. Now that the second young master has a sweetheart, why should I be the one who beats the ducks with a stick? So the second young master must not say anything wrong. " What she said was really reasonable. Even if she didn''t make a scene, she would always have some emotion. At least she would never be as talkative as the woman in front of her. Jin Er''s eyes flashed a trace of appreciation, and seemed to contain some gratitude and apology: "it''s my villain''s heart that passes through the belly of a gentleman, but Miss Liao''s illness is not good, at least give her a chance to get a doctor for her next time." Liao Meng smiles again, and they talk about other topics. Jin Er usually follows Xiao Shao and knows how to make women like him. Liao Meng''s behavior is even more unexpected. He is not as narrow-minded as a normal woman''s vision. He is also quite insightful, and his temperament is as gentle as water. They have a good conversation, but they don''t realize it when it''s late. Until the evening, Zhou''s mother also left a meal. After eating together, Jin Er went back to the house. Fang returns to the mansion, and the dew, who has done embroidery, just goes to the kitchen to find some food to fill his stomach. When he meets Jin Er, he calls. Jin Er stopped, dew went over, picked out two pieces of peony cake from the basket and handed it to him: "today''s new cake in the small kitchen is appreciated by the young lady. I specially left two pieces for him. Let''s eat." Dewdrop is always smiling. Peony cake has a special aroma. Jiner has just had a meal. Mother Zhou''s craftsmanship is good. She also makes Jiangnan food that he hasn''t eaten for a long time. Naturally, if she eats more, she can''t eat any cake. Then he reached over and said with a smile, "OK, I''ll go back to eat later." "But two cakes. What are you going to eat?" Dewdrop said, "don''t tell me that you royal guards don''t even eat peony cakes very much. Let''s eat them here. If you''re cold, you''ll worry about your stomach." Dew is also a kind-hearted, in fact, she said so unintentionally, this cake is she specially left to Jin Er, so must watch Jin Er eat it to be happy. Jin Er frowned and begged for mercy: "aunt, I just ate it outside. I can''t eat it. I''d better wait until I go back." Brocade two said so, dew from also can''t force him to eat. Just look a little depressed, but fleeting, said: "where are you today, Jinyi they are in the house, you alone ran out, also had dinner with people. Isn''t it in the brothel She was joking, but Jin Er''s face changed slightly, and then she said with a smile: "nonsense, at least I want to get married. How can I go to the brothel? No matter how beautiful the girl is, she still has to live with the ugly lady. " "Who do you think is ugly?" said the dewdrop Two people laugh again make a while, brocade two this just return to the house, after dew return to the house, smile then slowly dissipate go down, forsythia see dress also jokingly way: "far away hear you and brocade two say make of voice, how, now pour is can''t leave?" Dewdrop didn''t speak. Forsythia thought she was shy, so she didn''t ask. But she didn''t see dewdrop sitting in front of the bronze mirror. She looked at her palm in a daze and muttered, "how can there be the smell of orchid?" Day by day busy, dew on the face of the smile seems to be slowly disappearing, Jiang Ruan asked forsythia, forsythia also frowned and said: "I do not know what is the matter. I''m always worried recently, but it''s really nothing. Maybe the problem is related to Jin Er. " Tianzhu also said: "Jin Er has been spending less time with her recently. I think it''s a bit unpleasant." All of her maidservants agreed that dewdrop was not worried because she got together with Jin Er. If Jiang Ruan didn''t agree with them, she would have some emotions before she got married, but she didn''t. If it was her, she was too special. With dewdrop''s heartless and careless nature, she would never be worried because of such things. With Baizhi''s warning, Jiang Ruan pays more attention to her maidservant''s emotions. It''s just that dewdrop follows her later, and there''s nothing wrong with her behavior. When she comes to talk, it seems that it''s really because of Jiner. It was not convenient for Jiang Ruan to intervene in the affairs between the young men and women, so he had to let them go.If there is anything special, it is that the governor of Binhai, Lord Yao, somehow, has the idea of climbing up with King Jinying''s mansion. He had been warned by Xiao Shao once before, and governor Yao accepted his idea. Recently, however, he started his activities frequently. He didn''t come directly to Jinying palace to post, but he also understood the truth of saving the nation. He actually sent the post to Guan Lianghan, Mo Cong and others. Xiao Shao can refuse governor Yao''s invitation without scruple, but Guan Lianghan and Mo Cong can''t. on the one hand, they are all colleagues of the imperial court; on the other hand, Guan Lianghan and governor Yao still have a common topic on some matters. They are all warriors who fight hard. The Yao family was ready to move, and Jiang Ruan didn''t pay attention to it. After Lu Zhu was busy, she was busy looking at the ministers of xuanpei''s group in the court. Sooner or later, Xuanli will target xuanpei. Whether xuanpei wants to or not, the competition between rivers and mountains has been involved. Now she can only rely on the memory of her last life to help xuanpei screen people to ensure xuanpei''s temporary safety. Xiao Shao is even busier than her. Jin Si says that the people of Southern Xinjiang have appeared in many places in the capital. It is not known what the people of Southern Xinjiang who are lurking in the capital want to do. What they are afraid of is sneaking into the palace and colluding with the imperial court. In fact, it is an indisputable fact that the people in southern Xinjiang collude with the people in the imperial court. Jiang Ruan knows who that person is, but now there is no evidence, and it is not easy to scare the snake. We have to go step by step. Now the enemy is in the dark, and I am in the light, but there are many inconveniences When the night was dark, Jin Er finally walked back to the house with the light of the lantern. The dew was sitting in the room. Jin Er came in and saw her, but she didn''t light the lamp, so he asked, "why don''t you light the lamp?" After that, we need to find a fire fold to light the lamp. "Brocade two," don''t wait for him to find fire fold son, Dewdrop interrupts his words, way: "you don''t want to marry me?" "What are you thinking?" Brocade two some can''t believe, but forgot to light a light, ask: "how to get angry again?" "These days, you go out early and come back late. I can''t see you all the time. When you come back, you don''t talk to me as much as when I first arrived. You''re always impatient, you... " "Auntie, I said that the master ordered me to have a task. I can''t accompany you all the time. I''m very tired. I don''t want to hear your unreasonable nonsense." Jin Er frowned. I don''t know if he is really tired. His eyebrows are tight and his tone is not as soft as before. "I''m messing about? I''m just messing about? " Dewdrop''s voice also rose, and then, she seemed to realize this, and then she took a deep breath: "I don''t want to say this to you, I''m not a fool. You are lying at all. My uncle didn''t give you any task. I asked Jin San. " In the dark can''t see her look clearly, brocade two but can''t help a tight in the heart, feel the eye of dew bead is staring at oneself tightly without reason, let his whole body all uneasy. "No, listen to me..." What else does Jin Er want to say? Dew interrupts him and asks, "Jin Er, are you someone outside?" The brocade two one Zheng, immediately angry way: "what is your nonsense?" "You know best if I''m talking nonsense." Dew voice involuntarily also high up, she said: "you are worthy of me!" "I said I didn''t. You don''t want to make use of it." Jin Er has always been kind to women, but now it''s the first time to say something serious to dewdrop. The impatience in his tone almost makes him different from usual. Dew is not willing to show weakness, angry way: "I borrow a topic to play?"? Jin Er, don''t treat everyone as a fool. Do you think it''s fun to tease me? Although I was born as a servant, I can''t help being humiliated like this. If you regret it, you can tell the Lord to cancel the marriage. Dewdrop will never have two words. I''m not the kind of person who begged for nothing! " The brocade two Teng ground stand up for a while, the tone already is the anger that can''t restrain, way: "cancel? What kind of person do you think I am? " "Go away!" The dew scolded and reached out to push him. But there was no light in the room. She almost didn''t fall down with such a push. Then Jin Er hummed and turned out of the door. She closed the door fiercely. There was no sound in the room for a long time. After a long time, the door was pushed open, and forsythia''s voice rang: "why the light is not lit, it''s dark..." She felt out a torch and lit the lamp. Then she saw a man sitting in the room and said, "you''re in the room. Why don''t you light the lamp?" Ah, "cried forsythia, and she saw the dewdrop sitting in the room. Her face was full of tears, and her eyes were red. There seems to be a figure outside the window fighting silently for a long time. It seems that he hesitated for a while and then walked away. On the other side of the house, mother Zhou looked at the woman who was much better than before, and said in surprise, "girl, can this really work? Those two young masters have never been soft hearted. " "Don''t worry," Liao Meng said with a smile. "Men are all the same. They are used to not liking women''s noise, but women are very sensitive. When they come and go, they always have a quarrel." A digressionThere is something wrong with word. The document of the disaster imperial concubine is lost. There are no more than one million words in front of it. I''m so distressed. I''ve got another word. It''s been a long time. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 222 The quarrel between Jiner and dewdrop is known by the whole royal family every other day. The two little children are always happy with each other. It''s not a big deal to quarrel with each other. This time, it''s different. Jiner bullies dewdrop and cries. Now the royal family is frying up and down. The royal guards stand on the side of dewdrop. Dewdrop has a sweet mouth and is very pleasant on weekdays. Jiner is a man. It must be his fault to bully a little girl like dewdrop and cry. Housekeeper Lin is naturally angry again. He pulls jin''er away for a while and says that for the first time, maple and jin''yi have spoken to jin''er for half an hour. Unfortunately, jin''er is silent from beginning to end and has no way to start. Everyone began to worry about the dewdrop, but the dewdrop did things as usual, with a smile on her face, as if she was not affected by it. However, the more dew is like this, the more people think that she is wronged, and on the contrary, she is more distressed. Although Jiang Ruan didn''t like Jin Er''s view, it was not easy to intervene in the affairs of men and women under her family. Dewdrop also repeatedly said that she didn''t have to worry about it. It''s not easy for Jiang Ruan to say anything more. At noon, Dewdrop came to talk with Jiang Ruan. Aunt Zhang, who was in charge of shopping, was pregnant today. Her daughter-in-law moved her body and went out to take care of the shopping. Dewdrop wanted to go in person, and forsythia said, "yes, yes, I want to buy something. Let me go with dewdrop. When I go back, I can buy some cuiyuzhai snacks for young lady." Tianzhu glances at dewdrop and doesn''t say anything. Jiang Ruan knows clearly that she wants dewdrop and forsythia to go out. Dewdrop may be in a better mood if she wants to relax, so she should. After dewdrop and forsythia left, Jiang Ruan looked at the account book in front of him and suddenly asked Tianzhu who was standing on one side, "what happened to Jin Er?" Tianzhu is slightly a Leng, immediately also float on the face some slightly embarrassed color: "I don''t know." "You don''t know?" Jiang Ruan was a little surprised, then lowered his head and looked at the tea cup in front of him thoughtfully: "it''s a little strange." The streets of the capital are still very busy, the festivities brought by the new year have not yet faded, and the red lanterns of some shops have not been taken down, probably for a good start. And the street vendors in order to take advantage of this busy time to sell more things, there are countless new gadgets. Forsythia and dewdrop are maidservants of the palace. Jiang ruanping doesn''t allow them to go out on weekdays. However, there are many things to do on weekdays. Sometimes they go into the palace or other mansions. Most of them take carriages. It''s rare for them to walk on the street at will. What''s more, we all know that it''s a chance for dewdrop to relax. So Forsythia is not in a hurry to buy cloth shop, but is pulling the dew in the street. Since dew and brocade two quarrel, brocade two and dew did not apologize, two people have been so cold war, this is very unusual. Although the dew does not say it, people with clear eyes know that it must be very sad in the heart of the dew. Forsythia pulled dew all the way to talk about some new things in the capital recently, hoping to make her happy. Although the dew was smiling, forsythia had been with her for so long. At a glance, she could see that the smile of dew was very reluctant, and she was at a loss. When they walk like this, dewdrop is not interested all the time, which is rare for her, who is the most novel in her daily life. Forsythia accompany her sad, but can''t help, it is some don''t know how to do, but inadvertently saw in front of a shop to buy sugar, he laughed and said: "look, there are sugar people, let''s go to have a look." Dewdrop is greedy on weekdays, and she likes these novel gadgets best. She used to be a yelling man for the old man who bought sugar man. When she saw sugar man, she felt very kind, but she unconsciously smile. Forsythia see this heart relaxed tone, pull her forward. Sure enough, he saw a man with a stall. In front of him was a column made of rice straw, with all kinds of lifelike sugar figures. The sugar man sent out a sweet smell, and the dew laughed. Then she took out a few coppers from her sleeve and said to the old man, "master, make me a Guan Gong." The sugar man''s master laughed when he heard the speech and said "OK" and began to boil the sugar again. Forsythia see dew now seems to have forgotten just now, this just some happy, way: "I also want a Chang''e." Sugar master began to work, forsythia bored to look around, looking at a pharmacy, but suddenly stunned, called out: "how --" words just export, suddenly realized what hurriedly shut up, only the dew but still heard, doubt asked: "what''s the matter with you?" Along with Forsythia''s eyes to see in the past, forsythia want to stop but also too late, then see dew also follow Leng in situ, a moment face becomes very pale. Just before we met, there was a short, fat woman talking to the staff of the drugstore. She was about to grasp the medicine. Behind the woman was a young woman. She was dressed in a long moon white skirt embroidered with orchids. She was pretty and elegant. It was easy to see that the young lady from a big family with excellent manners was talking to a young man on one side. The man was pretty, He also had a smile on his face. When he turned around, he bent his head slightly. The relationship between them was very close. The man forsythia and dew is not strange, it is Jin Er.The short and fat woman took the medicine and said something to Jin Er. Jin Er also laughed. The three of them went out of the drugstore together. Forsythia heart is not good, is thinking about how to comfort the dew, then see the dew look a change, suddenly rushed out. As soon as the young woman and Jin Er came out of the medicine shop, they were suddenly blocked by the dew. Dewdrop was straightforward and never used to be patient. The woman was a little surprised at first and then asked, "girl, why are you standing in front of me?" Dew doesn''t pay attention to this woman''s words, just coldly looking at brocade two can: "now you can''t always say I''m fooling around." Jin two''s shock put in the past, suddenly surprised under just way: "you misunderstood, I and she..." "I don''t care what you have to do with her!" Dewdrop interrupted him in a loud voice and took a deep breath: "please tell me by yourself. I''ll make a joke about the marriage between you and me. The previous power has never happened." "How can you say that? I said it was a misunderstanding." Jin Er frowned. One side of the woman seems to see something, quickly whispered: "this girl, you misunderstood, the second young master is just..." "What do you have to do with me?" As soon as the dewdrop turned around, she cut off the woman''s words. She had grown up in the city well. When she was angry, she was even more indifferent. The voice became loud. It seemed that the woman had met such a fierce man for the first time. She was startled and coughed suddenly. The short and fat woman on one side rushed up to squeeze the dew to one side and said: "is the girl OK? Ah, the girl is just a little better. It''s so easy to go out today, but don''t cause old illness again." The brocade two sees this then also helped that woman, ask a way: "Liao girl is all right?" The woman shook her head and said, "nothing, it''s my own carelessness." When Jin Er turned his head again, he was stiff in the face of dew: "apologize to Miss Liao." "What''s the apology?" Dew is furious, smell speech just want to come forward to the brocade two tear, that so-called Liao girl''s beauty is polite, she feel more embarrassed, but also will tear tears forcefully back, she sneered and asked: "I didn''t know what I did wrong, also want to apologize?" Jin Er said angrily, "you are unreasonable. How did you talk to others?" "How can I speak?" Cried the dew. "Forget it," the woman said busily, "this girl has no intention. Besides, I didn''t hurt anything. The second young master doesn''t have to do this for me." "You are just in the right position to suffer such grievances. Besides, she was the first to be rude." Brocade two support that woman way: "let you be shocked really is to live." Dewdrop sneered: "it''s really strange. Maybe it''s because I made her cough. I gave her such a sick body. I didn''t know when I had such ability. Even such a sin would be laid on me." Before his voice fell, he heard a crisp sound of "pa". Forsythia, who had just come, was surprised. Without saying a word, he protected the dew behind him and said angrily, "Jiner, what are you going to do?" Brocade two dull looking at own hand, seem to don''t believe just that slap unexpectedly is oneself to wave out. Dewdrop was pulled behind by forsythia, which was also unbelievable. She just said it in her anger. She was used to speaking straightforwardly, and she was hostile to this woman. After that, she regretted what she said, but she didn''t expect that Jin Er was actually for that woman. Hit her. The woman''s face was a little gloomy, but she was a little flustered and said, "girl, second young master, ah, you..." Forsythia heart is very regret, now Japan is with dew to relax, don''t want to be met with this, now dew can be regarded as real sad. She naturally stands on the side of the dew, and the dew shares a common hatred, looking at Jin Er''s eyes. Just want to put down a few cruel words, don''t want dewdrop but stand out from behind her. From the beginning to now, the dew tries to control her emotions, Leng is a drop of tears did not flow, even if it was a slap Jin two are still no tears. At the moment, she seems to calm down from just now''s disbelief, looking at the brocade two light way: "very good, today you and I also calculate have no relation." After that, she turned around and left. Forsythia quickly followed. Dewdrop walked very fast. She followed Jiang Ruan. She usually behaved like Jiang Ruan. The more she admired someone, the more she could not help learning from her. If it happened to Jiang Ruan, he would have to fight for it. Dew and forsythia go, Jin two is about to catch up, one side of the short fat woman is exclaimed: "oh my girl, how pale face, don''t if the old disease, the girl can feel good." Hearing this, Jin Er hesitated for a moment, and finally put down his steps. He went to the woman and said, "your face is really bad. In this way, I''ll ask the doctor to go back to the house to have a rest and let the doctor have a look." This box of dew returned to Jiang''s house, but without saying a word, she went back to her house first. Forsythia comforted her a few words, thinking that this matter could not be known by others, after all, there might be some misunderstanding, but it should be said with Jiang Ruan, so she went to the study.Jiang Ruan Zheng ordered Tianzhu to do something. Seeing Forsythia coming back, he said, "why did you come back so early?" Since let two people go to relax, there is no reason to come back so soon. Forsythia was embarrassed and angry. Before the dew in her heart broke out, she said, "young lady, I can''t finish the task of purchasing." Jiang Ruan looked at her: "what happened?" Forsythia heart is to hold back a stomach fire, immediately said the whole story of the matter again. If you see dewdrop and brocade two before the cold war Forsythia still think must be some misunderstanding, maybe dewdrop wronged brocade two, now see brocade two such action, dewdrop is no way to stand in brocade two side. After finishing the story, he said: "no wonder Jin Er was not in the house before. It''s clear that it''s not the Lord who asked him to do things. Lu Zhu said that when there was someone outside Jin Er, she didn''t believe it. Now she understands that Jin Er had been hiding in the golden house for a long time. Bah, she''s really blind. Lu Zhu is such a good girl." Jiang Ruan was also a little surprised when he heard the source of Lianqiao''s story. He frowned and said, "what''s the origin of that girl Liao?" Dewdrop shook her head and said, "I can''t see it. I look like a young lady raised by a wealthy family. I don''t know why she has the face to engage in such activities and seduce a man who has a marriage for no reason." After following Jiang Ruan for so long, many people like Jiang Susu and Jiang Dan are used to being superficial and gentle. Forsythia has prejudice against this kind of women. In addition, she bullies her sister so much that she just wishes she didn''t kick her feet at that time. "Jin Er is not such a person." Tianzhu said suddenly. See forsythia and Jiang Ruan look over, she said seriously: "although Jin Er''s temperament is stubborn, on the surface it looks unruly, in fact it''s not a mess. Since he has made a marriage with dew, he won''t go to provoke other people." It was the first time for Tianzhu to speak for Jiner. But Forsythia didn''t listen and said, "Tianzhu, you don''t know. After all, you are a woman. Jiner is a man. In the East and in the west, they are happy to tie the heart of the day. Ordinary men are all ungrateful and thin hearted. In the end, they think differently from women. What''s more, you didn''t see the scene at that time today. Jin Er actually beat dew for a woman. If it''s really a misunderstanding, how can you beat up your wife for another woman? It''s because qingqingbaibai has no special relationship. I''m afraid it''s not believed. " Forsythia such words down is not to blame, Tianzhu will have nothing to say. Jiang Ruan frowned. She didn''t lose her sense of propriety because of Forsythia''s words. Although she was not happy with dewdrop, she noticed something unusual and said, "how can there be more women for no reason, Tianzhu? You can find out what the origin of that woman is. It''s so blatant that you come to rob me with my people. It''s too bold to sleep Tianzhu answered and went out. After Tianzhu left, the aggrieved Forsythia couldn''t help asking: "girl, I still believe that Jiner is OK. Is it the dew that misunderstood? But I still think that woman is hateful. Even ordinary women know that they should keep a distance from men who have other families. What''s more, that person looks like a lady who knows the rules. How could it be so casual? " "Since you can see that the woman has ulterior motives, how can I not?" Jiang Ruan''s eyes were deep and said, "this means is actually used by my people. It''s very good. I also want to know who is doing the mischief." She is too familiar with this woman''s means. She was in the palace in her previous life, but there are many ways for women in the harem to compete for favor. Such means are not very clever, but almost always win. It''s only because it''s instinctive for men to pity jade. Once they see the weak side, they will try to pity it. Dew drop is frank, and such a woman confrontation will not necessarily seek benefits, will only make Jin two heart tired. But brocade two and dew bead are brocade the person of the king mansion in the end, who has such courage, slant living to pick him? Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes and sipped his tea quietly. That night, forsythia, who was waiting for her teacher to ask questions, guarded the gate where Jin Er lived. Even Ye Feng, who came to inquire, was scolded by her, which made Ye Feng confused. Unfortunately, Jin Er didn''t go back to her house that night. Forsythia gas almost want to Jiner''s room, finally night Maple good or bad will Forsythia advised to go back, also have to give up. The next day it was sunny, and sunlight came into the room through the window. It was a clean and elegant room, which was not very gorgeous, but still spacious. There is a faint fragrance of orchid in the air, which makes people feel comfortable. There was a man lying on the soft couch. He was already sleeping soundly. I don''t know how long after that, when the sun came to his face, he woke up. There was still a light wine on his clothes. The wine became a little strong immediately after he moved. Jin Er wakes up in an instant when he opens his eyes. He suddenly sits up and sees a disheveled woman curling up in a corner of the soft couch. The woman covers her mouth, but she still can''t stop sobbing. She hits Jin Er''s heart like thunder. Just at this moment, the door was suddenly pushed open. Mother Zhou came in and said, "girl, breakfast..." The voice suddenly stopped. She seemed to be shocked for a moment. Then she turned and ran out in silence and closed the door tightly. But the woman seems to have finally broken the last string in her head, and her low sobs are suddenly amplified and burst into tears.The stunned brocade two return to mind, only a few fragmentary fragments of last night. He only remembers that after the dew left last night, he sent Liao Meng back to the house to find a doctor to look at her. Later, when he was in a bad mood, he went to the pub to have a drink. However, he was pulled back by Liao Meng. When Liao Mengchu came to the capital, he didn''t know where King xiaojinying''s residence was, so he had to take him back to his temporary residence. Then, then what happened, he didn''t remember. However, Jin Er looked at the wrinkled sheet, and his heart jumped. When he saw the stain on the sheet, he had already guessed something. "Miss Liao..." He said with difficulty. "You. You don''t have to say anything. Today I''ll leave for Jiangnan. This time, we''ll take it as if we haven''t seen it at all Liao Menghao easy to stop choking, finish this sentence, but tears can not stop flowing out. This words just fall, still don''t wait for brocade two answers, outside a person figure is suddenly rushed in, not others, it is mother Zhou. As soon as she came in, she knelt down straight in front of Liao Meng and cried, "girl, what''s the trouble? If it''s true, how can I explain to the dead Master and his wife?" Looking at jin''er, she kowtowed her head several times. Blood began to seep from her head. Mother Zhou choked and said, "second young master, please, give us a way to live. When such a thing happens, how can a girl get married in the future? That is to say, how can she live well in a family? As a girl, if you don''t talk about it at the moment, I''m afraid you''ll be short-sighted when you go back to your house. I promised my master and wife that I would bring up the girl well. I can''t bear to blame for this. Why don''t the second young master punish me? I''m willing to trade my life for the girl''s life "Mom Zhou, what are you talking about?" Liao Meng cried as well. "What''s the matter with you? Don''t hurt my heart with such words. It has nothing to do with the second young master. This is a misunderstanding. " "My girl, what a misunderstanding." Zhou''s mother was even sadder than Liao Meng: "you are my baby. How can I not know the girl''s temperament. Second young master, I''m begging you. Please give us a way to live. I know that the second young master has a sweetheart, but the girl looks good and has been raised by the princess. Without the second young master, she will be able to marry a good family in the future, but how can we marry without you? She is no match for the girl beside the princess. It''s all the fault of the old slave. The old slave doesn''t take good care of her. Second young master, look at our girl. She is gentle and knowledgeable. Second young master will like her. " The master and servant cried and said that they were all fighting to take the responsibility to themselves. Jin Er looked at his mother Zhou and Liao Meng in a trance. His brain was in confusion. His fingers suddenly touched something at his waist. He gradually came to himself. It was a small sachet sewn by dew. There were two small goldfish embroidered on it. It was very delicate and lovely. After a pause, he slowly reached for the sachet, looked at Liao Meng, took a deep breath, closed his eyes and said, "it''s all mine, not me. be responsible for. I will immediately explain to my mother and propose marriage to the Liao family. " How can anyone who bullies my mother get away with it? It''s not as good as dew and Lily! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 223 At noon the next day, jin''er finally entered the house under the witness of everyone. Housekeeper Lin was angry when he saw him coming back. Although he didn''t know what had happened, he let dewdrop, a little girl who had never been smiling, stay in the room and shed tears all night. Jin''er was a bit of a jerk this time. Although Forsythia did not say anything, but the palm print on dewdrop''s face is obvious to all. People with a clear eye can always guess some points. Although some are unbelievable, they can''t help thinking about it. So when Jin Er came back, housekeeper Lin immediately said what he had been hiding all night. Jin Er''s face looks even worse than housekeeper Lin''s, and seems to be very tired. Housekeeper Lin stops his spittle and says it for half an hour, but he sees Jin Er''s confused eyes gradually come to his senses. He doesn''t say anything. He just takes a look at housekeeper Lin and goes to the study. Lin housekeeper Leng for a while, way: "master son hasn''t returned to mansion, young madam is inside." Brocade two footstep didn''t stop, the path from go to there. Housekeeper Lin was a little strange at first, and then he knew it clearly, and said: "are you going to apologize? That''s good. Dewdrop is also the person around the young lady. You''ve beaten the young lady''s face by bullying her like this. It''s right to apologize. But Jin Er, don''t blame Lao Lin for not telling you that women are very fussy. You can''t easily ask for forgiveness today. You just need to remember that no matter what people say, you will have to bear it, but I also say that you are a good bully. What do you do... " Jin Er''s face is very ugly. Seeing this, housekeeper Lin thinks that he is sorry in his heart, but he doesn''t know what to say. Jin Er''s steps are fast, and he leaves housekeeper Lin behind. Jin San and Jin surround him. Looking at Jin Er''s expression, he is a little puzzled. Housekeeper Lin sighed: "what''s the matter?" "What happened to Jin Er?" Jin San and Jin Si grew up with Jin Er. They had brotherhood. This time, jin''er did something that even they didn''t feel authentic. If jin''er did it, they didn''t believe it. After all, jin''er had always been the one who cherished the best. However, they didn''t say anything when they came back the next day, and they were not sure. "Is he going to make amends to the young lady and dewdrop? I''m afraid it''s not that easy. " Jin San murmured. "Ah, follow up to have a look, persuade and don''t persuade to leave, brocade two afraid is also temporarily dizzy." Housekeeper Lin sighed and followed. Jiang Ruan was writing a letter in his study when he suddenly heard someone knocking at the door. Tian Zhu looked at it and said in a low voice, "young lady, it''s Jin Er." Jiang Ruan didn''t let dewdrop wait on her today. A good little girl''s eyes are swollen like peaches, and she is the same age as Hua. She has a high self-esteem. She is ashamed of such a thing, so she can''t walk around the house like nothing. So there are only Tianzhu and Forsythia in the room. After hearing that jin''er came, forsythia turned her eyes with disdain, but Jiang Ruan didn''t hear him. He just picked up a pen to write. This is to hang up jin''er on purpose. But who also didn''t think that brocade two unexpectedly is oneself push the door to open to walk in, he such big movement put in the usual days is really overstepping. Forsythia then urgent way: "you big courage! The young lady came in without letting you in. What''s the rule? " Jiang Ruan usually didn''t abide by any etiquette rules to his servants, and Jin Er was Xiao Shao''s confidants, so he didn''t have to be so careful. Forsythia said so today, on the one hand, she was shocked that Jiner didn''t even do the surface rules, on the other hand, she wanted to breathe for dewdrop. But after Jin Er entered the door, he didn''t say anything. The expression on his face was extremely embarrassing, and he still had a light taste of wine. The brocade two half kneels down, lowers the head way: "the subordinate is guilty, asks the Lord son to punish." Jiang Ruan still ignored him and wrote with every stroke. The room was silent and no one spoke. Even housekeeper Lin and Jin San Jin Si, who were standing outside the room, did not dare to speak. Everyone could see that Jiang Ruan was deliberately hanging Jin Er. It was understandable to think that dewdrop was Jiang Ruan''s personal servant girl. Being insulted like this was beating her in the face, although Jiang Ruan usually saw it With cold, in fact is the most short person, to brocade two can have what good facial expression. When Jiang Ruan didn''t speak, Jin Er couldn''t stand up either. Until the little pillar in the room was burnt out, Jiang Ruan put down his pen, shook the letter to dry, put it in the envelope and put it aside. Raise an eye to see toward brocade 2: "what matter?" In such a cold tone, Jin Er kept a half kneeling posture and said in a low voice: "young lady, I''m here for the dew." "I don''t know about dew, only Forsythia knows." Jiang Ruan light way. With Jiang Ruan''s approval, forsythia was able to vent the evil spirit in her heart since yesterday. She immediately said, "what''s the use of looking for dew now? Do you think a few good words can make dewdrop forgive you? Don''t treat everyone as a fool, thinking that every woman is devoted to you. Although dewdrop is not a lady of a wealthy family, she is also a well behaved and innocent girl. How can you make such a fuss? If you use the way to deal with the brothel girl on the dew, I''ll bah As soon as Forsythia was excited, she spoke out the words that she used to scold with those evil slaves in Chuang Tzu.Housekeeper Lin and Jin three Jin four outside the door shut their eyes. They said that Forsythia''s mouth is really sharp. If you want to offend anyone, don''t offend her. But Forsythia''s words seem to have a different meaning, the lady of a wealthy family? Who is this satirizing? Is it hard for Jiner to have a date outside? Jin Er, despite the dewdrop''s scolding, remained silent. Housekeeper Lin stroked his beard and said with some satisfaction, "if you can''t fight back, you can''t scold back. At least this attitude is good. Women''s families are always soft hearted. If you take the opportunity to say a few good words, you can make a fuss." "Young lady, I can''t marry dewdrop." Without waiting for housekeeper Lin''s words to finish, Jin Er''s voice rang out in the room. Silence, including Tianzhu all suddenly look to brocade two, Lin housekeeper opened mouth, a time unexpectedly is dumb, don''t know how already to. Forsythia held her heart, took a deep breath, and said: "don''t say these words to scare people, you..." "Young lady, I can''t marry dewdrop." Brocade two again said once more, this time his voice is firm, clear ring in the public''s ear. Jiang Ruan slowly took a sip of tea. Of all the people, she looked the most calm. She looked at Jin Er coldly, but her eyes were similar to Xiao Shao. "Why?" she said Jin two dynasty Jiang Ruan kowtowed a head, the tone is heavy: "is subordinate to live to the dew, this marriage, even if it." Forsythia''s eye circles immediately red, she and Angelica dew three people are from the most difficult days to support over, dew nature innocent, she also treat dew as her little sister. She is full of joy to see dewdrop know the marriage, but now it is from Jiner''s mouth to say cancel the marriage, she feels sad for dewdrop is not worth, but also want to go up and beat Jiner. She said, "you have no conscience..." "Your marriage with dewdrop depends on the two of you. If you do so, will dewdrop know and will she agree?" Jiang Ruan''s tone is gentle, but her eyes are extremely sharp. Jin Er has no way to answer her eyes for a moment. When I was silent, I heard a clear voice behind me: "I know it." Tianzhu also looked at the door, and then saw the dew coming from the door. She changed into a clean dress, and the delicate pink reflected her look bright. Her eyes were still red and swollen under the cover of the powder, but her expression was extremely calm. She walked in and knelt down beside Jin Er. She kowtowed to Jiang Ruan and said, "I beg the young lady to cancel the marriage with Jin Er." What she said is so serious that Forsythia wants to stop it. After all, the marriage is not a small matter to be angry with. But on second thought, Jin Er has no conscience, so how to persuade him is better than not to speak. Brocade three and brocade four already tightly frown, just can''t go in to open mouth rashly, Lin housekeeper is angry straight stamp feet, has been scolding brocade two elm pimple. Jiang Ruan quietly looked at the dew for a long time, then said: "dew, you don''t want to coax me." "I dare not deceive the young lady." Dewdrop said calmly, her expression is generous, her tone is clear, but it is similar to the appearance of Jiang Ruan. She said: "before the maidservant, this marriage was completed by the young lady, but now it is the end of love. Naturally, it should be easy to get together and disperse. Since Jin Er has taken the initiative to put forward it, it just goes well with the maidservant''s intention. This is just the reason why she wants to get together and disperse. She only asks the young lady to complete it once more I was afraid. It''s nothing to do with Jin Er. It''s just that the slave and he don''t have a relationship. " Although she was gentle, her words were tough, and there was no room for her to turn around. Jiang Ruan drooped her eyes. People couldn''t see her eyes clearly. She just slowly touched the lid of the white porcelain teacup and said, "you two have already discussed. Naturally, I have no room to say anything else. But since the marriage was cancelled, as dewdrop said, there has been no fate between husband and wife. Everything in the past is illusory. Since then, they have become strangers, married and married, and had children. When I think of it in my old age, it''s just a joke. " The coldness and cruelty that she said made the people present tremble. Yes, they had a chance to be the closest people, but in the end it was just a big dream. Each of them had their own marriage. On the surface, it seemed that it would be OK, but in the future, it would be a painful thing to think of. Especially these two people, people with bright eyes could see that they still invited each other. Jiang Ruan gently put the teacup on the table. In the silence, the sound of her action was like thunder hitting people''s hearts. Then more important than this is her words, she asked: "Jin Er, do you think about it?" This is a warning tone, which means that once Jin Er really decides to cancel the marriage with Lu Zhu today, Jiang Ruan will never let him get close to Lu Zhu again. The brocade two hears this words, but slowly hang down the head to go, feel a thing from the sleeve, the fist tight tight, just stretched to dew bead in front. The dewdrop took over. It was a small sachet with the pattern of goldfish embroidered on it. In order to get a good omen for a good marriage, now it was returned to its original owner, and they cut off the last possibility. Dewdrop still had some crystal in her eyes, but she covered up her gaffe with a quick smile. She kowtowed to Jiang Ruan and said with a smile, "thank you, madam."Forsythia don''t turn head, only tears finally can''t help falling down, ordinary people look at so, dew in the heart how to think can be imagined. Jiang Ruan light way: "good, as you wish." She also looked at the brocade two light way: "hope you don''t regret in the future." Brocade two facial expression is gray, for a moment unexpectedly seem to have lost all to depend on, the vision even some dead spirit is heavy, where still have the usual inside romantic handsome appearance. Housekeeper Lin sighs, says nothing, turns around and walks away. Jin San and Jin Si are a little at a loss. They thought that Jin Er''s coming back to the mansion today is just to admit their mistakes. In the end, they make up as good as ever. Who knows that they can make such a situation. Two people''s facial expression also gradually dignified rise, brocade two suddenly put forward to withdraw marriage, this is also too unusual. After Jin Er and Lu Zhu left, forsythia finally wiped her tears. Lu Zhu was wronged, but she cried fiercely. She only said: "this is too bullying, young lady..." "Don''t cry." Jiang Ruan''s eyes were a little cold. He only said to Tianzhu on one side, "what''s the origin of that woman, have you ever found out?" "Madam Hui, I found it, but..." She hesitated a little, then listened to Jiang Ruan''s words: "if you find it, you can say it." Jiang Ruan Xian rarely so cold and fierce, obviously just dew things have let her feel very unhappy. Tianzhu didn''t dare to hide it, so she said it immediately. Liao Meng is the woman who came to the capital to look for Jin Er. Before Jin Er followed Xiao Shao, he was the second young master of the Huang family in Jiangnan. When master Huang passed by Dingxi, he had a relationship with the Liao family in Dingxi. Not long after Mrs Huang gave birth to Jin Er, Mrs Liao also gave birth to Liao Meng. She felt that it was fate. That day, master Huang and master Liao got drunk and ordered a baby Pro, even Pro books. But then master Huang went back to Jiangnan and forgot about it. There has been no contact for more than 20 years, but who knows that Liao Meng suddenly came to the door. It was the Liao family that had changed. Master Liao and Mrs. Liao had died. All the relatives of the Liao family coveted the property of the Liao family. When Mrs. Liao left, she took out the marriage letter and asked Liao Meng to come to join the Huang family. Master Huang is a man of faith, but Mrs Huang is worried about her son''s rash marriage to another girl. Just as Liao Meng is not in good health, he wants to come to the capital to find a famous doctor to see him. By the way, he tells Jin Er about this matter. If Jin Er doesn''t agree, he can do it. That week, her mother was Liao Meng''s wet nurse, and she came to the capital with her. Tianzhu said, "when Miss Liao first came to the capital, she met jin''er. Jin''er made it clear that she had already been married to dewdrop, and Miss Liao was very reasonable. Only the doctor here said that it was not suitable to travel. Miss Liao said that she would go back to the south of the Yangtze River after she had recovered." "What she said is so good, but she will go back. It''s clear that she wants to rob dewdrop''s marriage. I don''t know how Jin Er is blind, but she is blinded by this kind of person." Tianzhu still hesitates. Jiner''s temperament is clear. What that woman has done so far can''t be seen to be wrong. She can even be called reasonable. How can she be like this? Tianzhu can''t see it, because what the royal guards do at least has nothing to do with the women''s fighting in the courtyard, but the hypocrisy of women can''t be seen by men, only women can. Tianzhu can''t see the means, but Jiang Ruan can see it. Even Forsythia who has been with her for a long time can see that it is wrong. This woman''s scheming is quite deep, leading Jin Er step by step to such a point, it is clear that there was a premeditation, and in the end, it turned into dew to make trouble without reason, and picked herself clean from it. "What''s the reason for the sudden withdrawal? It''s not about marrying another woman. " Jiang Ruan said coldly, "what happened last night, Tianzhu? Go and find out." Forsythia already to that woman hate gnash teeth, smell speech is some happy of ask a way: "little madam but want to vent for dew?" "It''s a little bit arrogant." Jiang Ruan looked at his sleeve corner indifferently, and suddenly laughed: "if you use these means on my people, you are not afraid of death." In the courtyard in the east of the city, the woman who was still crying in the morning and couldn''t support herself had changed into a clean dress. The light yellow embroidered orchid cotton jacket skirt was not too gorgeous and elegant, but also could show the woman''s slim waist. If it wasn''t for the worried look of a short and fat woman, it would be a good thing. Zhou''s mother looked at Liao Meng. She wanted to talk for several times, but finally she couldn''t help asking, "girl, is it really good for us to do this?" "What''s wrong with mom?" Liao Meng smiles slightly. Compared with the panic in the morning, she seems very calm at the moment. If you look carefully, you can even see a happy smile from the corner of her eyes. "I just feel that it''s too serious to take on the girl''s reputation. And if master Huang Er finds out about it in the future, how can the girl end up? Don''t blame me for thinking too much. After all, the girl is the daughter of the old slave. I can''t help worrying about this kind of thing..." Liao Meng said with a smile: "mother is worried. Young master Huang Er is smart. If he didn''t take on his reputation, how could he agree to this matter so easily. As for the marriage, "she seems to be a little shy:" I do a good job as a wife, the second young master is a good man, always live with me, these things, naturally will not be pursued. Mother thought I was more insidious? " Liao Meng lowered his head, and his voice became a little sad again: "my father and mother are no longer there, and those relatives are so greedy for me. I and I have no way. If someone like the Huang family misses it, my aunt and uncle will marry me to the son of the rice merchant as a concubine. Mom, I don''t want to be a concubine. The maid, since she and she are the people around the princess, can always find a better one. "After hearing this, mother Zhou was also very sad, so she said, "my girl, don''t make people sad by saying these words. If the master and his wife are still here, how can you let the girl use her reputation as a guide? The girl can''t help herself, and the slave knows. The second young master Huang is also a man. When the girl and the second young master get married, there is no man who doesn''t like the girl''s temperament. Naturally, the better the day will be. It''s all the old slave''s thoughts. Don''t blame me, girl Liao Meng laughs and says a few words to Zhou''s mother. Then she goes into the room to make medicine again. After Zhou''s mother left, Liao Meng went back to the house. The potted orchid in the middle of the room blooms brilliantly. It''s hard to support the orchids in such weather. It''s rare for them to bloom so well. Liao Meng gently caresses the petals of the potted orchid. The petals give off an extremely attractive fragrance. It seems that when he smells more, some of them make people dry. She slowly sat down in front of the dressing mirror, the beautiful woman in the mirror, a look will know that it is our daughter. If her parents were still there, she would not be obsessed with Jiner. But now that this is the case, people like the Huang family have gone through the village without this shop. Besides, Jiner is born well, and she is determined to win. How can a rough girl around a princess compare with a serious young lady from a rich family like her? She can win or lose with only a little means. As early as in Jin Er''s mouth, she knew that the dew was not tolerant. The more reasonable she was, the more guilty Jin Er was. Sometimes, she instigated quietly. Little by little, one day they would break up. However, this guilt alone is not enough to make the two break completely. Liao Meng slowly laughs and caresses the woman''s face in the bronze mirror. The failure of Jin Er''s marriage to Lu Zhu caused a lot of trouble in Jin Ying''s palace. On that day, the whole palace was dead, and it seemed that he was worried about it. And everyone didn''t expect that this was just the beginning. Since then, a series of big waves have sprung up in Jinying palace. On this day, forsythia and dewdrop are doing embroidery in the yard. In recent days, Dewdrop has finally recovered its former appearance. At least on the surface, it seems that there is no sad place. As long as we take the first step, it will be easy to say in the future. Dewdrop is talking with forsythia, then she sees a third-class servant girl in the outer yard running in in a hurry, shouting: "it''s not good, it''s not good." "What''s the matter?" Forsythia stood up and asked. The servant girl stopped at once, looked at the dew, and closed her mouth. Forsythia was surprised. She walked up to the little servant girl and said, "I''ll go out with you and have a look. Dew, look at the embroidered handkerchief for me first. " Dewdrop doubted him and nodded yes. When she got out of the yard, forsythia asked, "what''s the matter?" She guessed that it had something to do with dewdrop. As soon as the servant girl''s mouth was flat, she seemed to cry: "sister forsythia, there''s something wrong. It''s said that sister dewdrop is seducing other people''s fiance by relying on the power of the young lady!" As a digression, dewdrop girl has a good popularity. Let''s fight against injustice ~ all of you www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 224 Jinying palace is even more dull these days, almost colder than before Jiang Ruan passed by. But all the servants are always a little sad. If they don''t know what the reason is, they think that something terrible happened in Jinying palace. However, in fact, something really happened in King Jinying''s mansion. Although Xiao Shao, King Jinying, kept a low profile, he couldn''t stand the fact that he was too high-profile and his life experience was quite swanky. Whenever something happened, it would spread all over the capital quickly. What''s more, it''s not a matter of catching cats and dogs. Once it comes to men and women''s affairs, people''s interest will come. If you add a bully, oh, it''s a top priority in the teahouse. Dewdrop is about, I didn''t expect that it would become the topic of people''s street talk in my lifetime, but it''s really not a good thing. The people in the capital say that the princess of Jinying, Jiang ruango, is not a soft persimmon. At the beginning, she became Princess Hong''an who was recognized by Empress Yide. Then she married to Jinying palace. Finally, she even sued her own father, which is really tough. I didn''t expect that there would be more maids around me. It''s not true. Prince Xiao has a good man. He has already got an engagement with others in his hometown. But the maid beside the princess takes a fancy to the bodyguard. She lets the princess decide to ask for a marriage. Now the bodyguard''s fiancee came to the door. The bodyguard was really a man of love and righteousness. He refused to yield to the pressure of the princess. He still cancelled the engagement with the servant girl and wanted to fulfill his promise to marry a girl from his hometown. People always follow others'' advice, especially when they preach to each other. When it comes to the end, it''s not true. It''s just that a bully takes a fancy to a good woman and wants to buy and sell, but there''s a gap between men and women. In the end, the image of dewdrop in people''s mouth is an ugly woman who is vulgar, shrewd and unreasonable. That Miss Liao is gentle, considerate and beautiful. When the words spread to King Jinying''s house, everyone was angry. Dewdrop usually treats everyone very well. She is slandered for no reason. But now everyone in the capital is talking about it, and no one will listen to it. If you want to protect your weaknesses and teach those who chew your tongue a lesson, you can''t beat it. When Jiang Ruan heard these words, he didn''t say anything. He just asked Tianzhu to keep an eye on Miss Liao''s movements. As for dewdrop, she just laughed off after hearing these words. Maybe the more it hit her, it seemed that she had grown up a lot overnight and acted more steadily. But it was always hard for a careless girl to be like this. It''s Jin Er. Xu feels that he has no face to see dew. He doesn''t like to stay in the palace any more. On weekdays, he gradually became silent and almost became the second Jinyi. I heard from housekeeper Lin that he had written back to his hometown to discuss with his parents about the marriage with Miss Liao. I didn''t know. Forsythia for dew Ming injustice, but it is to find Jin two once, only scold him without conscience, that Miss Liao is not a good person, plain release such dirty water to the dew body. Dewdrop is an unmarried woman after all. Originally, only people in Jinying''s palace knew about her relationship with Jiner. Now it''s spread out and how much influence it has on dewdrop''s reputation. It''s hard for dewdrop to find a good family in the future. Brocade two silent listen to Forsythia scold, said this matter must not be Liao Meng, will find out the person behind to dew bead an account, the other is no longer willing to say. Forsythia is short of breath, then says to wait for brocade two to find out who is the person behind that in the end. On this day, there was a rare day in Jiangdong, with a faint smell of early spring. In the teahouse, the young man ran around to serve tea to all the guests. It was in the afternoon when the tea guests were chatting about the rumors in the capital these days while knocking on melon seeds. "It''s said that dewdrop, the maid beside the princess, is also overbearing. Not long ago, I heard that the bodyguard had already discussed the marriage with the original fiancee in his hometown. The maid also made a big scene in front of the princess. I see, it''s not over!" A thin man in a felt hat is mysterious. On the other hand, the fat man who talked with him said, "Hey, you don''t understand. It depends on the master to beat the dog. No matter how bad the servant girl is, she is also the person beside the princess. Naturally, the princess should be partial to the person in front of her. However, I heard that the young lady was a wealthy and reasonable woman. How could such a beautiful and gentle woman meet such a fussy servant? Ah, God is not a long-sighted man. These days, good people are hard to repay. " The two people said to themselves, but they didn''t notice the difference between the two men and women sitting in front of a tea table. The man clenched his fists and looked very gloomy. It seemed that he was trying his best to suppress his anger. The woman hesitated and wanted to stand up. The man grabbed her arm and stopped her. He said in a low voice, "Miss Liao, what are you going to do?" "Of course it''s for Miss dewdrop." Liao Meng was a little surprised, and then said with a smile: "is it difficult for the second young master to watch the dewdrop girl being talked nonsense like this? As you know, Miss dewdrop is not such a person. It''s not a gentleman''s job to allow someone to slander a woman''s reputation. "Jin Er was stunned, and then said in a deep voice: "this matter has not yet come to light. Even now, the explanation is futile. Let''s forget it. When I find out the person behind the trouble, the truth will come out." Liao Meng was stunned for a moment, hesitated for a while, still sat down in his seat, looked at Jin Er and said, "but it''s all because of me anyway. Second young master, it''s not like this. I, I think I''d better visit another day and tell Miss dewdrop about it in person. I want to make amends for her. It''s all because of me that you''re in such a situation. " "This matter has nothing to do with you," Jin Er lowered his head and said in a low voice: "it''s because I don''t have the fate to be a husband and wife with her. With her temperament, when you go to the palace, it''s not only impossible to solve, but more serious. I''m sorry for her, and I''m sorry for you. Even if I want to atone, it''s up to me. " Liao Meng lowered her eyes and looked at Jin Er''s clenched fist in front of the table. Finally, she patted him on the back of the hand and said, "it''s OK, second young master. Everything will be fine." That night, after taking a bath, Xiao Shao saw that Jiang Ruan was not reading on the couch as usual. Instead, he was staring at the screen in front of him. He didn''t know what he was thinking. He went to the edge of the cave and sat down. He asked in a low voice, "why do you look so ugly?" Jiang Ruan put his hand aside and said, "you''ve been busy these days. You haven''t seen people all day. Are you willing to come back and have a look at the mansion?" Xiao Shao also noticed the anger in the words. He looked at Jiang Ruan and asked, "is something wrong in the house?" "I''m not your good subordinate yet," Jiang Ruan sat up and looked at him very displeased. He said, "I''ve entrusted my girl to him, but I''m such an unreliable person who has done such a cruel thing. If he hadn''t been working under you, I would not have spared him." Xiao Shao was more confused. He frowned and said, "who are you talking about?" Jiang Ruan Bai glanced at him and told Xiao Shao what had happened in the mansion these days. When Xiao Shao is busy, he goes out early and comes back late. It''s because the royal guards report things to him, and it''s also related to the official affairs of the imperial court. How can we say these things about love and affection. So I really don''t know about Jiner and dewdrop. At last, Jiang Ruan said, "what are you going to do now?" "How?" Xiao Shao''s brow frowned more tightly, and he never interfered in his subordinates'' housework, so he looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "what do you want?" "Your own subordinates will teach you a lesson." Jiang Ruan made an effort to beat him: "in any case, the person who bullied me is the one who bullied me. Miss Liao gave it to me. As for Jin Er, you''d better beat him. It''s never so cheap." Xiao Shao touched her hair, held her in his arms and coaxed her into saying, "OK, I''ll find an opportunity to warn him. However, a Ruan, Jin Er has been following me for many years, and he has a sense of propriety. Miss Liao, don''t act rashly. There should be a misunderstanding about this. " Jin''er has been with Xiao Shao for many years. Xiao Shao is also a short guard. Xiao Shao is sure to protect jin''er. Jiang Ruan is too lazy to fight with him, but he is still a little unhappy in his heart. He has a word with Xiao Shao before he gives up. Only Xiao Shao said that he would warn Jin Er another day. Before that time, something happened again. The next day, dew is holding just ordered to finish small kitchen today to Jiang Ruan a new medicinal meal, careful after the order, ready to go back to the yard. Forsythia in the study to serve Jiang Ruan, dew went to the small yard, they heard the porter rushed to inform: "sister dew, there is a girl outside to find you." "Girl?" Dew a Leng: "what girl?" The porter scratched his head and said, "I don''t know her. She looks very pale. But the girl said that she is a friend of sister dewdrop. She doesn''t look like a bad person. Sister dewdrop, let''s go and have a look." Although dewdrop didn''t know how she would be familiar in the capital, she thought that it would be bad if there was something urgent to delay, so she patted her skirt and said, "OK, I''ll go and have a look." When I got to the gate of the mansion, I saw a woman in blue standing at the gate. She was also weak. Liu Fufeng''s eyes were elegant, and she could recognize the burnt ash dew. It was no one else. It was the miss of the Liao family, Liao Meng. Although dewdrop looks calm on the surface these days, how can she not be aggrieved and angry when such a big basin of sewage is poured over her heart? She was the most aggrieved person in the past. She was afraid of people''s worry and forced to smile these days. Now when she saw Liao Meng, she immediately linked up all the anger in her heart. It''s said that the person who spread the rumor behind his back has not been found out. Maybe it''s not Miss Liao. But in dewdrop''s eyes, even if it wasn''t Liao Meng''s slandering words, it was because of her. The smile on her face disappeared immediately. Looking at Liao Meng, she said coldly, "what are you doing?" "I, I''ve come to make amends to miss dewdrop." It seems that Liao Meng didn''t expect that dewdrop''s face would change so quickly, but maybe it was a girl from a wealthy family. She soon regained her peace, saluted dewdrop, and said: "I''ve heard rumors outside these days, and Liao Meng is deeply frightened. After all, it''s all because of me. If it wasn''t for Liao Meng''s mistake, dewdrop and ER Shao would be together Ye is still a couple, Liao Meng It''s all Liao Meng''s fault. ""I don''t deserve it." The dew is cold. Liao Mengmeng thinks about it. She suddenly reaches out and takes out a thick stack of banknotes from her purse. She looks at the dewdrop and says, "I ruined your marriage. In this life, I don''t expect your forgiveness. This banknote is the only thing I can do for you. Take it." The thick stack of banknotes was about the first two silver. Dewdrop was stunned at first. After hearing her words, she suddenly turned around. Her face was very angry, which was the shame of naked for her. Although she was a servant, to be fair, Jiang Ruan never treated her like other masters did. Dew was always at ease with Jiang Ruan. This is the first time that she has suffered such insults since she followed Jiang Ruan. She took a deep breath, not angry, but said with a smile: "if it''s really a lady from a rich family, the rules of making amends are complete, but it''s too stingy to show this sincerity." Liao Meng was stunned and then said, "Miss dewdrop, I''m coming to the capital now. This is all the silver I have. If Miss dewdrop doesn''t think it''s enough, then..." Liao Meng was stunned and then knelt down slowly. Looking at a beautiful and generous young lady kneeling down at the gate of Jinying palace for a maid, people can''t help thinking of the earlier rumors. At the top of Canada, someone had been watching for a long time. Although they didn''t know what they were saying, what they could see was that the young lady looked aggrieved and the servant girl was aggressive. At that time, someone scolded: "ah, this young lady is really poor. This servant girl is really bullying people. How can there be such aggrieved people? Well, all the girls kneel down in the street." "Yes, I just saw that the young lady gave her the silver. Look at the thick silver note. It''s too cruel to accept other people''s money and ask them to kneel down." A woman is a humanitarian. "I see that this is the servant girl beside the princess of Jinying palace a few days ago. The lady kneeling down is the fiancee of the bodyguard. It''s better to see her than to hear about her. The servant girl is as unreasonable as others say. But the lady is a poor girl. Ah, she''s a good girl. What''s the trouble?" Standing dozens of meters outside the gate of the mansion, forsythia and Jiang Ruan watched from a distance. These days, Jiang Ruan ordered that if anyone came to look for dewdrop, he would report it immediately. When he heard that someone was looking for dewdrop, forsythia and she would come and have a look. Sure enough, they saw this scene. Forsythia is very angry. Although she can''t hear what they say, she can tell what she''s up to by looking at the woman''s action. Now people outside are pointing at the dew. The dew is not dumb. Thinking of this, forsythia looked at Jiang Ruan and said anxiously, "young lady, when do we have to wait? Dew can be bullied by others." Forsythia doesn''t know why Jiang Ruan has already arrived, but she doesn''t say a word when she looks at what happened here. She doesn''t even come forward early to support the scene for dewdrop. Just listen to Jiang Ruan light way: "let her long memory.". Dewdrop is simple in nature. Since it is unavoidable, she will also see something clearly through it. Some women in the world are cruel and cruel in their means. It is easy for such people to solve the problem. Some women are used to making gentle covers. The more vicious they are, the more pure and kind they are outside. The struggle between women and women will inevitably come across dewdrops in the future. She will have to see it, so that she won''t be blinded by this beautiful knife in the future. " After hearing this, forsythia did not speak and stood aside silently. The first time that dewdrop met such a scene was that Jiang Ruan used to sit on one side of the town. The first time she met someone like Liao Meng who was used to playing tricks. The people around her look at a villain clearly. Dew is wronged in her heart. As usual, she will think about the face of the palace and swallow this tone. But looking at Liao Meng''s face of sincere regret, she still looks like a victim. As soon as her anger comes up, she thinks that if Jiang Ruan meets this situation, she will not swallow her anger. Since everyone says that she is bullying others, she can''t bear the bad name for nothing. Before they could react, they saw the dew quickly come to Liao Meng, who was kneeling, and raised her hand. All they heard was "Pa Pa Pa". Liao Meng''s face suddenly appeared clear fingerprints. The servants who were afraid to go out under the command of Jiang Ruan were stunned by the violence of dewdrop. Even Forsythia was a little surprised. Dewdrop''s mouth was fierce, but she was always the master of a gentleman''s mouth. Such a coquettish little girl slapped everyone in the face without blinking an eye. But Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing, and his eyes were full of admiration. Liao Meng didn''t expect that dewdrop said she would do it, and she was stunned by dewdrop''s slap. She forgot what to do next, but dewdrop looked at her and said with a smile: "I thought that although it was because of you, you may not be a bad person, but it was just a coincidence. Now I just see you kneel down, and I understand that I really do Wrong, how can there be such a rude and cheap person as you? I''m not the only one who wants to bully by this means. I also boast of being rich. I''m going to laugh. I''ll fight you today, and I''ll do justice for the girls who were bullied by you in those years! ""Dew As soon as he said this, he heard Jin Er''s voice ring. He was surprised by the scene in front of him. He almost didn''t hesitate to go to Liao Meng''s side and help her up. He said angrily, "how can you hurt people indiscriminately? Apologize!" "What a fart!" Dewdrop scolded: "it''s no more than three. I told you a long time ago. Don''t treat everyone as a fool. You slapped me at the beginning, but now I slapped her three times, and it''s not bad! " Dewdrop really has the talent to be a dandy. After such a talk, Jin Er is a bit dumb, and the disdain on her face is even more surprising, almost different from the usual. Liao Meng pushes away Jin Er''s hand and smiles at dewdrop, saying: "dewdrop girl has resentment in her heart. She should treat me as she should. This is what I deserve, even if I slap her." "What did I do to you?" Dewdrop had turned around and was about to leave. After hearing this, she turned around and sneered, "Miss Liao, what you said is that I forced you to kneel down? I forced you to give me money? This is what Miss Liao said to make amends for me. It''s Miss Liao''s own act. Is it true that Miss Liao''s so-called amends is to pretend to be hypocritical and ask someone to come and ask for a crime at the same time? This is the first time I''ve seen such kind of amends. " "Enough!" Brocade two interrupts the words of dewdrop, his facial expression already is very angry, a grasp dewdrop hungry hand way: "you are too excessive, if have resentment. You can vent your anger on me. Why take it out on irrelevant people. Sorry This is the heart of the dew to apologize, brocade two after all is martial arts, so a grip on the hands of the dew hard strength, dew almost be his pinch pain tears fall down, but stubborn stare at her don''t speak. "It''s so lively outside. I don''t know when any cat or dog will be able to make trouble in front of Jinying palace." A voice with a smile came from the door, but I don''t know why it was in the ears of people outside. It was groundless and made people feel nervous, including Liao Meng. When she looked up, she saw a beautiful woman in red come out from the door of the mansion, followed by a group of servants. She was still smiling and her tone was very gentle. But when she looked at her eyes, they were like sharp blades, which made people feel cold. "Young lady..." When dewdrop saw Jiang Ruan, her eyes were red. Jiang Ruan came out to support her. Jin Er and Liao Meng haven''t spoken yet, but Jiang Ruan looks at them and says: "Jin Er, I don''t know what you have to do with this girl, and what kind of grudge you have. But just now I really seem to hear that people around me say that my servant girl bullied others with my momentum, but the girl came to me on her own initiative. I don''t care what the reason is. She said that my servant girl was talking about me, and that I was talking about the face of Jinying Palace. Do you want to smear the face of the palace for your private affairs? " The words are soft but indisputable, which clearly means "yes, the protection is short". Jin Er lowers his head and says in a deep voice: "Jin Er doesn''t dare." "I know you know the rules. No rules, no square. "Jiang Ruan said with a smile," now, take this girl who doesn''t know where to come from and go away. " Liao Meng''s hands trembled and looked up at the woman. The woman''s lips were still smiling, but her eyes were cold. There are some women in the world who are cruel and superficial in their means. They are easy to solve. Some women are used to doing gentle things. The more vicious they are, the more pure and good they are. "Ah Ruan encouraged us all. When we met this kind of bichi, we would slap her in the face first, and then let her vent ~ again www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 225 After the dew followed Jiang Ruan back to the house, she was still standing on one side. For a long time, Jiang Ruan raised her head. The dew suddenly turned red and said in a low voice, "my servant is wrong. Please punish me." "What''s wrong?" Jiang Ruan looked at her and asked. Forsythia moved her lips, but she didn''t say anything. Dewdrop said: "maidservant should not quarrel with others at the gate of the palace, and let the palace become the laughing stock of others." Jiang Ruan shook his head: "you are wrong. It is not here that is not at fault. You made the mistake of being too polite to that woman at the beginning. I thought you had been with me for such a long time, and I could see clearly the heart of the people. I don''t want you to be too upright, but I can''t blame you. " Jiang Ruan lowered his eyes: "since that man dares to make trouble at the gate of the palace, he has no fear. Maybe he has some back moves. Don''t go out these days. Leave it to me. " After hearing these words, Dewdrop wanted to cry. Even her grievances were hidden in her heart, but Jiang Ruan''s words seemed to make her find a backbone in a moment. Jiang Ruan used to protect her weaknesses. At the beginning, it was hard for anyone to say that one of Jiang Xin''s words was not good. Now she is also sheltered. It seems that with Jiang Ruan, she was not so sad. After a pause, she hesitated and said, "this matter. Will the young lady have a conflict with the royal guards? " No matter how Jiner is not, she is always a member of the royal guards, just like Forsythia is on her side unconditionally. Jiang Ruan''s face in front of the public makes Jiner''s mind hard to think, and may even lead to misunderstanding between Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan''s husband and wife. "Don''t worry," Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "there is no reason for his subordinates to have prejudice against the master. If it wasn''t for Jin Er''s face today, I would have had them beaten out." The dewdrop stopped talking. Outside the mansion, jin''er picks up Liao Meng and goes into the carriage. Mother Zhou is in the carriage. Liao Meng doesn''t allow her to come down. Mother Zhou doesn''t know what happened outside. When she meets jin''er, she is stunned. Then she sees the palm print on Liao Meng''s face. She is even more frightened. Some of her hands are busy and say, "Oh, my girl, what''s the matter with you? Who hit this? My God, this piece is so swollen. Girl, why don''t you let me follow you Jin Er was ashamed and said, "it''s all my fault. I didn''t take good care of Miss Liao." "It''s none of your business." Liao Meng interrupts him anxiously and says to his mother: "mother Zhou, I have nothing to do. Just now there is just some misunderstanding. Second young master, go and do your own business first. The affairs in the palace are complicated. It''s not the best way for you to accompany me all the time. It''s still early now. I think you have something important to do. I''ll just go back with mother Zhou. " Jin Er thought about it and said, "you are a weak woman. What if something happens on the way? It''s a risk to come to the palace today. Let me send you." "It''s really unnecessary," Liao Meng said with a smile. "Besides, Miss dewdrop has misunderstood me just now. You''re sending me like this, but it''s getting more and more difficult for them. It doesn''t matter. The coachman knows the way, and mother Zhou and I won''t make any mistakes in broad daylight. It''s the second young master himself. If he annoys the princess, will it affect what you do in front of the prince. When I think about it, I really think it''s all my fault today. It''s always troubling you. " The words were mildly and mildly, but people didn''t know how to deal with them. Jin Er''s face changed and said, "I said it has nothing to do with you. You don''t have to worry about it all the time. In that case, I''ll leave and come back to see you later. You and mother Zhou are careful on the way. " Liao Meng nodded and said yes. He put down the curtain of the carriage with a smile. The crowd of onlookers had dispersed. Brocade two then also turn over to mount a horse, toward the opposite direction gallop but go. In the carriage, mother Zhou fondly stroked Liao Meng''s face: "girl, the servant girl is too cruel. The red seal will last for several days, but she is really cruel. How can the second young master want such a woman?" As soon as she touched her skin, she felt a burning pain. Dew really used her full strength. Half of Liao Meng''s face was so swollen that she could hardly see its original appearance. Liao Meng gritted her teeth and said, "I didn''t expect her to be so cruel." Her original plan today was to focus on dewdrop. Originally, this weak posture was done, and her compassion was also beaten. Dewdrop, a person with shallow brain, had no choice but to suffer losses. But I didn''t expect that the girl looked honest, but she was a shrewd one in her heart. These three slaps almost confused her. I didn''t expect that she would suffer such a loss today. However, what makes Liao Meng feel more palpitating is the woman in red who came out from the gate of the palace, the young lady Jiang Ruan of Jinying palace. She had already inquired about Jiang Ruan''s affairs before she came here. She knew that this woman was smart and powerful. She didn''t want to see her with her own eyes today. When she was seen by those eyes, she felt that her strength was not as strong as that she had seen in person. Those eyes are smiling on the surface, but the sharpness of them is shocking. It seems that when they are seen by those eyes, there is no escape for what they think. Moreover, Jiang Ruan''s protection of dew is almost naked. Zhou''s mother was still distressed and asked: "girl, let''s go to the drugstore to get some medicine now. The wound on her face will dissipate earlier. The girl''s heart is too dark. How can we choose the face?" "No, mom Zhou," Liao Meng said, "I''m not feeling well. I''d better go back to my house and lie down for a while." There is no such cheap reason in the world. Since the dew has slapped her three times, the three slaps will come back from the dew sooner or later. What about Jiang Ruan''s protection? What she wants is her protection. If she doesn''t, it''s strange. The more protection, the more interesting it will be in the future. Liao Meng slowly stroked his red and swollen cheek, and an imperceptible smile rose from the corner of his mouth. Jiang Ruan in front of the door of Jinying palace countless people to watch the excitement of the face of Jiner, this matter but a stick of incense will spread throughout the Jinying palace, or spread to the mouth of everyone in the capital. The servants in Jinying''s mansion keep quiet day by day. Since Jiang Ruan became a princess, he seldom put on the airs of the princess. Although his temperament is not lively, he is always gentle to the servants. The servants make mistakes occasionally and don''t pursue them. He is a generous master, and everyone likes him very much. This is the first time that he expresses his displeasure with the royal guards and even takes them Put on the princess''s airs. If it''s just because of their own affairs, it''s just because of the housework, and the palm and the back of the hand are all flesh. Although people all think that Jin Er really did something wrong, but the royal guards never care about the housework and feelings, and it doesn''t make sense. Moreover, Jin Er is also a partner who grew up together, so it''s impossible to break the relationship. In a short time, the family has become a very different place Jiang Ruan''s men and the royal guards don''t talk to each other. Yefeng finds Forsythia several times, but now she doesn''t like the royal guards, so she doesn''t look good at him. Not only the relationship between the servants was delicate, but also the relationship between Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan became more delicate. Originally, Xiao Shao was very busy today, and they didn''t have much time to meet each other. There was such a bad thing in the house. Jin''er is also Xiao Shao''s subordinate. Xiao Shao doesn''t punish jin''er for his own housework. Jiang Ruan is a person who can''t tolerate sand in her eyes. It''s impossible for her to quarrel with Xiao Shao because of her temperament. She is indifferent. Xiao Shao doesn''t seem to be aware of it. Women always have to be sensitive. Unconsciously, she is estranged and alienated And it was born. On this day, Dewdrop was teaching some new servant girls to pay attention to some things. Suddenly, she heard the little servant girls scream one after another. Before she understood it, she saw a black shadow stride over. When she came in front of her, she felt a pain in her wrist, which was already painful. She raised her head and saw a familiar face. It was Jin Er. However, the face of Jiner at the moment is not as cynical as it used to be. It is not as silent and speechless as it was a few days ago. At the moment, the expression on this face is a little angry and disappointed. Dew has not yet opened his mouth, brocade two will first sound grab humanity: "why do you want to do this?" This words ask of have no head and no brain, pour teach dew a moment some be at a loss, only brocade two put out this a pair of teacher to ask a crime of appearance, pour is to make her infuriate to heave up, immediately unwilling to show weakness of roar back: "what how to do? What are you learning in broad daylight? Mad dogs bite people Jin Er grabs her hand and bites her teeth and says, "it''s because of me. I''m sorry for you, but how can you be so kind-hearted and make people do that to Liao Meng?" "You let me go!" The hand that dewdrop is grasped by him hurts. In a rage, she bites Jin Er''s wrist. Jin Er looses her hand when she feels pain. Dewdrop takes the opportunity to break free, and a circle of red and swollen marks appear on her slender wrist. The dew said angrily, "what kind of thing? I tell you, there are one or two ways to pour dirty water on others, but no more, you don''t want to use it on me again Dew was knocked by Jiang Ruan, and when she saw Jin Er again, no matter what it was like in her heart, at least she was calm on her face. If she should scold, she would scold and beat. She would never miss the past. Such a stranger''s appearance has made Jin Er slightly surprised, and then he frowned, looked around and gathered together to look at the maid here. Regardless of the dew''s opposition, he pulled up the dew''s hand and went to the rockery side of the garden in the mansion. He tried his best to lower his voice, but still could not help leaking a trace of suppressed anger: "do you want someone to harm her?" Dewdrop originally saw that he was doing so just for Liao Meng''s sake. She was very sour in her heart. When she heard him say this again, she would not be angry but smile and said, "Jiner, you feel your conscience and ask, you and I don''t know each other all the time. What kind of person am I? It''s never my dew to trip people in the gutter. It''s your fiancee... " She sneered: "the thief shouts to catch the thief!" Brocade two grasps her hand again is a tight, Dewdrop frown, look at him, suddenly discover brocade two''s eye socket unexpectedly is a little red, she forbeared to endure, finally stiff of ask a way: "what happened to her?" "Last night, someone broke into her yard and occupied her body. Although someone later rescued her but failed, her innocence was destroyed." The brocade two low voice way, seem a word a sentence is to squeeze out from the teeth. Dew smell speech is a little surprised at first, then a nameless fire rises from the heart, said with a smile: "do you think this is what I do?" "If it''s not you?" Brocade two hoarse voice asks a way. Dew suddenly raised her head to see him. Her eyes were as fierce as a lion. She looked into Jin Er''s eyes and said, "it''s not me." Jin Er let go of her hand. It seemed that she was a little tired. Dewdrop turned around and left. After two steps, she turned around and saw that Jin Er was still standing at the rockery. She went to stand in front of Jin Er and asked, "how do you think I did it?" "The masked man caught," Jin Er breathed, but his expression didn''t seem relaxed. On the contrary, it was very complicated. He continued: "the man who admitted to giving him the silver came out of King Jinying''s house." Liao Meng was almost polluted at night. The next day, the story of his innocence spread all over the capital. Now the story of jin''er, Liao Meng and dewdrop has become a hot topic in the capital. Every once in a while, there are some disturbances, which makes the people in the capital have endless talks every day. Although those masked people didn''t succeed in the end, such a thing was spread all over the city, and Liao Meng''s reputation was over in his life. However, for her, people''s sympathy is more, but more is secretly speculate who is behind, then some people feel that this matter and the servant girl in the palace can''t get away from it, no matter how the outside world speculates, it''s Liao Meng who always suffers. However, Liao Meng''s result is better than that of other daughter''s family. That is, Jin Er is still a man with feelings and intentions. He doesn''t dislike him or settle the engagement because of this. In this way, in the eyes of the people in the capital, the two people are a perfect match. After all, not all couples who can experience wind and rain can do it. In the courtyard, Zhou''s mother brings a medicine bowl to Liao Meng to drink. The medicine is also bitter, but Liao Meng drinks it without frowning. Mother Zhou is also very haggard recently. Liao Meng is the one who blames herself most for her failure to protect Liao Meng. She has to go to the Yamen every day to catch the person behind the scenes. After Zhou''s mother gave Liao Meng the medicine, she went out of the door. After Zhou''s mother left, Liao Meng got out of bed. She was frightened and sick in bed these days. She always looked a little frightened. But if someone saw her now, she would be surprised. Liao Meng looked calm and even smiling. She went to the dresser and sat down. She took out a small box from one side There was a small folded letter in the box. She slowly opened the letter and quickly read it. Then she tore it into pieces and threw it into the wastepaper basket she used to throw. This just slowly sat back on the bed, looking out of the window. When things get to this point, they are more successful than they think. The most important thing in the world is the people who protect their weaknesses. To set up a situation according to a person''s temperament is to seize the most vulnerable part of the human heart. As long as you are human, you will have weakness in your heart. The colder you look, the more sand you can''t tolerate in your heart, and the higher your requirements for your feelings are. In this way, conflicts will arise, and the door of Jinying palace will be opened. Of course, in this way, for her, it was just for her own interests that people would not be killed for themselves. Liao Meng''s guess is good. It''s not only dew that has an impact on Jiner''s affairs. For example, at this moment, Jiang Ruan looked at Xiao Shao and said angrily, "do you doubt me?" Xiao Shao was silent for a moment. On that day, jin''er impulsively came to ask questions, which made Jiang Ruan''s anger finally uncontrollable. He had made the dew sad before, but now the dirty water was poured on her. Jiang Ruan despised the young lady of the Liao family, and he was really angry. At that time, he was about to drive jin''er out of the royal guards. But Xiao Shao stopped him. Jin Er had been with Xiao Shao for many years. For Xiao Shao, it was just like the position of Angelica dahurica dew to Jiang Ruan. There was an unwritten rule in the royal guards. The housework of his subordinates had nothing to do with the official affairs of the royal guards. Xiao Shao would not expel any royal guards from the Royal Guards for their own private affairs. Although Jin Er didn''t think about what he did, it had nothing to do with serious business. The rules of the royal guards are strict and can''t be changed. Xiao Shao to serve the public, since also can''t hastily dispose of Jin two. Only one of the masked men who attacked Liao Meng that day was caught. The man said that someone had given them money to do the business. The person behind didn''t know who it was, but it seemed that it was someone from King Jinying''s mansion. Originally, Jin Er thought it was dewdrop, but dewdrop''s servant girl couldn''t get as much money. Besides, Dewdrop''s temperament was not so penny pinching. Naturally, the suspicion fell on Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan was ruthless and ruthless in his tactics, and he was never merciful in his actions, especially to those who were unhappy with him. That Liao dream bullied dew drop, with Jiang Ruan short temperament, how can not get back. The trouble that Liao Meng was looking for was just like her handwriting with Jiang Ruan''s temperament and money. Jiang Ruan wanted to get rid of jin''er, but Xiao Shao refused. He even said that Jiang Ruan shouldn''t interfere in this matter. In a hurry, Jiang Ruan said, "do you doubt me?" "I didn''t mean that." Xiao Shao said: "it''s just that it''s his housework. There''s no reason to intervene." "Your subordinates are people, but my servant girls are not people?" Jiang Ruan said inconceivably, "Xiao Shao, I also told you that I didn''t do this, it has nothing to do with me! I don''t admit this sin. You have to protect your shortcomings, and I have to protect mine. Since each has his own ideas, there''s no need to say anything! " She put the book heavily on the table, turned and went out. This is the first time that the couple have quarreled since they got married. What''s more, they have nothing to do with it. But Xiao Shao was cold-blooded, and Jiang Ruan had a strong sense of self-esteem. The cold war was even more terrible than dew and Jin Er''s. Xiao Shaoping is obedient to Jiang Ruan and strict with the royal guards. Unfortunately, he is also a short guard. Compared with Xiao Shao, Jiang Ruan is more paranoid. Maybe she can''t tolerate any wrongs from people around her. Once Xiao Shao shows a little attitude of protecting Jin Er, she can''t help being more sensitive I think it''s more extreme. Xiao Shao is also more and more busy, misunderstanding can not be explained, the invisible gap between the two is also more and more deep.On the contrary, Dewdrop was very worried about Jiang Ruan. Looking at the back of Jiang Ruan sitting in the study, she whispered to Forsythia: "the young lady has nothing to do these days. I''m always worried that she will keep everything in her heart. The Lord hasn''t returned to her house these days. How good is that?" Forsythia shook her head and said: "the young lady is stubborn, but the Lord is not a person who can say sweet words. Naturally, it''s not good. Not to mention them, how can you live? I don''t think that brocade two is a good match. You are probably sad in your heart. " Now that Jiang Ruan has become the object of suspicion, he and Jin Er say that the son doesn''t kill Bo Ren, but Bo Ren dies. Dewdrop is also the indirect cause of Liao Meng''s accident. Jin Er and dewdrop are really strangers now. And Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao were like this, so naturally, dew had a hard time in her heart. Dewdrop lowered her head: "this is what I caused. Originally, it was only my own business. It was not my fault that made my uncle and young lady unhappy. But forsythia, in my heart, I feel that all this is the ghost of Liao Meng. If you think I''m vicious, it may not be karma that Liao Meng will encounter this. I think she is the root of the anger of my uncle and young lady, and she is the villain. " Forsythia nodded dewdrop''s head: "you girl don''t worry about your own affairs. Don''t worry. Young lady is so smart and used to hold people''s heart. She won''t catch other people''s way. Let''s just do our own business. " Dewdrop sighed: "it''s because the young lady can hold people''s heart and use her usual eyes to speculate about my uncle, that''s bad. The young lady can guess everyone''s heart, but she can''t understand her own. " As they were saying this, they heard a little girl outside telling them, "young lady, here comes Mr. Qi." Xiao Shao is not in the house at the moment. When Jiang Ruan comes out of the house and goes to the yard, he sees Qi Feng coming from outside. He doesn''t know what he is doing these days. Even though he is very close, he hasn''t visited him. Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "Why are you here? It''s rare. " "A few days ago, a friend came to the capital, went to receive for a while, did not care to come over, third sister-in-law don''t get angry," Qi Feng said with a smile: "I know I''m wrong, this is not, specially send things to make amends." What he said was a square box, and he didn''t know what it was. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "there is no one who comes to the door with gifts. I''m not a tavern for collecting money." Don''t be in a hurry, the bad guys will surely abuse you. The higher you jump, the worse you fall www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 226 Qi Feng laughed and said, "it''s just something new. I haven''t seen any good things in the palace. I''m just offering my ugly face." After a pause, he said, "to tell you the truth, I heard something happened in the palace." Since Qi Feng has said that, he must have heard the whole story. He and Xiao Shao are both brothers. He is also managing the affairs of Xiao Shao''s baizhanglou. Naturally, he has a lot of friendship with the royal guards. Since he is a member of the royal guards, he has to stand on the side of the royal guards. For Qi Feng, maybe he is also on the side of Jin Er. Jiang Ruan said with a faint smile: "Oh, is it difficult to be a criminal?" Dewdrop had a great influence on her. She was used to speaking with a gentle attitude. Maybe she was in a bad mood these days, or Qi Feng was an acquaintance. She didn''t need to be a mask in front of an acquaintance, so there was some irony in her words. That way doesn''t need to, Qi Feng Dynasty courtyard stone table empty a finger, say: "pour not if sit down to chat." Jiang Ruan nodded, and they sat down at the stone table in the courtyard. Forsythia offered tea and refreshments and retreated to one side. Looking at the tea, Jiang Ruan still had a smile on his face, but his tone was a little chilly: "is it difficult for Qi Feng to think that it was all my servant girl''s fault, and that Miss Liao was also the one I sent to destroy her innocence?" "According to the third sister-in-law''s hatred of evil, it is very likely to do it." Qi Feng stroked his chin with a smile. Now he has shaved off all his beard, but he still keeps his original habit. This kind of action seems to be a bit abrupt. However, he obviously doesn''t feel it. He still looks at Jiang Ruan''s face with a smile and says: "but if the third sister-in-law takes the hand, how can he let Miss Liao escape? The third sister-in-law''s means have never failed, so the person behind it can never be the third sister-in-law. " This words say coincidentally, but Jiang Ruan also smile: "you mean, I do bad person but also bad, so pity bad person I have no qualification not to do?" "No, no," Qi Feng waved his hand: "I mean sister-in-law San is brave and does everything without leaking. Such a poor and leaky plan will never be made by sister-in-law San." When Jiang Ruan heard the speech, he looked at him with a smile and said, "do you want to please me when you say that? Don''t you worry about it spreading to the royal guards? " "There are always no two sides," Qi Feng sighed. "Can''t Qi Feng be the two sides of the wall grass in the eyes of the third sister-in-law?" Qi Feng said with a smile: "since the third sister-in-law and the royal guards have become two sides, I am unconditionally on the third sister-in-law''s side. Then what, we are doing the important thing of burning the granary together. There is always some friendship in need. The third sister-in-law can rest assured that I am absolutely righteous." Looking at Jiang Ruan with a smile and no words, his expression was obviously softer. Qi Feng breathed in his heart and continued: "but the third sister-in-law didn''t think about the person behind this?" "The man behind it?" Jiang Ruan said faintly: "I want to find out, but now your third brother is away from home day by day. I have nothing to say with him about this. The royal guards are his people, and I can''t help them. What''s more, I don''t have any way to find people who his people can''t find. After all, it''s not my hand. Maybe it''s a play played by the woman herself "Acting?" Qi Feng was a little surprised: "this. Although it''s very possible, fame is more important to a woman than her life. If the Liao girl really played such a play, would she sacrifice too much? It''s a loss business. " "Loss business?" "So men and women always look at things differently. Fame is really important to a woman, but if she can get what she wants, fame is not important. It''s worth the sacrifice. In your eyes, it''s a way to hurt the enemy and destroy the enemy. But day after day, you will find that it''s nothing to do with her. It''s just a little gossip "You say that, but the woman made money? But I still don''t understand. " Qi Feng is confused. Jiang Ruan took a look at him and found that Rao Shiqi Feng was extremely clever and showed his strength in the court. But after all, the Houzhai was a different battlefield from the former dynasty. Men can never tell the secrets of women. Qi Feng thinks so, Xiao Shaojin two''s idea can be imagined, this may be the difference between men and women. She smile: "well, I ask you, what is the background of the Liao girl now?" "My parents died, I was alone, I had money, and my relatives were looking at me." Qi Feng thought about it and added a few words: "now the only dependence is the marriage with Jin Er." "That''s right. If you were her, what else could you do now?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Jin two language plug, dull way: "three elder sister-in-law, I am not a woman, you this analogy also really too, too strange some." Jiang Ruan did not take his words and continued: "the only way for such a weak woman with family wealth to keep her family wealth from being shaken by her relatives is to find a good backer. Jin''er''s life experience and residence are good. Compared with Liao Meng, there is no better choice now. What''s not good is that Liao Meng has to hold on to the shop after passing the village. People who want to climb mountains, no matter how many choices they have on the road, their ultimate goal is to climb mountains. In the same way, Liao dreams of marrying into Jin Er Fu. No matter what he does or sacrifices, as long as he gets what he wants in the end, the deal is not a loss. "Qi Feng did not blink when he heard Jiang Ruan''s voice, but he was very clear and calm: "OK, let''s see the possible consequences of this. Now it is well known that Liao Meng has been insulted by others. The whole capital knows that she is the victim and the one who is sympathized with. Jin Er has lost a good reputation in the whole capital if she does not cancel her marriage now. Even if some people say that Liao Meng is not worthy of Jin er, it is only a small part. When jin''er and Liao Meng get married in the future, they will say it''s a match made in heaven. On the contrary, dewdrop and I are villains now. Since Jiner suspects that I am responsible for this, he will contact Liao Meng more. Qi Feng, you said that he had sacrificed his reputation. At worst, he was said by a small number of people, but he was blessed by everyone. His husband pitied him and killed the woman who had been involved with his husband. Is the Liao girl still at a loss? " Qi Feng was stunned. After a moment, he shook his head with a bitter smile and said, "I thought I was smart, but my sister looked like a fool in front of my third sister-in-law. Now it seems that she is not the third sister-in-law. Miss Liao can almost play me with applause. It''s true that Miss Liao''s family is not an ordinary person. " Qi Feng thought, and suddenly looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "it''s just the third sister-in-law. Since you have already seen her mind, according to you, it may be a bureau set up by Liao Meng. Why don''t you tell the third brother about it?" Jiang Ruan lowered his eyes: "tell him what to do, Xiao Shao is a confident man, he has his own judgment, since he has his own judgment, how can others believe what they say, but it only adds trouble." "The third sister-in-law''s words are not right," Qi Feng interrupts her words: "you know that the third brother is not such a person. Third sister-in-law, I don''t think you want to Although Qi Feng is not as good at guessing people''s minds as Jiang Ruan, and he has been with Jiang Ruan for so long, he probably knows Jiang Ruan''s temperament. Jiang Ruan is a somewhat awkward person. The first time her husband and wife appear normal, she doesn''t want to bow her head, and even refuses to explain. This may be another kind of arrogance. If you change the thick skin, you will say good things again. However, the effort of coaxing will be as good as ever, but the other party is Xiao Shao. Thinking of this, Qi Feng is also a little depressed. Jiang Ruan saw his mind, feigned anger: "you don''t say good things for Liao Meng, but for Xiao Shao. If you say good things for him, forget it as soon as possible. I don''t have time to drink tea with you." "Hey, hey," Qi Feng said, touching his nose, "no, no, how can I be such a person? I mean, the third elder brother is too shameful. Don''t be angry, third sister-in-law. Look at the gadget I brought you." Qi Feng went to open the box on one side. There was a round box carved with wood in the box. Jiang Ruan took it and saw that there was a little man carved on the box. The lid could still be opened, so he opened it subconsciously. Immediately, a fluent music came out. She was surprised and looked at Qi Feng. Qi Feng said with a smile, "my friend Fang came back from business on the sea. It''s from a western country. It''s called eight music box. There''s music playing in it. It''s interesting." Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing. In fact, she lived in different places in her past and present life. Although she didn''t have the chance to have some exquisite things, she had seen many treasures. It''s not a valuable thing, but it''s more interesting than novelty. It''s rare. After a long time, Qi Feng finally saw that Jiang Ruan was no longer a polite and gentle smile, but a heartfelt smile. He was relieved and said, "do you like her? If you like, don''t go there yourself He seemed to think of something and said, "he also has many things in Yibao Pavilion. I don''t know if his third sister-in-law has ever been there. If not, why don''t you go and have a look now. Anyway, Yibao Pavilion belongs to our family. Maybe there''s something else to look at. " Jiang Ruan was stunned. She didn''t go to Yibao Pavilion for a long time. She knew that it was Xiao Shao''s property. When she went to Yibao Pavilion, she was not married to Xiao Shao at that time. She went to hang out with Dong Yinger and Zhao Jin. She was shocked by the price. At that time, she offered to get a treasure shield for Jiang Xinzhi. Now it seems that she is separated. After thinking for a while, she said with a smile to Qi Feng, "good." Now it''s Qi Feng''s turn to be silly. He just talks and plays at will. After all, Jiang Ruan is a princess now. He can''t always walk with a foreigner. Although he can''t get close to Xiao Shao, he always thinks that Jiang Ruan''s exquisite mind doesn''t necessarily mean that he didn''t find his mind. Jiang Ruan, who can''t rub sand in his eyes, can say good things so frankly Two words, Qi Feng is also temporarily stupefied looking at him not to speak. "What''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan seemed to notice his eyes and said with a smile, "why, you are busy, so you don''t want to go out with me? I''m going to bother you this time, but I''ll count it in the future. " Qi Feng had just recovered. He was also a lover. Jiang Ruan, a woman, was so calm. It was strange for him to refuse again. Moreover, the great Jin Dynasty was not so harsh on the women who had become relatives. As long as there was no intimacy, it was OK. Thinking that Jiang Ruan is not happy in the mansion recently, it''s better to go out and relax. He laughed and said, "how dare you, I''m going to prepare the carriage." Forsythia is still hesitant. If Jiang Ruan goes out with Qi Feng like this, how does it seem that Qi Feng deliberately comes to dig the foot of the wall. Every time Qi Feng looked at Jiang Ruan in his eyes, his eyes were a little different. As Jiang Ruan''s close servant girl, forsythia noticed, and she muttered in her heart. Dewdrop didn''t worry so much. She just said, "young lady, how long have you been trapped in the house these days? It''s better to go out for a walk. Childe Qi is not only a friend of my uncle, but also a proper person."Tianzhu said: "I will protect them. Forsythia, you and I will go. Dew stays in the house. If you meet Liao Meng on the street, you may have trouble again. " Tianzhu''s words are always short. As a former royal guards, Tianzhu is unexpected about dewdrop this time. She stands firm on dewdrop''s side. In her opinion, Liao Meng has an ulterior motive. It''s aimed at the dew. It''s better for the dew not to go out these days. Who knows what else the woman has? The dew will go out to avoid being caught. Dew also knew that Tianzhu was worried about herself, and when she was warm in her heart, she answered with a smile. After several people finished packing up, they came out of the gate of the palace. In the room, a young man is sitting in front of the chessboard playing chess with himself. The side view of the man from a distance is very beautiful, especially his sharp chin, which seems to be full of beauty, and his lips are as red as rouge. But when I came closer to see, the beauty was destroyed by the green eyes of the fox. He half face with a mask, seemingly leisurely staring at the chess game in front of him, I do not know when a person appeared in the room, whispered: "my Lord, Jiang Ruan and Qi Feng are out of the palace." The room was silent for a long time. The man holding the chess piece in one hand, frowning and studying the chess game carefully, seemed to be thinking about where to start. A moment later, he just smile, the piece to the center of a place, said: "go out." The man looked at the chess game in front of him. The smile on his lips became more attractive. It seemed that he had some profound meaning. He looked at the board for a while, and suddenly reached out to brush his sleeve. The pieces on the board were immediately disturbed, and all the pieces fell to the ground. The man seemed to enjoy it very much After a long time, he raised his eyes again and looked at the windowsill. There is a pot of orchids on the windowsill. The white petals of orchids are slightly stretched out, which seems to vibrate gently in life. In this gloomy room, it seems to be a ray of light, emitting a strange fragrance. The man smiles a little and says in a low voice: "attack the heart for the top, the woman also." This time, it''s totally contemptuous. When rumors came out in the capital, the palace was calm and strange. The emperor went up and down as usual. He should read the daily memorials, scold the ministers who didn''t understand, and behead them. The ministers who liked should be promoted and rewarded. But careful officials found that the emperor had not asked about the affairs of the imperial court for a long time, and now there were only two princes left. Even before the change of the thirteen Prince xuanpei''s attention, now for the two princes are in a state of indifference, regardless of the court or the bottom, the two princes seem to be forgotten. As a result, the ministers couldn''t figure it out. If they had a daughter in the harem, they tried to ask her to bring a message back. What did the emperor mean now? The news that the wives brought back was even worse. Not only the two princes, but also the emperor rarely went to the harem. There were few concubines in the palace who could get close to him Besides Xirou, it was the little Xiuyi Dong Yinger who was closest to the emperor. It was only because she was good at cooking imperial food. The women''s family members of the harem complained that their scattered beauties failed to live up to the deep palace, but the ministers of the former dynasty smelled something unusual from it. The ministers have all seen the world. It seems that the emperor''s action is just a small one, which may have some meaning, such as the indifference to the two princes. Although it is strange, the ministers will not really give up their support for the two princes because of the indifference of the emperor. Now it''s gambling. I''m afraid I''ll stand in the wrong team. If I bet right, I''ll win the gambling. I''ll be rich and noble. Therefore, the request to change the prince''s fold is still flying to the emperor''s desk like snowflakes. In the room, Mingyue looks at Xuan Pei, who is sitting at the desk practicing calligraphy. At a time when all the people are fighting in succession, Xuan Li uses endless means, or is tough or inducement, just to attract people, but Xuan Pei seems to be extremely relaxed. The emperor doesn''t call him, and he is also happy. He practices calligraphy all day in the room to nourish his spirit, just like a real prince of self-cultivation. If Mingyue and Chaoyang were not Xuan Pei''s confidants now, knowing his unknown ambitions, I''m afraid they would have thought that this smiling and beautiful boy really didn''t have so many plans and plans in his heart. He was just a little smart and noble. I''m going to practice today. I''m not happy. I''m in good condition. I''m hard_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 227 Mingyue said, "Your Highness, today, both Wang Ge Lao and Prime Minister Qiu sent people to the eighth Prince''s house. It''s the second time that they left the house for a full hour." Xuanpei "en" a, Hun don''t care to continue to dip in ink to write their own words, Chaoyang and Mingyue look at each other, although the palace maid should not talk about the master''s things, but Mingyue and Chaoyang one is called by Xiao Shao to help xuanpei, one is also an old man in the palace. Sometimes it''s not just a fight between the two princes, it''s a fight between the two forces. If one person loses, there are those who support him behind him. The fight is often bloody in the end, and the sacrifice and cruelty are just for that position. Since they are the people around Xuan Pei, the battle with Xuan Li will be fought sooner or later. The day when they fight each other will come sooner or later. What they have to do now is to increase their chips before that day. Xuan Pei''s attitude of being indifferent to his own affairs makes people feel that he is unreliable and unworthy of following. Compared with Xuanli''s huge door guests and staff, xuanpei''s means of recruiting talents. It should be said that he has never taken the initiative to recruit talents. He always comes to anyone who is willing to take refuge, instead of pulling them down. No, the old Wang Ge and Prime Minister Qiu had always secretly supported Xuan Pei. Now the emperor has been ignored by the two princes. Xuan Li''s team is growing stronger and stronger, but Xuan Pei has nothing to do. He has never offered any interest temptation to the ministers who come to join him. They come and go, and those people gradually drain away. Wang Ge Lao and Prime Minister Qiu are also big forces. Look at this, they have joined Xuanli. There are more and more people on their side. Xuanli is not in a hurry. "Your Highness," Chaoyang said anxiously, "Wang Ge Lao and Prime Minister Qiu are clearly your people, but they still leave like this. It''s too much to cross the river and tear down the bridge." Xuanpei smiles, but he is not moved. Although Mingyue was also very confused, she knew that this young man was by no means a dull man. His ingenuity and forbearance were beyond the imagination of ordinary people. There must be a purpose in doing so. She said, "Your Highness seems not to worry at all." Xuanpei finally finished his last stroke, then with a long sigh of relief, he put down his pen, looked at Mingyue and said, "what are your doubts?" Xuanli''s attitude towards her is more severe than Chaoyang''s, because she is Xiao Shao''s, but she values her more than Chaoyang''s, because there are still many things for her to do, and her skill is neat and she can do better. Hearing the speech, Mingyue knelt down and said, "I don''t understand why your highness doesn''t take the initiative to recruit talented people. I don''t know how to lure people who come to join us. What''s more, I don''t understand that at this juncture, the eighth Prince moves frequently, but his highness just stays in the room and doesn''t do anything." "You have too many questions." Xuan Pei looked at her and said slowly. He played with his fingers and suddenly laughed: "but today I''m in a good mood. I can answer you. It''s just that Xiao Shao''s people don''t even know this. It''s really an eye opener for me. " Xuanpei always tries to lose Xiao Shao as soon as he catches the chance. Mingyue hears so much that she doesn''t really care if it''s a child''s fighting spirit. Xuanpei didn''t get angry when he looked at Mingyue. He seemed to feel a little bored, so he coughed and said, "talents are not recruited. If I want to compete with Xuanli, who is the one who needs support most behind me? Talents?" Mingyue doesn''t speak. At any time, no matter whether it''s seizing the throne or not, a wise monarch will always try his best to select talents. Naturally, the monarchs are competing for a talented person. But Xuan Pei laughed faintly: "wrong, a wise man. The reason why a wise man is a wise man is to be appreciated by a wise man. This is not peaceful and prosperous times, nor is it governing the world. It''s a fight for life and death. It''s a gamble that you will lose everything if you are not careful. I think that talent is important, but it''s far less than ambition. " "Ambition?" The moon asked in silence. "Ambition." Xuan Pei was sitting on the chair. He was thin and not fully developed. Sitting on the wide chair was a bit awkward. However, his long sleeves and robes poured down from the chair and covered the ground. He was so lazy that Mingyue was in a trance for a moment. He felt that what he was sitting in front of him was not a teenager who had not yet reached the hairpin, but an adult wise man. "A thin hungry wolf and a well-trained hound," Xuan Pei said faintly, "in the days when there is no need to fight for anything, a smart Hound is certainly good, but when it comes to robbing people and goods, it''s better to take a thin hungry wolf. Your so-called talents are hounds, and ambitious people are hungry wolves. What I have to face is the battle of life and death. The more fierce the blood is, the better it will be for me. You can use meat to attract hounds, but the hungry wolf, you can never use meat to attract, because what it wants is to cause each other and death. " The moon was silent for a while, and asked: "the hungry wolf is fierce, but it will inevitably give birth to the beast and devour the master." "There won''t be that chance." Xuanpei road. When the moon was stunned, Xuan Pei''s voice came from her head: "after the death of the prey, there is no need for the hungry wolf to exist. Naturally, we need to find a chance to kill it." Smell speech, bright moon can''t help the body tremble, she didn''t expect that this young man was so decisive, so easy to say cunning rabbit dead dog cooking words. Although this is despicable and cruel, it is indeed the best beginning of an imperial road. Xuan Pei''s courage has surprised her, but she has such determination. Xuan Pei took a look at the moon and said, "ambition is only used to deal with the enemy. If you have ambition for my things and covet them secretly, you will wipe out his ambition forever."Chaoyang stood far away. Xuanpei''s words fell in her ears. She couldn''t help but feel nervous and repressed. She always knew that the thirteen prince was not simple, but she didn''t know that his mind and skill had reached the level of a future prince. His age was not a defect at all, and he would even become an excellent hiding place The nurse. "Then why doesn''t your highness make an offer?" Mingyue said, "if there is a price, it''s easier to be solicited than an ambitious person." "What do you think of the comparison between Xuanli and me?" Xuan Pei asked. Mingyue was stunned and soon came back to her senses. She knew that xuanpei was a man with a thorough mind and didn''t mean much to tell lies, so she honestly said, "the eighth Prince is more powerful." "That''s right. His power is better than others. I''ll offer him a price. Once he knows the price, he just needs to raise it. With his power, he can do it. Those who are interested in my price will follow me when they see a higher price. On the contrary, it''s better to wait for the price and sell the priceless treasure. " Xuan Pei said with a smile: "let them never know their own value, have an expectation for the future, and work harder. These people who are bought for priceless treasure can never be bought by Xuanli with tangible price. " Mingyue understood, but xuanpei said, "you think Xuanli is following more and more people. Do you know it''s not good for him?" The moon nods and shakes her head. "Two people share the same chips, which is much more beneficial than one person''s share. There are many people behind Xuanli, but the more people there are, when Xuanli gets what he wants, the less credit everyone gets. On the contrary, there are not many people behind me. If I succeed in the future, those people will get more benefits. In other words, the people standing behind me are driven by the great interests. These people driven by the great interests will never be moved by the small interests of Xuanli. Because there is no price, but because of their own efforts and gave birth to a gambling mind, have you ever seen a gambler who stopped halfway? Generally, they don''t. everyone behind me has a gambling mind, so they are the most stable part. " Mingyue was surprised and didn''t understand. She looked at xuanpei and said, "but Wang Ge Lao and Prime Minister Qiu..." "This is driven by small interests. Today is not to leave, and one day it will be bad for me because of the interests in front of me. It''s better to kick it out early. I believe Xuanli is not happy even if he holds it in his hand." Xuanpei suddenly thought of something and then laughed again: "besides, do you think there are more and more people behind xuanpei? I think the emperor and his father are full of anger now, and not everyone can accept the anger of the emperor. " "Your Majesty..." The moon was startled. Now it seems that the emperor doesn''t care much about the two princes, and he doesn''t have much to say about the change of the crown prince. Is it difficult for him to pay attention to it secretly? Mingyue thought about it and said, "since your majesty is paying attention to it, your Highness''s case in Qing''an County a few days ago has been widely impeached. My servant heard from father-in-law Li, and the impeachment is endless. Your majesty is very angry. I''m afraid that his Highness has some displeasure in his heart. Do you want to find a way to refute it or find an opportunity to impeach the eighth prince Before Xuanhua was born, the emperor had a period of time when he attached great importance to xuanpei. Whenever there was anything important in the court, he would also tentatively ask xuanpei for his opinions. The snow disaster in Qing''an County was serious. At that time, the emperor asked Xuan Pei. Xuan Pei wrote a compromise about the snow disaster. The compromise was also well written. There were some novel places, but it was not too brilliant. In the end, it was adopted by the emperor. This is not true. A few days ago, news came from Qing''an County, but xuanpei''s method didn''t play a big role. In this way, the people under the eighth Prince immediately seized the opportunity to impeach xuanpei because he was young and had fun with people''s livelihood. Naturally, some of the ministers who had been with the emperor for many years were deeply distressed. What they didn''t know was that he was impeached For xuanpei, he made some heinous mistakes. However, being impeached by so many people inevitably left a bad impression on the emperor. Mingyue is still a little uneasy when she thinks about it. "You go and arrange a few people, and my people, if you tell them to go down, they will give me a discount as well." Xuan peihun doesn''t care about shaking his sleeve. "Do you want to impeach the eighth prince?" Chaoyang can''t help but open her mouth, and her face is still a little happy. In her opinion, the eighth Prince''s people''s work is too bad, so they should fight back. But xuanpei shook his head and said, "impeach me." "What?" Chaoyang screams, and then finds himself overstepping. She kneels down to plead guilty. Mingyue frowns. She doesn''t understand why xuanpei is doing this. Xuanpei smiles and moves his lips slowly. Mingyue is stunned, and his body is a little chilly. She raised her eyes again and looked at the young man. Half of the young man was trapped in the cushion and carelessly supported his chin. The sunlight outside the window was in the dark at the right time, and half of the young man fell into the shadow, like a silent stone statue, solid and heavy, as if he was sitting on the high throne, lonely and cruel My emperor.A real emperor. He said with a smile: "all people are attached to Xuanli. Let him see who is in this world?" In the twinkling of an eye, the sun will slant to the west, and it will be dark in the early spring. Jiang Ruan and Qi Feng left the shop on the street and went back to the palace. Today, maybe it''s Jiang ruango who hasn''t been out for a long time. Maybe it''s Qi Feng who is a funny host. They get along very well. They not only visited Yibao Pavilion, but also other shops. When she was married, she went to see the shops xuanpei gave her. Jiang Ruan didn''t have any other thoughts. Although xuanpei gave these shops to her, she doesn''t lack the money now. She just wants to run them well and return them to xuanpei in the future. If Xuan Pei really takes that position one day, he will not. His environment also determines that he needs these things more than Jiang Ruan. In Jiang Ruan''s eyes, Xuan Pei will always be her child. Together with Qi Feng, he saw the shop, bought some things, and even ate something in the store outside. When he returned to the gate, it was very late. Qi Feng had a pile of trivial things in his hand, which Jiang Ruan bought outside today. In order to avoid suspicion, they didn''t take the carriage. Today, Jiang Ruan is in high spirits again and has bought a lot of things. I have to say that he is really happy when he is not short of money. In this way, all the heavy work fell on Qi Feng. Qi Feng was full of it. When he arrived at the gate of the mansion, Jiang Ruan Cai said with a smile, "give it to me. You''ve been working hard today." Qi Feng said with a bitter smile, "if it''s not hard, my third sister-in-law''s orders are that I don''t dare to refuse. If I don''t, I will be scolded by my third brother." Jiang Ruan was stunned, and Qi Feng realized that he had said something wrong. Suddenly, he stood in the same place at a loss. Jiang Ruan reached over and wanted to take what Qi Feng had in his hand. However, he slipped at his feet. Qi Feng was busy helping her. Things fell off all over the ground, but people helped her up. Qi Feng grabbed Jiang Ruan''s hand and looked at the woman in front of him, but he was a little lost. Leaving these days is not an escape, but a fear that he will sink deeper and deeper. Jiang Ruan can be as calm as he likes, but he can''t do it in any way. Such close contact is a moment of confusion. This kind of picture is unintentional, but it seems too ambiguous in other people''s eyes. With the sound of the door opening, housekeeper Lin''s head stretched out. After seeing that Jiang Ruan and Qi Feng were also there, he could not help but be surprised. Perhaps what surprised him even more was the posture of Jiang Ruan and Qi Feng. Jiang Ruan raised his eyes and saw Xiao Shao standing a few feet away, quietly looking at this side. The sky was dark, and the lanterns at the door of the mansion were shaking, which reflected his face not very clearly. Qi Feng stepped back and said with a smile, "third sister-in-law, don''t be careless next time. It''s done. Now that the third brother is back, I''m gone." Then he waved his hand and turned away. Jiang Ruan takes a look at Xiao Shao. Housekeeper Lin''s face is stiff. Jiang Ruan pushes the door and goes in. As he passes by housekeeper Lin, he says, "pick up the things and take them to the house. Please, housekeeper Lin." After Jiang Ruan left, housekeeper Lin told the boys to pick up the things that had fallen from the ground. He was about to meet Xiao Shao and say a few words. But Xiao Shao passed him without saying a word. The chill on his body was really amazing. Naturally, it''s not the chill brought by the frost and snow outside. Housekeeper Lin shivers, and some of them want to cry without tears. How does the good young lady, who is usually estranged from others, and Qi Feng do so well? Qi Feng doesn''t do it properly. Can''t she not know that a friend''s wife can''t play? No, Qi Feng is the master''s elder martial brother. Naturally, he will not do such a cruel thing. It must be a misunderstanding. Can, can his mother how happened to meet so coincidentally. It was the first time that the couple met at night since the cold war. On weekdays, Xiao Shao went out in the daytime and Jiang Ruan stopped when he came back in the evening. Naturally, there was no chance to speak. Who knew Xiao Shao came back so early today. After Jiang Ruan had combed and washed, he didn''t see Xiao Shao in his room. He asked Tianzhu, who said Xiao Shao was in his study. Xiao Shao didn''t know what he was busy with these days. He couldn''t tell if he was really busy in his study. But this happened again today. It seemed strange for Xiao Shao to go to his study at this time. Xiao Shao is sulking. As usual, Jiang Ruan thinks Xiao Shao is a little cute. However, after experiencing Jin Er and dewdrop, he subconsciously thinks that Xiao Shao doesn''t believe himself. Any woman can''t accept that her husband doubts her, especially in the aspect of innocence. Jiang Ruan was also a stubborn man. He just went to bed with a sound, and had no intention of going to the study to talk. It is full of hope outside the house waiting for and good as before, white tea Lin housekeeper waiting for a night. At night, on the top of the Yaos'' residence in the capital, there are heavy curtains, and the bamboo and wood are dizzy. But in the yard of Miss Yao''s house, there are melodious music. Every decoration in this courtyard is gorgeous and exquisite. It shows elegance everywhere. It''s a sculpture of Koi on the edge of the pond, which strives to be lifelike. This courtyard was originally created by Yao Niannian, a young lady of the Yao family. However, master Yao obviously wanted the craftsmen to keep improving, which led to this wonderful courtyard. From the side, it also showed that Yao Niannian must be the apple of governor Yao''s eye, and that he would fulfill her long cherished wish with such a high profile.At the moment, the piano music in that courtyard is also worthy of the scenery in this courtyard. Yao Niannian is very intelligent and has come to the capital of piano, chess, calligraphy and painting, but he is not very proficient. If Jiang Susu had been a talented woman in Beijing, Yao Niannian would have been the most intelligent woman in everyone''s heart. The most intelligent woman may not be the best in piano, chess, calligraphy and painting, but somehow she is more respected than that talented woman. The two maidservants who were standing far away were whispering: "this song is really nice. I didn''t hear miss play it before." "Stupid," another maid said in a low voice, "it must have been created by herself. Our young lady is already smart. If the sound of the zither spreads to the outside, I think the title of the first zither girl in the capital will be very impressive." "What nonsense? What''s the status of the Qin Niang? How can she be compared with our young lady?" said the younger maid. "The young lady is more and more fond of playing the piano in the yard. I don''t know why. Should it be..." She thought of something and kept her mouth busy, but she looked worried. In the courtyard Pavilion on one side, the women''s long sleeves are dancing, the corners of their clothes are turned up with tiny and dazzling fine silk patterns, and a pair of slender hands are flying up and down the strings. The music sounds like spring water, and it seems to be able to play into people''s hearts. A moment later, at the end of the song, Yao Niannian didn''t take back her hand. A pair of stuttering hands were still on the string. Her eyebrows were light, but there was something unclear in her eyes, which seemed to penetrate people''s hearts. She hooked her lips and looked at the string in front of her, but it seemed that she remembered something else. Among the ashes on the ground, there was paper for practicing calligraphy. Yao Niannian always wanted to be perfect, and there seemed to be something else in the ashes, but the strange handwriting mixed in the ashes and assimilated into nothing with the fire, but nothing remained. Yao Niannian said slowly, but he didn''t know whether to say it to others or to himself: "the heart is like a rock, the heart is like a rock. When two rocks collide, two hundred will be hurt. Jiang Ruan, who guesses people''s minds? " Her smile began to take on a scornful note: "joke." There are indeed some people who can play with people''s hearts. Originally, they thought that Jiang Ruan had something special since he was very famous. Now, it seems that he just spread the wrong information by telling the wrong story. The woman is vulnerable, so it''s not enough to be afraid. There are many dark places in people''s heart, which may be harmless, but if those dark places are magnified infinitely, at the right opportunity, they will cause irreparable mistakes. "The bait is thrown, and the shrimp is also suspended," Yao Niannian stretched out a hand and gently crossed the string, but when he crossed the last string, he suddenly applied force on his hand, and the string gave a sharp cry, which broke in response. Yao Niannian gently twists the short string and says with a smile, "you can start." If you can''t accept it, I suggest you read the article again. Cha Cha doesn''t want to be a spoiler and doesn''t know how to explain it. The plot can take the place of all the explanations. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 228 In the early morning of the second day, Jiang Ruan had just had breakfast, but before he came to the study, someone came to the porter''s room to report, with a burden in his hand. He only said that it was given to the master of King Jinying''s house. When he asked who it was, he couldn''t find out why. He just said that it was like a carriage in Mo''s house. This Mo family, of course, is mo Cong''s house in the capital. The master of Jinying palace is Xiao Shao. That''s right, but now Jiang and Ruan can also sit in the master''s house. Without hesitation, the porter will hand it over to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan returns to his study and throws the burden on his desk, but Tianzhu says, "why don''t you open it, young lady? If there are other important things, it''s not good to delay them. " In Tianzhu''s opinion, if Mo Cong comes to deliver things, it''s probably related to business. Jiang Ruan is not an ignorant housewife. She can deal with some things very well. Now it''s an eventful time, and the time is very precious. Xiao Shao won''t come back until late at night. In this way, it''s better for Jiang Ruan to take it apart and see what it is. Forsythia also busy way: "yes, young lady, it''s all in the house." What Forsythia thinks is not as far-reaching as Tianzhu. She just thinks that Jiang Ruan Zheng and Xiao Shao are unfamiliar now, and they can''t be so indifferent all the time. This may not be an opportunity. After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan takes the burden to her eyes and slowly takes it apart. There was nothing in the package, only a coat. This coat was a black Suzhou brocade robe, with dark Gold Kirin embroidered on the corner. It was Xiao Shao''s robe. Yes, there was a letter beside the robe. Mo Cong sent back Xiao Shao''s robe for no reason. It was a strange thing. Besides, there was a letter. Without hesitation, Jiang Ruan opened one side of the letter. The letter spread out with only two words: Thank you. It''s just the beautiful little regular script that women often use, but the handwriting is neat and contains charm. It''s just such a shallow brush, and I already think it''s a good pair of characters. It''s just a letter of thanks. The handwriting is so unusual. And the content itself is also very thought-provoking. Dew''s face changes greatly when she looks at it, and she can''t bear to think about it. Maybe it was strange for her in the past, but now when she looks at these things, she can''t help but have an idea in her mind. With the lesson of Jin Er, how could she not be nervous? Her face changed immediately. Tianzhu''s eyes also moved, no longer speak, forsythia opened her mouth, obviously did not know how to deal with the current situation. Before the three of them opened their mouths, they saw Jiang Ruan pick up the robe and put it under his nose. Forsythia and dewdrop are nervous staring at her, although Tianzhu''s face is not as nervous as forsythia and dewdrop, but also is not willing to miss an expression of Jiang Ruan. A moment later, Jiang Ruan put down Xiao Shao '' A few days ago, the third grandmother of the Zhao family was found to be happy again. Now that Zhao Feizhou is so big, the third grandmother is still pregnant. This is a surprise to the whole family. When the good news came, Jiang Ruan also ordered people to prepare a gift, ready to go in person, but recently, he almost forgot these things. Dewdrop was surprised: "it''s ready. It''s just according to housekeeper Lin''s gift list. Do you want to have a look now?" "Don''t look," Jiang Ruan stood up. "Let''s go to the general''s house today." "Why?" Forsythia thought about the direction of dewdrop. Although she hesitated, she could Without waiting for them to speak, Jiang Ruan himself took the lead out of the door, and several people looked at each other. In the end, Tianzhu came forward and stood at his desk. After a moment''s hesitation, he reached out and picked up the robe, shaking it under his nose like Jiang Ruan. "Why?" Forsythia anxiously asked. Tianzhu''s brow tightly wrinkled, but it seems not very clear, with a slight doubt asked: "orchid?" Jiang Ruan just went out of the door. Housekeeper Lin was angry and didn''t dare to speak. He wanted to dissuade him. At last, he saw Jiang Ruan''s cold expression, but he didn''t dare to go forward. Finally, he could only shrink behind the pillar of the Red Gate of the palace, and clasp the lacquer on it with his fingers. Jin Si stood aside with his chest in his arms. Looking at housekeeper Lin''s action, he couldn''t help saying: "Hello, Lao Lin, if this pillar is cut If it''s broken, is it money deducted from your own wages for repair? " Steward Lin''s action suddenly stopped, but immediately he began to teach: "what do you know? I''m worried. You little girl don''t know how to share my worries with me. I don''t know what to do all day long, so I know how to shout." Speaking of the end is to teach brocade four, brocade four Leng for a while, can''t laugh and cry way: "you old need so nervous? The young lady is just going to the general''s house, that is, going back to her mother''s house. How do you do it, just like what happened? I don''t know what happened to the young lady. " "So you have no vision." Housekeeper Lin looked at her and said, "do you know why the young lady went back to the general''s house?" "Yes, the third grandmother of the Zhao family is pregnant. The young lady goes to congratulate her. It''s a happy event." Jinsidao. "If it''s really congratulations, why should you wait until now that you have already taken the young master back with you. Today, I went back to my mother''s home after a fight. Last night I heard what Forsythia said. I''m so worried. " Housekeeper Lin said, then he was a little annoyed: "well, he took his daughter-in-law to his mother''s house. The young master really didn''t learn my intelligence at all. This woman wants to coax her. I don''t think he wants to coax her."After hearing this, Jin Si thought about it seriously, looked at Lin Guanjia and said, "I also think that there are too many things happened recently, first Jin Er and dewdrop, then young lady and master. It''s a coincidence, but I don''t know how they came out. Is Feng Shui bad? " "I''ll have to send someone to the temple to have a piece of marriage incense tomorrow. There''s no room for tossing in this house." Housekeeper Lin agreed. But here, Jiang Ruan took a few Tianzhu to the general''s house. She came all of a sudden and didn''t make a statement about the post. She didn''t even let the boy go to the elder brother to greet her in advance. However, the people of Zhao family were very happy to see her coming, especially the grandmothers of Zhao family. They were all happy to go out to meet her. Jiang Ruan asked people to carry out the gift for the third grandmother. Naturally, there would be no shortage of other people when they visited the house. Everyone in the third room was polite, and the gift was also very thoughtful. People could not pick out any mistakes, so they were very generous. This is housekeeper Lin''s handwriting. Housekeeper Lin has always been a good hand at writing rites. When the eldest grandmother introduced Jiang Ruan into the mansion, she had to meet Zhao Guang, the master of the mansion. However, Zhao Guang was not in the main hall. The eldest grandmother said with a smile, "Dad is playing chess in the backyard. Ah Ruan, come with me." When he was really led to the backyard, Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned because it was Jiang Xinzhi who played chess with Zhao Guang. They haven''t seen each other for a long time. Since the end of the new year, Jiang Ruan has been busy helping Xuan Pei to get a firm foothold. Jiang Xinzhi''s daily business in the military camp is also quite busy. I don''t know if it''s because of Zhao Jin that he doesn''t feel at ease to put Jiang Ruan under his nose every day, just like before. It''s because his brother and sister met suddenly. However, it is obvious that feelings will not be unfamiliar because of the distance. When one of Jiang Xin saw Jiang Ruan, he immediately couldn''t care about his unfinished chess game. He immediately stood up and walked to Jiang Ruan''s side. He said happily, "ah Ruan, why did you come all of a sudden? I didn''t ask someone to tell him in advance." Angry Zhao Guang jumped behind: "smelly boy, don''t come back soon, this game of chess is not finished, where to run!" "Come on, grandfather," but another voice came in and said, "only your cousin has the patience to play chess with you in your stinking chess basket. After playing chess, you will lose." Zhao Guang couldn''t tolerate others to say that he was not good at playing chess. He immediately scolded Zhao Feizhou with cold eyebrows. However, Zhao Feizhou made a face and ran away. Zhao Feizhou''s temperament is inherited from Zhao Yuanfeng''s, in a word, he is a hot monkey. Zhao Guang was not easy to chase. He coughed when he saw Jiang Ruan. His eyes were still overjoyed: "Ruan girl, you''re back." Jiang Ruan nodded and went forward to exchange greetings. Zhao Guang''s face was more satisfied. To be fair, although Jiang Ruan didn''t have much time to come to the general''s house, it was better for the general''s house to keep it in a suitable degree, and it would not bring any trouble to the general''s house. Although she is polite and alienated, she is very considerate in the new year''s day. She says that sometimes you can see a person''s mind by looking at the gift list. It makes people feel angry from the gift list that can''t make mistakes. She just feels that the girl is trying to compromise. In order to protect them, it makes people closer to Jiang Ruan It hurts. Of course, the people in the general''s mansion don''t know that housekeeper Lin made the gift list every time. In their opinion, Jiang Ruan is very intelligent. It''s not surprising that the gift list was made by her, but it''s impossible for a housekeeper to make such a gift list. It''s not easy to know the gift list. When many ladies begin to learn to be housekeepers, they begin with drawing up the gift list. If they do, they may have a good relationship. If they don''t, they may miss an important opportunity to climb up. After Zhao Guang talked to Jiang Ruan, Li came back and pulled her into the hall. He couldn''t help asking about the recent situation. Li''s love for Jiang Ruan was sincere, and he paid more compensation for Zhao Mei''s regret to Jiang Ruan. Zhao Yulong and Zhao Yi also came back. Third grandma Zhao was surprised. She thought Jiang Ruan would not come, but today she suddenly came. Zhao''s family gathered together. Li was happy and asked people to cook more good dishes in the kitchen. However, Zhao Yuanping asked, "girl Ruan, why didn''t lord Xiao come with you today?" They all looked at Jiang Ruan, who said with a smile, "he''s busy with business. I''m so excited today that I came here rashly. I''ll have to ask him to come and see my grandparents some other day." Xiao Shao was really busy. Zhao''s family went to court and knew that he had been busy in the capital all the year round. Zhao Yuanping didn''t ask any more questions. When it''s time to have dinner, the whole family is very busy. Jiang Ruan sits among them in a trance. These days, the Jinying palace is in a mess. The royal guards, the maid beside her, or herself? There is a sharp contrast between the liveliness and harmony in front of people and the coldness and estrangement behind people. She has never felt before, but now she is more and more aware of the difference, or she doesn''t know when her heart will be covered by people, at least for those close to her. During the meal, Li asked tentatively, "ah Ruan, it''s getting late today, so I won''t go back tonight." What she said was quite careful. She stared at Jiang Ruan''s face without blinking. Her eyes could not hide her expectation. Jiang Ruan suddenly laughed and said, "good."Li was relieved, and immediately ordered humanity: "hurry up, clean up the room in Fang Garden. I just had it swept a few days ago, and I think dust has accumulated these days." Fang Garden was the yard where Zhao Mei used to live when she was a girl in the mansion. After Zhao Mei left, the yard has not been abandoned. For more than ten years, she has been waiting for someone who will never come back. It seems that only her relatives can do it. "Mother, why hurry?" the second granny said with a smile, "there''s no one who asks someone to clean up the house during the meal. It''s not urgent. After dinner later, the third sister-in-law and mother continue to talk. I ask someone to clean the house over there. I have many interesting storybooks here, but I don''t know whether a Ruanxi likes it." She is a pleasant person, and her words are full of laughter, which always makes people feel refreshing. Jiang Ruan then said with a smile: "Xiao Shao is very busy these days, almost no longer in the house every day. I also plan to live here for a few more days. I just hope that my sisters in law don''t dislike me." "No trouble, no trouble," the third granny said pleasantly, "that''s good. I''m trapped in the house every day, and no one speaks. It''s better for Ruan to come, and finally I have company." The second daughter-in-law pretended to be angry and said, "what are you saying? Is it difficult that I am not a human every day? I''ve been with you all these days. " The third grandmother was busy laughing and pleading for mercy. For a moment, there was a lot of laughter in the room. In the evening, he accompanied his sister-in-law to say something. It was already late at night. Jiang Ruan went back to Fang Garden and was about to have a rest. However, Tian Zhu suddenly drank warily: "who?" Jiang Ruan looked back and saw a man walking out of the shadow of the lights. It was Jiang Xinzhi. He looked at Tianzhu and said, "go down first." Tianzhu was stunned, but he also knew that Jiang Ruan and his brother had a close relationship, so he retired without saying a word. Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xinzhi went to the stone table in the yard and sat down. Jiang Ruan asked with a smile, "brother, you don''t want to chat with me if you don''t sleep so late?" "A Ruan," Jiang Xinzhi''s expression is serious: "he bullied you?" Jiang Ruan was stunned, and then he came back to himself. The "he" in Jiang Xinzhi''s mouth naturally refers to Xiao Shao. She laughed: "brother, how dare he bully me? I''ve always been the only one to bully others. You worry too much... " Before she could finish her speech, she was interrupted by Jiang Xinzhi: "a Ruan, you and I are brothers and sisters of a mother''s compatriots. Now you and I are the only two closest in the world. You''ve been attached to me since childhood. Although you separated for many years, I don''t know you. You have been acting abnormally in this house today. When you were a child, you were angry with me. You didn''t cry or make noise. You always walked away in silence. You used to use silence to express your dissatisfaction and avoid facing the conflict. Ruan, what''s wrong with you and Xiao Shao? " If Jiang Xinzhi really knows her, even though many of her thoughts have changed in this life, the long-term relationship with her brother and sister of a mother''s compatriots still makes Jiang Xin see her faults at a glance, but Jiang Ruan has some helplessness: "elder brother, I really have a problem with him, but if you can''t even deal with this problem, you look down on me I''m sorry, but I can''t interfere in the affairs between husband and wife. He didn''t bully me, but I don''t think he''s happy and bullying him. " Seeing one of Jiang Xin''s determined spirits, Jiang Ruan told the whole story of the incident, only concealing the part of his quarrel with Xiao Shao, saying: "the royal guards are always his people. I love my family and love my family. Similarly, I don''t like him. Naturally, I don''t like him. So I want to relax myself and let myself calm down and think about the reasons." "You think..." Jiang Xinzhi looked at her suspiciously. He hung his head and thought for a moment. He said, "it''s really strange. I''ll pay attention to it. In this case, you''ll stay here longer. Since Xiao Shao doesn''t stand out for you, you deserve to be angry." He said angrily, "I should teach him some lessons." Jiang Ruan laughed and suddenly remembered something. He said, "brother, I have something to tell you." Jiang Xinzhi said with a smile, "what''s the matter?" He suddenly looked at Jiang Ruan in surprise: "do I want more nephews?" "What do you say?" Jiang Ruan said with tears and laughter: "I want to tell you that this time when the palace was occupied, even though the 13th Prince and the 8th Prince could still be reluctant to remain neutral now, it was absolutely impossible to get behind. There was always a team to show, elder brother, I was on the side of the 13th prince." "Oh," Jiang Xinzhi was a little disappointed. Jiang Ruan said such a big thing, but he also said, "if you don''t tell me about it, I will choose the 13th prince in the end." "Why?" Jiang Ruan doubts that Jiang Xinzhi has always been a gentle and upright man. Even if he becomes resolute on the battlefield, he has not lost his justice. It is not easy for such a man to support a person and step into the court. "Xuanli has done something unfavorable to you. How can you choose him?" Jiang Xinzhi snorted: "although xuanpei doesn''t seem to be easy to deal with, at least he helped you out." "Your reason is simple," Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing again. After a few words with Jiang Xinzhi, he felt relaxed. After Jiang Xinzhi left, he went back to his room to have a rest and had a good night''s sleep.A few days later, Jiang Ruan was in the general''s house. People in the general''s house saw Jiang Ruan live in for the first time. They were eager to give her every good thing to make her happy. Everyone here was full of kindness to her, which was not the kindness of strangers on the street, but the kindness from the bottom of their heart and from their families. So Jiang Ruan was a little happier than he was in King Jinying''s house. He only asked the general''s house to send someone to King Jinying''s house to tell him that Jiang Ruan would stay here for a few more days. In King Jinying''s mansion, Xiao Shao was sitting in his study. A young man came and said, "master, I''ve heard from the general''s mansion again, saying that the young lady will stay there for a few days." These days, housekeeper Lin has made a lot of trouble for these little boys. Jiang Ruan has never come back since he went to see the third grandmother of the Zhao family that day. On the first day, it can be said that it''s too late to travel, and on the second day, it can be said that people of their own family get together to talk. However, it''s hard for people to bear such a series. People in the general''s mansion are open-minded and can''t see the way. Jinying palace up and down but all know the reason, Jiang Ruan just didn''t write a few words to tell them: the princess was angry, back to her mother''s home! Jiang Ruan didn''t come back. Every time the prince''s house sent him to urge him, he brought back nothing but news: the princess didn''t want to leave, so she had to stay for a few more days. It''s not good for the married daughter to stay in her mother''s home for too long, but no one dares to say anything about the status of the general''s house and the identity of Jiang Ruan. But housekeeper Lin is scratching his ears in his heart. He just wants to bind Xiao Shao to the general''s house and plead guilty so as to coax the mistress back. Housekeeper Lin said tentatively: "master, when can I go to the general''s house to have a look? It''s been more than ten days since I pulled my finger. It''s not good to go on like this." He swallowed the words "open branches and scattered leaves" in the back. Xiao Shao is speechless, he is used to a pair of expressionless appearance, but housekeeper Lin does not know what he means at the moment. A few days ago, Qi Feng also came to find Jiang Ruan once. Qi Feng didn''t know that Jiang Ruan had returned to the general''s house, but brought a large box of novel things. He said that his friends had specially left them for Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao''s face at that time was as black as the bottom of the pot, and his attitude towards Qi Feng was surprisingly cold. Housekeeper Lin felt guilty when he looked at it, and he didn''t know what Qi Feng thought. But Qi Feng left quickly, and the look between them was very unhappy. Xiao Shao always gets along well with his brothers. It''s the first time that he has a black face with Qi Feng. Housekeeper Lin murmured in his heart that Xiao Shao clearly cared about Jiang Ruan, but how could he not pull down this face. Just thinking about it, I saw a post from Jinyi. The posts here are generally managed by housekeeper Lin. it''s strange for Jinyi to take the post. Housekeeper Lin is very surprised. He thinks that Jinyi wants to take his own work? Then he took a quick peek. He had excellent eyesight and could see it clearly at one glance. The post was from Mo''s family, and some other people were mentioned casually. Housekeeper Lin felt familiar with a name, but he couldn''t remember it. When he was still struggling, he heard Xiao Shao take a look and said, "prepare the horse." Is this where we''re going? Brocade a pour also quickly take Cape, Xiao Shao leave very urgent, almost no stay, Lin housekeeper a person Zheng Zheng stay in place, suddenly suddenly slap thigh way: "ah? Yao family! Isn''t that the bandit who wants to kill the young master? " The moon is bright and the stars are sparse. Late at night, forsythia is like ink. She goes outside to prepare hot water for Jiang Ruan to take a bath. Tianzhu is outside. Jiang Ruan is standing in the courtyard. The wind in early spring is still a little chilly, but it''s not as painful as it used to be. At night, the air is fresh, and the walls of the yard are covered with roses. The flowers are small and delicate, giving off a little fragrance, which is very charming at night. Dewdrop was walking to yueluo and wanted to pick some petals. Suddenly, something "plop" on the opposite side of the wall, which frightened her. Just as she was about to be born, she saw a big black cat running past. "It''s a cat," she said, patting her chest. Turning her head, she heard Jiang Ruan say, "go ahead, I''ll sit down for a while." Dewdrop then went back to the house with the basket in his hand. Jiang Ruan then turned around. At the moment when dewdrop came into the house, there was a slender figure under the rose vine behind him. The figure stood under the rose, tall and straight, as if standing here at the beginning. Jiang Ruan was not surprised. He just stood a few steps away from him and looked at him in silence. As the dark clouds gradually disperse and the moonlight gradually falls, the shadow of the dead man becomes clear. It''s a young man, beautiful and heroic, walking in Royal dress at night. The moonlight falls on his face. It''s more beautiful than a human being. It''s like a fairy in Qionglai, overlooking the world. Today, Jiang Ruan is wearing a long red dress with a thin quilt. The skirt is long and drawn down, drawing out a beautiful landscape on the ground. It''s just embroidered with big golden flowers, which makes people dazzled for a moment. And her face is beautiful, the night is a bit more enchanting. There seemed to be another wild cat in the air. Jiang Ruan had a beautiful face. She was as graceful as a fire in red, but she was wearing a layer of killing breath. She said, "what''s the matter with your late night visit?"The young man, dressed in black like brocade, was beautiful and heroic. He looked down and said, "I''ve heard a lot about the ingratitude of the daughter of the general''s mansion. I''m here to visit you." "Natural ingratitude is nothing. If you don''t look in a bronze mirror, you will know what evil is natural." Jiang Ruan said coldly, and without waiting for an answer, he turned back to the house and slammed the door. A crack appeared on the cold young man''s face. He was so bold that he broke the door? But is a bodyguard of one side Nuo Nuo''s outstretched hand, Xiao Shao complexion is not good to see to him here, brocade three soft legs small voice way: "Lord son, this is not good, young madam certainly won''t forgive you." Sure enough, he was still angry. Xiao Shao pursed his lips and looked at the door of the house. He was at a loss. I''m going to cry with the spoon and faint in the toilet. The spoon at least has the soft girl''s trust. Tea tea has been criticized by thousands of people. Even those who watch pirated movies have to scold. I''m so tired. I don''t want to write about the burden of house fighting plot in the future. It''s silly and sweet all the way to a good ending_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 229 Xiao Shao stood silently in the night. After half a pillar of incense, the door was suddenly thrown open. Jiang Ruan''s cold voice said, "don''t you come in yet?" "Ah, ah, young lady is really a wonderful woman with broad mind and spirit!" Jin San exclaimed: "tolerant and magnanimous, it''s hard to find people with lanterns." She said joy, has long forgotten just now that "little lady certainly will not forgive you" is from whom the mouth said. Xiao Shao didn''t want to listen to her flattery here. As soon as the door opened, she went in decisively. As soon as she entered the room, the dew was startled and stammered: "Wang, Wang Ye." "You go out first." Jiang Ruan said to her, Dewdrop hesitated to look at Jiang Ruan, but still retreated. After dew drops out, there are only two of them left in the room. Jiang Ruan sits down at the table, waiting for Xiao Shaoxian to speak. Xiao Shao was silent for a moment, then sat opposite her, thought about it, and finally asked, "do you know?" "What do you say?" Jiang Ruan asked. Xiao Shao didn''t know how to answer the question. After a moment, he said, "I''m sorry I didn''t say hello to you in advance." JIANG Ruan glared at him: "if you have said hello to me in advance, how can you make this play? I''m afraid you will be seen through a long time ago." Xiao Shaowen said that he was stunned, and then he looked at Jiang Ruan with some surprise: "are you not angry?" "Angry." Jiang Ruan said coldly. Xiao Shao is again a Zheng, way: "how?" "You asked me again?" Jiang Ruan was so angry that he laughed and said, "Xiao Shao, your subordinates are human, so my servant girl is not human? Since you are acting, Jin Er must be acting. Only your master and servant are OK. My dew, do you feel pitiful. It''s not better to know that you only need to achieve your goal. If you are merciful, the royal guards don''t have to go on. But Xiao Shao, you shouldn''t use these means on my servant girl. " This remark was quick and urgent. It was obviously hidden in her heart for a long time. It was also Jiang Ruan''s deep resentment towards Xiao Shao. After that, she waited for Xiao Shao''s reply. Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, and then said, "it''s not what I ordered." Jiang Ruan was stunned, only listening to Xiao Shao''s voice: "Jin Er didn''t know in advance, just felt suspicious, and didn''t tell me that day. He just investigated himself. Later, he told me that he had already started to play with dew." "You said Jin Er decided to do it himself?" Jiang Ruan frowned. Xiao Shao replied: "he suspected that there was someone behind Liao Meng, who might have something to do with southern Xinjiang. If you tear it down, the dew may be in danger, and the people in southern Xinjiang are extremely cunning. If there was anything wrong with Jiner, in order to achieve the same goal of centrifuging you and me, maybe he would kill the dew. " Although these words did not directly intercede for Jin Er, they also explained the purpose of Jin Er''s doing so. Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "how did you find out?" The other royal guards don''t know about this. Except for Xiao Shao and Jin Er, they are so tight lipped in order to make sure that they are safe and don''t scare the snake, so that they can identify the person behind them. It is impossible for Jiang Ruan to be told. She can only push it out herself. Jiang Ruan Bai glanced at him and said: "I don''t know what temperament Jin Er has. He is the one who cares about the beauty and cherishes the jade. However, there is always room for women who have no malice. And they are used to wandering in brothels. They haven''t seen any women''s tricks before. Liao Meng is not a gorgeous beauty. I don''t think the number one girl in brothels is beautiful yet. How can Jin Er be impressed. It''s strange. " The person behind that is really sinister. Now I think that Liao Meng is the first one to lead to the discord between Jin Er and Lu Zhu. Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan are both short-sighted. They are proud of themselves and refuse to give up easily. Once such a person is stubborn on the same issue, there will be irreconcilable disputes. The most difficult thing in the world to control is the human heart. Once there are defective seeds, the cracks will only grow bigger and bigger. If some external factors are properly added at this time, centrifugal force is inevitable. So there are Yao Niannian and Qi Feng. Qi Feng has some other thoughts about Jiang Ruan, but because of the identity of Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan, they hide their feelings deeply in their heart. But it''s not like this. Xiao Shao is a very powerful man in his heart, and other men are always unhappy when they covet their own women. What''s more, the scene he witnessed is so eye-catching that he is proud of people in his heart It is undoubtedly a blow for us. And Yao Niannian''s letter and dress are even more reverie. There is nothing more powerful than women''s plain delusion. Yao Niannian''s imagination alone can destroy a woman''s confidence in herself and her husband. These things seem unimportant, but like some small beads, they are slowly strung together by a whole thread, and finally become a series of complete plans. And the ultimate goal of this plan is for the separation of Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao. But no matter how perfect the plan is, there are flaws in it. What''s more, Jiang Ruan himself is an expert in perceiving people''s heart, which is the easiest thing to change. Although the other side''s stratagem is good, he has made mistakes in the first link. What he never thought was that Jin Er had become a variable in this game.Jin Er is a man who crawls and rolls among women. Since he joined the royal guards, he often has the task of lurking in the brothel. He has been practising at the right time. Liao Meng is undoubtedly a good opponent. Her life experience and the relationship with the Huang family are all true. Liao Meng is also a smart and beautiful woman. All these plans are well planned, and it''s hard to doubt. However, the first missing link in this bureau''s plan is also the key to the mistake, that is, others have ignored Jin Er''s identity. Jin Er''s identity is the royal guards and the second young master of the Huang family. Maybe the other party has made a careful investigation before they come to this conclusion, but this understanding is far from enough. Liao Meng is really smart, but for a man who has been in Hualou for so many years, her tricks are not enough. Brocade two is almost the first time to realize that this woman''s drunken man''s intention is not in wine, but the Royal Guard''s keen let him understand, things may not stop here. There seems to be some expert behind Liao Meng''s advice. She seems to be just a chess piece, and even the person who can move her chess piece has to be alert because of her meticulous mind. In this case, it''s better to push the boat along the river to see what the other party wants to do. Tracing all the way, Jin Er finds something unusual. He suspects that it''s related to southern Xinjiang, so it''s not easy to act rashly. In order to protect dew and confirm, he plays such a play according to Liao Meng''s method, and then quietly finds an opportunity to explain it to Xiao Shao. Poor Liao Mengzhen thinks that he has a good method. Even Jin Er can easily take it without much effort, but he doesn''t know that his every move has been seen clearly. Jiang Ruan frowned, but he thought of another thing and asked: "that night, Jin Er really and Liao Meng. It''s a great sacrifice. " That night, Jin Er didn''t go back to the mansion, but he would cancel the marriage with Lu Zhu. The people in the mansion talked about this possibility. Jiang Ruan overheard it and thought it was ridiculous, but now he wants to ask, at least for Lu Zhu. Xiao Shao didn''t expect that she still remembered this. She was stunned and shook her head. "No, Jin Er has a way to get away." Jiang Ruan was relieved in his heart and said, "since he is still innocent, there is no chance." Xiao Shao: "I''m sorry." But Jiang Ruan did not let him go. He looked askance at him and said, "his innocence has been preserved. What about yours?" "Me?" Xiao Shao doubts her words. But listening to Jiang Ruan''s words, he said: "these days, you and Yao Niannian''s plays are not very good. Have you been taken advantage of by her, or have you lost beauty?" Xiao Shao was stunned, and then a trace of helplessness flashed in his eyes. These days, in order to observe the movement of Yao''s family, even he did some cover up. However, it''s not as naked as Jiang Ruan said. Yao''s family is also wonderful. They probably understand that it''s too obvious to directly post to him, and he will not go either. So they just go to the curve to save the country. They always approach the house of Mo or other colleagues who have relations with Xiao Shao. Most of the time, Xiao Shao just looked coldly in the banquet and didn''t say anything. He said, "no, I''m clean." "Clean yourself up?" Playing with these four words, Jiang Ruan suddenly said, "what''s the matter with the clothes?" Finally asked the key, even if know is to play, the clothes in her eyes or dazzling, just want to be cut, throw far away. Xiao Shao was stunned, thinking that Jiang Ruan had always been worried about this matter, but he could not laugh or cry. The dress thing was an accident. On that day, someone accidentally dumped the wine and spilled the wine on him. He always liked to be clean. After changing his clothes, he threw it in the banquet. He forgot to throw it away, but he didn''t want to be taken away. Of course, he was Yao Niannian. When Yao Niannian''s letter and clothes arrived, Xiao Shao himself was at a loss. He called Mo Cong to ask. It was on that day that Yao Niannian was splashed with water, and someone put Xiao Shao''s clothes on her. After Yao Niannian returned to the palace, he washed Xiao Shao''s robe and sent the letter to the palace. It has to be said that this move is extremely ingenious. It''s better to say nothing than a thousand words. If some more powerful wives have already quarreled with their husband and started to confront each other. In this way, the confrontation of distrust between husband and wife will not benefit much. I''m afraid that the relationship between husband and wife will get worse and worse. Now, I''m afraid that the person who spilled Xiao Shao''s drink on the banquet also did it on purpose. He had already known that Xiao Shao''s habit of Xijie was that Xiao Shao didn''t forget his clothes and had a way to get them. Xiao Shao explained the whole story to Jiang Ruan again. Jiang Ruan heard that although he was still dissatisfied, his eyes relaxed. It had to be said that Xiao Shao''s explanation was quite in line with her heart. At least the four words of "clean body and self-improvement" really deserved it, but it was also related to Xiao Shao''s own temperament. People all know that Xiao Shao is used to being cold and indifferent, so he will not do anything out of the ordinary at the banquet. If he really speaks soft words to Yao Niannian, it will make people suspect. Jiang Ruan side just understand, but Xiao Shao began to ask: "Jin two thing, you know, when do you understand I''m acting?" "I knew it from the beginning." Jiang Ruan snorted: "you''re the one who protects my weaknesses, but Jin Er and I, you probably want to protect me too. Jiner is a man. If you don''t have any other thoughts on him, why protect him from offending me. It''s just that things are so abnormal in the beginning. I''m not a fool. "Xiao Shao: "I''m sorry." Jiang Ruan is a gold medal to his face, but when he thinks about it carefully, he can recognize the unusual meaning. Xiao Shao is indeed a short guard. If he doesn''t have Jiang Ruan, he will be on Jin''s side. This is the leader''s equal trust in his subordinates, not to mention his brotherhood. But with Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao would be different. This may be a little more important than friends, but it is not. The person who set up the Bureau undoubtedly knew Xiao Shao very well. In this bureau, Xiao Shao''s character was fully considered, and his reaction to everything was calculated. However, he only ignored one thing, or was unwilling to admit one thing. That is one thing at a time and another. The first thing Xiao Shao wants to protect today is Jiang Ruan. Therefore, when Xiao Shao misunderstands and is unfamiliar with Jiang Ruan, Dewdrop doubts, forsythia doubts, and even Tianzhu doubts. What she sees most clearly is Jiang Ruan himself. She clearly understands Xiao Shao''s feelings for herself, so she gives him the same trust. "You''ve been acting with me since the beginning?" Xiao Shao was surprised, and then he said, "Qi Feng..." "I did it on purpose, too." Jiang Ruan said frankly: "although this matter is very wrong with him, they have to do it properly. If I act like this, they will only feel that their plan is progressing so smoothly. They will show their feet when they are complacent. I am speeding up the disclosure of their flaws." Xiao Shao was slightly stunned. He didn''t speak for a long time. Seeing his appearance, Jiang Ruan frowned and said, "why don''t you speak, but do you think it''s wrong for me to act like this?" At this point, Jiang Ruan also sighed in her heart. She made use of every person and thing around her, which had become a habit for a long time and could not be changed for a while. Qi Feng treats her feelings. She knows that it''s not without guilt to use such feelings. It''s just that no matter how deep the guilt is, it can''t match her determination to defend herself. "Just feel," Xiao Shao shook his head, looking at her way: "you and I also have a tacit understanding." Jiang Ruan didn''t expect that he would say that. He was just staring at Xiao Shao. He didn''t know why, but he blushed. Although he was already a husband and wife, what Xiao Shao said sometimes always made people blush and heart beat. Serious people always made people happy when they talked about sweet words. I have to admit that Jiang Ruan was in the same mood at the moment The moonflower blooming in the dark outside is sweet and fragrant. But what did Xiao Shaofang say? Tacit understanding? Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on the young man in black. Indeed, the arrangement was ingenious. Even if Jiang Ruan saw it himself, he had to admit that the other side was very considerate. There was nothing special about it. The turning point was inevitable. People had to be led by the nose to walk into the sleeve. Jiang Ruan is also an expert in guessing people''s hearts. This out of the game takes advantage of the weakness of human nature and the infinite expansion of distrust in getting along with each other. However, this delicate situation was seen through at the beginning, and now it''s just a joke. Naturally, it''s because of tacit understanding. In fact, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao didn''t say hello in advance, and they didn''t know each other''s plan, but with absolute trust and tacit understanding, they completed a seamless performance. Because there was no prior discussion, looking at it, we couldn''t find any flaws. We just felt that it was very real. This is tacit understanding. Is pondering, but unexpectedly is Xiao Shao walked to oneself in front. Jiang Ruan was stunned, but Xiao Shao reached for her shoulder and said in a low voice, "since you are not angry, come back with me." "Back to what house." Jiang Ruan did not have a good way: "grandfather, they are all asleep. They don''t disturb others." "Then go back quietly." Xiao Shao said, "I''ll take you over the wall." A king of Jin Ying is so fond of climbing over the wall that he likes to attack at night before he gets married. He still likes it after he gets married. It''s really going to make people laugh off him. Jiang Ruan said, "are you not afraid that my grandfather will see me in the morning and report to the government?" Xiao Shao pursed her lips, but her wife couldn''t take her home. That''s the truth. Even if there is such a truth, people have to change it. However, Xiao Shao could not help Jiang Ruan. He knew that Jiang Ruan had always been a man of one mind, so there was no room for him to turn around. Immediately he said, "well, I won''t leave tonight." Jiang Ruan looked at him in surprise: "what are you doing?" "Well, I miss you." Xiao Shao said lightly, but buried his face in Jiang Ruan''s neck. Jiang Ruan was tickled and uncomfortable by him, so he went to lift his head. Unfortunately, Xiao Shao didn''t move. Jiang Ruan was angry and funny, so he didn''t care about him. He never thought Xiao Shao was so clingy. Is it true that Xiao Shao is better than his new marriage? At the thought of these words, Jiang Ruan''s face turned red again. He interrupted himself and said, "are you here to make trouble for me? Go back quickly. I''ll take a bath when no one finds out. Don''t hang on. " Xiao Shao smell speech, but immediately let go of Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan thought he is to understand his words, want to leave, but for a long time didn''t hear the movement, some doubt looked back at him, don''t want to but almost no gas fainted, see Xiao Shao is taking off his belt, see her see to pull lip angle: "just right, together." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 230 The next morning, Jiang Ruan got up later. The servants in the general''s house were ordered by Li and didn''t disturb her dream. So when Jiang Ruan woke up, it was already bright, and there was no Xiao Shao around. The room was as clean as last night. She slowly propped herself up. She felt that she was aching. There were some red marks on her shoulders. Jiang Ruan looked at her silently for a while. Xiao Shao had disappeared for several decades, but she was more and more beast. She was also very strong. It was really the so-called "farewell is better than newlywed". Jiang Ruan asked forsythia and dew to come in and wash. When Forsythia combed Jiang Ruan''s hair, she looked embarrassed. Seeing her appearance, Jiang Ruan asked, "what''s the matter with you?" "You''d better change your clothes, girl." Forsythia looked at the back of Jiang Ruan''s neck with a red face. Seeing that Jiang Ruan was still at a loss, she buried her head to get a bronze mirror and looked at her from behind. I saw a red dark mark on my white neck, which was very ambiguous. Jiang Ruan was stunned, and then he scolded Xiao Shao in his heart. Only then did she let the dew get the clothes that could cover the red lines on his neck with the collar. Dewdrop carefully observed her face, and saw that although she had some blame, she was not angry on her face. Last night, Xiao Shao''s arrival made her change, at least the coldness on her face disappeared. It was about that the husband and wife were as good as ever, and the estrangement was eliminated. It was no better thing. Dewdrop is also really happy for Jiang Ruan, but she does not pay attention to Jiang Ruan and stares at her thoughtfully. Dewdrop a Zheng, some hesitant ask a way: "young madam, but want a servant to do what?" Jiang Ruan really shook his head and said, "nothing." Xiao Shao''s story last night confirmed her conjecture that jin''er was really just acting on occasion, but Xiao Shao knew, she knew, jin''er knew, but dewdrop didn''t know. What kind of feelings dewdrop had for jin''er, and other people''s lives and feelings couldn''t be decided by her. So how to solve this problem depends on jin''er and dewdrop Let''s go. Jiang Ruan sighed softly and said to Tianzhu, "pack up your things and let''s go back to your house today." "Back home?" Tianzhu was a little stunned. Although she knew that they must have made up last night, why did she come back so suddenly? But Jiang Ruan just said: "nothing, surprise is good." After that, he got up and went out of the door first: "I''ll explain it to my grandparents." After hearing Jiang Ruan''s sudden departure, Li was naturally surprised. For more than ten days, Zhao''s family have been very happy with Jiang Ruan''s arrival. Although Jiang Ruan''s character is not very warm, he is very good at dealing with people. He learned a lot from Xuanli in his previous life in the palace, and now he is very handy for the Zhao family, who have already given her kindness. So the Zhao family has long regarded her as one of the writers. If they want to leave so suddenly, other people don''t have to say for the moment. Naturally, Li is not willing to leave. Only Jiang Ruan said that Xiao Shao had come to urge him, and Li could not stop him. They live in their mother''s house every day. There''s no estrangement between husband and wife. So Li said with a smile: "in this case, I can''t say anything. Later, let the housekeeper take the gift back to Xiao Shao and bring some for him. A Ruan, you should come to the general''s house more often. This is your home. Grandma wants you to come." Jiang Ruan laughed again, but when he saw the carriage prepared by the general''s office, he was shocked. The carriage almost pulled a whole carriage of gifts. If it was true, Li would have given her everything he could think of. The elder did not dare to say goodbye, but he could not return all the gifts. Jiang and Ruan could not laugh or cry. Such a lot of gifts are not ordinary return gifts. It seems that they have moved. Tianzhu hesitated: "young lady, I''m afraid the carriage will go very slowly." There were two carriages. One was Jiang Ruan himself, and the other was Li. To follow the chariot, Jiang Ruan''s carriage was also slow. Originally, the general''s house was not too far away from King Jinying''s house, but the distance was several times as long as before. Forsythia then came up with an idea and said, "if the young lady goes first, the carriage at the back will catch up. In broad daylight, no one will rob the carriage." But Jiang Ruan shook his head and said, "nothing, go back slowly." In the general''s mansion these days, she didn''t observe the things around her and send letters to Xuan PEI as she had been in the palace before, so the news fell behind a lot. Different from Xiao Shao, Xiao Shao uses the royal guards to collect intelligence, but Jiang Ruan uses his own eyes to push out possible anomalies with different bits of ordinary life. Forsythia is not easy to say anything more. The carriage is moving slowly, but it is very smooth. When it comes to the street in the city, there is a clear female voice outside the carriage: "dare to ask, is it Princess Hong''an''s carriage?" Jiang Ruan sat in the car and the carriage stopped. Tianzhu was the first to jump down. Looking at the people outside, she asked, "who is that?" The man outside is just a young girl dressed as a servant girl. The cloth on the girl''s body shows that her family is extraordinary. Just that servant girl also didn''t expect to jump out of the inside suddenly a face icy woman, open mouth don''t politely ask oneself is who, pour is startled. She calmed down and was about to speak when a soft voice came from her side: "it''s me. My servant girl is rude. She bumped into the princess and asked her to forgive me. Just now I saw the carriage of the general''s house. I thought the princess was on it too. Then I hastened to say hello. "This is very kind, no airs, as if to treat an old acquaintance in general. A moment later, the curtain of the carriage was lifted and Jiang Ruan came out. Tianzhu stands beside Jiang Ruan and looks at the woman in front of him. This woman is no other than Miss Yao, Yao Niannian. Jiang Ruan also laughed: "it''s a coincidence that I didn''t want to meet Miss Yao here, so I''m really predestined." Yao Niannian also nodded and smile: "yes. Niannian suddenly stepped forward to disturb him. He didn''t want to be too rash and impolite. He really didn''t think about it. He just had a few friends with the Lord, and he wanted to say hello. " Dew in the inside hear straight frown, this Yao Niannian mouth all pick up Xiao Shao don''t put is how to return a responsibility? This was deliberately misunderstood by Jiang Ruan. Dewdrop can''t help but feel a little nervous. She only thinks about Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao. It''s so easy to let go of the past last night. Today, Yao Niannian is making trouble again. It''s really hateful. Forsythia held the dew, so that she would not lose her mind and rush out. After all, she wanted to be calm, but even so, she didn''t agree with Yao Niannian''s words. However, Jiang Ruan didn''t answer Yao Niannian''s words at all. He was still smiling on his face, but asked, "well, there''s something else I want to ask Miss Yao to help me." Yao Niannian looks slightly changed, then said with a smile: "if I can help the princess, I will do my best." "It''s my grandmother''s birthday. I''m going to embroider a thousand handed Avalokitesvara for rent. However, there is no lack of beads on the statue of Guanyin. I heard that there is a lot of Moonstone in the South China Sea Jialin area, which is used to polish the beads, and the color is the most brilliant. However, there are no such beads in the shops in the capital recently. I know Lord Yao is the governor of Binhai. Can you bring some for me when I go to Nanhai next time. I will thank you very much. " The dew and Forsythia in the carriage were puzzled. When did Jiang Ruan plan to embroider a thousand handed Guanyin. Yao Niannian didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan ignored her just now, but suddenly asked such a request. Governor Yao is Binhai governor, and he will stay in Nanhai for most of the year. Yao Niannian lived in Nanhai when he was a child, and he was sent back to Beijing when he grew up. Yao Niannian said with a smile, "I don''t need any thanks. Since I have a friendship with Wang Ye, I''m also friends with the princess. I always want to help her with friends'' affairs. I''ll talk to my father when I get home. " She always put things on Xiao Shao, but Jiang Ruan was not angry at all. On the contrary, she didn''t seem to recognize her voice. She said with a smile, "thank you very much, Miss Yao." Yao Niannian said with a smile: "don''t say thank you, just look at the appearance of the princess, come back from the general''s house?" "Exactly." Jiang Ruan also replied. Yao Niannian lowered his head and said in a low voice: "no wonder he..." Generally speaking, Yao Niannian suddenly raised his head to look at Jiang Ruan, as if he suddenly found something wrong with his words and quickly stopped talking. It''s even more itching to say half of it. However, this obviously failed Jiang Ruan. She still didn''t seem to see Yao Niannian''s expression at all. She just said with a smile, "if nothing happens, I''ll go first. There are still many things to deal with in the government. If Miss Yao wants to go on shopping, she hopes to have more fun. " It''s like a punch on the cotton, what kind of strength can''t make out, any words that can irritate others, to Jiang Ruan here also seems not to care about the general. Watching the carriage go away, the servant girl beside Yao Niannian said angrily: "Miss, she must have done it on purpose! I must have been angry in my heart, but I have to pretend to be calm and calm on my face. It must be like this! " Yao Niannian stood still, his eyes following the direction of the carriage, and a trace of darkness flashed in his eyes. What does the sentence "there are still many affairs to be dealt with in the mansion" mean, the supreme power of the master in King Jinying''s mansion, or a demonstration? Yao Niannian lowered his head slowly, and his face seemed to be the same as that of the smile just now. He was still light and said, "let''s go." In the carriage, dewdrop and forsythia did not dare to say a word, just because Jiang Ruan had a dignified look since she got on the carriage, which was rare for her who used to face everything with a smile. Dewdrop and forsythia don''t know the reason. They just say that Jiang Ruan is angry with Yao Niannian again. They just want to drive Yao Niannian out of the capital immediately. No woman who hasn''t been out of the cabinet stares at other people''s husband all day. The identity of the Yao family always doesn''t let Yao Niannian come to the royal palace to be a concubine, but Yao Niannian''s attitude now is very clear. She has a purpose to enter the royal palace. Is it difficult for her to get up with Jiang ruanping? Forsythia and dew Wu thought, only to see one side of Jiang Ruan look more solemn, even dare not ask. When he returned to the palace, housekeeper Lin saw that Jiang Ruan had come back, and he was very happy. Then he marveled at the generosity of the general''s house. If it was really the young lady''s family, Jiang Ruan didn''t have the heart to talk to him. He just asked housekeeper Lin to pick up the pile of gifts and went back to the yard. When we got to the yard, we only asked Tianzhu to go to the study. Tianzhu followed Jiang Ruan into the study. Jiang Ruan went to the desk and sat down. Tianzhu hesitated for a moment and asked, "what''s the matter with young lady?" In this way, as long as she goes in alone, there is bound to be something important. As a result, Jiang Ruan just looked at her and said, "what do you think of that Yao Niannian?""This..." Tianzhu was a little confused: "what is the young lady asking?" "What kind of martial arts does she have?" Jiang Ruan''s expression is very dignified. Tianzhu also slightly surprised, but carefully recalled, shook his head and said: "no, but the maid beside her has a little Kung Fu, but it is not high, it should be for self-protection." It''s not hard to explain that a girl with Yao Niannian''s identity has to take several bodyguards with her when she goes out by herself. Yao Niannian didn''t want to take the bodyguard, so he took a servant girl who had some Kung Fu. "Without martial arts, is there anything special?" Asked Jiang Ruan. Tianzhu shook his head: "I didn''t find it. Young lady asked what to do with it? Miss Yao is just an ordinary girl. How can she have martial arts or be a girl There has always been a lot of intelligence in the royal guards. Yao Niannian is one of the best ladies in the capital. Naturally, everyone knows what happened. Just like Yao Niannian, how could Jiang Ruan suddenly ask her if she can do martial arts? Tianzhu couldn''t understand it, but he saw that Jiang Ruan slowly lowered his head and said, "she''s not Yao Niannian." "What?" Tianzhu was surprised and said in a low voice, "she''s not Yao Niannian. Who is it?" "It''s a bit tricky," Jiang Ruan said suddenly. "You should find Xiao Shao and let him go back to his house earlier. There''s something important to discuss." Tianzhu is also very quick, but also an hour of Kung Fu, Xiao Shao went back to the house. He should have come back from the outside, too, with no time to change his clothes. As soon as he saw Jiang Ruan, he asked, "what''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan was stunned to see that he was so worried. Then he pulled him into the room and closed the door. Xiao Shao quietly let her do all this. When Jiang Ruan took him to sit down at his desk, he poured a cup of tea to Jiang Ruan: "speak slowly." "I met Yao Niannian today." Jiang Ruan Dao. "Yes?" Xiao Shao a pick eyebrow, listen to Jiang Ruan again: "I doubt she is not Yao Niannian." Seeing that Xiao Shao didn''t respond, Jiang Ruan was puzzled. Then he understood and said angrily, "you already know?" "Don''t be angry," Xiao Shao saw that she would be angry again. He quickly killed Jiang Ruan''s anger in the bud and comforted him: "there was doubt before, but it''s almost confirmed now. How do you know that? " He digs the subject. Jiang Ruan glared at him, but did not entangle in this issue. She hasn''t been in the house these days. Xiao Shao didn''t have to tell her even if he wanted to. He said: "I thought it was strange before. It was about intuition. I always feel very different from when I first met her, so when I saw her in the street today, I deliberately tested her. " Jiang Ruan asked Yao Niannian to help him find the Moonstone in the street. Then he said, "that Jialin is just a place where I''m talking nonsense. There''s no Moonstone at all. She should have answered it. Obviously, I''m not familiar with the South China Sea at all. Yao Niannian has been working with governor Yao in Binhai since he was a child. How can he not even know this little thing. There must be something wrong with her Jiang Ruan''s eyes sank and said slowly, "I guess she''s from southern Xinjiang?" Xiao shaoding looked at her for a long time, then sighed slightly, some helpless way: "yes, Southern life is cunning, once you are involved, you will inevitably be in danger." "I''m not afraid of danger, of course." Jiang Ruan glared at him and said, "I know about your plan, so I started it for you in advance." Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, as if trying to figure out the meaning of Jiang Ruan''s words. Then he said, "you..." With a slight smile, Jiang Ruan interrupted what he wanted to say: "don''t say it. I''ve made up my mind. If Southern Xinjiang and Xuanli collude with each other, sooner or later xuanpei will also be affected. I can''t let this happen. " "Are you going to tear her down?" Xiao Shao asked. "Why should I tear it down? She can''t use her identity any more. It is not so easy to find the identity of such a minister''s family member who can approach the center of gravity of the court in a short time. " If, as Jiang Ruan said, now in Yao''s house, the housekeeper next to governor Yao looked at Yao Niannian in surprise and said, "Miss, do you want Jialin''s Moonstone? Jialin. It seems that Nanhai has never heard of Jialin. What is Moonstone? Is it famous? " The teacup in Yao Niannian''s hand fell in response to the sound, and her look suddenly became stiff for a moment. The maid beside her was startled and quickly squatted down to pick up the chips that the teacup had broken on the ground. The housekeeper saw that Yao Niannian didn''t look right. For a moment, he was very nervous and asked, "what''s the matter, miss? If not, I''ll ask someone to ask me again. Maybe it''s just that I don''t know the reputation of Moonstone. " The little servant girl on the ground knew the cause of the matter and said angrily, "take something that is impossible for the young lady to find. The princess Jinying is really black hearted. If the young lady can''t find it, isn''t there something to blame? " She didn''t notice anything wrong. "Nothing. I''ll go back to my room first." Yao Niannian is suddenly low voice way, for the first time, her face did not smile, just a little cold. When he got back to the room, he sat in front of the dressing mirror. Yao Niannian stared at the woman in the mirror and said to himself, "a trap? It was seen through. " With a sigh, she flashed in her sleeve. She didn''t know what was floating out, so she went straight out of the window, leaving a fragrance of orchids. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 231 In a house not far away from the capital, Yuan Chuan stood with his hand in the negative. Looking at the signal from his subordinates, he sighed and shook his head and said, "it''s exposed." "My Lord, what has been exposed?" The subordinate next to him asked in doubt. This subordinate is also Yuanchuan''s confidant, so he is bold to ask. Yuan Chuan''s lips are still slightly raised, but his tone is not very pleasant, and he says, "the virgin is exposed." The subordinates were surprised. They knew that the saint was in the capital privately. It didn''t mean that everything was going well. These days, Yuanchuan is doing things step by step according to the plan. How can the saint be exposed? Not only his subordinates were surprised, but Yuanchuan was wearing a mask. Others couldn''t see his expression clearly. Only he knew that he was surprised when he heard the news. Saint into the capital of the secret, at the beginning even he did not know, to Yao Niannian instead is a good move. Everyone knows that the emperor intended to betroth Yao Niannian to Xiao Shao. If it had not been for Jiang Ruan, now Yao Niannian would have been Princess Jinying. Yao Niannian''s identity is very natural. What''s more, governor Yao is also an important figure in the Jin Dynasty. No matter what aspect, he is very suitable. Who ever thought that the perfect plan now collapsed, but the saint was exposed. The identity is exposed, especially to people like Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is good at taking advantage of the opportunity. What will she do next? If she really confronts her, she may not have been given a chance to do it. Yuan Chuan is shocked when he thinks about it. After thinking about it for a while, he suddenly says to his subordinates, "go to the warehouse and find out the woman''s corpse that died a few days ago. Tonight Li tries to throw it to Yao''s door when there is no one "Yao''s door?" Although the man was in doubt, he immediately got up and executed. Yuanchuan stands in front of the window, frowning tightly. The real Yao Niannian has already died. Today, Yao Niannian is just a saint disguised as a saint. The saint has said that she wants to leave the Yao family, but if Yao Niannian suddenly disappears, the Yao family will not give up. It is bound to open up the whole capital to search, which is also a great disadvantage to them. Now it''s only confirmed that Yao Niannian is dead. Before, the saint asked him to take Yao Niannian''s body for disposal. Yuanchuan kept an eye on it and only used the secret arts of Southern Xinjiang to keep the body from rotting. Now it''s just the time to solve the urgent problem. Since they want to get away from the Yao family and confirm that Yao Niannian is dead, the Yao family is in a mess. How can they be in the mood to worry about other things? It''s natural for them to do other things. The night seemed to pass peacefully. On the second day, the doorkeeper at the gate of Yao''s mansion got up to check. He suddenly found a figure hanging on the post at the gate of Yao''s mansion. He was so scared that he cried out. He called him and his family members. In front of the post at the gate of Yao''s mansion, there was a figure hanging straight and a rope hanging on it On the beam of the door, the other end was put on the neck of the corpse. At the foot of the corpse was a trampled bench. Obviously, the man hanged himself. The servants felt a bit of bad luck after they had a lingering fear. They scolded one after another: "how can you pick someone to hang himself in front of the door? Who is this person?" A servant went around to see the corpse. It didn''t matter. At the same time, he let out another scream. This time, he was more miserable than before. Everyone was worried. He didn''t know what happened. The family member pointed to the Figure shaking slightly above, opened his mouth wide and said: "little Miss... " The rest of the servants were stunned. Miss Yao Niannian hanged herself in front of her mansion. This event almost swept the whole capital on the same day. After all, no one knows about the Yao family in the capital, and Miss Yao is the best among the well-known ladies, but she can''t imagine hanging herself. There must be something strange about it. Yao''s family invited the most famous Wuzuo in the capital, but it was found that Yao''s daughter hanged herself. This is blocking people''s mouths, and people can''t find any problems. Although there is no problem, the whole Yao family is in mourning. Governor Yao only got such a daughter in his middle age. He has always held the daughter in his hand, but now he has died. The blow he has suffered can be imagined. He even didn''t want to participate in the matter of seizing the royal family in the court. He just felt disheartened and sad for his daughter. Yao Niannian has always been gentle and decent, and he is generous. What must have happened to him when he hanged himself in this way. However, he can''t find out anything. When he asks about the servants in the house, Yao Niannian''s servant girl tells us that Yao Niannian is strange recently, different from the past, and occasionally seems to have something on his mind. When they heard this, they were convinced that Yao Niannian had hanged himself for something. For a moment, Yao''s family was in agony. When the news came back, Jiang Ruan was working with Xiao Shao in his study. While Xiao Shao was reading the information from the royal guards, Jiang Ruan shrank in Xiao Shao''s arms. In fact, she was tall, but she was very petite in Xiao Shao''s arms. On the one hand, it was warm, on the other hand, it was convenient for Xiao Shao and him to see the information. Xiao Shao didn''t hinder her. She was allowed to see it. Jiang Ruan looked at it and suddenly said, "ah? Is Yao Niannian dead? " That said, there was no surprise in his tone, as if he had expected it to happen. Xiao Shao didn''t change his face either, just let out a "MMM". "It''s so fast," Jiang Ruan exclaimed, "let me see. It''s strange to hang yourself in front of Yao''s house. Who would hang himself in front of his house? What do people in southern Xinjiang think For any woman, even if she is determined to die, she doesn''t want people to see her embarrassed appearance before death, especially hanging. It''s not very good-looking. Yao Niannian is a famous family. If she really wants to hang herself, she will choose a room without people. How can she hang herself so big that so many people can see her ugly appearance after death? Obviously, the people of Southern Xinjiang are not thinking about it."Well, maybe the customs are different," Xiao Shao said solemnly, "the customs of Southern Xinjiang are open." Seeing that Jiang Ruan was staring at him, Xiao Shao changed his words: "Yao''s house is heavily guarded. I''m afraid it will frighten the snake." "That makes sense." After thinking about it, Jiang Ruan agreed with Xiao Shao. You should know that Yao''s mansion is also the residence of a class of courtiers. Governor Yao is also a martial arts man, and there are many experts in the mansion. It seems that Yao Niannian has already died, and died outside the mansion. The other party is afraid of increasing trouble after entering the mansion, so they choose the safe way of keeping Yao Niannian at the door. Although it is a little rough, it is safer. "But to make Wuzuo see no problem, the people of Southern Xinjiang have some means." Jiang Ruan pondered: "at the beginning, you had a fight with them, and there was no evil law, was there?" Jiang Su Su''s flattery. She still remembers that people in southern Xinjiang seem to be good at these witchcraft and witchcraft. "A small skill in carving insects." Xiao Shao said with disdain, "Xia Qing is much better than him." Xia Qing is a master of Jinling. Naturally, there are ways to detoxify. "But Yao''s family has buried Yao Niannian''s body. There is no poison in sight. Xia Qing can''t detoxify it." Xiao shaodao. When the apple of Yao family''s eye died, she naturally wanted to settle down earlier. At this time, Xia Qing would go up and hop again, and he might not know what other people would think. However, the medical skill stresses seeing, hearing and asking. Even if Yao Niannian''s body can''t be seen, Xia Qing is afraid that he can''t solve the problem of people in southern Xinjiang. "It''s OK," Jiang Ruan said with a sly smile, "I''ve been prepared." Xiao Shao took a look at her and didn''t seem to be surprised. Jiang Ruan was dissatisfied and said, "why aren''t you surprised?" "Madame is so intelligent that she must have a way to deal with it." Xiao Shao said helplessly: "I can only retire after success." His sweet words became more and more smooth. Jiang Ruan glared at him and said, "although we can''t let him be arrested, the people of Southern Xinjiang didn''t come unprepared, so it can''t be so simple. However, there is no saying in the world that she will turn around and leave after others. Miss Yao is also a rival in love. I like her very much. At least I have to take revenge on her. This time, we should at least add obstacles to the people of Southern Xinjiang. Since Miss Yao is so embarrassed by their death, it''s better to let them be embarrassed. " Xiao Shao Jiang Ruan''s words are high sounding, but who said that "I really like Yao Niannian and want to help her get revenge" is a little embarrassed. Everyone knows that Jiang Ruan is a cold-blooded man. He is gentle on the face. In fact, he is indifferent to everything. He is not a good man with a Bodhisattva''s heart. To do so is nothing more than to vent his unhappiness. Seeing Xiao Shao''s speechless expression, Jiang Ruan threatened: "don''t you agree?" I dare not. " Xiao Shao replied. Yao Niannian''s death caused an uproar in the capital. The original noble and intelligent lady didn''t know what happened, but she was hanged in front of her own house. This was a provocative thing, and everyone doubted the secret. The common people talked about many possibilities, but it was not over yet. On the second day of Yao Niannian''s funeral, a startling news broke out in the capital: Miss Yao''s family hanged herself, but she was forced to die. It was the people from southern Xinjiang who forced Miss Yao to die. The people from southern Xinjiang mixed into the capital! I don''t know where the news started, but the more it spread, the more it spread, and the more it spread, the more fierce it became. There was a trend of direct access to Tianting. And this startling news is different from the past, which is full of loopholes and endless. It actually describes in detail the process of Yao Niannian being threatened. It was the southern Xinjiang people who seized the weakness of the Yao family and wanted Yao Niannian to find a way to change the political position of the whole Yao family. She cooperated with the southern Xinjiang people inside and outside, and became the inner man of the southern Xinjiang in the Dajin Dynasty. However, Miss Yao was loyal and fearing that the southern Xinjiang people would turn her Yao family into a fiery place, so she bit her teeth. She hanged herself and wanted to save the Yao family. Once such a rumor came out, the whole capital was in an uproar. Many years ago, the people of Southern Xinjiang knew about the first world war against Dajin Dynasty. When Jin Dynasty destroyed Nanjiang, Nanjiang people''s ambition did not die, so it was possible to make a comeback. For this reason, Miss Yao committed suicide in the most tragic way at the gate of the residence, which made sense. Governor Yao was very angry in his heart. Because of his daughter''s death, he finally had a place to vent his anger. Originally, Yao Niannian didn''t know why he died. Although governor Yao was heartbroken, he also blamed Yao Niannian for not explaining the difficulties to his family. Now, as soon as this rumor comes out, Yao Niannian has become a loyal woman who wants to preserve her residence but is unwilling to cooperate with the enemy and betray her country. The last trace of displeasure in Yao Niannian''s heart disappears. Instead, it is endless guilt, hatred for her incompetence and heartbreak for Yao Niannian''s sacrifice. Now governor Yao has only one idea, that is, let the people who forced Yao Niannian to die pay for his blood! Governor Yao also has some weight in the capital. He immediately asked his subordinates to contact Jing Zhaoyin to supplement his staff. Then he asked the emperor for an imperial edict to blockade the whole capital and investigate suspicious people door to door. He was bound to find out the southern Xinjiang man who killed Yao Niannian and vowed not to give up. For a time, the streets in the capital are interrogated by soldiers every day, which makes the public security in the capital much better. What the Yao family did was more than that. I don''t know where governor Yao got the news. The people of Southern Xinjiang also wanted to take part in the current capture of the throne. The emperor in their heart was Xuanli. Maybe the people of Southern Xinjiang came to Beijing just because of Xuanli''s plan.Although governor Yao had been training in the coastal area for so many years, he had already smoothed down a lot in the officialdom, but the blood in his nature had not been completely wiped out. Yao Niannian''s death was a great blow to him. Xuanli had once recruited him, but governor Yao was a wise man who had been waiting and keeping neutral. Now when he heard that Xuanli might have something to do with the people of Southern Xinjiang, he was so surprised that even Xuanli hated him. That night, he sent a message to xuanpei in the palace, saying that the Yao family was on the side of the 13th prince. It''s so busy in the capital, but these days Xiao Shao is idle. When he has nothing to do, he is reading and drinking tea with Jiang Ruan. When he hears the news from Jin San Pao, Jiang Ruan''s eyes are full of laughter. The news that the southern Xinjiang people forced Yao Niannian to hang himself was released by her. The royal guards can collect intelligence, and naturally they can also create intelligence. If you find some people to guide these rumors intentionally, you can naturally achieve a lot of results. However, Jin San''s reply was somewhat surprised: "how could governor Yao believe it so easily? We didn''t even use the back hand we prepared. Is it really because of Miss Yao''s death that she lost her head? " So smooth to achieve the goal, it is to make Jin three some depressed. "Do you really think he''s confused because Yao Niannian is dead?" Jiang Ruan asked. Tianzhu is puzzled and looks at Jiang Ruan in doubt. Xiao Shao drinks tea silently and is not ready to interrupt. Jiang Ruan then shook his head and said, "governor Yao is naturally sad, but he is a wise man. At the beginning, Yao Niannian died in such a strange way that it would inevitably lead to rumors in the capital. Now there is a new saying that Yao Niannian has risen to the name of a strange woman who is a country and a family. It''s good for the Yao government or himself. That is to say, the news is false, and governor Yao is also happy Will make it real. " It is obvious that the latter is more valuable for a woman who is forced to hang herself for her country and her family. Jin Sany was stunned and said: "I see. I didn''t expect governor Yao to love his daughter so much. In the end, he still wanted to use it. It seems that this feeling is not so sincere." "That''s not true." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "for Yao Niannian, it''s the last thing that governor Yao can fight for for for her to win a good reputation after her death. Therefore, governor Yao''s practice is right and also for Yao Niannian''s sake. It''s just that he''s calmer. " Jiang Ruan said, but he looked at Xiao Shao, who was a wooden stake on one side: "however, the relationship between southern Xinjiang and Xuanli is that you let it out?" She only asked people to tell Yao Niannian the cause of his death, but she didn''t ask people to wear Xuanli''s relationship with the people in southern Xinjiang. Now Yao''s family has said that they are on the same side with xuanpei. Xuanpei''s tone is also a little surprised when he writes. When Jiang Ruan thought about it, he could only think that Xiao Shao had done it. Only he could do it with one stone. Xiao Shao looked at her and wondered, "am I wrong?" Jiang Ruan It''s true, because it''s a fact that the people of Southern Xinjiang and Xuanli collude with each other. Xiao Shao just told the truth, not even fanning the flames. But how can it be so strange to say it from this point of view? How do you feel so What about shamelessness? Jiang Ruan was silent. He didn''t think that the more he knew Xiao Shao, the more decisive he was when he killed his opponent. Sometimes he made a decision that he would not miss any chance. Before his opponent was killed by him, he must have lost the last drop of oil. When Xiao Shao saw that she was silent, he said, "now that the Yao family drinks Xuanli, they have a deep blood feud. Sooner or later xuanpei and Xuanli will have a war. The Yao family has a great weight in the emperor''s heart. To win over the Yao family is not only beneficial to itself, but also helpful to the emperor''s attitude. " Jiang Ruan was stunned for a while before he understood the meaning of Xiao Shao''s words. She said, "you do it for pei''er." "Not for him, but for you." Xiao Shao corrected her words. Jiang Ruan was speechless for a moment, thinking that Jin San was still here, and following Xiao Shao''s words, he pointed out that something embarrassing had happened again, so he turned away from the topic and said, "well, Xuanli has lost Yao''s family now. As for his allies, those people in southern Xinjiang should run away in a hurry in the capital. It''s the feeling that everyone in the street shouts and beats that they should experience it. Governor Yao got the imperial edict this time, and Jing Zhaoyin didn''t dare to despise it. The whole city was well prepared. Under such a strict situation, people in southern Xinjiang must not feel well at the moment. " Jiang Ruan smile: "think is also pleasant." As Jiang Ruan said, it''s true that these days, the investigation is almost door-to-door in the capital. If there is any doubt, people in southern Xinjiang who are hiding in the capital feel unprecedented pressure. All the time, they are in the dark, others are in the light. This time, it''s their turn to see that others are in the dark. It''s the first time that they feel helpless There is nothing to do. Thinking about it and resenting it, the Yao family was too rampant, so blatant to stop people, but they also forgot that they were the spies of other countries. In the capital, there is still a hidden house. Yuanchuan is surrounded by one more person. This is a young woman. She is not too old. Her eyes are empty and bright, and her skin is snow white. She only wears a scarlet dress. She doesn''t feel cold even in the early spring when it is still cold. She wears the same red yarn on her face and only shows her face Half of them, even so, can be seen to be a gorgeous beauty. This beauty comes from her ethereal temperament, as if she doesn''t eat fireworks at all."Saint, two more of our men have been damaged, and the officers and men have taken them." Yuanchuan whispered. "You can''t kill yourself on the way. Try to kill yourself." This woman''s voice is also pleasant, such as eyes in general ethereal, but the words are chilling. This group of people are all dead. In such a door-to-door investigation, it is inevitable that some of them will be caught and those who can commit suicide will be fine. If they can''t commit suicide after being unloaded weapons and poisons, they will naturally find ways to deal with them. "This is not the way." Yuanchuan road. Every day, there are new damaged people. These people are their very precious resources. They are the spies who are lurking in the capital to inquire about the news. They usually hide in the crowd and can''t see the difference. But once they are investigated, there is no way to prove their identity, and they will soon be caught. Jing Zhaoyin is determined again this time. It''s impossible for him to miss the net. If he goes on like this, the spies will be caught. When the spies were arrested, they were in a passive position like blind and deaf people in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty. "Do you think I don''t want to?" The woman coldly way: "rash hand, will only even you and I all expose." "This time Yuanchuan underestimated the enemy," Yuanchuan said. "I didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan''s hand was so fierce that he even took advantage of it." What''s more, she didn''t expect that her method was so rude that she directly beat them like a holiday mouse. "I don''t blame you." The woman was silent for a while and said, "try to tell Xuanli." It seems to be the best way to find Xuanli. There should be Xuanli people in jingzhaoyin. So many people can''t be saved one by one. At least they can get rid of the present predicament. It''s too shameful to run around like a headless fly. But Yuanchuan didn''t expect that Xuanli was too busy at the moment. At the eighth Prince''s house, Xuanli looked at the letter in his hand, and his smile became stiff, and then his face became very blue. His voice was not light or heavy, but with a deep anger, he said: "how can the Yao family go to xuanpei? What''s the matter! " His subordinates and staff did not dare to make a sound. At the moment, a man rushed in and handed a letter to Xuanli. Xuanli did not know what the letter was. After reading it, Xuanli''s expression changed a lot. Suddenly, with a sneer, he tore the letter to pieces: "I see!" "Your Highness, send someone..." The messenger''s guard. "No need!" Xuan Li gritted his teeth. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 232 Xuanli had a smile on his face, but the smile was half pleasant in people''s eyes now. On the contrary, it seemed to restrain his anger and anxiety, and showed some distortion. Among the emperor''s sons, Xuanli is undoubtedly the most stable. In the eyes of the public, Xuanli is almost a gentle and elegant old man who does everything without leaking. Such a calm man can always give people a lot of convincing sense of security. Naturally, those who went to Xuanli at the beginning also valued this. But I don''t know when Xuanli has changed unconsciously. It seems that his happiness and anger are in the past, and the people around him sometimes can even feel Xuanli''s uncontrollable anxiety, which is not a good thing for a person who is planning a big event. What the staff can see is that Xuan li himself doesn''t know. Once upon a time, he was full of disdain for Xuan Hua''s recklessness and impulse, but now it''s his turn. When did it start? Xuanli has no idea. He only knew that his great career of seizing the right had a good journey long ago, but today it is difficult. It seems that every step he takes can be calculated by the other party. The more anxious he is, the more leisurely he will be. He can''t make a quick decision. Now at the critical moment, the more anxious he is. This is definitely not a good omen. Maybe it''s the compromise that the other party wants him to make. Hold on, Xuanli warned himself again and again that Yao''s family went to xuanpei because someone told him that Yao Niannian''s death had something to do with Nanjiang people, but Nanjiang people had something to do with him. Before Yao''s family had the courage to fight against him, they threw themselves into xuanpei''s name and used xuanpei''s name to trip him here. As long as he thought about it, Xuan Li was very depressed. It had nothing to do with him. Originally, he just wanted to use a trick to kill people with a knife. He just had to watch it from a distance. In the end, he would not take risks. But I didn''t expect that Nanjiang people lost, and he not only didn''t get a good one, but also lost himself. Xuanli can''t help gritting his teeth at Jinying palace. He already knows who released the news, but he didn''t expect Xiao Shao to make it out. Maybe it''s not from Xiao Shao, but from the woman. Xuanli takes a hard breath. Nanjiang sends him a secret letter to help him, but now he can''t take any risks. The people in Nanjiang don''t know that Yao''s family has even hated him. If someone catches him at this time, he will send the handle to Yao''s family, and Yao''s family will certainly make a big fuss at this time. Now it''s better not to act rashly and be safe. Seeing Xuanli''s delay in issuing the rescue order, the messenger asked hesitantly, "Your Highness, over there..." "Never mind!" Xuanli''s ruthless way, even if he was an ally, he would never risk to save those people at this time. Moreover, the people in southern Xinjiang had caused such a big mess and made him lose a Yao family. This anger must be vented. Since the people in southern Xinjiang are so capable, let them solve it by themselves! Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan drank a good pickled yellow sauce boiled sugar water, way: "Xuanli did not start." Xiao Shao sat on one side, "en" a, the head also didn''t lift of continue to look at the book in front of. He doesn''t care so much, but Tianzhu on one side can''t help asking: "how does the young lady know he won''t do it? As an ally, we must help each other. " "Allies are true, but in Xuanli''s eyes, there is no word for allies." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "it''s just because of the common interests that we have come together for the time being. For Xuanli, the southern Xinjiang people messed up this time, which was just a useless chess piece. No matter how much the useless pieces are needed, he still needs to vent his anger. What''s more, Xuanli is suspicious. He must think that we''ve made some plans in it. He who only wants to be safe will never make a move at this time, so as not to catch himself up. " "Well?" Hearing this, Xiao Shao raised his head and thought for a moment. Looking at Jiang Ruan, he asked seriously, "is there no layout?" Jiang Ruan was dumb. Naturally, the Bureau was set up for the people of Southern Xinjiang. However, Xiao Shao''s usual style was that the autumn wind swept away the fallen leaves, and he would not let any of them go. As for Xuanli, naturally, there are arrangements to ensure that everything is safe. What if Xuanli suddenly thinks of his allies? "But young lady, what else to do now?" Tianzhu frowned and said, "our men and horses have also made a move, but we can''t find where the people from southern Xinjiang are. It''s really deep. I''m afraid there''s already someone in Beijing to take care of it. " Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "since I have been dealing with your master for so many years, I am not a layman. I have learned a lot about this Tibetan word. But it''s too far away from you. In this way, they will start first. As for starting first, it seems that they have grasped the first opportunity. In fact, the rhythm is already out of order. We have other things to do right now? " After the affairs of the Yao family were over, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao did not take any other action. Although Xiao Shao''s deployment was precise, his opponent was also very cunning and did not show up. In this way, Tianzhu felt a little boring all day. At the moment, listening to Jiang Ruan''s words, they were immediately excited: "young lady, what else is the task?" "It is the master behind that has been caught, and the young general can''t let it go." Jiang Ruan smile: "bully my people, there is no such reason.""The young lady wants to..." Tianzhu looked at her suspiciously and said, "Miss Liao..." "Treat people with their own way," Jiang Ruan said faintly, "it''s OK to be in charge of one''s own affairs, but if you want to use the means that can''t be used on the stage to my people, let her have a taste of it." Tian Zhu nodded thoughtfully. Xiao Shao looked up at Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan immediately asked, "how?" "Nothing," Xiao Shao continued to look down at the pamphlet in front of him as if nothing had happened, and said faintly, "madam, good strategy." Jiang Ruan In the courtyard of Beijing, there are two people sitting in the house. One of them is doing embroidery in front of the door. The other young woman is looking down at the book in front of her, but her eyes are wandering. Zhou''s mother was doing embroidery work, and she sighed: "the second young master hasn''t been here for a long time, and I don''t know if something happened." Liao mengshun looks out of the window with Zhou''s mother''s eyes. It''s true that there is no shadow of that person. These days, Jin Er doesn''t know why he almost doesn''t set foot here any more. He looks for someone to pass a message in private, but he doesn''t receive an answer. Liao Meng said with a smile: "Mom, don''t worry. Since the second young master is working for the king, he may have something important to do these days. It''s common for him to be too busy to get away. It will come in a few days Although she is comforting her mother, she is more like persuading herself. With Jin Er not coming for a long time, her heart can''t help suspecting. What''s the matter? Is it the servant girl who entangles Jin Er? Brocade two don''t come, that person over there also doesn''t come to the news, Liao dream is uneasy to think, in the heart faintly some uneasiness. Liao Meng doesn''t know who that person is. He only knows that after his parents died, life was very difficult. A mysterious man wrote a letter to her and pointed out a clear way. This bright road is Jiner, which is a good thing for Liao Meng. He almost followed the man''s advice without hesitation. The man didn''t say anything. He just said that he wanted to help and didn''t need Liao Meng to pay any price. As long as Liao Meng took Jin Er and let the little servant girl go. Later, everything went smoothly beyond Liao Meng''s original expectation, but the mysterious man never appeared again. Liao Meng has also thought about whether that person has any other purpose, but Jin Er is really a way out for her. Liao Meng is just a woman, without so much foresight, can only instinctively grasp what she wants most in front of her. Zhou''s mother Xu is aware of Liao Meng''s uncertain tone, and immediately sighs. When Liao Meng used his innocence to exchange for jin''er''s devotion, Zhou''s mother feels very wrong. Once this started, it was doomed that there would be no way back. Moreover, this method has always been shameful. Only those housewives who want to climb the master''s wall in the courtyard will use such a mean. The young lady of her family is also a girl who has been brought up. She even thinks of this way. On the one hand, she is very surprised, but on the other hand, she is sad about Liao Meng''s situation. Both of them were thinking about their own affairs, but they heard the hustle and bustle outside the door, as if there were still pushing, beating and shouting. Mother Zhou and Liao Meng looked at each other face to face. Mother Zhou got up and said, "I don''t know what happened. I''ll go out and have a look." "I''ll see, too." Liao Meng gets up and says. This house was hidden in the capital, and Jin Er also said hello to others to take care of them, so even if the two women''s families lived here, no one dared to come and harass them on weekdays. Hearing that there is noise outside, Liao Meng''s first thought is that dewdrop is coming to make trouble, so he is ready to go and have a look. But unexpectedly, as soon as Fang came to the door, he heard the man''s voice: "Liao Meng, Liao Meng, come out for me!" Liao Meng was shocked, and then went out angrily. He could not hide his anger and said, "who is making noise here?" Now she has almost become a celebrity in the capital. Everyone sympathizes with her poor life experience and is bullied by a servant girl. As long as she frowns, someone will come out for her. It is almost natural for people to sympathize with the weak. "Menger, I finally found you!" People at the door seemed to see her, and could not wait to speak as soon as she came out. Liao Meng frowned. Zhou''s mother had already stepped in front of her and scolded, "where''s Lai PI Zi, who are you?" He was a middle-aged man in his thirties. He was black and thin. He seemed to have come from the countryside. He was a bit of a bandit. It was obvious that he was not a good man. The man also said: "Mom Zhou, you are too forgetful. I''m Chen Xi from Dingxi. When your family had an accident, I sent things with you. At that time, meng''er always came to ask me for help. Why, now that I''ve climbed the high branch in the capital, I turn my face away?" This words, the crowd is suddenly in an uproar, what, listen to this man''s tone seems to have any private relations with Liao Meng. The man is so close. I heard that Liao Meng is from Dingxi. Is there any difference between them. It''s true that people sympathize with the weak, but the common people are more interested in folk novelty. When they learn that this seemingly weak and polite lady may have some unknown stories, they immediately get excited.Liao Meng is a black, almost fainted. Just now, when she came out, she didn''t see what the visitor looked like. When she saw the visitor, her soul flew away. In Dingxi, when her parents died, she kept the family property. Those jackal relatives coveted her, and her uncle wanted to marry her out early, so as to swallow their huge family property. Chen Xi is a street bully in Dingxi. He often bullies men and women, and pays more attention to Liao Meng''s beauty. Liao Meng''s uncle is in business and has some friendship with Chen Xi, so he wants to marry Liao Meng to Chen Xi. Liao Meng, who is so arrogant, can''t see Chen Xi. However, he has to bow his head under the eaves. At the beginning, he can only treat Chen Xi Xu as a snake, pretending to be very clever, so that Chen Xi and his uncle can rest assured. With the help of the mysterious man, he escaped from the dirty life. But I didn''t expect that Chen Xi''s appearance today was like a basin of cold water pouring on her head, which almost made her shiver all over. Before Liao Meng reacts, Chen Xi begins to talk to the onlookers. He only talks about how he fell in love with Liao Meng at the beginning and won the approval of his elders. He sees that he is about to get married. But he doesn''t want to get married. The day before yesterday, Liao Meng escaped. It''s easy for him to wade across mountains and rivers to find him, but he heard about Liao Meng and Jin Er Love is spreading in the capital. He was sad and angry, so he came to ask for an explanation. Chen Xi is also a wonderful person. He was born in the marketplace and has been struggling in the marketplace for so many years. He can be described as glib. His spittle flies like a storyteller. He looks very affectionate and attracts most people''s eyes. When he looks at Liao Meng again, his eyes have changed. It''s like watching an infidelity woman who just wants to climb up and abandon her fiance. Liao Mengqi is about to faint, but she is a lady in everyone''s mind. Naturally, it''s impossible to scold Chen Xi in the street. Instead, it''s a quiet explanation. Where can she compare with Chen Xi''s eloquence? Surely, she can''t do any good. In a rage, mother Zhou went forward to scold Chen Xi and said, "Chen Xi, don''t come here to talk nonsense. At the beginning, Miss Zhou was engaged to you. That''s your wishful thinking! Don''t take care of yourself by peeing. Miss, where can a person like you touch Zhou''s mother is determined to vent her anger for Liao Meng, but it''s wrong to say that Chen Xi is not worthy of Liao Meng. In this way, it seems to reflect Chen Xi''s view that Liao Meng is a vain woman. Liao Meng has realized that, but her mother doesn''t realize it, and she just scolds herself. Liao Meng had no choice but to step forward by himself and said, "Chen Xi, you are too much. You have no injustice or hatred. Why do you want to pollute my innocence?" The words didn''t seem to be true, and people''s eyes were puzzled again. But Chen Xi is not slow, as if or to her with infinite sincere feelings in general way: "dream, no matter how you treat me, my heart is only you, how can you erase our past, at the beginning in your most difficult days, I support with you, you, how can you forget all those things!" If you fight with people like Chen Xi, you can''t get any good. Now Liao Meng can only bite to death, which has nothing to do with Chen Xi. He says with a cold face, "don''t talk nonsense. You and I are just friends of the same hometown. Where do you come from these statements?" "Dream Chen Xi seemed to be hurt by her words, and his eyes turned red. He stepped forward and said with infinite sadness: "how can you say that? You, you even gave me the body, how can you say only the meaning of the hometown? That is to say, now you have changed your heart and love the second young master of the Huang family. But have you ever thought about how the second young master will treat you in the future when he sees that you are not innocent? Why are you so naive As soon as Chen Xi''s words are finished, there is a commotion around him. Chen Xi''s words have more meanings. Liao Meng looks at a innocent girl, but she is no longer innocent? Tut Tut, I can''t see it. Zhou''s mother has been angry red, a series of abuse has been scolded out. Liao Meng looks at Chen Xi in a daze and suddenly returns to her senses. Looking at the pointing eyes of the people around her, she has the feeling that she has been stripped naked and thrown into the street. But now she can''t retreat. As long as she retreats, she will admit defeat! Admit defeat, she lost everything, not to lose! Liao Meng clenched his teeth and looked at Chen Xi, then suddenly said, "Chen Xi, you should pay attention to evidence when you do things. If you dare to pollute my reputation, you have to show evidence. Otherwise, I will sue the officials and punish you!" When Chen Xi hears the words, he smiles at Liao Meng strangely. The smile seems to have an indescribable meaning in Liao Meng''s eyes. It seems that he has finally arrived at this sentence. No, Liao Meng calms herself. Her body is handed over to Jin Er. Chen Xi has no such ability to point out deer as horse. Nothing will happen. However, Chen Xi suddenly said in a loud voice: "Menger, I didn''t want to say this, but now you treat me as an enemy. It''s unbearable for any man. Dream son, you are not benevolent, don''t blame me to have no righteousness As he said this, he took out a white handkerchief from his own burden, but the handkerchief was still dotted with red blood. People were surprised at first and then understood what it was. There are also young women in the crowd. Don''t turn your head at once. Chen Xi said in a loud voice, "this is the yuan handkerchief when you and I got married that night!"Zhou''s mother fainted in the dark. Liao mengqiang repressed his anger. Who can think of Yuan PA in the street, but Chen Xi is a ruffian, a ruffian with no face at all. He can''t do it more naturally. But Chen Xi didn''t finish. He unfolded the handkerchief to make it clearer. Under the red marks, the flowers embroidered on the handkerchief were very clear. There was a word "dream" in the lower left corner. Chen Xi continued: "Menger, this handkerchief was given to me by you at the beginning. I have been reluctant to throw it away..." Chen Xi plays the angry betrayed affectionate man incisively and vividly, but Liao Meng almost faints as if struck by lightning. That night That night when she was confused with Jin Er, she lit the fragrance given by the mysterious man and put it with the orchid. She fainted Jin Er and tied the man to death at the cost of her innocence. After that night, her handkerchief disappeared, thinking that there must be a red fall on the top, and Jin Er took it away, so she didn''t ask much. But now it''s in Chen Xi''s hands. Liao Meng''s mind is muddled, but he can''t help but come up with a ridiculous idea. That idea is terrible Chen Xi said: "Menger, I know everything about you when you are with me. I also know that there is a small mole behind you, meng''er. If you want to ask me what evidence I can show, do you dare to let others check your arm? See if the palace sand is still there. " Shougongsha is gone naturally. If people check her, they will find that she is not innocent, but Liao Meng doesn''t think about it. If just now Chen Xi''s yuan PA let her in the heart already faintly thought of an idea, now that behind the mole is almost confirmed in her heart that terrible guess. That night, and her confused night is not Jiner, is Chen Xi. It is Chen Xi and she reversed the night of luanfeng, took her yuan PA, finally know the mole behind her. How did Chen Xi come in and why Jin Er didn''t win the contest? Liao Meng can''t think of it. It seems that in an instant, she lost all her strength, collapsed to the ground, and her eyes became dazed. After catching up with everything, she traveled thousands of miles from Dingxi to the capital and betrayed her innocence. Unexpectedly, she gave it to Chen Xi. Everything seemed to return to the original place. She clearly knew one thing, and she was finished. "So Menger, come back with me." Chen Xi immediately changed into an affectionate look: "I don''t care about anything. Even if you have already admired the second young master of the Huang family, as long as you go back with me, we''ll have a good life. Isn''t that good? You are so, wait for the second young master to know the truth, isn''t it very angry, no man can tolerate his wife is not innocent. Menger, do you still want to be stubborn? " "That''s right." A man''s voice came from behind the crowd. Liao mengshun looked at the voice. Jin Er was standing not far away. On her face, which was always smiling cynically and made her move, there was no ordinary smile, only strange cruelty. "Why..." She murmured. It''s not easy for Miss Liao_ ɣO~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 233 Brocade two but didn''t look at her one eye, just walk to Chen Xi''s side, from the sleeve feel out a thing to hand him, the people around have close, one eye then see clearly, it is a marriage letter. Jin Er looked back and looked down at Liao Meng, who had collapsed to the ground: "since you have already had an engagement, Geng tie has been changed. With the consent of the elders in my family, my engagement in that year will not count. Besides, you... " He did not finish, but the meaning of the words is self-evident, a woman who is not innocent, where there is any qualification to be someone else''s wife. People who originally stood on Liao Meng''s side and had a good feeling for Liao Meng now looked at her in a totally different way. A victim, a good girl who is soft and weak, suddenly becomes a woman who is dissolute and shameless. Want to come originally with in brocade two side of that servant girl is also wronged, as expected know person know face hard know heart. After Jin Er gives the marriage letter to Chen Xi, he lifts his leg and leaves. Liao Meng is unwilling to hold one of his legs. She doesn''t know what''s going on. That night, he becomes Chen Xi. But she can be sure that all this is in Jin Er''s control. These days, she has calculated Jin Er, but Jin Er, such a handsome man, how to make people dislike him, naturally she has some sincerity in her heart. Now her heart is trampled to nothing. Liao Meng is not reconciled. She asks bitterly, "why do you want to do this?" Does he have no affection for her? In those days, this man was gentle and considerate, humorous and funny. They got along very happily, but now, it''s just a play? She didn''t believe it. She wanted to find out why. Jin Er hears Yan and looks back at her again. Liao Meng feels cold all over. Then the man in front of him bends down, leans over her ear and whispers: "probably...". Because of her. " She? Liao Meng was stunned for a moment, and then quickly understood that when he said she meant dew, he. It''s for the dew. Is it really just for him? The man''s voice is different from the usual mild, with a kind of grim cold, almost threatening to spread to her ears: "self-protection, means, this is not wrong, but you should not use these means on her." Liao Meng closed her eyes. She was born in a well-known family. Even though she is now in a bad family, she is still a lady of a decent family. She can''t even compare with a servant girl. But Jin Er, looking at her tenderness and tenderness, was just a scene. He disguised himself so well, but she thought she was a yellow sparrow. This is a complete joke. "You Have you ever been attracted to me? " Liao Meng asks for the last sentence. "No The expected answer was that the man was as determined and cruel as his expression. He turned and walked away, never looking back. Chen Xi was overjoyed and went to pull Liao Meng with one hand. He looked affectionate: "Meng Er, it''s OK. I still won''t give up on you. Let''s go home." Liao Meng breaks free twice, but she doesn''t break away from Chen Xi''s hand at all. Zhou''s mother hasn''t woken up yet. She''s a single figure. People around her look at her like a plague. No one offers a helping hand. In their eyes, Liao Meng is now a notorious person. In this situation, Chen Xi pulls Liao Meng away without any effort. At the end, she almost drags her into a low and narrow room. As soon as he entered the room, Chen Xi''s face changed. He no longer had half the affection he had just had. Instead, he slapped Liao Meng and said, "bitch!" Liao Meng is slapped by Chen Xi, but she just covers her red and swollen face blankly. At the moment, she is desperate and can hardly see her life. With the marriage certificate, and the innocent body to Chen Xi, is to keep such a big fortune, this life can only be doomed to an end. Chen Xi is the most vengeful person. He abandons him and flees to the capital. He also attempts to climb up to jin''er, which is an intolerable betrayal for Chen Xi. He will certainly make greater efforts to treat himself. What Liao Meng thought was right. After Chen Xi slapped her hard, he suddenly sneered: "bitch, if you miss a man, I''ll let you have a good time now!" As soon as he pulled open Liao Meng''s outer garment, he jumped on it. The fierce noise comes to mind in the room. Chen Xi''s hands are full of resentment and almost have no contact. Liao Meng is in agony because of her violent intimacy. She clenches her teeth and doesn''t let herself cry. However, tears from the corner of her eyes flow out slowly along her cheek. Chen Xi will take her back to Dingxi. In her life, she can only follow Chen Xi. However, Chen Xi''s estrangement from her now will not be easy in the future. Her uncle and aunt will take all their Liao family''s property away. In the end, she still gets nothing and everything goes back to the origin. No, even the origin is worse. At least in the past, there were some chessboards, but now, she was in deep despair. On the bustling street, Jin San and Jin Er walked forward side by side. Jin San looked at Jin Er and said, "you are really cruel. Don''t you always pity women?" Jin Er always pursues the name of "gentleman in flowers". When facing women, he always leaves room, but this room is only within his acceptable range. For example, if he wants to kill a woman, he can make her suffer less and die faster. There is a kind of indifference and cruelty to life in the essence of the royal guards. Even if their personalities are different, this will never change. Xiao Shao had already done a good job. Jin Er looked at him happily, but he also followed this unchanging principle.Only this time, he was cruel to this woman. Chen Xi was called by him. At the beginning, when Liao Meng approached him consciously, Jin Er realized that it was wrong. He made an investigation himself and asked the people he knew in Dingxi to start investigating Liao Meng. The royal guards are naturally quick to do things, and soon they get the news of Liao Meng, and Chen Xi naturally appears in Jin Er''s eyes. He asked people to bring Chen Xi over. Liao Meng''s enchanting fragrance that night really made people unconscious, but she underestimated Jin Er. What''s more, Xia Qing is still in the capital. Liao Meng guessed well. That night, it was Chen Xi and Liao Meng who turned luanfeng upside down. Jin Er never felt that there was anything wrong with it, and there was no guilt in his heart. For guilt, now he only felt guilty for dewdrop, but he didn''t know how to explain it. Brocade three saw his mind, sighed a way: "you turn head to explain well, dewdrop is not unreasonable person, you this is also for the whole palace, is also worried about her safety, she will always forgive you." Hesitated for a while, brocade three again way: "but cheat to the woman is not a thing that can easily forgive, so you''d better be prepared." This truth where need brocade three, brocade two oneself also knew for a long time. At least he has been working in the brothel for so many years, and naturally he knows a woman. The reason why Liao Meng was defeated by Jin Er was that he underestimated Jin Er''s ability in the affairs of Fengyue. If not to WanFei, Jin two is not willing to cheat dew. However, it''s a matter of great importance at this time. Even the closest people can''t know the task of the royal guards. Just because for so many years, the royal guards have insisted on such rigorous means. Sometimes, a mistake of smiling may pay the price of bleeding. Brocade two don''t tell dewdrop, nature is also responsible for the royal guards. Just like this, Shanghai, a person, also let him feel never uncomfortable. On that day, he hit dewdrop. He tossed and turned. After quarreling with dewdrop, his heart was tangled, which led to his hesitation and ugly face. Instead of pretending, he fooled Liao Meng. Think of how to explain clearly with dew, brocade two is a headache. Someone had already sent the news back to King Jinying ''. It''s the only way for the aunt in the mansion to recommend the pillow. How can there be a young lady who hasn''t been out of the cabinet to do such a thing? Tut Tut, it''s so generous. But now it''s good, I finally tore her fake face, let people see the real face, it''s really a relief! " Jiang Ruan did not speak, his eyes fell on the dewdrop with her hair down. When it came to this, there was no reason to hide dewdrop. Jiang Ruan told dewdrop the whole story. How to deal with that is dew and brocade two things, but now looking at dew this face at a loss appearance, Jiang Ruan and unconscious headache. She said, "dewdrop, what do you think of this?" Dewdrop did not expect that Jiang Ruan would suddenly ask her. She was stunned for a moment, and could not help but say nothing. One side of Forsythia also stopped, looking at the dew, yes, now the truth, Jin two with Liao dream nothing happened. All is just a play to deal with the people in southern Xinjiang. No matter how dewdrop hates Jiner, there is no reason. What choice will dewdrop make now? "I, I don''t know..." Murmured the dew. The news was too shocking for her. She didn''t expect that everything was just a fraud. At the beginning, all the sadness was false. At this moment, she didn''t know what to do, and didn''t know how to face Jin Er, so she had to subconsciously say her heart''s voice. Jiang Ruan sighed, but he was not in a hurry. He thought that dewdrop would take some time to accept it. Just thinking about it, he saw Yefeng come in in a hurry and said: "little lady!" Xiao Shao had already gone out, and now he didn''t know where he was. Seeing Ye Feng''s appearance, there was something urgent. Jiang Ruan said, "what''s the matter?" Now, when Xiao Shao is away, the affairs of the royal guards can be handled by Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan also has a sense of propriety. He is not busy solving what he can''t handle. He just puts it aside and waits for Xiao Shao to come back. Night Maple did not hesitate, only way: "false Yao Niannian was rescued out." "Found someone?" Jiang Ruan asked with a frown. "No, but the people in the west of the city saw that someone had entered a house. They rushed in suspiciously and found that the building was empty. They went in to search. There were traces of people living in it. It should be the leader of the people in southern Xinjiang. That''s right." Yefeng replied. "According to you, it should be their reinforcements. It''s not him that Xuanli didn''t give a hand at the moment. Other ministers in the Jin Dynasty have no such ability. " Jiang Ruan pondered: "in this way, it can only be the people of Southern Xinjiang themselves. They can escape under such a tight net. Obviously, they are very familiar with the terrain of the capital. In my opinion, the man is probably a spy from southern Xinjiang who has been in the capital for many years, so that he can save people from under their noses. It has not been discovered for so long. It may be a very good sword for people in southern Xinjiang. " Only one thing can analyze so many, night Maple also can''t help but be stunned, immediately admire a way: "young lady said is right, there is a brother in the west of the city saw a person, but at that time in a hurry didn''t put on the heart, later turn to think, actually is very like a person.""Who?" "Jiang Fu''s great aunt, Yishuang." Yefeng road. Yi Shuang, the name is a little strange, but Jiang Fu seems to have been a long time ago. When he heard these two words from Yefeng, Jiang Ruan was in a trance for a moment. But I understand very quickly, Yi Shuang? Floating in the brain is that don''t like to talk, always in the house with transparent big aunt. For so many years, this great aunt has been occupying a seemingly unimportant position in Shangshu mansion, but she just stands here. She was here when Jiang Ruan''s brother and sister were expelled and Zhao Mei died at first. Now that Jiang''s mansion is gone, she can still walk away. It''s like an incredible thing. Jiang Ruan once doubted her, but after the fall of Jiang Fu, he never saw her again. Now she appears in this way. Since Ye Feng mentions the west of the city, he is doubting the relationship between Yi Shuang and the people in southern Xinjiang. Jiang Ruan''s eyes moved, which showed that her suspicions were not totally unreasonable. Who is that Yishuang? What''s the purpose of hiding in Jiang''s house for so many years. And when she showed up. Jiang Ruan''s heart leaped, and an idea flashed through his mind. "Send someone to keep an eye on the west side of the city. Since you want to go, you can''t go far. That fake Yao Niannian must have an important position in the people of Southern Xinjiang, otherwise he would not have entered the Yao family. It is very likely that he was the leader of the people in southern Xinjiang, and the person who rescued Yao Niannian, since he had such ability, would not be an idle person. It''s obvious that she has no fear of us and there is no ordinary conceit in the world. So I think she must be ready. If she is Yi Shuang, with her disposition of lurking in Shangshu mansion for so many years, at this moment, it can only show that what they are prepared for has been done. Now it''s time to really do it, and it will come soon. " "But..." Tianzhu doubts: "isn''t this bureau broken?" The fake identity of Yao Niannian has been torn down, and the story of Lu Zhu and Jin Er has been explained. Instead of centrifugal, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao cooperate quite well. This has forced the people of Southern Xinjiang to rush, how can they still do it? "Confrontation with us is not their goal." Jiang Ruan''s tone could not tell whether she was happy or angry, but his face showed some rare solemnity: "in other words, it''s not her purpose. These people in southern Xinjiang are clearly divided into two groups, although I don''t know why, one is for me, and the other is for that position, "she said after a little meditation. Now Yao Niannian, who is coming to me, has failed. The people in southern Xinjiang will only follow the orders of another person. What that person has to do is to wait for an opportunity. Now, that opportunity has come. " "Opportunity?" Tianzhu is still a little puzzled, but night Maple seems to understand something from her words, and her face suddenly slightly changed. Jiang Ruan ignored him and turned to his study: "Yefeng, there is something special in the court recently. Please come in and tell me." That night, when Xiao Shao came back, it was very late. On weekdays, Jiang Ruan also had a rest. Today, the light in the room was still on. Xiao Shao went back to the house and was stunned for a moment. Then he came to her and said softly, "why don''t you sleep?" "Waiting for you, I have something to tell you." Jiang Ruan raised his head. Xiao Shao was stunned again. Jiang Ruan''s face was a bit tired. This is very rare for her, Xiao Shao did not go away, took the opportunity to sit down beside her, asked: "what''s the matter?" Jiang Ruan told Xiao Shao what Yefeng had said to her. After hearing this, Xiao Shao frowned and thought for a while, and then said, "I know." "No, that''s not what I''m talking about." Jiang Ruan grabbed his sleeve, looked at him and said, "Xiao Shao, it''s strange to say that, but I just have an intuition in my heart I suspect that Yishuang is Qiman. " Voice export, Jiang Ruan himself is also in the heart of a sigh of relief, she does not know why they have this idea. Since her rebirth, Jiang Ruan has always had a special feeling about her aunt Yishuang. That is the intuition of danger after she died once. But this Yishuang is so hidden that her patience is terrible. Xuanli is too light to compare with her. But for so many years, Yi Shuang didn''t do anything at all, and Jiang Ruan couldn''t figure out her intention. But now Yefeng''s sentence that she might have a relationship with southern Xinjiang is like the key to open the door in Jiang Ruan''s mind. Naturally, she has this idea. Xiao Shao looked at her and did not speak. Looking at his calm appearance, Jiang Ruan frowned and said, "don''t you believe me? It''s a ridiculous idea, but I don''t infer it just by intuition. Tonight, I have been thinking about the time when Qiman disappeared as you described. It seems that it is not much different from the time when my aunt came to the mansion. If it is related to the people of Southern Xinjiang, and the people of Southern Xinjiang can still obey the orders even if they haven''t seen each other for many years, the status of Princess of Southern Xinjiang is absolutely possible. " "I don''t believe you," Xiao Shao said with a hook on his lips. "I doubt her, too." Jiang Ruan a Zheng, way: "you already knew?" "It''s just suspicion." Xiao Shao replied: "for so many years, people in southern Xinjiang have been chasing me. I have tried to find out Qiman, but I have got nothing. Qiman must still be in this world. She has gone deep into southern Xinjiang several times, but there is no shadow of her. She is so stingy that she will stay in the capital for revenge if she knows my existence. So I''ve been arranging for people to search in the capital. " Xiao Shao sighed: "it''s only recently that I have a clue. I didn''t expect that she would hide in Shangshu mansion."Tang Tang, a princess of Southern Xinjiang, was very beautiful, but she was an unloved concubine in Jiang''s house. Appearance can be camouflaged, but decades of camouflage temperament, it is somewhat too terrible. Jiang Ruan looks at Xiao Shao carefully. After all, the people in southern Xinjiang are his blood enemies. Everyone has something to bear in his heart. What Jiang Ruan bears is the hatred of the previous life, and what Xiao Shao bears is the blood debt of this life. This is his destiny. After all, Qiman is responsible for Xiao Shao''s death. Both his parents and foster parents died because of the people in southern Xinjiang. The blood feud can be seen. But now it seems that when Xiao Shao talked about Qiman, he was calm and calm, and Jiang Ruan''s heart was relaxed. After thinking about it, she took Xiao Shao''s hand and said, "in this way, we will know who is behind. I think they will start soon. Now we are in the dark, and they are in the light, so we can get some benefits. This time, I''ll avenge you. How about that? " She wanted Xiao Shao to be happy. Xiao Shao couldn''t help laughing, touched her hair and said, "OK." "But it''s still strange." Jiang Ruan doubted: "I can see that the people of Southern Xinjiang are divided into two groups. One group is Yao Niannian. When these people first came to the capital, they still have a lot of unfamiliar places with the capital, so they can''t escape being chased by the officers and soldiers of Jing Zhaoyin. And Qiman is another person. She has been lurking in the capital all the year round and has already mastered many parts of the capital, so she can successfully rescue fake Yao Niannian. They have different purposes. Qiman has been lurking for many years for revenge. That fake Yao Niannian made a scene of Jiner and dewdrop. It seems that she wants you and me to be centrifugal, but how do I feel that she is aiming at me? What is the deep hatred between me and her? If you hate Wu and Wu, you should hate you first. " As soon as the voice fell, she looked at Xiao Shao in front of her. She looked a little queer. Suddenly, her heart moved. She grabbed Xiao Shao''s sleeve and said, "what''s the matter? You make it clear to me, where did you lead the peach blossom? New trouble for me. " The more he thought about it, the more he felt that it was possible. Jiang Ruan glared at Xiao Shao and almost swallowed him alive. "Cough." Xiao Shao couldn''t resist the pressure. He coughed twice. He stood up as if nothing had happened and said, "well, I''ll take a bath." I wonder when it''s better to ask for leave to write the grand finale www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 234 Then that night, Jiang Ruan finally took words from Xiao Shao. When Xiao Shao took over the Royal Guards for the first time, he went deep into southern Xinjiang to deal with the remaining evils of that time. At that time, the leader of Southern Xinjiang was the younger brother of the king before the destruction of Southern Xinjiang. The terrain of Southern Xinjiang was complex, and there were many poisonous insects and weeds. If he was not careful, he would be in prison. It was not suitable for large-scale frontal resistance. At that time, Xiao Shao was a young brave man. When he was fearless, he went into southern Xinjiang alone and killed the head of Southern Xinjiang under the horse. This must have paid a dangerous price, but Xiao Shao is a result oriented person, the result is that he succeeded. As a young boy, he had such great ability when he was young. At that time, he was very terrible in the mouth of people in southern Xinjiang. Xiao Shao, who was beautiful and mysterious, naturally attracted one person: Danzhen, the saint of Southern Xinjiang. Danzhen was the saint of Southern Xinjiang. Xiao Shao was only 14 or 15 years old at that time. Danzhen was even younger. They are clearly in a hostile position, but Danzhen has other feelings about Xiao Shao. This is an ordinary thing. Xiao Shao is really too eye-catching among his peers. As a saint, Dan Zhen has a pure heart and few desires. When he meets a handsome young man, he will naturally have a heart of admiration. However, nanjiangguo has always been very good at protecting the saints. Unlike Qiman, Qiman is the princess of the royal family. People in nanjiangguo defend her to protect the face of the whole country, but to protect the saints is to protect the faith of the whole southern Xinjiang. But the saint can''t get married and have children in her life, which is doomed to be a lonely life. And Dan Zhen''s way to express his good feelings for Xiao Shao is to do everything possible to pursue and kill him. This seems to be very similar to the strong possessiveness of the people in southern Xinjiang. When Xiao Shao returned to Beijing with the leader of Southern Xinjiang, Dan Zhen sent dozens of experts to encircle and kill Xiao Shao together, trying to bring him back. It''s also good to be a puppet or a forbidden monk. On that day, Xiao Shao killed several ten experts and was seriously injured. On his way back to the capital, this was the first time he met Jiang Ruan Xiang See you. When Xiao Shao talked about it, she also talked about the relationship with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan was also a little surprised. Xiao Shao said to repay her kindness earlier. In fact, she didn''t pay attention to it. Maybe she didn''t remember it. But now from Xiao Shao''s words, Jiang Ruan himself is also very emotional about the past. But at last, he turns around and turns back to Dan Zhen. Jiang Ruan stares at him. Although Yao Niannian didn''t mean anything to Xiao Shao, he is always a rival because of the emperor''s intention. And when he first met real Yao Niannian, Jiang Ruan noticed the waves in the woman''s heart. He didn''t have any idea about Xiao Shao. Now Yao Niannian is dead, but there is another Dan Zhen, which has been going back for many years. Thinking that Xiao Shao has been coveted by a woman for so many years, Jiang Ruan''s mood is really not very happy. She said, "if you are really the bane of attracting bees and butterflies." Xiao Shao was slightly shocked, and his expression was helpless. This can''t blame him. He was cold hearted, but he didn''t realize Dan really''s heart. Later, he realized Dan really''s heart, which was nothing in his eyes. Life is about wonderful. Xiao Shao didn''t expect that he would care for a woman forever one day. Xiao Shao didn''t expect that, and Dan Zhen couldn''t. The jealousy in a woman''s heart is always terrible. If Xiao Shao is indifferent to everyone, it may not be much for Dan Zhen to hit a nail in Xiao Shao. But one day, a woman appears and gets Xiao Shao''s favor. Dan Zhen finds that Xiao Shao doesn''t always treat others coldly, and his heart is bound to collapse. "No wonder she always called me princess Hong''an..." Without waiting for Xiao Shao to answer, Jiang Ruan said to himself, "I was worried about my identity as a princess. It can be seen here that this person is not good at forbearance, at least in terms of emotion. Although also very good at using people''s hearts, such as that day using dew and brocade two to achieve the goal, but for their emotions or extremely difficult to grasp. This may be related to her own position. If the saints are obedient to her, what setbacks will they encounter? " Jiang Ruan is analyzing. In the process of the game, a patient opponent is obviously more terrible. Jiang Ruan and Xuan Pei are tolerant people because they have learned from their previous lives and experienced the pain of being ignored when they were young. Xuanli''s forbearance is also very good, especially for a proud son. This Dan really is the same, as a woman, unable to control her emotions is her biggest weakness, such a comparison, that Qiman is much more terrible. Qiman is a princess of Southern Xinjiang. Naturally, she used to live a life of golden branches and jade leaves. But she was so surprised that she hid in Shangshu mansion in disguise and became an unloved aunt. It was not easy, especially after so many years. And her no flaw is the biggest flaw, even Jiang Ruan can''t help but be a little shocked at this point. She is thinking about Qiman''s affairs carefully here, but Xiao Shao sees that she has been frowning and does not speak, thinking that Jiang Ruan is concerned about Dan Zhen. No matter how steady Xiao Shaoping is, he is always at a loss when facing Jiang Ruan. He is not as used to making people happy as Jin Er. When he sees that Jiang Ruan is not happy, he feels nervous. After a little thought, he reached out to hold Jiang Ruan''s shoulder and said, "how about killing her?" Jiang Ruan It''s too fast. She hasn''t said anything yet. If Dan really knew Xiao Shao''s words at the moment, he would be jealous again.When she didn''t speak, Xiao Shao just thought she was acquiescent. Without saying a word, she squeezed her chin. Jiang Ruan was stunned, but he didn''t expect him to do so. Xiao Shao kisses her. Housekeeper Lin said that women are always soft hearted. If they can''t be coaxed by good words, they have to kiss. The harder they kiss, the better. Xiao Shao''s strong offensive blocked Jiang Ruan''s words. The initiator was very satisfied with this. If it is true, housekeeper Lin didn''t cheat. This method is really good. In a humble house in the capital, it doesn''t look different at the moment. The servants sweep carefully outside the yard and do embroidery work. It looks as moist as the life of some rich families. But if there are experts here, if you observe carefully, you will find that these servants are not so simple. There were three people in the room. The woman sitting at the top of the main seat was a little haggard, and her appearance was just ordinary, but even the ordinary one looked different now. This person is no other than Yi Shuang, the great aunt of Shangshu mansion, or Qiman, the former Princess of Southern Xinjiang. If someone from Shangshu mansion saw Qiman at the moment, he would be surprised. The appearance is still the same as before, but the temperament seems to have changed into a person. A pair of ordinary appearance, but the facial expression seems to hook people, every move is enchantment, but there is a trace of unspeakable coldness in the enchantment, which is very different from the friendly and silent Yishuang in the past. "Auntie, what''s next?" Asked the woman sitting at the bottom right of Qiman. This woman''s voice is obviously younger, and her eyes are very flexible. It seems that she can drip water with only one look. She was dressed in red and had a mysterious beauty all over her body, but it was much more dangerous. "Don''t worry." Qiman said slowly. "I''m right, but I''m used to being patient. I''ve been in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty for more than ten years, and I''m afraid I''ve forgotten the identity of the princess of Southern Xinjiang. But now we come back for revenge. How can we be chased by people like a street mouse? Where is the face of our southern Xinjiang It seems that there is nothing in these words, but it is not difficult to notice the thorns when you listen carefully. Qiman didn''t speak, but Yuanchuan, the masked man sitting at the bottom of Danzhen''s head, couldn''t help it. He looked at Qiman uneasily, and then slowly said, "does the princess have a plan?" What the state of Southern Xinjiang thought about Qiman? The great Jin Dynasty was certainly their enemy. It was Qiman who killed the state of Southern Xinjiang at the beginning. If she doesn''t provoke Prince Hongxi, or if she doesn''t kill Xiang Xiaoyuan, it''s more than that. At the beginning, the emperor of the great Jin Dynasty ordered the destruction of Southern Xinjiang, of course, in order to expand the territory, but the more important reason is probably to avenge Prince Hongxi. It''s not too much to say that Qiman is a disaster to the south of Xinjiang. People in the south of Xinjiang have a lot of complaints about her. But after so many years, Qiman has disappeared, so naturally there is no saying. Dan Zhen is Qiman''s niece. If it wasn''t for Qiman, she still enjoys the treatment of the royal family. But now that the country of Southern Xinjiang is destroyed, she has to be a saint who doesn''t marry all her life. Although she has a high status, her life is monotonous. Dan Zhen has no resentment against Qiman. What''s more, now that they are in the capital, it means that there are two masters in southern Xinjiang. There must be some disputes about how to send the people under them and who they are. In terms of seniority, it''s Qiman who is now the master of Southern Xinjiang. But for so many years, all his subordinates have followed Dan Zhen''s instructions. If he gives it to Qiman, how can Dan Zhen be reconciled. Yuanchuan can see clearly that Qiman is unfathomable, but Danzhen never admits defeat. But at this critical moment, it''s not the time for internal strife, so he makes a voice to ease the hidden edge between them and asks about Qiman''s deployment. Different from Dan Zhen, Dan Zhen''s temperament is more casual. Although she says that she wants to pay the price of bleeding, her mind is always on that person. And Qiman, at the beginning of the purpose has not changed, that terrible purpose, to the whole Jin Dynasty to pay the price of bleeding. "Jin Dynasty people are reckless and used to be smart. A few days ago, you were killed with a knife and hurt your family," Qiman said slowly. As soon as Dan Zhen''s face changed, Yao Niannian''s identity was exposed. Running around in the capital was her shame. Qiman was insulting her. Qiman continued: "this time, it''s up to us to kill people with a knife." she smiles, her eyes seem to be very happy: "no, it should be said that the snipe and the clam fight, and the fisherman gains." With these words, Qiman got up and walked out of the room. After waiting for Qiman to leave, Dan Zhen held the heart of his fist hard and bit his teeth "Be careful with your saint." Yuan Chuan said: "at a critical juncture, we should try our best to exercise restraint." He said it briefly. I believe Dan can understand it. Dan really cold hum a, facial expression although still some not reconciled, but follow his words: "nature." At the same time, in the eighth Prince''s house, Xuan Li quietly played with the fingers on his thumb, which was different from the anxiety of a few days ago. At the moment, he was calm and calm, as if he had already become mature. One side of the staff sat quietly, until the bodyguard quickly reported: "Your Highness, the letter has been sent to the palace."Xuanli suddenly sat up straight with a cry of "yes". His eyes suddenly became a little excited, which was rarely shown in Xuanli, who had always been restrained. It was as if the things he had planned for a long time were finally completed. "Congratulations, your highness." The staff got up and bowed: "this time, they will be caught off guard. If we continue to fight, the great cause will be in sight. " Xuanli waved his hand, and his face was calm again. But even so, the corner of his eyes and eyebrows still couldn''t stop flowing out some complacency: "in a passive position, let the opponent take it lightly, and then attack it unprepared. If you have all the preparations, what about King Jinying, it''s not helpless." "Your Highness is wise. He made a clear relationship with those people in southern Xinjiang early. Now he uses them to hold the eyes of King Jinying''s house. King Jinying now focuses on Southern Xinjiang, and the thirteen princes have no time to take care of it. Your highness can do it freely." A timely compliment from the staff. Xuanli shook his head and said, "the people of Southern Xinjiang are very ambitious. They also want to share a cup with me. If Southern Xinjiang doesn''t get rid of it, it will become a serious trouble in the future. It''s better to make bait for me and attract the attention of Jinying palace. In this way, it''s good for me to fight against each other and lose both sides." "Just your highness," the staff hesitated slightly: "I''m afraid the thirteen princes have left behind in the palace. The thirteen princes are cunning in nature. I''m afraid they are not so easy to be deceived." Xuanli said with a smile: "this is nature. If I don''t have complete assurance, how dare I do this step. Now things are going step by step according to my plan, which is enough to show that he didn''t find that it was stupid for him to look outside and win over the minister. This bloody struggle will eventually be solved in the palace, and only father and emperor can make the final decision. It''s a big taboo, xuanpei, "he said Xuanli is also in the mood to teach xuanpei a lesson. With his cautious nature, he is now fully confident and ruthless. "Now, just wait for the results." Xuanli road. On this day, the emperor went to the court as usual. These days, the time for the emperor to go to the court became shorter and shorter, the time for reading memorials became longer and longer, more and more memorials were accumulated in the imperial study, and some of the officials began to be depressed. They all guessed what was wrong with the emperor. But when someone wanted to get information from Dong Xiuyi, who was next to the emperor, he got the news that everything was well and there was no problem. Mu Xirou, another favorite concubine who could get close to the emperor, was a cold beauty. Naturally, she didn''t expect to get any news from her mouth. But the more Dong Xiuyi said that, the more speculation of the officials was rampant. However, on the surface at least, the former dynasty was still calm. Only the old officials who had been in the official sea for many years could smell a sharp difference from it, and had a premonition that there would be a huge storm sweeping the whole Jin Dynasty. So on this day, the storm of Dajin Dynasty suddenly came, which disrupted the peaceful days for decades. First, it set off a huge storm. The emperor, the king of a country, was listening to the book of rites when he went to court. He fell from the Dragon chair and was still unconscious. All the Taiyi in the big hospital were sent out, and now they are helpless. The imperial court was in an uproar. At a time when the capture of the imperial family was almost white hot, and there were people from southern Xinjiang sneaking into the capital, internal and external troubles, the monarch of a country fell down. What''s more frightening is that the monarch of a country didn''t know when to wake up. When he saw the heavy expressions on the faces of the imperial doctors in the imperial hospital, all the ministers flashed a terrible idea in their hearts: if Can''t wake up? I''m afraid the great Jin Dynasty will be disrupted. The courtiers did not dare to talk about it everywhere, even their relatives. However, any situation that might cause a little panic among the people and let people know the precarious situation of the royal family in the great Jin Dynasty might bring infinite hidden danger. After all the courtiers returned to the palace that day, they began to seriously think about the way to go. If the emperor did not wake up, there would be a vicious battle between the eighth Prince and the thirteenth prince. In this vicious battle, they would bet on their own value and get countless wealth. The bureaucrats in the capital began to discuss and plot one after another, but the palace was in a low mood, showing a small chaos. This kind of confusion and panic is pressed down by all kinds of palace rules, but even so, the panic is still spreading rapidly. The fall of the emperor means that an era may end and a new era may begin again. However, the crown prince has not yet been established, and the prince is still ominous. This is the root of all the panic. In the end, the people may not be able to see the bloody bodies of countless people, but the people in the palace are very secretive. Those terrible scenes will be deeply embedded in the hearts of every palace man. The imperial doctors of Taihu hospital are at a loss. Empress Yide is so angry that she can''t make a desperate order. At the critical moment, xuanpei learns about it and suggests to empress Yide that maybe she can find Xia Qinglai, the holy hand of Jinling. Xia Qing and Xiao Shao are martial brothers. The Empress Dowager Yide asked Xia Qing to come in, but Xia Qing came very quickly. After seeing the emperor''s illness, she shook her head in the expectation of empress Yide, saying only eight words: "the poisoning is deep, the medicine stone is useless." The medicine stone has no effect. This is to announce that the emperor''s remaining life may not last long. Poisoning? Empress Dowager Yide grasped the key to this, where did the emperor get the poison. Let a person check inside and outside the palace, but Leng didn''t find out where the poison came from, and see as much as Xia Qing, also can''t see what the poison is. The poison was too deep and ferocious. He had no time or means to save it. I''m afraid the emperor would have lost his life before he found out what the poison was about. Now it''s medicine hanging, but it''s just a temporary solution, there''s no way.Empress Dowager Yide was so angry that she said in front of all the doctors in the imperial family that if the emperor died, all the women''s families in the harem would be buried. This is the cruelty of the royal family. The beautiful clothes and food that these women may have had during their lifetime are envied by the public. But in fact, they are just a thing attached to the emperor. When the emperor dies, their lives are not necessary. The Empress Dowager Yide said it in front of the imperial doctor, but even so, the women in the family still realized something. They did not enter the palace on the first day, nor did the former dynasty have the rule of burying their concubines with them. When the emperor suddenly fell down, there was an atmosphere of fear in the back palace. Everyone was nervous. It was almost the first time that they prayed for the emperor''s early health. In this flustered palace dependents, there are two unusual people. One person is mu Xirou. She is naturally a cold beauty. She is indifferent to everything. Even the emperor''s favor can''t make her look better. The other is Dong Yinger. After entering the palace, Dong Yinger was in a mild and steady mood, some of whom were too mature. These two people are not as flustered as others, which is justifiable. But now the calm, in the end can cover up how long? Everyone knows that the rain is coming and the wind is blowing all over the building. At this time in Nanyuan, Xuan Pei is sitting at his desk, practicing calligraphy every stroke. Even at this time, he still wants to practice calligraphy. If others see it, they will be surprised. But it''s not so surprising. Judging by the characters, Xuan Pei''s handwriting is very stable. Obviously, he was not affected by the fall of the emperor at all. He is as calm as ever, as if he had expected it to happen. "Your Highness, the eighth Prince is about to move now." Mingyue said: "this is a trap he set up. As soon as Fang starts, he is bound to attack. How can his highness solve it?" The emperor''s poison is caused by Xuanli. There is almost no doubt about it. Xuanpei knows this elder brother very well. He knows more about Xuanli than the emperor. The gentle and indifferent elder brother was so cruel that he killed his father with this move. The emperor fell off guard, but the poison was given a long time ago. Xuanli thought that he had taken the initiative in this way. Before the emperor established the crown prince, he won in chaos. Maybe this was Xuanli''s tactics, but for xuanpei, it was his tactics to let nature take its course. Xuanli is cruel, xuanpei is not soft hearted. For example, in this life, he watched the emperor poisoned by Xuanli. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 235 Mingyue has been with xuanpei for such a long time. She was born in the royal guards. Naturally, she can guess some things in her heart. To be sure, Xuanli''s hand suddenly came, and he was in charge of the control of things. Maybe he had the upper hand. But Mingyue knows that it is not. The handsome young man in front of him may have known Xuanli''s intention a long time ago. Although it seems inconceivable and she doesn''t know why, Mingyue knows that xuanpei has been dealing with Xuanli for a long time. When everyone is not optimistic and thinks that he is just a dispensable prince. But it was the useless prince. He played a good game of chess. When Xuanli asked people to poison the emperor, xuanpei knew it for a long time, but he didn''t say anything or do anything, as if he didn''t know it at all, and didn''t make any obstruction. Xuanpei''s actions are to keep the same, to kill people with a knife and to confuse the other party. Every person who seizes the right must step on the blood of the previous emperor. Blood and flesh are not important. Xuanpei and Xuanli want to fight for that position, first of all to get the emperor down. Xuanli did it, xuanpei was right about everything, which achieved his goal through Xuanli''s hand. More importantly, Xuanli society thought that xuanpei didn''t know anything - a person who knew about it would not be helpless. But Xuanli''s mistake is that xuanpei does know and does everything. For an adult, it seems nothing to be able to do all this, such as Xuanli, who is very ambitious and good at hiding. But now xuanpei is just a young man who has not reached the hairpin. If a young man can have such a cold and resolute means, with the emperor''s calm and vision, it is absolutely not a thing in the pool. The emperor has been treating xuanpei well since he knew his son''s talent. A man who is suddenly loved by his father will cherish this feeling. But Xuan Pei didn''t. He looked at the emperor''s death step by step indifferently, and didn''t show any emotion. The most ruthless imperial family, but the calm and indifference made Mingyue feel frightened. What this young man showed was that he was more suitable to be the king of a country than Xuanli. What Mingyue doesn''t know is that xuanpei was not born with such determination. After the last life, Xuan Pei had a very clear understanding of the feelings of the imperial family. The reason why the emperor attached importance to him was that he attached importance to what he showed now. Without these things, he would still be a useless prince. As for Jiang Ruan''s fate in the palace, the emperor had no reason. In Xuan Pei''s eyes, Jiang Ruan was the only relative in the world. The emperor was just a king, not a father. His life had been decided in the last life, and he would eventually die in the hands of his own son Xuanli. Xuanpei will take advantage of this and will not deliberately break it. He slowly took a deep breath, then said: "Xuanli''s next step must be the imperial edict. If he wants to get the imperial edict of the crown prince, he will do it very quickly, caught off guard. This is his old method." Mingyue has some doubts in her heart. Listening to xuanpei''s tone, she seems to have been fighting Xuanli for many years. She seems to know each other very well. But now xuanpei has a direct fight with Xuanli. It''s just fighting cattle across the air. It''s just fighting against each other. Even so, she said, "what does your highness think?" Xuanpei smiles gently. His natural facial features are delicate. When he smiles like this, he has some indescribable beauty in the corner of his eyes. He looks like Jiang Ruan: "don''t worry. We will do it naturally." Li Gonggong came out of the emperor''s bedroom and looked inside with some worry. The emperor''s body began to collapse a long time ago. This was something he had known for a long time, but at that time he only thought that he was old and time was unforgettable. It is inevitable that every emperor will grow old in this way. But The emperor fell too suddenly. Just under the gaze of man Dynasty, he suddenly fell down. For the officials of Da Jin Dynasty, it was enough to be an instruction, and this instruction was related to a big storm in the future. After so many years in the palace, Duke Li knew that an era would come to an end. This is an inevitable fact. With the death of the emperor, the manager who has been with the emperor for many years will naturally follow him. Duke Li is not afraid. What he is afraid of is that before everything is settled. Before the death of the emperor, the crown prince''s seat should be stable. But now the situation is different. The position of the crown prince is still vacant, which means that once the emperor dies, the former dynasty of the great Jin Dynasty will be in a mess. The conspiracy of the people in southern Xinjiang is extremely unfavorable. The emperor would not allow this to happen, but he did it. When everyone thought that he would soon establish a new crown prince, he left the two princes in the cold and didn''t make a decision. Xuanpeixu, the 13th prince, was young and didn''t take it seriously, so he didn''t take any action. However, Li Gonggong could see clearly that the eighth prince could not sit still, and his number of people began to increase rapidly. He may also be wondering why the emperor did not establish a prince? Why? Naturally, it''s because of that person. Li Gonggong sighed. His eyes were a little old for a moment. Only he knew the emperor''s intention. Maybe that person also knew it. However, he refused the emperor''s arrangement with an extremely tough attitude, and he was not willing to accept the emperor''s plan.That man, Mr. Li sighed again. In the past many years, the total number of sighs he sighed was not as many as these days. If someone else was changed, Mr. Li could believe that no one could beat the emperor''s plan. Whether it''s for the sake of the overall situation of life, or because of the temptation of that position, I''m afraid that the person who has never gone his own way and despises everything will really leave. What happens when two equally tough people get together? Li Gonggong no longer thinks about it. When he thinks about it, he has a headache. Many people have come to inquire about the situation from him these days. The spies sent by the eighth prince are also talking through him intentionally or unintentionally. Li Gonggong is a smooth man. He has lived in the palace for decades. Anyone who sees him has to give him a bit of thin noodles, but now he is really helpless. He feels that he is in a dead end. He''s really starting to feel old. At this time, Li Gonggong suddenly remembered a man who had entered the palace with him. At that time, he was a little eunuch of unknown origin. He was a student of the Imperial Academy, and he didn''t know how to become a friend. Later, when father-in-law Li began to build a firm foothold in the palace, he was already a proud Tang Hua Lang. Li Gonggong has been a little jealous of him, but at the most prosperous time, because of one thing, he resigned and went to seclusion, leaving in the confusion of his colleagues at that time. Only Mr. Li understood why he left, because he was the one who saw it most clearly. Perhaps he had expected such a struggling situation when he resigned at that time. He left the chaotic situation early. If he is here, how should he deal with this kind of scene at the moment? "Father in law, father in law." Small Chen Zi looks at him timidly way. Li Gonggong suddenly came back to himself, and then he found that he had already thought far away unconsciously. Why did he suddenly think of this? Is it really because I am old? Mr. Li sighed. Little Chen Zi looked at him and comforted him: "my father-in-law is worried about his Majesty''s dragon body. If your majesty has a real dragon to protect his body, it will turn evil into good. It will be OK. My father-in-law should not worry too much." Xiao Chenzi was promoted by Duke Li. It is well known that eunuchs have no children, but not all eunuchs are willing to accept this fate. Mr. Li has always been very good to Mr. Chen. He once said a few words when he made a mistake and saved his life. Mr. Chen accepted Mr. Li as his adoptive father. Now, seeing that Mr. Li is not as usual, he naturally wants to show his concern. "Ah," sighed Li Gonggong, looking at the young man in front of him. How long can he stay in this position? But the young man in front of him has been reckless and naive. If he didn''t protect himself, he didn''t know how many times he had died in this deep palace. After he left, who can help this boy turn his bad luck into good? Li Gonggong felt a little melancholy. He looked at little Chen Zi and said, "you''d better not come out these days. If you can do it, I''ll say hello to you there. You''d better go out of the palace for a while and say you want to go back to the hometown for a funeral. You should never stay in the palace." "Why?" Xiao Chenzi said curiously, "adoptive father, your majesty is not in good health. It''s nothing to do with us slaves. How can we get out of the palace?" "Don''t ask so much." Li Gonggong glared at him. The more he knew about the way of life in the palace, the sooner he died. This was something he had known for a long time. This child didn''t know anything and often bumped in front of him. "Adoptive father, what''s the next situation in this palace? Are the eight and thirteen princes going to fight? When my former son was working outside, his eighth highness praised me as if he wanted to take me to the palace there. You said I might get a chance Little Chen Zi made no secret of his happiness, as if if if Xuan Li threw an olive branch at him, he would immediately run past. This is not uncommon. No Eunuch in the palace wants to be so unknown all the time. He always wants to make a big splash. At least the position of the chief eunuch has enough temptation. It''s not just his ambition that Xiao Chenzi says so much about his plans. On the contrary It''s a little silly. Li Gonggong was surprised when he heard that he knew the emperor''s plan better than anyone else. But if Xiao Li really took refuge with the eighth prince, let alone the eighth prince, he meant to show his kindness, and he would be implicated in the end. Li Gonggong''s mouth has always been very strict. Everyone tried to get information out of his mouth, but he always failed. Now, facing his own son, Li Gonggong''s heart finally overcame his years of experience. He pulled little Chen Zi to one side and whispered: "keep your voice down. Don''t take part in these things. Don''t agree with the eighth prince." "Why?" Little Chen Zi asked curiously. The boy always asked why. Father-in-law Li was worried, but he didn''t know why. He always felt that little Chen Zi would not end his plan. In desperation, Duke Li had to say vaguely: "no one can find out your Majesty''s plan. Your eighth highness is not a candidate. You don''t want to get into trouble. " Just in a word, smart people can immediately understand the meaning of Li Gonggong, because Li Gonggong''s meaning has been very clear, the emperor''s meaning is not in the eight princes, choose the eight princes, in fact, choose the losing side. Li Gong said: "remember what I said to you today. Don''t say it to anyone else."Little Chen Zi nodded with palpitation. No matter how stupid he was, he could hear the voice of Li Gonggong. This is the fact that Mr. Li has been with the emperor for decades. When Mr. Li''s story came to Jiang Ruan''s ears, Jiang Ruan was talking to housekeeper Lin about the account book. Because the royal guards came to report it, he didn''t avoid housekeeper Lin either. The death of father-in-law Li is not unexpected. Jiang Ruan thinks about it, and suddenly finds that housekeeper Lin is also in a trance. It''s strange that housekeeper Lin, who was still very spirited to discuss the problems in the account books with Jiang Ruan a a quarter of an hour ago, suddenly lost his mind. Jiang Ruan looked at him carefully, but he found a trace of sadness in housekeeper Lin''s eyes. Sad? Jiang Ruan Mou Guang moves, voice reminds a way: "Lin housekeeper?" Housekeeper Lin suddenly regained his mind. It seems that he just found that he was absent-minded. He was a little at a loss for a moment, and then he was a little flustered and said: "this Young lady, the old slave is neglecting his duty. " Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I don''t blame you. When I first heard about the surprise in the palace, I couldn''t get back to God for a moment. I was also surprised just now. Housekeeper Lin seems to be thinking about it. What do you think of it? " Housekeeper Lin laughed a few times. He was just about to say that he had little talent and learning. He could tell the difference between them, but he couldn''t tell Jiang Ruan''s eyes. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were as usual, gentle and sharp, almost penetrating. She seems to have seen something wrong with herself and grasped it sensitively. Now she just asked. No one is better than the princess in her palace in speculating about people''s feelings. Housekeeper Lin straightened up his face and put away his embarrassment. In a moment, he was like a new man and said, "Mr. Li has been in power for many years. He has seen all the big waves. He will never commit suicide because of something happened for a while. Leaving a suicide note is nothing to do with Daya. It''s full of flaws. The old slave bravely guessed that Li Gonggong did not commit suicide, but was killed and pretended to commit suicide. " When he said this, although there was restraint in his tone, he could not help but let out a trace of anger. Jiang Ruan nodded and said in a soft voice, "yes, steward Lin thought, who killed him?" "Mr. Li is the chief manager. He has a smooth mind. Ordinary people can''t deceive him. Only people close to him can do it. Since the people close to him can make Mr. Li unprepared, they must be people who get along with him day and night. They have won all his trust. There is no doubt that Li Gonggong died at his own hands! " Housekeeper Lin: wuwuwuhaojiyou is dead, and the full text will be finished next month. Do you have any chance to compete for the top ten monthly tickets www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 236 After Lin''s words, Jiang Ruan doesn''t have any expression, but forsythia and dewdrop behind him are a little surprised. In their eyes, Lin is just a half old man who is a little crazy. Who knows what he said today is reasonable. I don''t know why, it''s totally different from what they used to feel. Jiang Ruan, however, was not surprised. He was a graceful and brave man. He was able to retreat at the most beautiful time. He also had the determination and endurance to endure. He was a man of great wisdom. But Jiang Ruan also saw that when housekeeper Lin mentioned the news of Li Gonggong''s death, there were some fluctuations in his eyes, which could hardly be covered up. Obviously, he may have something to do with father-in-law Li, but everyone in the world always has secrets. Why should we explore them? But housekeeper Lin''s analysis coincides with her, which makes her mind more firm. "You''re right. It must be people who are extremely close to Li Gonggong, or even have been lurking around him for many years. Now rashly, the emperor is seriously ill. More importantly, it may be a signal. " Jiang Ruan Dao. "Signal?" Housekeeper Lin frowned and asked, "young lady, do you think they are going to start?" At this time, Lao Lin seemed to be discussing the next countermeasures with Jiang Ruan. He didn''t seem to be reliable on weekdays. "It''s not a fight. Duke Li died suddenly. I thought his death was too abrupt. There must be a special reason to kill him at this time. If you start, you don''t have to start from a manager, so the death of Li Gonggong must be caused by himself. He made a mistake in some way and eventually killed himself Jiang Ruan pondered. Housekeeper Lin thought for a while. He seemed to think what Jiang Ruan said was very reasonable. He looked at her and said, "but what can he do wrong, young lady? What was the mistake that led him to die in the end? " Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "what is the most important thing in the palace now?" "Yes Your majesty is very ill Housekeeper Lin replied. "That''s where Mr. Li''s mistake is. He is the chief manager, but in the end his quantity is inseparable from his majesty, so the biggest reason why he died is because of the emperor. The greatest value of a general manager is that he is the person closest to the emperor and may know many secrets of the emperor. In this way, things seem very simple. Li Gonggong knew the emperor''s decision, and this decision was inadvertently known, and then he was killed. " Housekeeper Lin can''t help but marvel at how much Jiang Ruan can tell just because of the death of father-in-law Li. He can''t help but be a little absent-minded. Maybe there is such a young lady in King Jinying''s mansion. This is something that Prince Hongxi and old king Jinying didn''t think of. Now the situation is so chaotic, but Jiang Ruan can still analyze it calmly and point out the doubtful points calmly. In the recent panic atmosphere, it suddenly disappeared, and housekeeper Lin suddenly had a sense of courage in his heart. He thought along with Jiang Ruan''s words: "the young lady''s decision is really good, but what decision of the emperor will lead to the death of Li Gonggong? Let the people who start so impatient to start, even the body of father-in-law Li are full of flaws. In fact, he can do it more precisely. It seems that he is impatient and neglects other things. " "It must be a matter of great importance for people to be so ruthless. It is imminent to seize the throne. Before your Majesty''s fall, the crown prince has not been established. Now the crown prince''s position is in the air, and all officials have their own guesses about his Majesty''s injury. If your majesty has the will to establish a future prince at this time, the other one will be very anxious. Duke Lin is about to reveal His Majesty''s intention, and another person who has no chance with the crown prince will jump out of the wall. " Jiang Ruan said: "the emperor definitely will not establish Xuanli as the prince, so the person behind can only be Xuanli." Housekeeper Lin wants to say that xuanpei, the 13th prince, may also be the killer. When she sees Jiang Ruan''s look, she stops. There is no hesitation on Jiang Ruan''s face, just like her tone. She believes xuanpei absolutely from the beginning. Housekeeper Lin knows that Jiang Ruan has a good relationship with Xuan Pei, but he has always wondered why Jiang Ruan, who seems to be indifferent to anyone, would trust Xuan Pei so much. This is really strange. However, Jiang Ruan''s vision was always good, especially in terms of foresight. Naturally, housekeeper Lin didn''t doubt what he said, so he said, "in this case, in this situation, the eighth prince will take advantage of his Majesty''s intention to turn the situation around..." "Regicide, change your life." Jiang Ruan said coldly. Kill the emperor before he shows his intention, or let him never show his intention again, and then pretend the imperial edict. This is an opportunity. At present, it seems that this is the only way out for Xuanli. Chamberlain Lin was also shocked by the words Jiang Ruan uttered. He didn''t speak for a moment. The matter of seizing his wife was never bloody, and he never had any peace and happiness. But now, just listening to Jiang Ruan''s words, we have already felt the ferocity coming. Maybe in the future, the undercurrent in Beijing will be turbulent and frightening step by step. Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "but it''s not that bad. Housekeeper Lin, you go out first. I have something to do. I''ll explain it to Xiao Shao later. There''s always a way to deal with it."Housekeeper Lin didn''t speak and retreated in silence. Now, Xiao Shao is not alone in Jinying palace. There is a little lady in Jinying palace now. Give it to them, thought housekeeper Lin. After housekeeper Lin left, the smile in front of Jiang Ruan was put away. Her face slowly sank, and she didn''t seem as confident as before. Forsythia and dewdrop looked at each other and were surprised. Forsythia hesitated and asked, "young lady But what''s wrong? " "Not right," Jiang Ruan chumou: "natural not right." Seeing this, Tianzhu also asked: "since the eighth Prince''s plan has been seen through, as long as he is not allowed to succeed, how could the young lady be so worried. Although the eighth Prince is patient, he is not really a real smart man. If the young master has not come back, it will not be so bad. " Jiang Ruan dared to stand off when she was not princess Jinying. For such a long time, they were used to Jiang Ruan''s strategy. When Jiang Ruan was so worried, they all felt uneasy. "The smartest person is not Xuanli," Jiang Ruan sneered, with a cold smile. "The emperor is the smartest person." She didn''t go on. Tianzhu looked at each other and didn''t know how to deal with it. At night, when Xiao Shao came back, it was naturally late at night. Jiang Ruan Zheng was sitting on the edge of his bed, leaning against the blanket to turn his books, but he was so careless that he did not even hear Xiao Shao''s footsteps approaching. After a pause, Xiao Shao came up to her and thought about it. He patted her forehead and said, "Why are you still reading?" "When you come back." Jiang Ruan threw the book aside, and Xiao Shaofang came back from the outside, with the cool air of the cold dew at night, a little moist. Under the lights, his eyes were beautiful and matchless, almost like those cold immortals walking out of the simple scroll. No matter when, this person is always so bright, even if he does not love gorgeous, always dressed in the coldest color, can not take away half of his glory, as if as long as standing there, can not help but attract other people''s eyes. Jiang Ruan sighed gently. Xiao Shaomin realized that she was wrong, so he didn''t go to the bath immediately. Instead, he sat down beside Jiang Ruan and said, "what''s the matter?" "You..." Jiang Ruan hesitated for a moment and then asked, "do you want to be emperor?" Xiao Shao was slightly stunned. She didn''t seem to expect that she would suddenly ask this question. For a moment, she was a little dazed. Then she frowned and asked, "who have you met today?" Seeing him like this, Jiang Ruan began to laugh: "the person you are worried about can''t afford to be injured in the palace now. How can you meet me. You probably worry too much The last time the emperor came uninvited at Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan stood at the door and listened to what he said. Only then did he know Xiao Shao''s secret. Now Xiao Shao is so nervous because he thinks of the last time. Xiao Shao smell speech, eyebrow but didn''t loosen, just stare at her thoughtfully, way: "I never thought of that position." "If What should you do when someone forces you? " Asked Jiang Ruan. "What is it to do with me?" Xiao Shao asked. His tone is indifferent, but there is a kind of irresistible momentum. If someone forces him, what does it have to do with him? In this world, he will do what he likes and will not do what he doesn''t like. No one can force him. Jiang Ruan took a deep breath, and suddenly said: "the emperor is now in a state of unconsciousness. Xuanli''s rash action can only show one thing. The emperor has the intention to establish a crown prince. Maybe the matter of establishing a crown prince has already been settled. Xuanli hears about it, so he has to cut off the clues." Jiang Ruan stares into Xiao Shao''s eyes: "Xuan Li probably thinks that the other party is Pei Er, but you and I all know that it''s not. The person he wants to give up this position is never his own son." The wind and rain suddenly rose in the court, and seizing the throne was imminent. Many ministers stood in line in person, but only Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao knew that the man, the emperor, had never thought of giving the land to Xuanli and xuanpei. The man he wanted to sit in this position was Xiao Shao all the time. He secretly noticed Xiao Shao for so many years, protected him for so many years, maybe because of guilt, maybe because the country itself should be prince Hongxi, but the more important reason is that he always regarded Xiao Shao as the future prince. "I don''t want to be here," Xiao Shao hugged her, which may be a consolation: "I won''t do what he wants." "I know." Jiang Ruan lies on Xiao Shao''s chest. The man has a sweet smell like grass, with a slight chill of dew in the middle of the night, but he feels very at ease. She said: "just you know, the Emperor may have expected today. I think he wants you to be emperor. He will be ready to let you sit in this position somewhere. The most important thing, the most important thing, is the imperial edict." Maybe Xiao Shao didn''t know the emperor, and the royal guards were all over the world. He had the best intelligence. But Xiao Shao was a killer and the leader of the royal guards, but he was not a good guesser. For the emperor, he was too distant, and he didn''t deliberately get close to him because of his blood and bone relationship. But Jiang Ruan was different. In order to help Xuanli, she used all kinds of methods to inquire about the emperor during her previous years in the palace. Naturally, she paid a lot of costs, but also made her understand more deeply. The emperor, no matter how outsiders look at him, is in such a position. He is very clear about the means in the palace. In his previous life, he used such a method, that is, he wrote down the imperial edict long ago. Because of this, people were worried about the change of the crown prince. Xuanli decisively took the hand before the imperial edict was issued. The emperor''s last chip, under the means of Xuanli''s iron blood, was over before it was used.Now things happen again. The emperor wants to make an imperial edict before. Jiang Ruan is almost sure that Xuanli''s people have heard the news and know that the person in the imperial edict is not themselves. That''s why they are so decisive. They want to strangle the emperor, and then successfully form a chapter, and ascend that position in their own way. But in his former life, there were no thirteen princes, and Xuanli had no obstacles in front of him. Now xuanpei has killed him. "He killed Li Gonggong. Maybe he wanted to find someone to replace him and find out the secret of the imperial edict." Jiang Ruan said softly, "I think it''s not only the imperial edict, but also the emperor''s mind. He should secretly ask his confidants to confirm your identity when necessary." Xiao Shao''s identity can''t be known by too many people for a while, otherwise Xiao Shao will become the target of public criticism. It''s one thing for the emperor to force Xiao Shao, but he still has to do his best to protect his life. "I''ll find the edict." Xiao Shao said in a low voice: "then burn it, no one will know." What he burns is not only an imperial edict, but also a kind of life in his future, his road to the emperor. Jiang Ruan was sad all of a sudden. He should not have been like this. Xiao Shao was the emperor''s order. At the end of his previous life, it was clear that he had been sitting on the land of the great Jin Dynasty. But this life, she changed his fate brutally. He was no longer an emperor. So what? She didn''t want to let go. If Xiao Shao wanted to be an emperor, she would let him go. If she didn''t want to, she would not let those people succeed even if she fought for her life. Protecting what she wants is the meaning of her rebirth. Xiao Shao saw Jiang Ruan''s strange, slightly raised the corner of his lips, and kissed her forehead, saying: "don''t worry, give it to me." "Good." Jiang Ruan laughed: "it''s up to you." After the couple said something, Xiao Shao got up to take a bath. What he didn''t see was that after he turned around, the smile on Jiang Ruan''s face coagulated, and his eyes suddenly became a little deep. He didn''t seem as happy as just now. Slowly, she said to herself, "since you don''t want to be emperor, I will do it for you." She dropped her eyes and said in a low voice, "give it to me." That night, there was another man in Jinying palace. He was standing in a quiet corner of the palace garden. There was a huge iron basin in front of him. From time to time, some flames came out of the iron basin, and there were some dark yellow or burnt black paper money. He was burning paper money for someone. Although it was early spring and it was always cold at night, this man only wore a thin gown, just like the most common student in the Academy. At the moment, he was sitting on the ground, beside the iron basin, there was a pot of wine and two wine glasses, but only one person. This person is not others, it is housekeeper Lin, he looked at the beating flame a little lost in thought, it seems to miss something, suddenly and SA ran a smile said: "Lao Li, I said you are too stupid, all mixed in this position, how can you follow other people''s way? See, that''s good. Before I ask you to drink, you''ll leave by yourself. I''m shivering when I drink alone. " What he said seemed to be funny, with a smile on his face, as if he was not sad, but it was in this smile that he felt more lonely and sad. "At the beginning, we three, you, me, Prince, were a scenery in the capital. Ah, although you are a eunuch, you look good. Although you are not as good as me and the prince, when we three go out, many girls turn back. Well, it would be a pity if you were not a eunuch. " Housekeeper Lin said to himself, as if he thought what he said was very interesting, but he laughed unconsciously. His eyes seemed to see things a long time ago through the flames beating in front of him. At that time, Prince Hongxi was still a handsome young man. Although he was a eunuch, he had a good temperament and a pretty appearance. Every time Prince Hongxi sneaked out of the palace, he would take both of them with him. The three of them were very happy, just like the three gentlemen in Mr. storyteller''s mouth. Prince Hongxi is an approachable person. Ever since he met the princess and bought her grandmother from Xiaoyuan, they didn''t even have any rules. In front of Prince Hongxi, the three of them were equal. Indeed, they are equal, so when the news of Prince Hongxi''s death came, Xiao Li Zi and housekeeper Lin were both heartbroken. But housekeeper Lin chose to resign and retire. He wanted to keep the only blood of his good friend. However, little Li Zi stayed in the palace. It doesn''t mean that little Li Zi is a wolf hearted man. Maybe it''s another way he used to sacrifice his good friend - to stay here and help the king, even if it''s just to bring tea and water to the king, as long as he can do his best for his friend. So many years have passed, housekeeper Lin has become a real housekeeper. It seems that he has forgotten all his cultural and military strategies. What he worries about every day is just some trivial things. He puts all his energy on Xiao Shao. And little plum in the palace with their own dexterity, finally became the emperor''s side of the big manager, Li Gonggong. For so many years, they have never contacted each other, but they know that each other has a good life, and everyone has his own choice of life. Housekeeper Lin raised his head and filled the two wine glasses in front of him. Then he touched them one by one, and sprinkled all the wine in one of them on the ground."The three of us, you and the prince are reunited, but I''m not. I have to watch the little Lord and the little lady have a good life. No, not even that. I want to live a good life. I have already said that the prince or you are not as lucky as me. I, Lao Lin, can see that they are getting better and better day by day. You are not lucky to see this scene! " Housekeeper Lin began to smile. With such a smile, he had a look of the past. But if he looked at it more carefully, he could see a flash of light in the corner of his eyes. He said: "although the young lady didn''t understand what she said today, I also understood it. Prince, are you happy? The daughter-in-law here is very smart. If you are still here, you must like it But your brother seems to want to give the position to the little master. The young master certainly doesn''t agree. Ah, Prince, if only you were here. How can you watch your son being bullied like this. "He took another sip of wine:" Lao Li, you are really the first manager. After so many years with others, you can''t even control a decision. Can''t you persuade the emperor to be a good emperor? Where is the original ingenuity? " no one answered Butler Lin''s words. He sat alone at night and talked to himself, like a madman. However, he sighed again:" I was once a handsome man. "He thought about it. Taking a small bottle out of his arms, he held it in his hand and suddenly laughed: "now when is the time, I also understand that I want to see the young Lord live so well, and I don''t know if there is such a chance. The capital is going to change. Although our Jinying palace is not the East Palace, we have been with the young master for so many years. This is Laolin''s home for a long time. Many people are eyeing it. Today I will keep it. "He poured the vial into his palm and rolled out a pill. There was nothing special about the pill, but housekeeper Lin laughed. He yelled at the fire in front of him and said, "even after so many years, I''m still so romantic. "He threw the pill into his mouth, swallowed it, and took a long time to take a sip from the wine pot in front of him. After swallowing the pill, housekeeper Lin didn''t become different, but the application seemed to stretch out, as if he had made up his mind. It''s time to show your face. "Housekeeper Lin silently threw a handful of paper money into the burning brazier again:" this time, I will take good care of the young master, Prince, give it to me. " - - digression - Prince Hong Xi, housekeeper Lin and father-in-law Li are good friends, so let''s go together! www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 237 Early the next morning, Xiao Shao went out of the door, and Jiang Ruan changed her clothes. When Lianqiao saw that she seemed to be going out, she said strangely, "young lady, do you want to go out?" Yesterday, Jiang Ruan didn''t say that he was going to go out today. At this juncture, he probably didn''t want to go out for a walk. "It doesn''t matter, just go to the next room to have a look." Next door, forsythia was stunned for a moment, and then realized that Xia Qing and Qi Feng didn''t live in the house next to the palace. Forsythia and dew thought that Jiang Ruan wanted to ask Xia Qing about the emperor''s health. After all, the emperor''s life now depends on Xia Qing''s medicine. Without Xia Qing, I''m afraid the emperor can''t survive these days. This is probably the reason why Jiang Ruan went to Xia Qing. Who knows that when dewdrops follow Jiang Ruan to the next room, Xia Qing is not in the room. Qi Feng says with a smile, "Xia Wu has entered the palace. What''s the matter with his third sister-in-law?" Jiang Ruan shook his head and said, "I''m not here for him. I''m here for you." Lianqiao and dewdrop look at each other. Naturally, dewdrop and Lianqiao know Qi Feng''s Thoughts on Jiang Ruan. At the beginning, the atmosphere between Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan becomes a little delicate. Although it turns out that it was just a situation set by Jiang Ruan himself, they still feel a little uneasy when they think about it. Tianzhu didn''t have any expression. Qi Feng was stunned when he heard the words, and then said, "OK. Let''s talk about it. " Qi Feng doesn''t think that Jiang Ruan came to him to talk about the past. It''s not that Qi Feng couldn''t see what happened a few days ago. He just pushed the boat along with the current about Jiang Ruan''s use of him. After many years as a martial brother with Xiao Shao, he was also a military strategist in the royal guards. He always had a clear mind. Even if he was pleased with Jiang Ruan, he would not be completely confused. Naturally, he could see that Jiang Ruan was deliberately getting close to him. Qi Feng couldn''t tell what he thought of his willingness to be used, but he didn''t feel dissatisfied with Jiang ruansheng or estranged from Xiao Shaosheng. This is about the difference of Qi Feng, no matter when, he can always recognize his position soberly, will not break the original situation. Jiang Ruan sits down with him in the room. Qi Feng pours him a cup of tea. Xia Qing is a miracle doctor in cloth clothes. Qi Feng doesn''t stick to details, so he doesn''t even have a maid in the yard except for a few boys and Xia Qing''s medicine boy. Qi Feng had to pour the tea himself, but obviously he poured it very smoothly. He said with a smile: "the new Junshan silver needle has been sent. My third sister-in-law has tasted all kinds of good tea. Don''t despise the tea in my small temple. I''ve got the best one." With a little smile, Jiang Ruan could see that Qi Feng deliberately made the atmosphere relaxed. After a long time with Xiao Shao, she was more good at covering up her water chestnut side. On the surface, she looked more gentle, but the sharpness in her heart was the same as before. It''s just sharp, but it''s for the opponent. She raised the tea cup in front of her and sipped it gently. She said with a smile, "it''s very fragrant." "The third sister-in-law praised me so much, and I felt even more uneasy." Qi Feng laughed, and the front of the story changed: "but today, my third sister-in-law came to see me, not for tea, but what happened?" Speaking of the end, Qi Feng''s words still involuntarily show a trace of care. As soon as these words came out, he himself realized it and could not help feeling a little annoyed. Jiang Ruan had Xiao Shao by his side. Qi Feng knew what kind of person Xiao Shao was. If Jiang Ruan had anything to do, Xiao Shao would do it for her. Where would he get the chance to care for her? He was still thinking. Jiang Ruan had already said what she said. She said, "I want to ask you to do me a favor." Qi Feng was stunned, and his eyes were fixed on her for a moment. Jiang Ruan looked at him in his spare time, but did not avoid his eyes. After a long time, Qi Feng just said: "third sister-in-law, you want me to help you with this, third brother doesn''t know?" Qi Feng is not stupid. Jiang Ruan came to him for help. Something must have happened. Xiao Shao can do what Qi Feng can do. Since Xiao Shao can do it, why does Jiang Ruan need Qi Feng''s help? In a word, there is only one possibility, that is, Jiang Ruan didn''t tell Xiao Shao what he wanted to do. Why don''t you tell Xiao Shao that Qi Feng was moved in his heart, and then he blurted out: "do you want to hide from the third brother? Three elder brothers don''t agree? " Jiang Ruan is very similar to Xiao Shao in some aspects, especially in doing things with a clear purpose. Since Xiao Shao has not been told that Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan are closest to each other for the original reason, there is only one possibility for Jiang Ruan to seek distance from others. Xiao shaogen did not agree. Jiang Ruan heard the speech, did not deny it, said softly: "yes, Xiao Shao doesn''t know about it, and you don''t have to tell him." "Third sister-in-law," Qi Feng fidgeted a little. After thinking about it, he said, "anyway, the third brother treats you sincerely. Since you don''t let the third brother know what you are going to do, I think you are going to risk yourself again. I''m sorry I can''t help you with that. " Qi Feng said that although he put all the things on Xiao Shao''s head, only he knew that this was not the reason, but he could not watch Jiang Ruan''s life in danger. From knowing Jiang Ruan to now, the most common thing Jiang Ruan has done is to go up and down. It sounds good, but every time he takes a great risk, and only others look at him and feel frightened. Qi Feng. He himself could not let Jiang Ruan take risks. It seemed that he had expected Qi Feng''s reaction. Jiang Ruan just sighed and said, "Qi Feng, do you know what the situation is now?""Your Majesty is seriously ill, internal and external troubles are imminent, and Jin Dynasty is in danger." Qi Feng said, "but it has nothing to do with your third sister-in-law." "No, it has something to do with me." Jiang Ruan said suddenly. Qi Feng was stunned. He heard a faint voice from Jiang Ruan: "from the day you knew me, you can see that Xuanli and I had a bitter hatred. If we don''t take revenge, it''s useless for the world. When Xiao Shao was away, you can see that I checked Xuanli everywhere. It wasn''t all for Jinying palace. In fact, it was just because of private enmity. It''s a long story. I won''t talk to you in detail. You just need to know that Xuanli and I are enemies in this life. Naturally, we will never die. " Qi Feng was also surprised to hear that. He didn''t know why. He always felt that Jiang Ruan was very serious about what she said, just like that revenge with Xuan Li was the last thing she wanted to accomplish in her life. In fact, as early as a long time ago, Qi Feng felt Jiang Ruan''s hatred for Xuanli. She was always ruthless to Xuanli, almost cruel. In Xuanli''s way of seizing the throne, in fact, it didn''t matter who was the emperor to the royal guards, but now Qi Feng clearly saw that Jiang Ruan had influenced Xiao Shao and the whole Jinying palace with his own ability It should be said that the whole royal guards have already stood on the opposite side of Xuanli. For Xuanli, this is undoubtedly bad news. It would be much easier without the obstruction of Jinying palace. Qi Feng can''t figure out why Jiang Ruan has repeatedly blocked Xuanli''s plan. Now she says that he had a blood feud with Xuanli. Although he doesn''t know what it is, Qi Feng doesn''t think Jiang Ruan is lying. He looked at Jiang Ruan in a dazed way, only listening to Jiang Ruan''s faint words. "Now there are only two princes in the court, one is the 13th prince, and the other is Xuanli. Since I want to declare that I can''t get that position, I must be in alliance with the 13th prince. In this game, we have put the pieces on the prince 13, so I have to do something. As you can see, Mr. Li is dead. You are so smart that you should not fail to see that Mr. Li died at Xuanli''s hands. Xuanli has already started. The first thing he wants to do now is to make an imperial edict while his majesty is still alive, or let the emperor die immediately and destroy the imperial edict that the emperor originally wanted to establish the thirteen princes. " "Wait a minute," Qi Feng said with wide eyes, "sister-in-law, I''m a little confused about what you said. What is the imperial edict that the emperor originally wanted to establish the 13th prince? How do you know the emperor is going to make the thirteen princes the crown prince With a little smile, Jiang Ruan said, "I have already said that Xuanli must have got the news from father-in-law Li since he was in such a hurry. If he was really made the prince, why should he kill people in such a hurry. It''s only because the man is not him. As for the imperial edict, it''s inevitable. Besides, the spies in the palace have returned. It''s true that the imperial edict is correct. " Qi Feng looks at her with some doubts, and seems to have some doubts about her words. Jiang Ruan did not move on his face, but thought deeply in her heart. Naturally, she knew that the emperor would keep an imperial edict, because that was what he did in the last life. However, the imperial edict of the previous life was not found in the end, because Xuanli had already ascended the throne at that time, and perhaps the person who left the emperor''s final imperial edict had also been hunted down by Xuanli. In short, Xuanli sat in that position and did what he said was right, because at that time there were only xuanpei left in the palace. At that time, xuanpei had never been thought of as the future Prince of Dajin Dynasty. Jiang Ruan recalled his thoughts, looked at Qi Feng and said: "the imperial edict left by the emperor must be in the hands of a minister, and Xuanli will use all means to pursue and kill that minister and destroy the imperial edict." "But third sister-in-law," Qi Feng asked, "since your majesty has left the imperial edict, why don''t you leave it in Jinying palace. Looking at the whole great Jin Dynasty, the only one who has enough strength to compete with the eighth Prince is the royal guards. It''s a sure plan to put it in King Jinying''s residence. Your majesty can''t have thought of that. Why should you put the imperial edict in the hands of other ministers? " Qi Feng talks slowly, but he is clear-cut. He has already thought about the key in the shortest time. Jiang Ruan Dao was slightly shocked when asked why the Emperor didn''t deliver the imperial edict to Jinying palace. Naturally, Xiao shaogen didn''t want to sit in that position. If he really let the imperial edict be delivered to Xiao Shao, he was afraid that Xiao Shao would destroy the imperial edict before Xuanli started. The emperor''s imperial edict was not written to Xuan Pei at all. It was written to Xiao Shao. Qi Feng didn''t know Xiao Shao''s life experience, so he didn''t know the reason. He just saw something wrong with it. Jiang Ruan couldn''t tell him this reason, but he just said with a smile: "you forget, what''s the reputation of Jinying palace?" Qi Feng was stunned, and Jiang Ruan continued: "how can the emperor give something like the imperial edict to Xiao Shao? The kings in the world are most suspicious. If you say so, the imperial edict is true. The civil and military officials will not believe it. They will only think that the imperial edict is false." As soon as the words came out, Qi Feng came back and said, "I forgot this matter." For so many years, the emperor''s care for Xiao Shao was in Qi Feng''s eyes. Because of this, even if all his colleagues thought Xiao Shao was a bandit, there was no difference in Qi Feng''s eyes. Instead, Qi Feng would not associate this matter with the emperor''s decision. But now that Jiang Ruan reminded him, Qi Feng understood. Indeed, maybe the emperor trusted Xiao Shao, but it didn''t mean he trusted the whole Jinying palace. The reputation of Jinying palace among the civil and military officials is too stubborn to be convincing. The emperor did not give the imperial edict to Xiao Shao."But what does the third sister-in-law want to do?" Qi Feng asked with a serious look. Jiang Ruan looked at him: "Xuanli wants to seize the imperial edict. His power can''t be underestimated. Xuanli himself may not be afraid, but he has been planning for this matter for so many years. All kinds of contacts are intertwined into a network, and the vastness is beyond our imagination. I''m afraid there are some mistakes in it, so I want to do something to make Xuanli think that the imperial edict has been found by him. After that, I can fight for a period of time for the 13th prince. During this period of time, I plan to win Xuanli wave. " Qi Feng was stunned. He was almost silent for a long time before he said, "do you mean you want to make a fake imperial edict to confuse Xuanli, and then let him think that he destroyed the real imperial edict, but in fact the real imperial edict is on others, is that so?" "Yes, it''s just that Xuanli is extremely cunning. I''m afraid the fake imperial edict can''t hide it from him, so I have to use the real imperial edict. But this imperial edict is not that one. What he destroyed is not the imperial edict of the crown prince. " Jiang Ruan finished, then slowly put down the tea cup in his hand, looked at Qi Feng and said: "I know you have someone in the court, you are the military adviser of the royal guards, what I want you to help is to let you know that the imperial edict is now in my hands." "You want to bait yourself!" Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to go on, Qi Feng could not help but stand up. He seemed to realize that his performance was too excited, but he could not help it. He cried out: "it''s no good, it''s too dangerous! Do you know what it would be like to be innocent and guilty? They will kill you. " Jiang Ruan frowned and said, "they won''t kill me." "How can you be sure..." "Because the virgin hates me." Jiang Ruan interrupted him: "the saint of Southern Xinjiang hates me to the bone, and her heart is for Xiao Shao. In this way, because of a woman''s jealousy, she will not let me die easily. And just because she hated me, the message that the edict was in my hands would be more convincing. Now, Nanjiang and Xuanli have formed an alliance. Some decisions of Nanjiang will definitely affect Xuanli, including suspicions. " Seeing that Qi Feng gradually calmed down, she continued: "I have told you that now Jinying palace and the thirteen princes are both prosperous and at the same loss. How can there be a complete egg under the nest? This is the only way to ensure the smooth accession of the thirteen princes. Xiao Shao''s aim was to intervene in the affairs of the South Xinjiang. Although it was possible, it was not as easy as Xuanli. Only in this way can we get the best results with me as bait. " "What do you mean by the best effect..." Qi Feng hard to say this sentence. "Xuanli society thinks that what I have in my hand must be an imperial edict. It will destroy this imperial edict by itself, so that it will not continue to pursue the real imperial edict. Xiao Shao and you need to grasp the time and opportunity. But I''m in the hands of Nanjiang saints. Nanjiang saints'' Association wants to torture me, but Xuanli has to offer me well, because with his ingenuity, he has to use me for greater benefits. If he wants to use me to make a deal with Xiao Shao, it''s better to get the support of Jinying Palace. " Jiang Ruan''s eyes were deep and quiet, and her tone was calm, as if these things related to her life would not happen to her at all. She said: "in this way, Xuanli and the people of Southern Xinjiang will have differences. I have seen the saint of Southern Xinjiang. She is fierce and will not easily admit defeat. The alliance between Xuanli and southern Xinjiang is not very stable. Once there is a conflict, when he has a headache, it''s always us who will benefit from sitting on the mountain and watching the tiger fight. " After listening to Jiang Ruan''s words in silence, Qi Feng''s expression gradually calmed down, and seemed to return to the former strategist. But only he knew that his hand in his sleeve had already been clenched into a fist. He said slowly: "what about you? What price do you have to pay? " Qi Feng''s eyes were full of pity, heartache, shock, sadness, and all kinds of complicated feelings, which made Jiang Ruan feel a little surprised. All the time, Qi Feng hides his feelings very well. He doesn''t want to break the current situation, but he can''t suppress his feelings in the face of the woman in front of him. In front of this beautiful woman, she is good at grasping the weakness of people''s heart, seeing through people''s expectations, skilled in calculation and planning, but she often takes risks with her own body. She is just like a chess holder who is very good at playing chess. She holds everyone in the palm of her hand and becomes a chess piece. When she arranges, she even counts herself. She had already set up the chess game, and she was going to be the pawn crossing the river. She was alone on the other side of the Han border of Chu River. Qi Feng suddenly felt a little annoyed. He secretly hated why he wanted to be so smart and become a military strategist of the royal guards, because he deeply knew that there was nothing wrong with what Jiang Ruan said. This is indeed the simplest and most direct way. For the time being, there is no better plan than this. Because of this, from the overall perspective, Qi Feng has no reason to refuse. He has already agreed to Jiang Ruan''s plan in his heart, but that man. Why is that person her. In this world, the last person he wants to see in danger is her. Ignoring the deep meaning in Qi Feng''s eyes, Jiang Ruan said lightly: "all I have to pay is to play a play. There is no problem with me. Qi Feng, your task is more arduous. Compared with me, the burden of this matter actually falls on you. I know that you and Xiao Shao are brothers. He will not agree with this. But I believe that no matter how much you hate me and Xuanli is around, she can''t hurt me for the time being. You just need to find me before I get hurt. I believe in the royal guards and youShe had been reckless and indomitable, so she cherished her life after her rebirth. Although there were many risks in her life, in fact, after numerous demonstrations and scheming, she could deeply understand the outcome. But this time it''s different. Although she and Qi Feng have vowed to each other, in fact, people''s hearts are always changeable. No one can predict what will happen next when they are alive or dead. But she still wanted to do it for nothing else, for pei''er and Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao didn''t want to be the master of the great Jin Dynasty, but the emperor still left behind. This time it was not so much a fight with Xuanli as a game with the emperor. In fact, it was Xiao Shao who blocked her. Because there is that person in, so wholeheartedly rely on and trust. Think of here, Jiang Ruan face can not help but float a smile, that smile is very light, quickly disappeared from her face. The smile fell into Qi Feng''s eyes, and he also followed it. But the smile was bitter. He knew why Jiang Ruan was smiling. Xiao Shao was really lucky. Qi Feng took a deep breath and said, "third sister-in-law, I promise to help you." He smiles, slowly a word a way: "you rest assured, we will find you, soon." Jiang Ruan also laughed and raised his tea cup to touch Qi Feng: "thank you very much." In the evening, after Xiao Shao returned to his house, he naturally heard from housekeeper Lin that Jiang Ruan had gone to Qi Feng. Housekeeper Lin didn''t mean to demolish the house, but he was worried that his master didn''t know what to do. He was afraid that his daughter-in-law would run away with others if she didn''t have to. This is to remind Xiao Shao not to think about business all the time, but to have a snack for his wife. Xiao Shaoguo really lived up to people''s expectations. When he looked back, he told Jiang Ruan about it. After bathing, he sat down beside Jiang Ruan in his outer clothes and said, "I heard you went to see Qi Feng today?" "Want to find Xia Qing, Xia Qing into the palace, and Qi Feng said some words." Jiang Ruan is turning over the pamphlet in his hand. Unexpectedly, the booklet in his hand was pulled away. As soon as he raised his face, Xiao Shao''s beautiful face was in front of him, but it was a little It''s not easy to be uncomfortable, isn''t it? What do you have to say to him? " Xiao Mei Mei whispers, the displeasure in her tone can be captured by Tianzhu outside through the curtain. Jiang Ruan put down his book, looked at him helplessly and said, "what do you want to say?" Xiao Shao expressed what he wanted to say with his own experience. The new January is coming and this month will be over^_ ^ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 238 But what he didn''t expect was that the Emperor didn''t want to make any son the future prince. His eyes always fell on Xiao Shao. So when Xuan left and ascended the throne, Xiao Shao went back to the palace, and the prepared minister took out the imperial edict. Xiao Shao got rid of the traitors, proved his identity, and unified the great cause. Now the emperor wanted to do the same thing again, but he didn''t expect that this time, everything would be different. Xuan Pei has grown up to be able to compete with Xuan Li, but Xiao Shao doesn''t want to take over this position at all. Xuanpei was silent for a while, then he said: "sorry, I didn''t mean to hide it from you, just I just don''t know how to do it. " There was something complicated in his mind. Xiao Shao is the emperor, Jiang Ruan must be the queen, which is naturally very good, but xuanpei was a bit unwilling, he can not say why, but what he worked so long will give up? And he who vowed to protect Jiang Ruan could only watch Jiang Ruan protected by others? What''s more, Xuan Pei didn''t believe Xiao Shao at all. What if Xiao Shao didn''t treat Jiang Ruan well after he took power? All sorts of things, xuanpei heart mixed, this is called Jiang Ruan see the clue. "You don''t have to worry," Jiang Ruan touched his head. "Xiao Shao doesn''t mean to be an emperor. This position still belongs to you. I will help you, and King Jinying''s house will stand behind you. " It''s a commitment. Although he had expected this possibility in his heart, xuanpei was still excited when he said it from Jiang Ruan''s mouth. He repressed the excitement in his heart, looked at Jiang Ruan in doubt and asked, "but my mother''s concubine, why does my father want to make king Jinying a prince?" When he saw the edict, he was shocked beyond words. But he looked around and couldn''t find out why. As if everything from the head has been erased, disappeared clean, simply not even a bit may have left. Xuan Pei said: "my mother, is it...". He is also the son of his father? " After thinking about it, it seems that this is the only one that best fits the guess. Xuanjia''s country can not be captured by outsiders, and the emperor established Xiaoshao, can only be said to be Xiaoshao is also the royal blood. But how did Xiao Shao become the emperor''s illegitimate son? Could he become the princess of Jin Ying and the emperor Xuan Pei''s thinking is a little far away. Unexpectedly, Jiang Ruan patted her head. She guessed what Xuan Pei was thinking. She was angry and funny and said, "it''s not what you think. Don''t think about it." "Then..." Xuan Pei also asked. "It''s a long story," Jiang Ruan interrupted. "If you really want to know the reason, go to Xiao Shao by yourself. If he agrees, I''ll talk to you again." Xiao Shao''s life experience is not an easy topic. Just tell pei''er that Jiang Ruan thinks it''s not right. Xiao Shao can talk about it if he wants. Hearing this, Xuan Pei broke his face and said, "if you want to ask him, does your mother have to obey the three obediences and four virtues? It''s just a king of Jin Ying. I don''t want to know his secret. I have a way to know it. " He said hard. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "well, now I want to ask you where the imperial edict is, and who are the people you put in the emperor''s side?" Xuanpei was able to get the message of the imperial edict so easily because of the suggestions from the people around the emperor. Originally, Jiang Ruan thought xuanpei had courted Li Gonggong, but now Li Gonggong is dead. If it''s really Li Gonggong, I''m afraid Xuanli''s secret has been discovered. But Xuanli didn''t do anything. There is no doubt that xuanpei''s person is not Mr. Li. Who is it? "It''s mu Xirou." Xuan Pei said, "where is the imperial edict. Her father believed in her and hid the edict beside her without suspicion. " "Mu Xirou?" Jiang Ruan was a little surprised. Jiang Ruan, a famous cold beauty in the palace, once doubted mu Xirou''s identity. However, a beautiful woman is too cold to be favored by the emperor. There must be some means, which is not so simple. But later, seeing that mu Xirou didn''t do anything and didn''t participate in the muddy water of the harem, she was relieved. She was just a woman who didn''t want to enter the Palace but could not help herself. Now Xuan Pei says, is mu Xirou his man? The new January is coming, so we should work hard this month ~ bazaar black ~ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 239 Without waiting for Jiang Ruan to speak, Xuan Pei had already taken the initiative to say: "Lord Mu insisted that mu Xirou enter the palace. At the beginning, I met her and granted her a freedom. If she wants to enter the palace, I promise her that one day, when the Dajin dynasty changes, it will be her own time. " "So easily did she believe you?" Jiang Ruan was a little surprised. Xuanpei''s real strength was gradually revealed in the new year. In the past long days, in the eyes of the public, he was just a spoilt prince, even without the qualification to win the throne. How can such a person win mu Xirou''s trust, and even let mu Xirou become a chess piece willingly? "People always have weaknesses, and she is no exception." Xuan Pei said vaguely: "since it is destined to enter the palace, it''s better to fight for a future with your own life than to live a gloomy life after entering the palace. Maybe you can have some magnanimous freedom." Xuanpei''s words were about Mu Xirou, but in Jiang Ruan''s ears, they were more like talking about himself. Jiang Ruan looked at the boy in front of him and sighed in his heart. She thought she would protect xuanpei very well. In fact, xuanpei had made too much preparation for today before she and xuanpei knew each other. Those hatred and forbearance never separated from his heart, but she ignored them. Although I don''t know how xuanpei convinced mu Xirou to become a chess player, I think xuanpei also paid a lot of price. Jiang Ruan didn''t ask any more. Xuan Pei was no longer the child who needed her to plan everything. He was using his own way to protect her and pave the way for her. "Good." Jiang Ruan said, "now I want you to give me one of the imperial edicts." Xuanpei was slightly stunned and didn''t refuse. Instead, he asked subconsciously, "what does the imperial concubine want to do?" He didn''t say which imperial edict it was, but they both knew that it must be the imperial edict with Xiao Shao''s name on it. Since Jiang Ruan said that Xiao Shao would not fight for the throne, Xuan Pei believed that he really would not have this idea. But now what does Jiang Ruan want to do with that imperial edict? "It''s not safe for the imperial edict to stay in the palace." Jiang Ruan shook his head and said: "Xiao Shao''s identity is a secret. If this story is spread out, I''m afraid the whole Dajin Dynasty will be in a mess. Even if you have the emperor''s imperial edict to make you prince, I''m afraid you can''t convince the public. He will only give Xuanli a chance to take advantage of it. He just wants to make a mess. Now that Li Gonggong was killed, Xuanli realized that it was wrong. There were his people everywhere in the palace, so it might not be possible to find mu Xirou''s head. I''m afraid you will be made by him at that time. It''s too uneasy to leave this imperial edict in the palace. I''ll take it away and destroy it. " "But..." Xuan Pei always felt that there was something strange, but he could not tell what was wrong. It was time to hesitate. Jiang Ruan then said, "it''s not easy to get into Jinying palace. The royal guards are loyal and powerful. Besides, I''ll take away the imperial edict. You only need to disclose a little information with Xuanli, or you don''t need to disclose any information at all. Xuanli''s people will know about it. In that way, he will point all his spears at Jinying palace. The imperial edict in the palace is safer. In this way, it will buy you a lot of time. Xuanli will not watch you every day and will not relax. " That''s right. Xuanpei doesn''t know. Jiang Ruan skillfully substitutes himself into Jinying palace. Indeed, Xuanli may lack some courage in dealing with Jinying palace. Xuanpei, the strength of the royal guards, knows very well that Xuanli has to do something and weigh it up in advance. However, it is much simpler to treat Jiang Ruan, especially without any protection. Jiang Ruan didn''t give Xuan Pei a clue about the crucial moment, so he said, "OK, now take me to get the imperial edict." "Now?" Xuanpei was a little surprised why Jiang Ruan was so anxious today. He was wronged and said, "don''t you have a lot of concubines here? Take the Edict and you''ll be out of the palace. " "There are some things to do today," Jiang Ruan touched his head. "Besides, you have two imperial edicts here. Take them back when it''s not too late. In order to avoid causing unnecessary trouble, there are some changes in the palace. I have to go back to the palace to think about it. It''s you Peier. Don''t act rashly these days. No matter what happens, just remember to let it be. If you have any decision, please ask Xiao Shao to discuss it. Don''t be rash. " Xuanpei said, "why do you want to talk to him?" seeing Jiang Ruan''s serious look, he coughed and said, "I know. If there''s something, I''ll find a way to talk to him." Jiang Ruan then laughed: "OK, let''s go." In the palace, countless pairs of eyes are staring at Nanyuan. In this case, xuanpei can still control the current trend quietly. On the surface, Xuanli seems to have the upper hand now, but in fact, xuanpei is the one who arranges for the emperor''s pillow. Xuanpei is the safest way to deal with all changes. In this chess game, whoever knows more has a better chance of winning. Obviously, Xuanli knew too little. Mu Xirou is the most clear about where the emperor put the imperial edict. It''s very ironic to say that since ancient times, the monarch was the most suspicious. For mu Xirou, who was so cold and didn''t have a good face for the emperor, the emperor thought she was the most sincere. The older she was, the more distrustful she was to the people around her. Those gentle whispers were deeply afraid of the hidden arrows. Mu Xirou was out of place in them. Instead, she became the most trusted person beside the emperor. When the imperial edict was placed on mu Xirou''s side, she did not have any contact with the imperial palace or the previous dynasty. No one could think of such an important thing as the imperial edict. Mu Xirou''s wife could even know it.After all, Jiang Ruan finally got the imperial edict under Xuan Pei''s arrangement. In front of Xuan Pei and mu Xirou, she opened the imperial edict and swept it up. In my heart, it''s right to make Xiao Shao the crown prince. Even it''s written that Xiao Shao is the son of Prince Hongxi. This imperial edict is heavier than Mount Tai in her hand, but xuanpei doesn''t care at all. She only hesitates after letting mu Xirou leave and says, "mother, will this bring trouble to Jinying palace?" He doesn''t want to be in charge of the life and death of Jinying palace. However, Jiang Ruan is now the princess of Jinying, who is both prosperous and damaged. If there is something wrong with Jinying palace, Jiang Ruan himself will be involved. So xuanpei had to compromise for the sake of Jinying palace. Just as he thought about it, Jiang Ruan had sorted out the imperial edict, put it in a wooden box, and put it together with some gifts from the empress dowager, and got up to leave. Xuanpei was surprised. On the one hand, he regretted that Jiang Ruan would leave before he sat down for a while. On the other hand, he was surprised that she put the imperial edict so hastily. Although he thought that Jiang Ruan had been very safe, Xuan Pei was still a little uneasy to remind him: "if my mother''s concubine doesn''t put it in another place, in this case, it''s also..." "Don''t worry, the most dangerous place is the safest place," Jiang Ruan said with a smile. "If it''s really too hidden, on the contrary, there is no silver here, which makes people suspicious. If I''m ok, you don''t have to send it. It''s suspicious. Now you can''t make mistakes in everything. Be careful. " Xuanpei always thinks that today''s Jiang Ruan is strange, but he can''t tell where it is. However, for a long time, Jiang Ruan hasn''t told him something as detailed as today''s, which makes xuanpei feel that the situation is more difficult than he imagined. He ordered Mingyue to send Jiang Ruan out of the palace, and Mingyue did as she said. But there were many eyes and ears in the palace. On weekdays, there were countless eyes staring at Nanyuan. Today, when Jiang Ruan entered the palace, he aroused everyone''s suspicions. When he saw that Jiang Ruan had talked with Xuan PEI for a long time, he came out. When he went to visit the Emperor, it seemed that mu Xirou was also there, which made people puzzled. Xuan Li stood in the room, listening to the return of his subordinates, his eyes were deep. Since the emperor fell ill, he wanted to be a filial son. Of course, it was more convenient for him to find things around the emperor. So he did not go back to his house. Instead, he lived in the palace and cooked water and medicine for the Emperor himself. People who don''t know about it are really impressed by his filial piety. From time to time, some people in the court write about his filial piety. Xuanli naturally didn''t mind that he had a good reputation. When he served the emperor, he did his best. He doesn''t have to use any more tricks in the medicine. Even Xia Qing has no way to cure his illness. He doesn''t need to do it at all. However, Xuan Li frowned tightly. He thought that it was the perfect way for the emperor to sleep until he died. But now it seems that the emperor''s illness is not the right time, just because he has not found the imperial edict. The emperor wrote down the imperial edict early, and the imperial edict is not his name at all. This is something he had guessed for a long time, and later it was confirmed from Li Gonggong''s mouth. If you know a son better than a father, you know a father better than a son. After being a father and son to the emperor for so many years, when did he no longer regard him as a father, but as an opponent? It was a stumbling block. Xuanli had forgotten. After so many years of fighting in secret, he never got the upper hand. Xuanli was clear about the emperor''s Secret care and protection for the prince. Because of this, he could not make a better plan. Xuanli was also puzzled sometimes. The emperor clearly hated the prince. The prince was incompetent and ungrateful. Why did the emperor protect him from giving up that position. Anyone can see that the emperor keeps the crown prince, but he doesn''t want anyone to do that for the time being. Who is he keeping the crown prince for? Xuanli always thought that he was the only one who had the most qualifications among the princes in the Dajin Dynasty, but he also clearly felt that the emperor appreciated him, praised him, always encouraged him, and treated him very well, but he never thought of letting him sit in that position in his heart. Xuanli was puzzled, and then unwilling. Under this kind of emotional repression, he became extremely distorted. He removed the possible threats one by one in the fight in the palace, but in the end, the emperor did not want to change his mind to make him the prince. He finally gave up the last trace of kindness in his heart and drugged the emperor''s food. Since ancient times, regicide, patricide, take the matter of the law is not rare. Xuanli is no longer the one who tangled about making this decision at the beginning. He frankly thinks that this is right, and this is the best way. If you want anything in the world, you can grab it or fight for it. He is always the most tolerant and excellent hunter, and he will laugh to the end. But on the way there was Xuan Pei. From an incompetent prince to an opponent who can compete with him, Xuanli always has a vicious feeling of anger when facing xuanpei. At the beginning, Xuan Pei was not qualified to be an opponent. But now, the emperor had the intention to make him the crown prince, and Xuan Pei even got the support of Jinying palace. How could Xuan Li feel better. If he could, he would have cut xuanpei to pieces. Just now the people under his command came back to report that Jiang Ruan and Xuan Pei had been together for a long time, but he had some doubts in his heart. It was said that he went to see the emperor together, and mu Xirou was also there, so Xuan Li had a guess in his heart.If we say where the imperial edict is safest in the world, it is Jinying palace. Perhaps the civil and military officials would say that the imperial edict from King Jinying''s mansion is not convincing, because it is a family of disorderly officials and thieves. But only Xuanli knew that the emperor had always given Xiao Shao 120000 yuan of trust, which sometimes made him feel jealous. At one time, Xuanli even thought that the emperor and Xiao Shao had any blood relationship, but later the spies sent out did not find anything. Xuanli knew clearly that the emperor never doubted Jinying palace. Therefore, the imperial edict may really be in Jinying palace. As long as he wanted to be here, Xuan Li couldn''t help getting upset. You know, if you know where the imperial edict is, the next step is to grab it back. But where Jinying palace is, people can easily get close to it. The spy also said: "just now when Princess Jinying entered Nanyuan, she took the Empress Dowager''s reward with her." Xuanli''s spies have always been good at this. Naturally, they will not miss any details. It is not a big deal to bring the Empress Dowager''s reward to Nanyuan. Maybe Jiang Ruan wants to choose some rewards for xuanpei. But speaking about it here seems to touch a chord in Xuanli''s heart. Could it be. What about a cover up? Then Xuanli shook his head again. How could it be that someone really wanted to take the imperial edict? It should not be Jiang Ruan alone, but Xiao Shao. Where can come so hastily, so blatant. But what if that was her cover? Xiao Shao and Xuan Pei had no communication. If Xiao Shao came, it might be the real confirmation that the imperial edict was in Jinying palace. In order to avoid this happening, Jiang Ruan hid the whereabouts of the imperial edict and made dangerous moves. He planned to come to the most dangerous place, which was the safest place. So what? Xuanli''s eyes were deep, and he was already in his own thoughts. But he didn''t know that he had been led here by Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan knew that he was suspicious, and all the way he followed his weakness in character. When he let Jiang Ruan go, Xuan Lihui was so nervous that he caught Jiang Ruan. He was afraid that it would be a blow, but he would expose himself. Xuanli was so tangled that after thinking for a long time, he finally grasped his fist as if determined and said, "go and send a letter to Danzhen. Now she has a chance to catch Jiang Ruan in front of her. Don''t expose yourself." My subordinates are ordered to leave. Xuanli released his hand and stood with his negative hand, looking at the clouds outside the palace wall, slowly spilling a sneer. What if I can''t do it easily? After all, there is a good sword in front of him. Dan Zhen has a deep hatred for Jiang Ruan. Qiman has been lurking in the capital for many years and is proficient in hiding. It''s appropriate to use these two people''s hands to kill people with a knife. Most of all, they will succeed. Never underestimate a woman''s jealousy. On the carriage back to the mansion, forsythia and dew sat on the right side of Jiang Ruan, while Tianzhu sat on the left side of Jiang Ruan. Today, forsythia and dewdrop also feel the unusual atmosphere. Although Jiang Ruan didn''t say anything and had been with him for so long, he could still see a clue from Jiang Ruan''s expression. Even Tianzhu was a little nervous now. Although dewdrop and forsythia didn''t know what it was, they were also nervous. Fortunately, nothing happened along the way. The carriage drove slowly. Dewdrop and forsythia began to feel at ease. When they were laughing in the carriage, they suddenly heard a loud sound coming from outside. The sound was getting closer and closer, and forsythia was surprised. The coachman sitting in front of them was a new recruit. Although he was calm, he was a bit flustered "Young lady, there are dead people in front of us!" The carriage jolted suddenly, and the dew let out a cry. It lifted the curtain of the carriage to look out. Then it saw the crowd running around as if they were scattered by something. It looked like a mess, as if there was something terrible behind them. If you look closely again, it seems that there are some unusual people among the ordinary people. These people dress the same way as ordinary people, but they have a long knife in their hand. They chop when they see people. They are disorganized. When they catch a person, they chop it down. There was a lot of crying and howling outside. Many people had fallen on the ground, and the blood gradually accumulated. It looked shocking. "No, young lady," dewdrop said in horror, "outsiders have assassins. They hold knives and chop people at random." The crowd fled in all directions, and the blade of the sword went into the flesh, mixed with the scream, which made people tremble. But Jiang Ruan frowned. Tianzhu had drawn out her sword to protect him. At this time, she could not leave him. Forsythia said: "coachman, go to the side quickly, don''t go there." It was obviously irrational to get off the bus at this time. How many assassins mixed in the crowd did not know. How many people were stabbed in the throat without any defense. It''s safer in the car, as long as it''s far away from the crowd. Forsythia is a little annoyed. Why didn''t she remind her to bring more bodyguards when she went out today. Today, there is only one Tianzhu. Rao is a Tianzhu with excellent martial arts skills, but also a little overwhelmed. Just thinking about this, I suddenly felt the carriage tremble, a clear splash of blood color on the curtain in front of the carriage. The carriage seemed to be hit by some violent collision, and ran forward madly."Coachman! The coachman Forsythia while holding Jiang Ruan with her hand to prevent her from being hit by the ruts of the carriage, while struggling to shout. But there was no response for a long time, and then he pulled the curtain open, and suddenly his heart was cold. The coachman, with a machete in his chest, was lying half on his horse, apparently dead. There was also a small dagger on the horse''s back. The horse felt pain and ran wildly, but it couldn''t stop for a while. The crowd in front of him ran into the carriage from time to time. The carriage was knocked upside down and was still running desperately forward, as if it would fall down the next moment. It was rushed up by the crowd and trampled into a pile of mud. Tianzhu was protecting Jiang Ruan, but the carriage seemed to suddenly hit something stiff. The horse hissed, and the whole carriage body swung forward, but the whole carriage was thrown out. "Ah --" dew screamed. She was sitting outside the carriage. Jiang Ruan and Tianzhu Forsythia just fell dizzy. When they stopped, they heard the cry of dew. They quickly picked up the curtain of the car and looked out. They saw that dew had been thrown into the crowd. She was thrown too quickly and fell to the ground in confusion The crowd were screaming and fleeing, where they would look at their feet, one by one they stepped on the dew. As soon as Jiang Ruan''s eyes were fixed, he saw that one of the men in coarse linen had quietly pulled out a knife from his waist and stabbed dew on her back - "dew Forsythia also saw, suddenly lost his voice and called up. Dewdrop was stabbed on her back. She was so painful that she could hardly speak. The man wanted to do it again. Jiang Ruan immediately told Tianzhu, "Tianzhu, help dewdrop!" "Young lady..." Tianzhu is hesitant. She and dewdrop are not without affection. For a long time, Dewdrop has been regarded as a friend. But the rule of the royal guards is to protect the master to the greatest extent. If you want to protect dewdrop, who will protect Jiang Ruan and forsythia who don''t know martial arts? "Go Jiang Ruan accentuated her tone. She saw the hesitation of Tianzhu and ordered coldly. After a meal, the master had no choice but to disobey. He immediately ran to the dew without hesitation. Dewdrop was watching the knife stabbing her chest, but she couldn''t hide it anyway. When she was very frightened, she saw Tianzhu''s sword blocking the dagger stabbing her chest. She stabbed the sword into the man''s throat with her backhand, and the man fell down. Dewdrop looked at Tianzhu with a lingering fear. Regardless of the pain on her back, she bit her teeth and said, "go, little lady..." Before he finished, he was stunned. In front of the broken carriage, forsythia half fell on the ground with a touch of blood. I didn''t know whose it was, but look around, where is Jiang Ruan''s shadow? "No!" Tianzhu Road. It''s just two hundred and fifty chapters when it''s over_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 240 After saying this, Tianzhu couldn''t care about anything else, but she couldn''t fall the dew. She had to help her to walk to one side. However, she saw Forsythia lying on the ground. When she saw a knife mark on her chest, it was startling. She thought that the blood should be from Forsythia. Dewdrop still some residual sober, see this scene is also surprised and afraid, surprised is Forsythia seriously injured, don''t know how the injury, afraid is Jiang Ruan has disappeared. She also wanted to call out Jiang Ruan''s name weakly, but she was stopped by Tianzhu and said, "don''t shout, we''re trapped." Dewdrop is not stupid either. After thinking about it, she realized that the assassins in the crowd suddenly fought and killed the unarmed people. Could it be that they were just fighting from east to west with the main purpose of taking away Jiang Ruan? Thinking of this, the dewdrop was afraid after a while. She had lost too much blood. Now her face was even more pale and almost tottering, and she said: "young lady is in danger...". Tianzhu, what shall we do? " Tianzhu looked around for a moment, and the people around her were still running around. She suddenly noticed something. There were several small wooden boxes in the back of the carriage, which were given by Empress Yide. She suddenly realized something and said in a low voice: "it turns out that the young lady is intentional..." "What did you say?" Dewdrop''s voice is getting lower and lower. Tianzhu can''t think of anything else. At the moment, one of them is unconscious and the other is seriously injured. Although Jiang Ruan is also very nervous, if something happens to dewdrop and forsythia, it''s not a waste of Jiang Ruan''s hard work. Since Jiang Ruan has been able to think of this situation for a long time, he must have a way to deal with it. After being with Jiang Ruan for such a long time, Tianzhu understood Jiang Ruan''s temperament more or less. I immediately felt a signal fireworks from my arms, but it''s still early now, and the fireworks are not obvious enough, but it''s enough for the nearby royal guards to see and help. Housekeeper Lin is calculating the expenses of this month in his house. It seems that there are no new things in the house soon after the new year. Even though there is a turbulent undercurrent in the capital of the great Jin Dynasty, there are still many things to buy. Housekeeper Lin is still in the process of washing and planning. He hears a flustered voice: "housekeeper Lin, it''s not good!" Housekeeper Lin looked up and saw that the man was a young man in the porter, so he scolded: "I''ve told you everything about panic. We are the royal family. We should have the magnanimity of the royal family. Don''t shout like a petty family. Sweep the face of the young master..." "No, housekeeper Lin! Young lady has been taken away! Forsythia and sister dewdrop are injured. Sister Tianzhu has just come back. She is looking for little miracle doctor Xia everywhere! " The guy finally ran to the front of him and said all the things that he didn''t stop drinking in a breath. Only when he finished, he was relieved. Before he could react, he saw housekeeper Lin, who was still sitting at the table with his beard twisted. He jumped up from his seat and his voice almost resounded through the palace: "what! where! Take me to see it quickly Jiang Ruan was abducted, forsythia and dewdrop were seriously injured, and at this moment, the faintness almost spread all over Jinying palace in a short time. The chaos in today''s street came suddenly. It was just that the mob suddenly attacked the common people, but he didn''t think that the real purpose was Jiang Ruan. Those people are fierce. Who knows what will happen to Jiang Ruan? Xiao Shao hasn''t come back yet. Yefeng has sent a signal to the royal guards lurking in the city of Beijing to trace the whereabouts of Jiang Ruan. Only now that Jing Zhaoyin has just arrived in the capital, he is scared to learn that Jiang Ruan has been taken away. As a local public security officer, he has a mob under his nose. What''s more, the mob has also taken away the princess Jinying. What is Jiang Ruan''s identity? Don''t say that King Jinying''s house is behind him. Even the general''s house, which protects the short guards, is not something he can afford to offend. Naturally, he did not hesitate to ask people to check it immediately. In this way, the chaos in the capital was even worse, and the people were also in a panic. The streets were in a mess. Jiang Xinzhi was dealing with his official business in the military aircraft camp when he heard a report from his soldiers: "general Jiang, I just received an urgent order in front of me..." He hesitated a little, and his tone suddenly stopped. Everyone knew that this young general was the best protector. He was very tight when Jiang Ruan was not married. How terrible it would be if he heard the news later Jiang Xinzhi glanced at him and said, "what''s the matter?" The longer he stayed in the military plane, the more dignified and domineering Jiang Xinzhi was as a general of a country. The former scholar''s elegance has now been honed to be more resolute, with a certain sense of self-confidence. Hearing this, the soldier trembled and immediately said, "Princess Jinying is on the West Street of the city this evening. She has been abducted in the chaos of the mob. Her whereabouts are still unknown." As soon as his voice fell, he saw the calm and resolute young general suddenly stand up, his face suddenly changed, and his tone trembled imperceptibly: "what did you say?" The soldier was still hesitating whether to repeat what he had just said to Jiang Xinzhi. He only felt that there was a gust of wind on his face. Jiang Xinzhi had already stepped out of the camp in three or two steps. Regardless of the surprised eyes of the recruits who were training behind him, he jumped over and rode away. The soldier looked at it, and the recruits on one side came and asked curiously, "what''s the matter, general? In such a hurry. " "The general''s sister They''ve been taken away. " The soldier replied.At the same time, Xuan Pei stood at the window in the South court of the palace. He didn''t know why. Since Jiang Ruan left, his heart has not settled down. On the contrary, it seems that he is more uneasy. He always feels that something is going to happen. Chaoyang stood quietly behind him, and Xuan Pei pulled his skirt. The cool wind can''t calm the impatience in my heart. Why? On weekdays, as long as he met Jiang Ruan, he would be very happy for many days, and he could settle down because of this. Recently, however, somehow, he always felt a little strange and became more and more agitated. After thinking about it, I think Jiang Ruan''s words and deeds are not right today. Xuanpei ponders that Jiang Ruan orders him to do something unusual today. He says that he should discuss with Xiao Shao before making a decision, but why not with her? With her, why should I get along with Xiao Shao. Xuan Pei is sensitive to what''s wrong here. Does Jiang Ruan already know what decision he will make next, and she''s not here, so she lets Xiao Shao do it for her? Why is she not here? The imperial edict is now sent to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan said that Jinying palace is the best place to guard the imperial edict, which is enough to attract Xuanli''s attention. It''s good to draw Xuanli''s attention. But now, the imperial edict is still in Jiang Ruan''s hands. Xuan Pei''s eyes widened, and he thought of the key point almost immediately. No, there''s something wrong here! He and Jiang Ruan became the mother and son of two generations. Although they were not related by blood, they had some spiritual connections. Xuanpei thought of Jiang Ruan''s plan almost in the blink of an eye. He clapped his hand against the eaves of the window and said, "bad!" At the same time, Mingyue ran in from the outside and said in a hurry: "Your Highness, on the way back to the palace, the princess was injured by a mob. She was abducted in the chaos and her whereabouts are still unknown." Xuan Pei closed his eyes and said in a low voice, "sure enough." On this day, many people in Beijing can have a good night''s sleep. At dusk, the chaos has already made people panic, and the news of Princess Jinying''s being taken away is spreading, and the whole capital is talking about it. Some of them lament for Jiang Ruan, a good princess. Once she''s taken away, it''s not clear that she''s innocent. There are also people who are secretly proud of themselves. People in the world are always jealous. There has been no lack of such things since ancient times. And the lights in King Jinying''s house were bright all night, and people didn''t dare to go out. Every face of my brother was deep and sad. I don''t know what it''s like for my young wife to be abducted. It''s also a kind of suffering for my servants. However, no matter how hard it is, it can''t compare with the suffering of its own master. The lights in the study were the same as in the past, but in the past, Jiang Ruan was sitting in it reading and writing, waiting for Xiao Shao to come back. Today, Xiao Shao is sitting in it, waiting for someone who can''t come back for the time being. Housekeeper Lin stood aside. Under the light, his facial features seemed strangely young, showing a bit of upright style. But at the moment, no one is paying attention. But housekeeper Lin looked at Xiao Shao, who was sitting at his desk and didn''t know what to think, and comforted him: "master, you''d better have a rest earlier. If the young lady is here, it won''t be better to see her." Xiao Shao did not seem to hear his words in general, silent looking at the tea in front of. Housekeeper Lin sighed, knowing that Xiao Shao couldn''t listen to what he was saying. After learning the news of Jiang Ruan''s abduction, he personally took the royal guards with Jiang Xinzhi to search the whole capital. He was stuck in the gate of the city and had no whereabouts. How could Xiao Shao give up? Housekeeper Lin looked at the young man sitting at the desk. His eyes were a little dim for a moment. In a trance, he saw the appearance of Prince Hongxi when he knew xiangxiaoyuan was leaving. At that time, Prince Hongxi was also sitting in front of the desk in silence. Looking at the letters written by xiangxiaoyuan, he sat all night. Perhaps this is the father and son, who said that since ancient times the royal family were merciless, but Xiao Shao and Prince Hongxi were real love. Huiji will be hurt, love is not life, Lin housekeeper also don''t know whether this is a good thing or a bad thing. However, Xiao Shao didn''t need any comfort at the moment. He just wanted to sit quietly. Housekeeper Lin didn''t persuade him any more. He slowly backed out, gently closed the door, and ordered the two guards at the door. I went to the kitchen to watch the medicine for forsythia and dewdrop. Xiao Shao sat in front of his desk, and the soft light could not melt the indifference of his expression. The alienation and coldness from thousands of miles away almost made him return to the time when he just received the royal guards. He was cruel, bloodthirsty, indifferent and heartless. Now there is a man who covers his heart hot, but suddenly disappeared, his heart only to his own chagrin. In his mind, Jiang Ruan stood on tiptoe this morning to tidy his collar. He said that he would come back for a walk in the evening, and Jiang Ruan agreed. But when she came back in the evening, she was gone. It was a premeditation, a conspiracy by the other side, but it was Jiang Ruan himself who dominated all this. Xiao Shao lowered his eyes. As soon as he heard the story from Tianzhu, he understood Jiang Ruan''s plan. She had long planned to use herself as bait to lead Xuanli out. She had planned everything. Even in the early morning, she was aware of what might happen at dusk, but she still pretended to say goodbye to him as if nothing had happened.It''s like. Xiao Shao clenched his fist with an iron face. He deceived people too much. Nonsense! What a mess! No consciousness of being a wife! I didn''t pay attention to my husband at all! Xiao Shao''s brain in a moment across a lot of ideas, but the final residue, but it is heartache and guilt. I feel sorry that she always has to take risks for these things. As her husband, she didn''t even realize these things, but she still didn''t do what she said to protect her life. He closed his eyes, and his long eyelashes filled with a beautiful shadow. He trembled and looked tired. At this time, the door was suddenly pushed, he suddenly opened his eyes, eyes like a sword to the door, but saw Qi Feng came in. "What''s the matter?" He sat up straight. He was really in a bad mood today. For Qi Feng, his tone was hard. Qi Feng ignored his look. Because of his special relationship with Xiao Shao, the guard at the door didn''t stop him. He came in and sat down opposite Xiao Shao''s desk. He poured himself a cup of tea. Then he met Xiao Shao''s cold eyes and said frankly, "I''m here to talk about the third sister-in-law." Xiao Shao looks a move, the vision is abrupt sharp shot to him, cold way: "you already know?" "Yes." After Qi Feng said this, he felt that Xiao Shao''s eyes were even worse, and he almost swallowed him alive. As a fellow elder martial brother, it''s not that he has never seen Xiao Shao''s terrible appearance, but even if he kills people, Xiao Shao is always cold and unwilling to show more feelings. But now it is not to hide the show for his displeasure, immediately let Qi Feng feel great pressure, he gave a wry smile, just way: "in fact, before this, the third sister-in-law came to me once, discuss is this matter." Xiao Shao didn''t speak, just looked at him coldly. Qi Feng said to himself: "third sister-in-law has long wanted to use this matter to lead to Xuanli and southern Xinjiang. However, her most important purpose is for the thirteen princes in the palace. Only in this way, Xuan Li put all his eyes on her, thinking that if he got the fake imperial edict, he would relax the surveillance of the thirteen princes in the palace. In this way, the thirteen princes would be much safer, and he also won some time. " After a pause, Qi Feng continued: "I once asked my third sister-in-law that the fake imperial edict was too risky. If someone found it, it would be a big crime to lose her head. But the third sister-in-law said that she had a real imperial edict, but not that one. I don''t know the mistake. My third sister-in-law doesn''t seem to want to talk to me much, but there should be no problem with her promise. Although this plan is risky, it is really the best way. In this way, things will be simplified, and Xuanli has already been trapped unconsciously. " Xiao Shao was slightly stunned, but it was not because Jiang Ruan discussed this matter with Qi Feng, but the key in Qi Feng''s words. Qi Feng said that the fake imperial edict Jiang Ruan was looking for was not fake. If he wanted to deceive Xuanli, it was really impossible to simply fake the imperial edict, but Jiang Ruan didn''t tell Qi Feng why. If we discuss this matter with Qi Feng, we will have nothing to hide. Unless this matter is of great importance, I really can''t tell Qi Feng. Xiao Shao already had the answer to what it was - his life experience. In this way, it is clear that the imperial edict must be the imperial edict of making him the crown prince. The emperor always wanted to let him sit in that position. Xiao Shao knew that all along, he clearly expressed that he had no intention to treat the country. The emperor was a stubborn man, and he had not given up for so many years. However, Xiao Shao did not expect that the emperor would use his own sex to force him to succeed, and even hid an imperial edict. This imperial edict is a hot potato for Xiao Shao. Once discovered, his life experience will be exposed. This is the last thing he wants to see. Stay away from the royal family, stay away from the undercurrent of the imperial court, this is what the old king Jinying always wanted him to do. Even if the old king of Jin Ying and he were not born father and son, Xiao Shao never forgot this. For so many years, he had been dealing with southern Xinjiang, walking on the edge of danger, leaving Beijing from time to time in order not to be involved in the right and wrong of the court. He likes sharp killing, but he doesn''t like insidious arrows. Jiang Ruan knew that he didn''t want to be the emperor. On the one hand, she made such a decision in order to draw Xuanli''s attention to xuanpei, on the other hand, it was for him. In order to let him have no worries about the future, she made a decision for him to sever the emperor''s order from Xuanli. No wonder, that night, Jiang Ruan asked him: "do you want to be an emperor?" that was the original meaning. She had known for a long time that the emperor had made a decree with him. She''s helping him with these problems in her own way. All along, everyone seems to think that Jiang Ruan is cold-blooded, warm-hearted and cold-blooded. Compared with Xiao Shao after marriage, Jiang Ruan is still the same as before. But Xiao Shao knows that she is just not good at expression. For example, at the moment, she is paying silently in her own way. Seeing Xiao Shaoruo''s thoughtful and changeable look in his eyes, Qi Feng can''t help but feel bitter. He cleared his throat and then said, "the reason why my third sister-in-law came to me was because she knew that you would not agree to let her risk herself. Instead of making you defensive, it''s better to do it yourself. All the information that Xuanli''s men in the palace got was given to them on purpose. " Xiao Shao took a look at him. He didn''t speak. He got up and was about to go out. Qi Feng also stood up and grabbed him and said, "what are you going to do?""Let go." Xiao Shao pulled out his sleeve. Qi Feng pressed his shoulder: "you''re going to order the royal guards again, aren''t you? Don''t go Xiao Shao looked at him coldly, Qi Feng said: "you think clearly, why does the third sister-in-law want to do this, she is so deep in danger, not all for you? If you really go to command the royal guards now, the third sister-in-law is saved, but her efforts are in vain, on the contrary, Xuanli is on guard. In this way, it''s not worth the loss! " Seeing that Xiao Shao didn''t answer, he continued with a sigh of relief: "I know you are not angry now, and I also. I can understand, but you need to calm down. Now the third sister-in-law is not there, only you can continue her plan. If you are in a mess, the Jinying palace is in a mess. How can the third sister-in-law not be angry when she sees it? " When he finished, he found that he was a little too excited and embarrassed. Although he didn''t do anything beyond it, he tried his best to be a gentleman in his relationship with Jiang Ruan. But every time he met Xiao Shao''s indifferent eyes, he felt a little guilty and short of breath. Xiao Shao clearly didn''t say anything or do anything. Qi Feng could still feel that Xiao Shao was good at Jiang Ruan and him I''m very dissatisfied. This indifferent man has a strong possessiveness in his heart, which makes people even think about it in their heart. Xiao Shao took another look at him. There was no emotion in his dark eyes. He said faintly, "I''ll have a rest." Then he went out without looking at Qi Feng. Qi Feng was left in the same place for a long time. Then he touched his nose and gave a wry smile. Xiao Shao, who has no spirit, is really unhappy in his heart. This is how to vent his discontent. Don''t you think it''s childish? Xiao Shao turned his back to Qi Feng and went to the house. His heart gradually calmed down. He knew that Qi Feng was right. Although he was distressed, he should respect him more. The best way at present is to seize the opportunity created by Jiang Ruan for her own safety and strike Xuanli hard. It is not to waste her painstaking achievements. She has confidence in herself, and he should have confidence in her. It''s just. Thinking of Qi Feng''s words, Xiao Shao''s eyes sank again. What does Jiang Ruan do when he is so close to Qi Feng all day? Qi Feng is a kind-hearted boy. It''s boring to watch him all day. I don''t know where I came into Jiang Ruan''s eyes. If I really want to discuss it, I can go to Xia Qing to discuss it, and why I''m sure I won''t agree to her idea. I''ve always been very reasonable. Xiao Shao had forgotten that Xia Qing was so straightforward that it was impossible for him and Jiang Ruan to come up with any good methods. As for him, he will put Jiang Ruan''s safety first. Qi Feng is the only one who can be in a fair position and treat this matter reasonably. However, Xiao Shao was not satisfied with Qi Feng''s attitude. He was not happy with Jiang Ruan''s decision. He only secretly decided to punish Jiang Ruan when he came back. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 241 When Jiang Ruan woke up, it was already dark. It was not a spacious room. It looked old, as if he didn''t often live in it. A young woman with the appearance of a servant girl was standing beside her, adding food to the table. When she saw that she woke up, she just silently put the food faster, and then she grabbed things and ran out quickly. Jiang Ruan didn''t chase after him, and he didn''t know how long he had slept. Things seemed to go more smoothly than he thought. At that time, while Tianzhu was saving dewdrop from the chaos, several people suddenly rushed up and robbed the reward from empress Yide, and she was knocked unconscious and taken away. I took some medicine, so I woke up now. Jiang Ruan dropped his eyes, but when he was abducted, he saw with his own eyes that Forsythia had been stabbed, and he didn''t know how the injury was now. I''m afraid the capital is turning the corner. I don''t know where it is, but no one has found it yet. Whether it is Xiao Shao''s royal guards, Jiang Xinzhi''s people or Jing Zhaoyin, it can only show that the place where she is staying is extremely hidden. In such a hidden place, it is impossible to find the saint of Southern Xinjiang. Xuanli is cunning and can''t do it by himself. Naturally, it can only be written by Qiman, the former Princess of Southern Xinjiang. Jiang Ruan went to the window, opened the window and looked out. It was dark and quiet outside. It seemed that he was far away from the wilderness of the capital. It''s a different kind of peace. Jiang Ruan didn''t try to go out. She believed that as long as she went out, at least ten experts would stop her. It was just a house arrest arranged by Xuanli and executed by Qiman. What is she going to do now? There''s nothing to do, it''s just waiting. Jiang Ruan Jue was a little hungry out of his belly. Today, he has not eaten since he entered the palace. Now he has slept for a long time and is very tired. She went to the table and sat down. There were several dishes of porridge on the table, which was not rich. Jiang Ruan took the bowl and began to eat it slowly. Xuanli also wants to use her as a bargaining chip to make a deal with Xiao Shao. Before that, she will not be embarrassed. There must be no poison in these meals. Jiang Ruan took two mouthfuls, and suddenly felt nausea in her abdomen, which made her suddenly throw chopsticks and vomit. This box just began to retch, only to hear the door "bang" was knocked open from the outside, just that maidservant like woman rushed in, with some tension on her face, maybe afraid that she would make some tricks, now standing aside, some vigilant and hesitant looking at Jiang Ruan did not say a word. Jiang Ruan knew clearly in his heart that he must have told Xuanli how cunning she was before he sent someone to serve her. So now this kind of behavior falls in the eyes of this maid. She must think that she is thinking of some way to escape. But at the moment, Jiang Ruan didn''t think about it at all. She had a vague guess in her heart. However, she didn''t show it on her face. She just took out a handkerchief from her arms and gently wiped the corners of her lips. She said, "the food really doesn''t taste good." The maid was stunned, but still did not speak. Jiang Ruan was stunned. Could it be that Xuan Li had sent a mute in order to be safe? She said: "to do a table again, your master know, will not refuse." The maid hesitated for a moment, then turned and went out. After the maid left, Jiang Ruan Qiang suppressed his disgust and went to the bedside to sit down. He stroked his forehead and looked tired. The room and the outside are full of spies hiding in the dark. If they don''t pay attention, they will be caught. At the moment, Jiang Ruan leaned against the cushion on the soft couch, but his heart was shocked. The nausea in her abdomen was not just an empty idea. Almost at the same time, an idea flashed into her mind. Could it be that Are you pregnant? A few days ago, her taste became a little strange. She liked to eat sour food, but she didn''t feel nauseous. She thought it was just a bad appetite after the Spring Festival. Who knows today''s action, almost let her heart a tight, even at the moment also can''t decide whether to pay attention to, but as long as there is one in ten thousand possibility, it is enough to let her start to feel uneasy. How could that be? Jiang Ruan was a thousand and a thousand, but he didn''t expect that he might come at this time. The reason why she made this plan was that she regarded herself as a chip. Xuanli was bound to protect her and make her safe for the time being. To stir up the discord between Xuanli and Nanjiang, the point of exit lies in Nanjiang saints. But if she knew that she was pregnant Any woman will not be indifferent to the fact that her beloved man has other people''s children. In particular, the possessiveness of saints has reached a stage of metamorphosis. If you let her know the news, it is bound to annihilate even the last trace of scruples and reason. Jiang Ruan was not afraid of death. Even in the face of danger, how could anyone who had died once feel afraid easily. But the tragedy of pei''er before his death in his former life is still a nightmare in this life. How can he watch such a tragedy happen again? For the first time, Jiang Ruan felt chagrined at his decision. If she found out the condition of her body early, she would not make such a rash decision. The child came to the world in the expectation of her and Xiao Shao, but why is it at this time, in this time of peril and murder everywhere.When he closed his eyes and opened them again, Jiang Ruan''s eyes had become firm. So far, self pity has no effect. It''s better to act according to the circumstances. Her hand caresses her belly slowly, as if a new life has been bred there. Jiang Ruan looked at his hand, warm feeling came, her eyes gradually began to become soft. If there is a child here, she will protect him at all costs. It''s just, what''s that kid like? Is it a boy or a girl, a little girl or a girl? Jiang Ruan''s heart was a little complicated. It was a special feeling mixed with expectation and worry. In the end, expectation conquered worry. She opened her mouth and said silently to the little life who didn''t know whether it existed: "you accompany my mother, and my mother also accompanies you." Naturally, Jiang Ruan''s situation could not be heard by the people who were burning in the center of the capital. These days, however, all those who had something to do with King Jinying''s residence came up to express their sympathy. The Li family in the general''s mansion has fallen ill in bed. Zhao Guang also wants to turn over the whole capital. Several sons and young masters in the general''s mansion also play their own abilities to find people, but they all fail. Even the careless Guan Lianghan came to Jinying palace for a few days to comfort Xiao Shao. "Third, don''t be too sad." Guan Lianghan patted Xiao Shao on the shoulder. He was a rude man. He didn''t know how to comfort him. He scratched his head and said, "you see, younger sister-in-law is not a bully. At the beginning, if he had done something right with her, which one would come to a good end? Maybe this time, she''s also in the middle of her calculation. She doesn''t know what''s going on even though the master behind her has been cheated. " Guan Lianghan said it unintentionally, but Qi Feng on one side almost jumped in his heart. If they didn''t know it was very confidential, Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao couldn''t have told Guan Lianghan. They almost thought Guan Lianghan knew the truth. He looked at the silent Xiao Shao and sighed in his heart. How could he not understand Xiao Shao''s idea. It''s one thing to believe in Jiang Ruan''s ability, and it''s another to do it. No matter how I believe it, I still have to worry. Mo Cong looked around and said strangely, "why don''t you see five brothers?" "He''s checking the injuries for the two girls of his third sister-in-law." Qi Feng said: "those two servant girls are seriously injured and almost can''t be saved. Xia Wu has been busy with it these days. " "They are so cruel to the two servant girls..." Mo Cong suddenly stopped, the rest of the "do not know how to three sister-in-law" this sentence Leng is to see Xiao Shao''s face after swallowing. But at this end, Mo Congzheng looked at dewdrop''s injury, took pulse for her, put her hand back into the quilt, comforted dewdrop a few words, and then went out. As soon as he went out, he saw that Jin Er was waiting at the door. Seeing Mo Cong come out, he said anxiously, "how is her injury?" "It''s much better." Mo Cong said: "it was quite heavy a few days ago. Fortunately, Miss dewdrop has a stoic temperament, a good body foundation, and the wound has recovered very well. Now it seems that it doesn''t matter. The rest of the day as long as the time dressing and drinking medicine, plus careful care, the body will only slowly get better. Just don''t do any heavy work during this time. " Jin Er even said that Mo Cong was about to leave. He suddenly thought of something and said, "by the way, you can go in and apply medicine with her. Today, the two servant girls who applied medicine for her went to the forsythia girl to do acupuncture. They were too busy for a while. You''re a martial arts practitioner. You''re good at it. Since you want to be a husband and wife with her, you don''t have to care a lot." Mo Cong comes to live in seclusion on weekdays and doesn''t care much about things outside, so he really doesn''t know the gap between dewdrop and Jiner because of Liao Meng. Secondly, people who have the art of Qihuang always look at these things lightly. They don''t care much about their skin relatives, as long as they are self-cleaning. With these words, Mo Cong didn''t feel anything wrong. He went to Forsythia''s room with a medicine box. Jin two Leng for a long time just returned to the spirit. In the room, dew is lying in with her back to the outside. These days, she is lying in bed. She is not worried about her injury. Instead, she is worried about Jiang Ruan''s disappearance. She always remembered that if he had not been injured at that time, Jiang Ruan asked Tianzhu to come and protect himself, maybe Jiang Ruan would not have been taken away. Dewdrop was full of remorse in her heart. She thought that she might as well have died at that time. What would happen if Jiang Ruan was taken away by those ferocious people? Dewdrop didn''t dare to think about it. Xiao Shao didn''t blame her. Instead, she asked Xia Qing to heal her. The more she did, the more guilty she felt. Sometimes she thought that if something happened to Jiang Ruan, she would go with her. At least it was a fate between master and servant. Thinking wildly, I heard someone pushing the door behind me. Dew also didn''t care much, thinking that it was time to apply the medicine. It must be the little servant girls who came to apply the medicine, so they didn''t look back. Just listen to the footsteps to the bedside, the dew said: "today is also hard for you, do not have to do anything to prepare, just direct dressing." But she said that the sound of the footsteps stopped, and the dew felt the bed sink. She should have been sitting on the edge of the bed. She changed her prone position, which made it easier to apply medicine. Then he felt a chill on his back and his clothes were lifted. Dewdrop doesn''t adapt to the coolness. It''s strange that the girl doesn''t speak today. Is something wrong? I feel like I have a hand on my scar.The two hands were different from the soft hands of the girl who used to apply medicine. They were slender and slightly thick, like cocoons brought out by years of martial arts practice. They were a pair of men''s hands. The dew was startled, and suddenly turned back to stare at the person in front of her. Brocade two sits in front of her, see her so action some anxious, busy press her shoulder low shout a way: "don''t move, careful wound!" "What are you doing here?" Dewdrop was so shy and angry that the man suddenly came quietly. She also looked at her body and was so angry that. What is their relationship now? "I''ll put the medicine on you." Jin Er picked up the ointment on one side and said in a soft voice: "Forsythia needs acupuncture. The servant girl who applied the medicine has passed. I''ll do it for her. You don''t move. It involves the wound. Take care of the pain. " It turned out that she was just a substitute for dressing. Dewdrop couldn''t tell whether she was disappointed or what. She was annoyed with her own thoughts. Regardless of the injury on her back, she sat up and pushed Jiner out: "I don''t want you to dressing me, you go out!" However, the movement is a little bigger, really involved in the wound, only feel a deep pain, dew "hiss" a breath, almost fell. Jin Er was startled. He grabbed her arm and pressed her in his arms. Although the action was very fast, he was very careful not to touch the wound of dew. His tone was distressed and he said: "be careful, the wound is not good. Don''t hurt yourself." Dew heart a sour, even in and brocade two best time, this person all likes to bully her, see her angry appearance, when so gentle, but now this gentle look more like irony. She sneered: "Jin Er, what do you mean? Is it fun to bully me like this?" Dewdrop didn''t care about Liao Meng because it was just a means and she was not unreasonable. People in the world pursue flawless feelings, but where are so many flawless feelings? If you have to worry about everything, life is not very tired. But she is not put in the heart, brocade two is put in the heart, he didn''t show what want to make up again. Dewdrop always wanted to give him time. The royal guards were very strict with themselves, but it happened before that time. "Dew." Brocade two see her mood suddenly excited, no longer care about other, will she press in the arms, a hand pressure her hand buried in his chest, some hasty way: "sorry, dew is my bad, is I too cowardly, I think I don''t deserve you, I don''t know how to face you. I thought it would be better to wait a little longer, but I didn''t think that God never gave people time to wait. You came back bloody that day, I It seems that I''m not like myself anymore. I''m so afraid of losing you. I thought that if you were gone, I would not be well in my life. " His lips on the forehead of dewdrop, with a strange hot: "fortunately, you are still there, it doesn''t matter how you are, if you are angry, I will wait until you forgive me that day, dewdrop, I''m sorry, don''t be angry, OK. If you are angry, just beat me and scold me. Don''t hurt yourself. " Jin two''s words are clumsy and careful, where there are half of the smooth words on weekdays. I''m afraid they are clumsy in their youth. Now they all show up in front of dew. Jin Er knows that if his colleagues see his clumsy appearance, he will laugh for three or five years, but he doesn''t care. Because what he said at this moment is all his heart. That day, watching the dew carried back by the blood dripping, Tianzhu only said that she had been stabbed, and the blood was shocking to him, and the serious look on Xia Qing''s face made Jin Er Deng feel cold. He stood outside the dewdrop''s house and watched Xia Qing go in to work for several hours. In those hours, he didn''t think about anything. He just thought, if something happened to the dewdrop, what would he do? In most of one''s life, one will meet countless people, among whom there are not a few people who like them, and few people who like them just like themselves. How many people can finally go to the end? It''s easy to say, but it''s too hard to do. And the world may encounter many setbacks, why not cherish now? Jin two can''t say what he feels at the moment. He just thinks that the dew is still there and still alive. Maybe this is God''s greatest luck and kindness to him. He suddenly felt that he was very stupid before. The so-called foreign objects and faces, the guilt and timidity without any reason, are not worth mentioning. What is more important than two people? Dewdrop closed her eyes. As usual, she must be very moved to hear this, but now. She slowly pushed away Jin Er''s arms and forced the tears in her eyes back. She said: "what''s the use of saying these now? Now it''s impossible for us. " "Why?" Jin Er anxiously looks at her: "if you are angry, it doesn''t matter. I don''t expect you to forgive me now. I..." "It''s none of your business." Dewdrop calmed herself and said, "you are the young master of the Huang family, and you are also free. But I am a servant girl who does not get rid of slavery. Besides... " She was a little sad: "I still have such a terrible scar on my body. You can find a better girl. We are not suitable all the time. Maybe we have no chance in this lifeIt is intolerable for a woman to have scars on her body. Even if the girl who has been out of the cabinet has a scar on her body, it can be a reason to be out of favor. Even if the scar is on the back, it is enough to be regarded as disfigurement. Who would like to see an ugly scar on the skin that was as smooth as jade? What''s more, dew''s knife is very deep. After the wound is healed, it is bound to leave scars, which Xia Qing said personally. Jinling hand said so, it means that there is no room to turn around. Jin two didn''t expect that it was this matter that dewdrop was worried about. He was stunned for a moment, as if he suddenly understood it, and suddenly laughed. Dewdrop was slightly stunned, and looked at him angrily. Brocade two cough cough, just touched to touch her hair: "silly girl, I just don''t mind these." Dew shook her head: "although you don''t mind now, you will mind one day. I don''t want you to regret it in the future, because both of you have no face... " No matter how strong the girl looks, she is always timid and not confident when she looks at the man she loves. She hopes that she can be better, better and meet her sweetheart with the best and most beautiful appearance. This is the right thing to do. That''s the truth. "I won''t regret it," Jin Er put away his smile and looked at the dew and said seriously, "I know I look unreliable. I always make you angry and bully you. But dewdrop, from small to large, you are the first girl I like. I don''t know how to say it. But when I watch you angry and bully you every day, I can feel that you will notice me and talk to me. " The famous Playboy in the brothel one day met a girl who despised him. What''s more worrying is that he found that he still liked this girl. Naturally, he could only use some naive methods to attract her attention. He said: "but what I like is you, not your appearance. Appearance will grow old one day. No matter how beautiful it is, it can''t resist the passage of time. Don''t say that the scar is on your back or your face. You are the most beautiful girl in my heart. As for what you said is right, we are really not suitable now? Why don''t I ask the Lord for a favor and accept me as a slave in the palace? " Dewdrop was very moved when she heard the last sentence, but she was shocked. Immediately raised his head to see to brocade two: "are you crazy?" But Jin Er''s bad smile caught his eyes. He knew that he was bluffing himself and said angrily, "you lied to me again!" "Be careful!" Jin Er held her shoulder: "don''t pull on the wound. I''ll apply the medicine with you. If you want to beat me, you''ll beat me later. I''ll come to your room every day to let you have a good time after applying the medicine." The man began to talk glibly again, but this time, the dew did not argue with him, just turned around silently, her face was a little red, and her mouth murmured: "dengtuzi." I just can''t say no more. Jin Er is afraid of losing her, but she is not? At the critical moment of life and death, all kinds of things in the past pass by. All of a sudden, those grudges and concerns are not so important. Because lost just know how to cherish, and life is a thing worth cherishing. Let it be. In the palace, everyone sat with a solemn face about their own affairs. Even the most cheerful little eunuchs in the ordinary days also secretly suffered, and the atmosphere did not dare to come out, for fear that they would touch the mold of the master. Since the emperor fell ill, everything in the palace has gone wrong. There have been many disturbances. First, father-in-law Li died, and now Princess Jinying is missing. Although Princess Jinying is a member of the Xiao family, she was granted a princess by Royal Jade Butterfly before she got married, and she was most pleased by Empress Yide. This time when Jiang Ruan disappeared, people from the general''s house came to the palace to discuss the matter with empress Yide every three or five times. Empress Yide was also furious and sent people to trace her whereabouts. Unfortunately, they all failed. Thinking of this, the eunuch had another headache. After walking a few steps forward, I happened to see father-in-law Chen swinging the dust in front of me and ordering some eunuchs to do things. Seeing him, I asked, "where are you going?" "The imperial dining room cooked a medicated meal for Xiuyi Niang." The little eunuch raised a smiling face. He was flattered by Mr. Chen in front of him. Therefore, people''s fortunes are not to be expected. Half a month ago, Mr. Chen was a little eunuch who was the same as him. He had no position in the palace. He''s stupid and clumsy. He always makes mistakes. If it wasn''t for Mr. Li, he would have died many times. As a result, Li Gonggong died, but this little Chen Zi took advantage of the opportunity to ascend to heaven. Because of his filial piety to Li Gonggong, he was seen by others, and he was promoted to chief manager directly by Dong Xiuyi, who is in charge now. The Empress Dowager Yide had no objection, saying that it was false not to be jealous. However, the little eunuch knew that this man could not be offended now, so she had to please him. Thinking about it, I sighed again. They all said that once the emperor and his courtiers were seriously ill, Duke Li was dead again, and he was replaced by Duke Chen. I don''t know if even the prince of the great Jin Dynasty would be replaced. Just thinking about it, I heard a slightly shrill voice from Mr. Chen: "go." The little eunuch wiped his sweat and went to Dong Xiuyi''s bedroom. When I got to Dong Xiuyi''s bedroom, I didn''t see anyone, only a few maids. The eunuch smiles and asks, "sister, is Xiuyi''s mother not here?""The lady is out." Seeing the food basket in the eunuch''s hand, the maid in waiting picked it up and said, "it''s medicated food. I''ll go back and tell my mother that''s it. Go back." The little eunuch was a little sad when he heard that he could easily win the job from others. He also spent a silver hairpin to show his face in front of Dong Xiuyi. You know, the only person in charge of the harem today is Dong Xiuyi. If Dong Xiuyi looks at him differently, maybe he will have a chance to climb up. But it''s impossible. The little eunuch was disappointed, but he still had a warm smile on his face and said a few words to the maid of honor before he left. At the moment, Dong Ying''er is in a long corridor in the palace, surrounded by only one of her maids. Now she is not what she used to be. Because she is in charge of the affairs of the emperor, mu Xirou doesn''t care at all. If there is no empress Yide in the harem, she can almost cover the sky with her hands. At the moment, her dress is gorgeous and her makeup is exquisite, but her mind is not stirring up the harem at all. Her purpose has not changed from beginning to end. She came here just to wait for someone. But a moment later, he saw a man coming in a hurry at the other end of the corridor. The man''s shape and color were in a hurry. In front of him, Dong Yinger gave a smile. Then he met him and said, "long time no see, general Jiang." The man stopped and looked at her suspiciously. It seemed that he was remembering who this person was. It hurt Dong Ying''er''s heart immediately. It turned out that in this person''s heart, he was nothing and left no trace? She bit her lip, but Jiang Xinzhi seemed to think of it, nodded his head and said, "Dong Xiuyi." His tone was restrained and polite, but it hurt Dong Ying''er''s heart more deeply. She looked at the man in front of her, the man she had been dreaming of. He is more mature and handsome than he was at the beginning. The combination of elegance and fortitude shows a different charm. This is a different kind of youth and tension from the emperor, the man who is old enough to be her father. Dong Ying''er found that even after such a long time, when she saw the man again, her heart would still beat for him. "Do you remember me?" "I was very close to sister Ruan at the beginning," she said with a smile Jiang Xinzhi is a little confused. He doesn''t know anything. Naturally, he can see that Dong Yinger''s eyes are strange when he looks at him. At the moment, Dong Yinger''s words make him feel disgusted for no reason. Jiang Xinzhi is very clear about what kind of person Jiang Ruan is. Although on the surface he looks at people coldly, in fact he will treat people well if he treats them well. Lin Zixiang and Zhao Jin are both Jiang Ruan''s friends. Jiang Ruan also mentions them, and sometimes helps to raise some things secretly. But for Dong Yinger, Jiang Ruan doesn''t mention them. Jiang Xinzhi never doubted his sister''s decision, so Dong Yinger''s statement immediately made him unhappy. Besides, Dong Ying''er is not impressed. So Jiang Xinzhi heard the words. , just a light way: "Oh, I have a shallow memory." Dong Ying''er felt a pain in her heart. How can Jiang Xinzhi say such words so lightly? For her, such words mean that she can''t remember her words at all? Why should he embarrass himself like this. Dong Ying''er''s turbulent and complex feelings pour on her heart. She knows that today Jiang Xinzhi comes to the palace to discuss with empress Yide about Jiang Ruan''s being taken away, so she deliberately waits for him on this road. She wanted to let Jiang Xinzhi see her and not ignore her as she did in those years. But if she is already a high lady, everyone in the palace is afraid and respected, why does this man still ignore her? Why? It''s because. That woman? Dong Ying''er repressed the case in her heart and tried not to make her expression distorted and ferocious. She said: "I heard that general Jiang I''m going to marry Miss Zhao? " If you write another chapter tomorrow, you''ll ask for leave to write the finale. I''m so happy www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 242 Jiang Xinzhi frowned. It was obvious that the question Dong Yinger asked didn''t make him happy. He just said politely: "exactly." From Jiang Xinzhi''s mouth, Dong Yinger suddenly felt a pain in her heart. She could see the impatience in Jiang Xinzhi''s eyes. Unconsciously, a kind of uncontrollable resentment rose in her heart. Why? She has been the apple of her parents'' eyes since she was a child. She is cheerful, enthusiastic and considerate, and no one does not praise her. But what did he get in the end? In order to keep his official career, his father sent him to the palace. His sweetheart treated him coldly, while his former sisters would only die. All the people in this world have betrayed her. How can she make these people feel better? Dong Ying''er definitely looked at Jiang Xinzhi for a long time, and then suddenly laughed: "I heard that sister Ruan was taken away by thieves, and now her whereabouts are unknown. She and I were good friends in the past. I think we are really worried about her. I hope nothing happens. " Jiang Xinzhi sensitively noticed that the strange tone of Dong Yinger''s words seemed to contain the taste of gnashing teeth. Although he protects his short comings, he is more mature now than before. He keeps his displeasure in his heart and doesn''t care much about her. He just says faintly: "thanks for Xiuyi''s attention, I''ll have something to do. Goodbye." After that, he never looked at Dong Yinger again, as if he would pollute his eyes if he looked more, and left with great strides. Dong Yinger stood in the same place, looking at Jiang Xinzhi''s back, slowly showing a smile, but the smile now seems a little distorted. Different from the situation in Beijing, Jiang Ruan''s environment seems very quiet and elegant. The maid who comes to serve every day is mute and never says a word. Besides this maid, she can''t see anyone else. There were all kinds of things in the room, and even some travel notes, which were about to pass her time. If really, it''s Xuanli''s command, Qiman''s hand, also know that she has use value, but there is not too much embarrassment with her. And Jiang Ruan these days also try to adapt to the environment here, and with the passage of time, more and more confirmed that he may have a body. With this understanding, Jiang Ruan Ping was more careful in his daily work, but he seemed to really take this place as a good place for self-cultivation and recuperation. The only regret is that there is no tocolysis drug here, but it also makes Jiang Ruan more determined to solve everything and leave here as soon as possible. On this day, the weather was a bit gloomy. It began to rain early in the morning. Because it was the spring rain in the early spring, it would never end. From the early morning until the afternoon, the air was a little damp and slightly cold. Some green buds have already appeared on the branches outside, and the tender seedlings seem to have the feeling of spring. Jiang Ruan was standing in front of the window, looking at the branch. He was so absorbed that the cold door was pushed open and someone came in. The sound of the footstep was different from that of the dumb maidservant. The dumb maidservant''s voice was as quiet as a cat, so Jiang Ruan could hardly hear any sound here. Although the footstep is very light, it''s not light and careful. On the contrary, it seems to be a bit casual and arrogant, like a beast close to the prey, and the cat slowly lurks before attacking. Jiang Ruan smile, waiting for so long, finally came. The smile on her lips faded away very quickly. When she turned her head, she just showed a trace of consternation. Standing at the door is not a dumb maidservant. On the contrary, compared with the dumb maidservant who can hardly feel the existence, this person is born to attract people''s attention when he stands here. This is a woman in a big red dress. But the clothes were different from those of Jin Dynasty. They were covered with gold powder and embroidered with complicated patterns. Even in the weather without sunlight, they seemed to be shining. Chiffon red dress, showing the slender waist, on the top of the Ding Ding Dong decorated with a small bell, the foot is not wearing shoes, only hanging a string of green bell at the ankle, it seems that stepping on the ground barefoot white as jade, as if it is carved into antique. More thrilling than those feet is the face above. Jiang Ruan is already charming as a demon, but this woman can afford to turn all living beings upside down. His eyes seemed to be full of vitality, holy and evil. He had no powder on his face, and his lips were smeared with the reddest rouge. It was like a cluster of flames suddenly appeared in the spring snow, which was about to engulf the whole person with a prairie fire. This woman is beautiful, but it is more like the complex feelings of abstinence and debauchery. As long as you get close, you will feel that the whole person will be sucked in. Jiang Ruan is a woman. If an ordinary man sees her, he can''t think that she is a fox demon from somewhere. She has been sucked alive and is willing to give up. This was about the saint of Southern Xinjiang. Jiang Ruan made up his mind and looked at her slowly. Naturally, the woman caught the amazing flash in Jiang Ruan''s eyes, and the corner of her eyes showed a trace of complacency. It''s made by her. She doesn''t feel disgusted. On the contrary, she has a different kind of coquettish style. "Jiang Ruan." She said slowly, in a strange and beautiful tone, as if from the sounds of nature, as if it took a long time to start a dialogue with people. Jiang Ruan nodded: "you are..." "I am the saint of Southern Xinjiang, Dan Zhen." She said. "I''ve heard so much." Jiang Ruan Hui.Dan was a little surprised. His voice sank and said, "do you know my name?" "It''s just a polite remark." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "when you go to Rome, do as the Romans do. I think the saint has not been used to the folk customs of the great Jin Dynasty, so she will take them seriously." Dan was a little annoyed. Naturally, she recognized the irony in Jiang Ruan''s words. It is said that she is an outsider. The people of Jin Dynasty never looked down upon the small border country. That is to say, before the southern Xinjiang was destroyed, they paid tribute every year, but they were affectionately called "Southern barbarians" by the people of Jin Dynasty. Now when Jiang Ruan mentioned this again, he felt a little harsh in his ears. She twisted to concentrate, two delicate eyebrows slightly stir up, this just slowly way: "the mouth is quite sharp." "Just like each other." Jiang Ruan returned to China. She is not afraid of what Dan Zhen will do to her at the moment. Although the alliance between Xuanli and Nanjiang is not very strong, it is a critical moment now. Xuanli will not allow anything wrong to happen, so she will hold the weakness of Nanjiang and ask them to agree with her decision. And Qiman, from so many years together, this person is determined and resourceful. He is a person who takes the overall situation into consideration. He has no hatred of life and death with her, so he will not kill her immediately. Before that, Jiang Ruan speculated that there are two masters in southern Xinjiang, one is Qiman, the other is Danzhen. However, it is obvious that from this moment, Dan Zhen is far behind Qiman, no matter in wrist or heart. Therefore, Dan Zhen can only be a leader. Qiman is good at controlling. Under the control of Qiman, Dan can''t do anything to her. If in the past, Jiang Ruan was naturally fearless, but now it''s time for her to be pregnant. She doesn''t think for herself, but also for her baby. So all the time, she carefully guided Dan Zhen''s emotion. In her heart, Dan Zhen is a man who doesn''t give up and subconsciously wants to compete with her. This is the consciousness of being a woman. For example, just now, Dan Zhen himself has been very beautiful, but today''s act, or see is specially dressed up. Jiang Ruan is not a man, where can be called Dan Zhen so carefully dressed for himself, of course, because Dan Zhen''s heart still has the idea to compete with Jiang Ruan. "You''re not born very well." Dan really spoke slowly. When he said this, he looked at Jiang Ruan from the beginning to the end. As soon as she hooked her lips, her eyes showed a little disdain: "she was born in a humble family. It''s ridiculous to hear that she was enslaved by the servants in the countryside." She played with her slightly curly hair with great interest: "I''ve heard of your deeds. At the beginning, your brother was called the God of war, and you also contributed a little. I thought you must have some ability, but now it seems that I overestimate you. It''s really boring to be taken away so easily and stay here as a forbidden man. " Jiang Ruan looked at her in his spare time, but he didn''t look strange because of her words. Don''t say that Dan Zhen is deliberately irritating her, that is, she doesn''t know what Dan really intends to do. She really doesn''t care about this. There have been so many gossips, how can we see these little words in our eyes. Danzhen smiles, slowly approaches Jiang Ruan, and suddenly grabs Jiang Ruan''s neck. Danzhen''s hands are very soft, as if there are no bones. Such a small hand, if held in a man''s hand, is enough to make that man''s mind early. But now it was like a snake around Jiang Ruan''s neck, only with a kind of gloomy chill, like a ghost. "You are so weak," Dan Zhen appreciated Jiang Ruan''s expression. "If I draw a line here, you will die. What do you do, Princess Jinying? " "Oh?" Jiang Ruan turned his head, avoided her hand, looked into her eyes and said, "why do you want to kill me? Because of Xiao Shao Mention "Xiao Shao" two words, Dan really expression slightly a change. At that moment, it seemed that the eyes with infinite aura suddenly became very distorted. Even if Jiang Ruan saw it, he thought it was not good. How deep is her obsession? Jiang Ruan was both surprised and annoyed. Xiao Shao and the woman were just a few sides of each other, but the woman was stunned to catch up with Dajin Dynasty from southern Xinjiang. With the intention of restoring the country, she wanted to kill her. The reason was not for that disaster? "Do you know it well?" Dan Zhen suddenly sneered: "do you think it''s great to be a princess of Jin Ying? He is an eagle on the grassland and a lone wolf in the desert. He will not have any obstacles in his life. You are just an ugly stumbling block. It''s ridiculous that you dare to be so complacent! Ridiculous At the end, she couldn''t help but get angry again. Jiang Ruan pick eyebrows, Dan really to Xiao Shao obsession is very deep, as long as talking about Xiao Shao, very easy to stir up her mood. What is this? Abstinence for a long time, the pure and incomparable Saint steals a beam to change a pillar, transplants flowers and trees. Although it is simple to look at, every step is like walking on a steel wire. If you are not careful, you will fall into the abyss. Jiang Ruan was such a bold idea, and he did it boldly. Every step of her life here is very hard because of her baby. What is usually very simple is sweat. After watching for a while, she suddenly reached out and called for the dumb maid, who was waiting for her command. Jiang Ruan said, "I''m really bored. Please find a dog for me. I''m the only one in this place, and it''s nice to have a dog with me. " Dumb maidservant was a little surprised why she said that, but Jiang Ruan''s words naturally could not be ignored. Xu Shi''s superior had already told her that everything Jiang Ruan wanted to do must be done for her. So the dumb maid was surprised and went out. But did not see, Jiang Ruan gently stroked the forehead behind.Her food intake is more and more big now, because there is a little guy in her stomach, and the food in her daily life is obviously not enough. What''s more, I don''t know what''s going on in this place. Although the food is delicately cooked, it''s mostly a small dish of porridge. I don''t have much appetite. There is no medicine for stillbirth. If you don''t take good care of your body, I''m afraid it will affect the baby in your stomach. However, the amount of food suddenly becomes larger. I''m afraid it will cause suspicion. These people are so deep-minded that they can immediately detect anything wrong with themselves. It''s better to find a dog. Although a man can be a vegetarian, a dog can''t be a vegetarian. If he eats a lot, others think he''s going to eat for a dog. Jiang Ruan felt a little funny for no reason. In her whole life, she went through ups and downs from depression to splendor. After tasting the warmth and coldness of the world, everyone would not expect that she would become the princess of Jinying after she married Xiao Shao, as if she had a backer. In this case, she would end up fighting for food from the dog''s mouth. It''s just because other people can''t think of it, so can Xuanli and Qiman. Because they couldn''t understand that a noble princess would compete with dogs for food. No one will believe it if it is said, and Jiang Ruan wants to take advantage of it. To cover their true intentions. I''m so sorry. Jiang Ruan''s hands unconsciously stroked her abdomen. She had been in such a dangerous situation since she came into the world. It was her mother. But every mother in the world will do her best to protect the safety of her children. Even if there is a sea of fire ahead, she will protect her own safety for the sake of her children. As for the other side of the capital, Xiao Shao''s faint smile floated in her head. She also laughed and murmured to herself in a low voice, "it''s up to you." Emma, I''m wrong. It''s not going to end yet. I''m a funny guy. The full text is about 1.3 million words. I can''t finish the battle line for the moment. I''ll ask for leave to write the grand finale in a few days. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 243 It seems that the light rain in early spring swept away all the haze in the past winter, and it was fine weather for several days in a row. Different from the fine weather outside, the palace is still lifeless. In the stillness of the stagnant water, it seems that something is about to break through the ground, with a trace of budding, which makes people feel that the danger is approaching for no reason. In Yingshui palace, a beautiful young woman is sitting in front of the dressing table. She is wearing a colorful and dark brocade palace dress. Although the color is not very bright, the best materials and embroidery needles are enough to attract people''s eyes. While wearing a Chaohuang bun, it looks beautiful, but it''s a little less bright. Although it''s still young, its makeup is complicated, showing a bit different from usual. Her hand painted with bright red Cardan gently stroked her cheek. Her white cheek showed some delicate color because of rouge embellishment, but it was not as natural as a girl. Beauty was beautiful, but it was like a bunch of artificial flowers, which seemed stiff and soulless. The maid of Honor outside came in to report and said, "madam, Miss Zhao is here." "Come in, please." Dong Ying''er smiles a little. She gets up and goes to one side of the soft couch to lie down. As soon as Dong Ying''er Fang entered the temple, she saw the scene and was stunned. The soft couch coat with gorgeous beauty saw her coming, but it showed a smile: "Zhao Jin." Zhao Jin calm down, standing in the same place seems to be hesitant for a while, just lift feet toward the soft couch. Dong Ying''er has already patted the soft couch and said with a smile, "come and sit here." "This I''m afraid it''s not very good. " Zhao Jin pursed her lips and said, "the lady has golden branches and leaves..." "Why do you and I have to say this before? Have you forgotten that we used to embroider handkerchiefs together and nap on a couch?" Dong Ying''er waved her hand, and Zhao Jin was speechless because of her light words. Perhaps Dong Ying''er''s words touched her deep memory. Zhao Jin couldn''t help but think of her old girlhood. She, Dong Ying''er, Lin Zixiang and Wen Feifei were friends who grew up together. At that time, the three were carefree. They just wanted to have something delicious and fun every day. There was no family quarrel or court dispute. All the troubles in the world had nothing to do with them. It was about the happiest day in their life. Today, the Zhao family is just like the fire cooking oil. Now it''s safe, but who knows what to do next What is it. Step by step, step by step wrong, the whole set are falling rope, this is to do, this is a gamble. A trace of sadness flashed across her face. She still went to Dong Ying''er and sat down. Then she looked up at her old friends. Dong Yinger looks very different from the past. Whether it''s make-up or clothes, or the look on her face, although she is smiling and wants to make the same intimacy as before, there is no brightness in the face as a girl, but more coolness and sophistication. Perhaps life in the palace is not easy either. Dong Yinger was sent to the palace at the same age as Hua. Her father said that Dong Yinger is now in a high position in the harem, but in Zhao Jin''s opinion, this is all nonsense. Where is the palace? If you want to be rich, you naturally feel good. But Dong Ying''er has been pampered since childhood. Wealth is nothing to her, but what she lost after entering the palace is more valuable. That''s why she seems so strange now. Zhao Jin sighed in her heart. Among them, the most unfortunate one is Dong Yinger. Thinking of this, Zhao Jin felt sympathy for Dong Ying''er, but she didn''t have her own eyes in Dong Ying''er''s eyes. A trace of disgust flashed across her face. Then he heard Dong Ying''er''s voice with a smile: "after I entered the palace, I seem to have little contact with you. Now when I meet you, I have a feeling that things are right and people are wrong. I don''t know if you have such a feeling." After Dong Yinger entered the palace, her former sisters had visited her. But at that time, Dong Yinger was gloomy and didn''t pay much attention to her every time. Lin Zixiang was a fiery man. At that time, he had a quarrel with Dong Yinger, but Dong Yinger didn''t say anything. Later, when Lin Zixiang saw some of them, he said, "she''s determined to alienate us. Forget it, the relationship she''s seeking is not long. We treat her as sisters, but she doesn''t treat us as sisters." At first, Wen Feifei and Zhao Jin didn''t believe it. They were both generals. They were not as sensitive to people''s feelings as Lin Zixiang. But even if they were slow, they gradually realized that Lin Zixiang was right. Dong Yinger was consciously alienating them. Zhao Jin even thinks that several times she went to the palace with her mother and tried to talk to Dong Yinger, but she was shirked by Dong Yinger''s maid because she had something to do. Every time, it was like this, but it was like trying to embarrass her. Zhao Jin couldn''t figure it out, but when she came back to the palace later, she didn''t inquire about Dong Ying''er''s news so enthusiastically. Who wants to use her hot face to stick others'' cold ass? However, at the moment, Zhao Jin sighed: "it''s true. At the beginning, you were the best at dealing with affairs and making friends. Now, it seems that you are really promising." Is it really promising? I''m afraid not, but now Zhao Jin is not the one who didn''t know anything at the beginning. Zhao Jin took it. The pressure of the family made her mature gradually, and she began to have her own thinking. For the changed Dong Ying''er, how could he be as open-minded as before? He was always separated in his heart.Dong Ying''er took a meaningful look at Zhao Jin and shook her head: "time is really merciless. I didn''t expect that a straightforward person like you would say such smooth words now. Why do you say more in front of me? If you know that I grew up with you, you and I don''t have to guess much. Is this palace really good? Your so-called promise is nothing. Maybe if your majesty returns one day for a hundred years, I will accompany you too. " As soon as the words came out, Zhao Jin was surprised. She looked around to see if anyone was eavesdropping. She was relieved to see that no one was listening. For a moment, she forgot Dong Ying''er''s identity, knocked her head, and said: "nonsense, such words can also be nonsense. What are you thinking all day? It''s said that when you enter the palace, you should pay attention. How can you be so smart and stupid? " Zhao Jin one breath finish saying, oneself also Leng for a while, suddenly discover oneself imperceptibly in unexpectedly gaffe. After all, I grew up together in handkerchief. I still have some old feelings in my heart, that is, I feel that I have been born. But when the other party is in danger, I can''t help thinking about the other party. Dong Ying''er seems to be surprised by Zhao Jin''s action, and a trace of complex emotion passes in her eyes. Then she says lazily: "what''s so terrible? The palace is in such a deep water every day. If you are worried every day, you can''t live any longer? As you think, life is worse than death. " Her words with a rare cold thin and casual, as if do not cherish their own life, this kind of dispirited and Xiaosuo let Zhao Jin heart a pain. At the beginning, the four of them, Lin Zixiang''s forthrightness is almost old-fashioned, and she and Wen Feifei are careless generals. When they are together, it is inevitable that they will have disputes. At that time, Dong Yinger comes out to settle the dispute. It may be that Mr. Dong is very tactful, and Mr. Dong Ying''er is quite a father. He is very considerate when he is young. At that time, Lin Zixiang was a few playmates. He didn''t say anything, but he was secretly convinced of Dong Yinger. Dong Ying''er is always kind and generous. Naturally, everyone likes her. Such a bright girl now looks like a withered tree. Zhao Jin can''t tell what it''s like, but it''s hard to feel. Seeing this, Dong Ying''er began to smile and said, "it''s not for this that I asked you to come to the palace today. I just want to be with you for a crime." "Make amends?" Zhao Jin Leng Leng, looking at her: "what crime?" "When you thought I alienated you, it was not your illusion, but my intention. I really alienated you on purpose, because there was a time when I hated you very much and envied you, so I didn''t want to see you. Seeing you made me angry. At that time, I thought that I would not have you as a friend. That''s why I took such an attitude. I think it hurt your heart. " Hearing this, Zhao Jin was even more puzzled. She didn''t mind the others in Dong Yinger''s words. Instead, she asked, "why do you hate me and envy me, but what did I do wrong?" Among several playmates, her estrangement is the most obvious, almost without any cover up. Zhao Jin herself is also very confused. Now listening to Dong Ying''er''s words, she asks the question she always wants to ask. "Is your marriage with general Jiang finished? When is the wedding wine Dong Yinger smiles and asks another question. "Next spring..." Zhao Jin is a little embarrassed: "the eight characters have not been changed yet..." "I''ve heard all about it. Now that you two have reached an agreement, it''s not far away." Dong Ying''er said with a smile: "general Jiang is a good soldier. He is young and promising. Sister Ruan is your sister-in-law and won''t let you be bullied by him. Besides, there is no master or wife. In the past, you were in charge of the family. There will only be a good life. " Zhao Jin was embarrassed by Dong Ying''er, but she felt that when they talked like this, they seemed to go back to those carefree girls'' time. They were talking about which childe and which Lady they fell in love with, making fun of each other. She said with a smile, "you haven''t said why you hate me?" Dong Ying''er took a look at her, which puzzled Zhao Jin. She sighed: "I''m not afraid of your jokes when I say it. At first, I was happy with general Jiang." In one word, all the questions will be answered. Zhao Jin Lengleng Leng listening, the mind crossed some fragments, intertwined together, almost let her brain a clear. At the beginning, Jiang Xinzhi was not as powerful as he is now. He just appeared in the court, but he saved her and Dong Yinger at the Palace Banquet. At that time, Dong Yinger seemed to be a bit coy, and seemed to like Jiang Xinzhi very much. But at that time, Zhao Jin thought that Dong Ying''er''s admiration for an excellent man was just like her eagerness for the elegant scholar. But now listen to Dong Yinger''s words, at that time, she really liked Jiang Xinzhi? A good sister falling in love with the same man is fatal to any friendship. Zhao Jin never thought that it would happen to her. She thought that Dong Ying''er was just a child''s plaything, but she used her heart. She suddenly felt that she didn''t know how to face Dong Yinger. It was anger, because Dong Yinger was going to be a stranger with her because of this? Or should be guilty, as a good friend, actually never aware of Dong Yinger''s mood. Dong Ying''er said with a smile: "I know what you are thinking at the moment is that you think I am shameless or immoral. It''s all in the past. When I first entered the palace, I was reluctant, so I didn''t accept my fate. When I saw you all living so well, I would feel jealous and think about why I was the only one in the world who was so unfortunate. But now that I have accepted my fate, God is about fair. My life has already been grasped by him. Why struggle? When I accept my fate, my thoughts about general Jiang will be gone. Don''t worry. Now I''m like a mirror in my heart. It''s gone. "What she said was calm and full of vicissitudes, which made people even angry. Zhao Jin had some confused complex mood in her words gradually calm down. Just listen to Dong Yinger''s faint voice: "I say this to you today, just don''t want to leave regret, everyone has a time to die, but it''s too unwilling to die with regret. I don''t have many friends in the palace. When I was at home, you were the only ones. I don''t want to... With regret. " After a pause, Dong Ying''er said, "I just said that. I don''t know when I will go back. Before that, I always hope to leave something to think about." As soon as Zhao Jin heard this, she immediately thought of her previous words and asked, "did you hear something? Why do you keep saying that? Mr. Dong didn''t think of any way? The tone of your words is as if you don''t want to live. " "How?" Dong Ying''er laughed bitterly: "as I have said, this is my destiny. What can I do. The first half of my life has been ruined. What can I do next? It is to leave a life, anonymity, even their own home can not return, what is the meaning of living? As for my father, since he sent me in to protect the Dong family and wanted to do everything to the end, I might as well have given the Dong family a full reputation, or at least added a title of loyalty. " "It''s wrong of you to do this. How can you..." Zhao Jin still wanted to speak, but Dong Ying''er interrupted her. She said, "Zhao Jin, can you forgive me?" "I..." When a man is dying, his words are good. Moreover, Zhao Jin thought carefully that Dong Ying''er didn''t do anything out of the ordinary except to treat them coldly. We all grew up together. Speaking of Jiang Xinzhi, Zhao Jin felt sorry for Dong Yinger, but fate was unable to force her. Dong Yinger is too poor to be in such a field now. She calmed down, looked at Zhao Jin and said, "I never blame you. It''s no big deal to like someone. I don''t blame you. I''ll always be your sister." Dong Ying''er chuckled, reached for Zhao Jin''s hand, and said with a smile, "I know that you are the one who is most easily talked about over the years. I''m afraid you''re the only one who can be so generous and don''t care about me. If you fall in love with your sweetheart... " She laughed at herself and said, "have you brought anything into the palace?" Zhao Jin is listening to Dong Ying''er''s words carefully. Hearing the words, she says, "yes, I asked my brother to steal it from me. He doesn''t know that I brought it into the palace." Zhao Jin''s hometown is rich in precious ginseng. The emperor has been seriously ill these days. The use of ginseng in the palace is getting faster and faster. It takes too long to collect it everywhere. Zhao Jin''s family has two good ginseng. This is something we have known for a long time. Dong Ying''er asked Zhao Jin if she had any and brought them to boil some medicine for the emperor in the palace. Zhao Jin agreed. Her father didn''t care about these things all day long. As long as he let his brother steal it, it would be OK. Zhao Jin only said that he would take a friend''s sick husband and his second brother didn''t say much. "Thank you very much," Dong Ying''er said with a smile. "Although he is the emperor, he has three thousand beauties in the harem, but I also hope he can live longer, for nothing else, even for myself..." She looked at Zhao Jin: "thank you." "You and I don''t have to thank each other." Zhao Jin''s heroism is the source of his wisdom. They began to talk and laugh again, just like a pair of good sisters who had never been estranged. It''s too late to say that. Because Zhao''s carriage is still waiting outside, and the emperor is seriously ill, Dong Yinger can''t keep her, so she asks her maid to send Zhao Jin out of the palace. After Zhao Jin left, the Yingshui hall was empty again, leaving Dong Yinger alone. She walked slowly to the pile of gifts left by Dong Yinger and held the innermost sandalwood box. The box is extremely exquisite, carved with old pine crane, meaning longevity. As soon as you open it, a flawless old ginseng will appear in front of you. You can smell it, and even smell a fragrance of ginseng. This is really the participation of the Zhao family. Zhao Jin didn''t lie. She really did what she said. In fact, it doesn''t play a very important role. Although it is precious, it can only assist in hanging life at most. It''s impossible to bring the dead back to life. So the Zhao family doesn''t really value these two ginseng as treasures. They really want to get some more from their hometown. Dong Ying''er reaches out her hand and gently picks up the old ginseng in the box, with an imperceptible smile on her face. She untied a sachet from her waist, and then took out another locked small box from under the dresser. She took out a bottle of water like things from the inside, poured some powder from the sachet, mixed it in the bottle, and carefully shaked it up. Then the root of the old ginseng was gently immersed in the water in the bottle from bottom to top. I don''t know how long it took to take it out. After putting things away again, Dong Ying''er put the old ginseng back into the small box, went back to the couch, pulled out a jade hairpin from his head, and played with it carefully, with a sneering smile on his lips. Friendship, destiny, what is that? The so-called friendship is just a betrayal of self-protection, and fate has always been in the hands of the powerful. The world has always been so unfair. Since it is so unfair, why should she follow those rules? Affection? Not as good as grass! Dong Ying''er thinks that only Zhao Jin can believe her in this world. But why does Zhao Jin believe it? Is it stupid or naive? Dong Yinger believes it must be the latter. Because Zhao Jin is protected in a stable environment, she has the right to be naive. If she wants to climb up in the palace, if she is naive, she will fall to pieces if she is not careful. Why and why?Dong Ying''er''s fingernails embedded in his palm, but did not seem to feel pain, her smile distorted: "Zhao Jin, this is what you owe me, you robbed my life and happiness, now, it''s time for me to ask you back." She called one of the maids who came in, and said, "pack up the things that Miss Zhao sent. There are two thousand year old ginseng in the box. Please remember to send them to the imperial dining room and fry some pieces when you cook medicine for your majesty later." The maid of honor sent Zhao Jin outside the palace, and Zhao Jin said with a smile, "go back, I''m in the carriage." The maid of honor left. Zhao Jin was about to step on her carriage when she heard someone calling her name: "jin''er." Zhao Jin looked back. Jiang Xinzhi was walking this way. Zhao Jin was a little surprised and asked, "Why are you here?" "Come to the palace and discuss with the Empress Dowager about a Ruan. I want to send some soldiers out to look for people." Jiang Xinzhi replied briefly. Seeing her nodding, he asked, "how did you enter the palace?" "Yinger asked me to come." Zhao Jindao, seeing Jiang Xinzhi''s strange appearance, took the initiative to add: "Dong Xiuyi, Dong Yinger." Jiang Xinzhi understood this. Thinking of seeing Dong Yinger with a strange face on that day, he could not help frowning and said, "what did she want you to do in the palace, but did she embarrass you?" "No, No." Zhao Jin waved her hand and thought about it, then she took Jiang Xinzhi''s arm and walked to her carriage: "let''s talk about it." Jiang Xinzhi followed Dong Yinger into the carriage. There were a few children in the carriage, and Dong Yinger poured a cup of tea for Jiang Xinzhi. At this moment, when he got on the carriage, he found that Jiang Xinzhi''s face was full of fatigue, and his chin was not cleaned up, which made him look decadent and embarrassed. Zhao Jin and Jiang Xinzhi have not seen each other for a long time. Since Jiang Ruan was abducted, Jiang Xinzhi has been busy investigating Jiang Ruan''s whereabouts every day. Zhao Jin knows that he is very busy, but at the moment, maybe Jiang Xinzhi is even harder than he thought. Zhao Jin can''t help feeling a little distressed. Jiang Xinzhi drank the tea from Zhao Jin and wiped her mouth. Zhao Jin asked, "is there any news from sister Ruan?" Jiang Xinzhi heard that his eyes were dark and shook his head. Zhao Jin also accompany sad up, Jiang Ruan and her relationship is not bad, Jiang Ruan after the accident, Zhao Jin also central his brother launched friends to go out looking for people, but for decades have passed, Leng is no news of Jiang Ruan. Zhao Jin is very anxious, and some bad rumors are all over the place. It''s said that Jiang Ruan may have encountered some unexpected events. As a good friend of Jiang Ruan, Zhao Jin naturally doesn''t believe it. But what does it mean to have no news? Zhao Jin is also very afraid. "How could there be no news?" Zhao Jin asked: "it''s impossible for these people to go far. The gate of the capital was guarded on that day, and we never met anyone suspicious. Since we are in the capital, we have almost turned over the whole capital these days. There is still no news. Could it be that those people can''t escape from the sky? How can a living person not have any news? It must be that the officials are not good at doing things, That''s why we can''t find anyone. " Zhao Jin is a little angry and puts the responsibility on Jing Zhaoyin''s head. But Jiang Xinzhi shook his head with a wry smile: "these people had a premeditated plan. Now they can''t find a Ruan so well, which reflects this point. It''s really difficult to find people who can''t even find the royal guards. Moreover, these people are most likely from southern Xinjiang. " Jiang Xinzhi said that he could not hide his worry. He knew that the means of the people in southern Xinjiang were the most cruel. What he worried about most was that those crazy people in southern Xinjiang treated Jiang Ruan cruelly. As long as he thought about the torture Jiang Ruan might suffer, he would feel a sharp pain in his heart. He and Jiang Ruan have been living together for so many years. He is still Jiang Ruan''s elder brother, but he can''t even protect his younger sister. If Jiang Ruan really has any problems, Jiang Xin will never forgive himself. "Believe it, I''m a little scared." Zhao Jin holds Jiang Xinzhi''s hand: "I. I feel very upset. " The daughter of the general''s family also heard about the cruelty of the people in southern Xinjiang. After so many days, Jiang Ruan has no news at all. What does it mean to have no news? Is it possible that something has happened? Everyone will think so. "No Jiang Xinzhi held Zhao Jin''s hand, his big hand wrapped Zhao Jin''s small hand in the palm, holding warm and powerful, his tone was also low, slow but firm: "no, a Ruan is very smart and strong, in any adversity will not give up, she is my sister, I know her better than anyone. She will find a way to save herself, waiting for us to save him Zhao Jin smiles when she hears the speech. It seems that Jiang Xinzhi''s words also make her feel at ease. She doesn''t say anything any more, just puts her head on Jiang Xinzhi''s shoulder. Jiang Xinzhi suddenly thought of something and asked, "what does Dong Yinger want you to do in the palace today?" Zhao Jin was stunned and thought of Dong Yinger''s words in the palace, but she was in a bit of a dilemma in the face of Jiang Xinzhi. She couldn''t tell Jiang Xinzhi what Dong Yinger thought of him. Although there is still some slight discomfort in her heart, Zhao Jin is not a caring person, but she is not used to lying, so she has to say vaguely: "it''s just going to the palace to talk about the past." "You''ve always been indifferent to each other. What can I do for you?" Jiang Xinzhi pointed out the mistake in Zhao Jin''s words.Zhao Jin was a little embarrassed and said, "Your Majesty''s dragon body is not safe. She is also in a state of confusion. Maybe she is not sure about her future. There is no one in the palace to speak to. Anyway, we grew up together, and I will never harm her. Maybe now she can only trust me and talk to me for a while. There is nothing else This is half true and half false, but it''s really a reason. Jiang Xinzhi was silent for a long time when he heard the words. After a long time, he said, "you''d better not meet her any more Zhao Jin was surprised and thought about what Jiang Xinzhi said. She didn''t know that Jiang Xinzhi had just met Dong Yinger not long ago, and she didn''t know that side caused the disturbance. She only said that Jiang Xinzhi saw something, but it should not be possible, so she asked: "why?" "The forces in the palace are complex." Jiang Xin said: "your Zhao family is now in an awkward position. If you pull too much with her, one of you will accidentally take you into the Zhao family. It will be up to you to see how you end up." Jiang Xinzhi threatened her like this. I can''t tell Zhao Jin that Dong Yinger is not a good person. Moreover, with Zhao Jin''s straightforward nature, it''s not necessarily possible to listen to what she said. It''s better to involve the Zhao family. Dong Yinger is most filial, just for the sake of the Zhao family. He will weigh up some points in advance when he does things next time. Smell speech, Zhao Jin really is no longer argue, just some stuffy hang head to go. Knowing that she was easy to get into a dead end every time, Jiang Xinzhi didn''t persuade her. Knowing that she would always figure it out by herself, he just rubbed Zhao Jin''s head. But the heaviness in the eyes didn''t relax at all. Jiang Ruan has always been his biggest concern. At the moment, Jiang Ruan is in a quiet yard or a room, watching the big white dog lying down at his feet. These days, every day she would ask the dumb maid to cook more food and share it with the dog, so she didn''t have to make a separate dog food. Dumb maidservant did not doubt that he had a large amount of food every day. Jiang Ruan had to eat a lot of food, and the dogs had to eat some, but in the eyes of the dumb maidservant, the big white dog was greedy. In such a peaceful day, Jiang Ruan was worried. Why Xuanli didn''t do it? Only when Xuanli did, could the plan be implemented faster. Now she is pregnant with the body, this place is clean, but if there is an accident, it will be discovered, and it will only cause a lot of trouble. What she wants to do now is not to protect her baby. When she thought about this, she felt a surge in her throat, and the feeling of nausea came back. She held the pillar beside the bed and retched. At this time, dumb maid with tea is a foot in the door, see this scene is also a Zheng, immediately ran forward in a panic, some at a loss to look at Jiang Ruan, do not know how. Jiang Ruan just stroked his chest, the reaction of pernicious joy became more and more obvious day by day. As soon as he looked up, he saw the dumb maid''s anxious eyes. Oh, no, she screamed in her heart. Without thinking about it, she immediately said, "what''s added to the meal today? It''s so painful in my stomach!" Dumb maidservant a Zheng, immediately want to run out. "Stop!" said Jiang Ruan Zhao Jinwen, Feifei and Lin Zixiang represent a good wish. People can''t stay in the same place forever, but good people hope that they will always keep a kind and innocent heart ~ in the future www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 244 The dumb maid looked back at her as if she could not believe it, but she didn''t know how to do it. Jiang Ruan Rou asked, "are you going to ask for a doctor?" Dumb maidservant nodded. "The doctor doesn''t have to." Jiang Ruan sneered: "I can''t trust the doctors here. Go out and be careful when cooking in the future." Naturally, we can''t let the doctor come here, otherwise we will have a happy pulse and things will get out of hand. The dumb maidservant didn''t look very brave, and I don''t know if he was pretending. Jiang Ruan had to cheat this man first. The dumb maid opened her mouth and seemed to be at a loss. Jiang Ruan frowned and said, "don''t go out yet!" The dumb maid quickly backed out. After the dumb maid left, Jiang Ruan just rubbed his forehead and heart. This is not the way to go on. But now she didn''t know what was going on outside. These days she stayed in the house, although she couldn''t go out, but when she stood in front of the window or walked in the yard every day, she still saw some clues. It''s a quiet place with few people. The food is usually very light. If it wasn''t for Jiang Ruan''s asking the dumb maid to cook some big fish and meat for the dog every day, I''m afraid there would be no meat in the food. It was no accident that Jiang Ruan could even hear the faint bell at dusk. She probably guessed that this place might be a temple, maybe in the mountains, or maybe in the wilderness. There are few people and there is not much incense. It''s really bold to hide yourself here, but on second thought, no wonder others can''t find it. Jiang Ruan did not know how far it was from the capital, but it was impossible to escape now. It''s wishful thinking to rush under heavy checks. What''s more, it''s not a good way to leave before things are finished. When will Xuanli take action? Only when Xuanli takes that step can the rest go smoothly. Jiang Ruan reached out to pick up a small file on one side and gently scratched the head of the bed, where many paths had been scratched. It was the day she came here. Now it''s been several decades. I think Xuanli should start to do it. This night, the fine weather in the past few days suddenly turned to the sky. In the evening, there was a strong wind, and the dark clouds came down. But in a moment, the big raindrops came down from the sky. Pedestrians in a hurry to shelter from the rain, as if even days of spring are suddenly back. At night, it was even more miserable and cold. The main hall of the palace is lonely and tight, and the burning sandalwood slowly brings out the smoke. People in the palace seem to be used to such a dull atmosphere, and they sit quietly. In the emperor''s bedroom, on the huge dragon creation, the man lay on the bed. No matter how beautiful the clothes were, they could not hide the color of death on the decoration. One hand timely picked up one side of the handkerchief, carefully wipe the sweat on the emperor''s forehead. The hands were thin and white, and the nails were painted with bright Cardan. It was wonderful and young. It reminds people of the delicate spring flowers, which are almost dripping water. What is different from it is that the emperor''s face, which is already gray, seems to be only skin and flesh pasted on the skeleton, is very old and haggard. Beauty and ugliness, youth and aging are in sharp contrast at this moment. It seems that there is a kind of unspeakable beauty. The woman''s face is like peach blossom. She pinches the handkerchief back to her hand with her little finger up. She observes the person on the bed with great interest. She looks serious, as if she is looking at something interesting. After a while, the woman just tilted her head and "puffed" with a smile and said slowly: "Your Majesty, it''s really embarrassing." It''s Dong Ying''er. The palace guards have retreated to one side, leaving only little Chen Zi. No, it should be Mr. Chen now. Hearing Dong Yinger''s words, Mr. Chen didn''t show any special expression. He just stood quietly in the room, as if he were a nonexistent person. Dong Ying''er holds her cheek in one hand and carefully looks at the emperor on the Dragon bed. This man is the master of the world. A word can dominate people''s life and death. At the beginning, because of this man, she had seen this man''s imposing and irresistible appearance when she entered the palace. But what about the real dragon? Up to now, it''s not like a dead dog lying in bed, unable to move and being slaughtered. Even she can easily kill the master of the world. "One day, my husband and wife have a hundred days of kindness. Now I want to come. I''m really reluctant to do it." Dong Ying''er said with a smile. "Empress, hurry up," said father-in-law Chen with no expression. "I''m waiting to go back and explain to my master." Hearing the words, Dong Ying''er just flashed a trace of disgust in her eyes. She suddenly laughed again and said, "Mr. Chen is anxious. Don''t worry. You won''t come here in vain." After she finished, she took out a small bottle from her sleeve, pulled out the cork, put it under the emperor''s nose and swept it gently - the emperor''s body moved and slowly opened his eyes after a long time. "Your Majesty is awake?" Dong Ying''er asked softly. The emperor was stunned for a moment. His expression suddenly became a little ferocious. He looked at Dong Ying''er and said, "do you harm me?" Although he tried his best to express his anger, there was something in his throat. He could only make a hoarse voice. If he didn''t listen carefully, he couldn''t hear what he was saying. With a smile, Dong Ying''er leaned over to the emperor and seemed to be listening carefully to the emperor''s words. Hearing the words, she said, "Your Majesty has wronged me. It''s not my concubine who wants to harm you. It''s your good son."She deliberately did not say which son it was, then saw a trace of anger floating on the emperor''s face, but the anger for a dying patient would only appear more weak and powerless. Seeing this, Dong Ying''er seemed more happy, and even said, "if your majesty doesn''t guess, which son is it?" The emperor was waiting for her. He made a whoosh sound in his throat. He was broken and could not make a sentence. He just called out reluctantly: "come on...". Come on "What else will your majesty call?" Dong Ying''er said with a smile: "Your Majesty has been in bed for such a long time. I''m afraid I don''t know what''s going on now. Your majesty is always taken care of by my concubines. No one can fake his hand. My concubine takes good care of your majesty every day, but your majesty has to call someone else. I really want my concubine to be very sad. " "Witch. The witch The emperor can only utter simple words. "I''m a witch? That''s right, but your majesty looks worse than me. " Dong Ying''er put her hands on the emperor''s cheek: "Your Majesty''s eyes seem to be thinking about who is going to help, who is it? Is it Mr. Li? I''m afraid your majesty doesn''t know. A few days after your majesty fell ill, Mr. Li worried too much and killed himself. Tut Tut, he threw himself into the dry well. When he was fished out, he was out of shape. " Dong Yinger''s voice was light, and the emperor''s eyes suddenly widened. Looking at her shaking, she said: "it''s you..." "It''s not me," Dong Ying''er complained. "How can I have such great ability? Naturally, only your Majesty''s good son can have such great ability in this world. Does your majesty know which son it is? " The emperor did not speak, but glared at Dong Yinger. His eyes were too terrible. If he were not sick in bed and weak at the moment, he would almost swallow Dong Yinger alive. It''s like a dying goldfish whose eyes almost fall out of its orbit. "Your Majesty doesn''t want to hear it, so I won''t say it. I hate understanding." Dong Ying''er giggled, and then said to Mr. Chen on this side, "go and take the medicine. Your majesty, this last bowl of medicine, I have to serve him personally." When the emperor heard the speech, the muscles on his face beat quickly, and then he said hoarsely, "dry...". What... " "Naturally, it''s time to feed your Majesty the medicine," Dong Ying''er pretended to be surprised. "My concubine is thinking about the little love between husband and wife with your majesty. That''s why I want to make your majesty sober for a while. When I drink the medicine later, your majesty will be free. Master huijue said well that there are many sufferings, love and hate disputes in the world. Only by breaking away from the world can we achieve a great realm. My concubines all want to think for your majesty. Does your majesty want to reward your concubines for something What she said was very interesting, as if she was coying with her lover. But the words are not to hide the murder, regicide. The emperor tried hard to struggle to sit up and roared, "be presumptuous. Somebody... " But his voice is low and can''t get out at all, and his body can''t move. There''s no other way. It''s just that I''m a butcher and I''m a fish. I have to be slaughtered. "Don''t cry, your majesty. Be careful. It''s not pretty. The Empress Dowager has already rested. It''s getting late now. Your Majesty''s side has always been taken care of by her concubines. Today, since our fate is almost over, I will make it clear, so as not to let your majesty worry about it. " She looked into the emperor''s eyes and said, "Your Highness has already obtained your Majesty''s edict. Naturally, it has been destroyed, so I''m afraid your Majesty''s mind can''t be completed. But his highness also asked his majesty to rest assured that he would sit in that position and govern the great Jin Dynasty well. Your majesty is at ease. " When the emperor heard the word "imperial edict" in Dong Yinger''s words, his face was suddenly surprised, and then he said angrily: "son of a bitch. The devil... " "That''s what it''s like to be in the royal family, and your majesty doesn''t have to worry." Dong Ying''er seemed to have a light and relaxed tone: "then your majesty, you don''t have to say anything else. It''s better for your majesty to have a rest earlier." With that, he nodded to the other side, and Mr. Chen met the medicine bowl at the right time. Dong Ying''er took the medicine bowl from Mr. Chen''s hand, carefully scooped it with a spoon, put it to his mouth to cool it, and then fed it to the emperor''s mouth. Where the emperor would drink it, he only looked at the medicine bowl, and his eyes were full of anger and despair. People''s survival * has always been very strong. The emperor tried his best to turn his head, and the soup in the spoon spilled a pillow. Dong Ying''er sighed softly, as if she had a headache and sighed: "Your Majesty is like a child. How can you take a medicine so noisy?" Say to play then smile to see to Chen Gonggong: "still invite Gonggong to help." The emperor had seen this strange manager for a long time. Mr. Li had been with him for many years, and there was friendship between his master and servant. Now that this strange man can take the place of Mr. Li, he had a part in his work. So at the moment, inside and outside of this bedroom, all of them are changed people, all of them are not their own people! He looks at Dong Ying''er. This woman is used to be docile. He doesn''t know this woman''s careful thinking, but he doesn''t expect that she is so bold that she can even kill a monarch. It''s stupid. Does she think she can get away from it after killing herself?Mr. Chen "covered" and went to the emperor. He was very strong, but the emperor was weak at the moment. He almost put the emperor up without any effort. The emperor couldn''t move. Dong Yinger, smiling, once again fed the soup to the emperor. Unable to move, his whole body was covered with chopsticks. The emperor tasted it for the first time. He closed his eyes. He knew more about his body than anyone else. Without this bowl of medicine, he couldn''t support it for long. This bowl of medicine just made that day come earlier, and he couldn''t avoid it. Fortunately Fortunately, things haven''t come to the worst yet. The road he paved earlier has finally come to use now, that is, death, at least not in vain. Dong Ying''er looked at the emperor and closed her eyes. She didn''t seem to be bothered. Her voice was beautiful: "Your Majesty doesn''t have to worry about loneliness after drinking this medicine. My concubine knows that your majesty loves Mu Zhaoyi most, so she will send Mu Zhaoyi to accompany your majesty soon." The emperor suddenly opened his eyes and looked at Dong Yinger. He didn''t say anything, but his eyes were like the last anger and gloom of a dying man. Dong Yinger was also guilty, but she was brave and suddenly laughed: "Mu Zhaoyi will be very happy, too." With these words, she fed the medicine to the emperor''s mouth faster, that is, the emperor''s mouth began to flow out of the medicine juice, and her action became more fierce, with a hint of revenge. Soup spoonful of a spoonful of fed to the emperor''s mouth, is a deadly soup, life is also in the passage of a trace. In fact, at the end of the feeding, the Emperor didn''t know when he had lost his breath, but Dong Ying''er was still serious, little by little, feeding the last spoonful to the emperor''s mouth. Then he took out his handkerchief, carefully wiped the corners of the emperor''s mouth, and took him to his original position to lie down and cover him with a quilt. It''s like a most virtuous wife serving her husband. After doing all this, Dong Yinger just said to Chen Gong, "go back to your master." Mr. Chen nodded, turned and walked out of the bedroom. Dong Ying''er is sitting by the bed alone. The person on the bed is already a corpse, and has no vitality in normal life any more. The Lord of the world who calls the wind and calls the rain, under one person and above ten thousand people, is just a withered corpse, and no longer has any deterrent power. But the expression on Dong Yinger''s face is not as calm as before, and her hand is still shaking slightly. But just for a moment, the confusion in those eyes has disappeared, replaced by a deep ruthlessness. She looked at the person on the bed and said in a low voice, "what about the Lord of the world? It''s just the same sad name. In that case, let''s go to hell together." She sat by the bed like a statue for a long time, until the oil lamp was about to burn out, and there was a little eunuch''s voice outside. Dong Ying''er then slowly raised her eyes, looking at the hourglass that was placed on the high shelf, and there was a strange smile on her face. The next moment, her face changed, and a flustered voice came out of her mouth: "no! His majesty has an accident - " the emperor''s condition suddenly worsened, and the imperial doctors of the imperial hospital could not recover this situation. When the imperial doctors arrived, the people on the bed had lost all their life. In fact, this is what every doctor has expected. At the beginning, Xia Qing, the master of Jinling, made a diagnosis and treatment in person. After that, he said that the stone had no effect. Since it''s a medicine stone with no effect, but it''s also a life hanging in vain. There will always be a day when the oil will run out and the lamp will dry up. I just don''t want this day to come so fast. All the doctors gathered in one place, there was a kind of crisis. At night, the emperor''s bedroom was brightly lit. At dawn in the East, the first ray of sunlight broke through many palace walls and shone into the gloomy and dark palace. The eunuch with group pattern dragged a long voice and said in a sharp voice: "Your Majesty - death --" the sound of mourning shook the sky and raised the court to mourn. Hearing the news, the eighth prince, standing in front of the emperor''s bed with a sad face, could not help but shed tears. His appearance seems to be very sad, and this sad also bear a bit, can''t lose his manners, in other people''s eyes, it is indeed a filial son''s appearance. Mr. Chen stood behind him with his head hooked, looking sad. Xuanli looked at the emperor''s face, but what he remembered was what Duke Chen said to him. The emperor''s tentative words about Dong Ying''er before his death are no different from what several people expected. It seems that the emperor really set up another imperial edict, which is now in his own hands, naturally there is no worry. In the future, only after the storm has passed, can we find Qiman and tear up the imperial edict completely. In this world, he is the only one with the right name. Xuanli thinks like this, but he feels that his eyes are falling on him for a while. He follows his eyes and finds that xuanpei is looking at him coldly. Xuan Pei''s face didn''t look sad. Instead, he was very calm. And he looked at Xuanli with a kind of clarity, as if he had already known how all this happened. Xuanli himself didn''t know that xuanpei was just a teenager. How could he have such a terrible look in his eyes? It was as if he could see people''s heart at that glance. All his thoughts could not be concealed from these eyes. He was stunned for a moment. Then he did not open his eyes. He pulled his lips slightly. No matter how terrible it was, in the end, he had fallen behind in this game, and his life would be over here. Now that the emperor has died, it''s his turn.Among the miserable people in the room, in addition to Xuan Pei, there is another one who is also very indifferent. This person is mu Xirou. Her pretty face was as cold as ice, and she didn''t have any special look for it. However, mu Xirou had always been so cold, and people didn''t find it strange to see her. Just standing with mu Xirou, Dong Yinger looks very pitiful. Dong Ying''er''s eyes were red, her hair was a little messy, and her face was haggard, as if she didn''t care what she looked like now. Everyone in the palace knows that Dong Yinger is a man of great friendship. After the emperor fell ill, she was always taken care of by Dong Yinger. She never felt bored and did better than anyone else. Now that the emperor is dead, she looks very sad. Compared with mu Xirou, who has no expression on one side, she is also full of sigh in her heart. The Empress Dowager Yide sits in the same place with a heavy face. People around her come and go, but she never loosens a bit. She always knew better than anyone why she had come to this stage. But occasionally, my eyes will still scratch a trace of sadness. At the moment, Xia Qing, who was the last one to check the body of the emperor, came out with a medicine box on his back. He looked dignified. Although there were many important ministers in the court at the moment, he was always straight and straight, so he didn''t think of any taboos. Instead, he said straightforwardly: "tell the empress dowager, your majesty is not running out of oil and the lamp is dry, there is something strange inside." On hearing this, empress Yide immediately said, "Xia Qing, do you know what you said in front of the mourning family?" "The grass people dare not deceive the Empress Dowager. When they examine your Majesty''s body, they find that your majesty is poisoned. This poison is not rare. It''s just mixed with your Majesty''s illness and it''s not easy to be found. If you look at it carefully, you can see the clue. " All the doctors looked at each other. They didn''t check the emperor''s body. How could everyone touch the dead dragon. What''s more, before Xia Qing, everyone knows that the emperor''s body is not good. The imperial doctors are always conservative. It''s most important to be wise and protect themselves. How can they think of this. The Empress Dowager Yide moved slightly, then touched the ruby armor on her finger and said harshly, "check!" Several doctors immediately followed their orders, and in a short time, the remaining doctors came out of the bedroom. Their faces were also very ugly, and some sweat even came out of their forehead. Looking at empress Yide, she trembled and said: "tell the Empress Dowager back, doctor Xia is right. Your majesty is really poisoned. And the toxicity is still new. It should be that it has just been swallowed, but the toxicity is too strong, so... " Everyone was shocked by this remark! Eyes involuntarily fell on Dong Ying''er, who was responsible for looking after the emperor''s daily life. When something went wrong, Dong Ying''er was naturally the first to attract people''s eyes. Dong Ying''er was also startled and said, "No. It''s not me. The medicine I give your majesty is fried in the medicine room. " It''s really impossible for her to look panic stricken, but there are always many people who are used to acting in the palace. Who knows if it''s true? "Grandmother, look..." Xuanli stepped forward with a look of sadness and a trace of just right anger on his face: "my father has been poisoned. This man has committed a terrible crime. We must find him out and never tolerate him!" The Empress Dowager Yide did not speak, but her eyes stopped slightly on xuanpei. Xuanpei''s expression was very calm. The Empress Dowager Yide slowly took back her hand that stroked the armor and said faintly: "check, check the whole palace thoroughly!" At the dawn of the eastern sky, Xiao Shao stood in front of the window with a negative hand. He didn''t know what he was thinking. Housekeeper Lin quietly put on a robe for him and said in a low voice, "master, it''s time for you to enter the palace." The news of the emperor''s death almost immediately spread to King Jinying''s residence, but Xiao Shao didn''t immediately get up and go to the palace. How many officials all over the capital are naturally in their own homes. Because of this sudden news, they begin to worry about what may happen in the future. There is no carriage at the door of Jinying palace, and there are no guests in the house. Jinying palace is very quiet, and their master has been working in the study all night. Even though housekeeper Lin has taken care of Xiao Shao for so many years, sometimes he can''t see through what Xiao Shao is thinking. For example, is there a trace of sadness in Xiao Shao''s heart at the moment? He doesn''t know. There are some, after all, relatives who are related by blood. That man has been trying to compensate Xiao Shao for so many years. Even if Xiao Shao does something extraordinary, he just turns a blind eye. Xiao Shao didn''t know what was in housekeeper Lin''s mind. At the moment when the emperor died, there was no big wave in his heart. All this had been expected for a long time. The emperor was just a stranger to him. Xiao Shao has never met the former Prince Hongxi and Xiang Xiaoyuan, but for the old jinyingwang couple, Xiao Shao was brought up by them and naturally has family ties. All this was destroyed by the emperor. To say that, we should hate him. But Xiao Shao didn''t even have the feeling of "hate". For Southern Xinjiang, he wanted to kill them all. Because that''s what he can do. In his life, he seems to have no purpose, and he doesn''t know the meaning of walking alone. Perhaps accepting the royal guards, avenging Prince Hongxi and Xiaoyuan are the meaning of his life. So he did, regardless of his life and death, indifferent to his life, lonely life, until he met Jiang Ruan.That may be another meaning of his life. That woman is fresh and different from others. I don''t know when she caught his eyes. And finally it was confirmed that they had seen it in their previous lives, and the fate of heaven was always there. Maybe it''s a pity that they missed it in their previous life, so they gave Jiang Ruan a chance to come back. He didn''t want to let Jiang Ruan make the same mistake, so he wanted to protect this woman with his whole life. Now, what Jiang Ruan has done is only based on what he expected to happen today. Xiao Shao was very calm in his heart, his eyes didn''t even fluctuate, and there was no temperature on his face. "Xuanli is going to do it." Xiao Shao said suddenly. The mindless words startled housekeeper Lin, and he looked at his master in a puzzled way. Xiao Shao is cold, but what does it mean to say something that has nothing to do with the death of the emperor. "Soon." Soon, we can get Jiang Ruan. Xiao Shao didn''t go on any more. He walked out of the door slowly, wearing the clothes that housekeeper Lin sent. Steward tuliulin stood alone. Although there is no sunlight in the morning, it also reflects steward Lin''s face clearly. If you look more carefully, you can find that the marks on the ravine face are much lighter now, and people''s faces can be changed. However, when it is confirmed that the white hair of the years is turning black quietly, and the wrinkles are fading away, youth makes the whole face look like a different face Individuals. Housekeeper Lin, with a strange face, was stunned. He also shook his head with a smile. Then he sighed again and said, "it''s my turn to be a handsome veteran The news of the emperor''s death spread all over the capital, and the people were in a state of panic. In this spring season, the real dragon emperor of the Jin Dynasty went back, leaving the candidates who had not yet been appointed as the crown prince. The civil and military officials had their own plans, and they had to bet all their money on an unknown future. Zhao Jin looked at her second elder brother anxiously and said, "second elder brother, your majesty, what''s the situation in the court now?" The future of the crown prince is always an open question. The sudden death of the emperor makes people feel more surprised. Before that, the emperor did not show which one he wanted to appoint as the crown prince. Before the emperor fell ill, the crown prince had already been abolished, so he should have set up early. But the Emperor didn''t make any action, as if he was waiting for something. After all, the eighth Prince Xuanli is excellent, but she has a laggard mother Princess Chen Guifei. The rising star of the thirteenth Prince has shown her intelligence, but she is not supported by her strong mother''s family. Both of them are good at governing the world, but it''s hard to pick one out. But the emperor looked on, but he didn''t expect to fall ill so soon. And after he fell ill, he didn''t wake up any more, until he died, he didn''t have the chance to choose the crown prince again. Seizing the right is something that everyone knows is bound to happen, but without the imperial edict, it will only make things more chaotic and the fight more fierce. "Your Majesty''s mind is something you and I can guess at will." Zhao Er Ge interrupts his younger sister''s words: "don''t say these words outside. The province brings trouble. Recently, the capital is in chaos." "Yes," elder brother Zhao Wen Yan also came over and nodded Zhao Jin''s head: "you are a straightforward, don''t know the strange. I see that it''s better to stay in the government these days, so as not to cause trouble. " Zhao Jin pushed aside his hand: "I''m also worried about my father. My father seems anxious these days. I don''t know what I can do. Your Majesty''s death is too sudden. What will happen in the future in Beijing? Who can say? " Zhao Jin, who has always been optimistic, also feels a little worried at the moment. Will the imperial court without the emperor really be ok? Empress Yide is old after all. Even if I come out to preside over the overall situation at this moment, I''m afraid I can''t press it down. It''s still worrying. The little emperor is coming to the top www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 245 Zhao Er Ge patted Zhao Jin''s head: "young, I always want to do these things. Now you might as well stay at home and embroider the dowry. This is the serious business. I don''t think my brother-in-law is too decent. I don''t know how to treat you well. I''ll watch you fool around every day. " Zhao Jin curled her lips, just wanted to refute her second brother''s words, but saw that the servant ran in in a hurry, and her face was very frightened: "young master, young master, no good, there are a group of officers and soldiers coming to our house to catch people!" Master Zhao is not in the mansion at the moment. He goes out early in the morning. There are only two young masters in the mansion. When Zhao Er Ge heard this, he was worried: "what officers and soldiers, who are you going to catch?" Master Zhao wants to be more steady. He interrupts second brother Zhao''s words. He just looks at the family and says, "what''s the situation?" The servant was about to cry. He couldn''t say anything clearly. He just said, "I don''t know. The officers and soldiers are fierce. They want to catch the murderer of your majesty. Young master, what should we do? " "Murder your majesty?" Zhao Jin stood up in surprise: "Your Majesty is not Are you seriously ill? How come it''s murder again? What are you doing at our house? Is it possible for our government to plot against your majesty? It''s nonsense "Don''t make trouble, little sister." Brother Zhao frowned: "it''s a big deal. Since officers and soldiers are here, I think I''ve heard something. Second brother, take good care of your younger sister. I''ll go out and have a look. " Then he picked up the Cape of the robe and prepared to go out. Who knew that before he stepped out, he heard disorderly footsteps coming from the yard. A large group of officers and soldiers came in and blocked the yard. It was just that they surrounded the brothers and sisters in the middle. Elder brother Zhao said in a cold voice, "you guys, what have you done in the government? Would you please work like this?" "Young master of Zhao family," the leading official also sneered, "you Zhao family plan to poison your majesty, the evidence is solid. There is no forgiveness for a heinous crime. Take it away "What a mess," Zhao Jin said angrily. Looking at the officers and soldiers who wanted to arrest people, they began to resist: "how can our Zhao family murder your majesty? What evidence? Don''t make a slip of the tongue here. How can you slander my Zhao family''s reputation of loyalty and righteousness so casually! " That officer and soldier is a smile, Zhao elder brother stretched out his hand to stop Zhao Jin''s resistance, low voice way: "younger sister, quiet, don''t want to start, this matter has a strange, don''t look for trouble before the water comes out!" Zhao Jin naturally listen to the elder brother''s words, although the heart is not willing, or obediently take back the action. But Zhao Er Ge gave up and asked impulsively, "if you don''t make it clear, you can''t take us out of this door. My Zhao family is not empty. How can we tolerate such slander! " "Miss Zhao wants evidence, doesn''t she?" The head of the officers and soldiers seemed to be impatient, and his expression was also indescribable: "do you remember the two ginseng that Miss Zhao sent to the palace a few days ago? The ginseng was tested by the doctor Xia himself, and it was poisonous. Your majesty drank the decoction with ginseng tablets that day, and it was poisonous. Your Zhao family''s evil mind is to send such poison into the palace to murder your majesty. How dare you say that your Zhao family is unjust When Zhao Jin was in a daze, Zhao Er Ge was a little strange. He looked at Zhao Jin and said, "little sister What''s going on? " He naturally knew what was going on. Zhao Jin asked him to help steal the two ginseng. Although the two ginseng were precious, they were not irreplaceable to the Zhao family. That day, Zhao Er Ge only heard Zhao Jin say that he was a friend. He was also a warm-hearted man, so he naturally agreed. But now what''s the matter with the officers and soldiers? Zhao Er Ge naturally would not believe that his younger sister was really a sinner who murdered the emperor, but how did all this happen? Zhao Jin and Zhao''s second elder brother''s strange look was seen by Zhao''s elder brother. He understood something, looked at Zhao Jin sternly and asked: "jin''er, what''s the matter?" Zhao Jin was asked so seriously by her elder brother, and then she shook her head and said, "no, elder brother, that day Ying''er asked me for two ginseng to supplement your Majesty''s body. I thought that there were many ginseng in our hometown, so she stole it, but she never poisoned it! I didn''t mean to poison your majesty. Besides, what should I do to poison your majesty? " Zhao Jin said the last sentence, already a little sober, looking at the official leader. Elder brother Zhao frowned at Zhao Jin, but now is not the time to blame younger sister. Moreover, elder brother Zhao knew that Zhao Jin would never be the one who poisoned her. Their Zhao family has always been wise and loyal to his majesty. Although now because of the relationship between Zhao Jin and Jiang Xinzhi, they already have the consciousness to stand on the side of the thirteen princes, there is no obvious manifestation. In addition, although their family''s position in the capital is not low, it is absolutely not high. At most, it is a mean, where people can see it like this. Thinking of this, brother Zhao said to the official leader, "my younger sister is not the one who will do such a thing. I''m afraid there is some misunderstanding." But the official leader didn''t answer elder brother Zhao''s words. He just waved his hand and said, "I''m sorry, young master Zhao. Now it''s not the time to bargain. There''s no room for negotiation. Let''s just follow orders. Let''s leave these explanations in jail. " After that, he said to his men behind him, "take it away!" The Zhao family, fearing the orders from the top, did not dare to revolt so blatantly. At that time, they would be charged with a bigger crime, but the gain would not be worth the loss. So although Zhao Er Ge and Zhao Jin are angry, they still bear this tone and follow Zhao Da Ge to be taken away by the official. Before he left, brother Zhao winked at the servant in the mansion. The servant was the boy who had been with brother Zhao all the time. Seeing this, he stood aside silently. When the official took the man away and began to seal up the whole mansion, he sneaked out. The news of Zhao''s being sealed up immediately reached Jiang Xinzhi. Jiang Xinzhi was very busy with Jiang Ruan''s affairs these days, but he didn''t want Zhao''s family to catch fire at this time. Surprised, there was anger, almost without thinking: "this is a frame up! It''s impossible! " Zhao Guang looks at Jiang Xinzhi with a heavy face. He is both a general and his family name. Zhao Guang still has a good feeling for Zhao Jin''s family. Big brother Zhao and second brother Zhao are also outstanding among the younger generation. Zhao Guang also likes the girl Jiang Xinzhi likes very much. He thinks that Zhao Jin doesn''t have the arrogance of those ladies. Instead, she has the free and easy manner of her daughter-in-law. She is very satisfied with her granddaughter-in-law. Who knows, it happened all of a sudden. Zhao Guang looked at Jiang Xin and said, "believe it, although you have deep affection for Zhao girls, you should not act rashly now. It''s an eventful time. It''s obvious that someone in the Zhao family is plotting to set up. I''m afraid there are still some traps. Don''t poke yourself in. " Zhao Guang has been an official for many years, and he is not a brave and resourceless warrior. Of course, he knows a little bit about these things. So at a glance, he can see that there must be other reasons for the Zhao family''s accident. I''m afraid it will have something to do with those things in the palace. So I have to remind Jiang Xinzhi. Jiang Xinzhi is not a fool, and he knows that there is something else to do. However, in his heart, he still inherits the character of Zhao family. Zhao Jin is now his future wife, and even his own woman can''t protect her. She is no man. Jiang Xinzhi had an idea in his heart, so he didn''t answer Zhao Guang''s words. Just thinking about his own business, Zhao Yuanping walked in quickly. He looked at Jiang Xin and took out a letter from his sleeve to Jiang Xinzhi. Zhao Guang asked, "whose is it?" Zhao Yuanping smiles: "nephew son-in-law." At this time, Xiao Shao sent a letter to Jiang Xinzhi. Zhao Guang got excited. Could it be that he had the news of Jiang Ruan and hastened to say, "open it quickly and see if a Ruan has the news?" Jiang Xinzhi quickly opened the letter and read it again. After reading it, he said, "no, it''s just about the Zhao family." Zhao Yuanping said thoughtfully, "Oh? What does the Lord mean? " "He told us not to act rashly and wait." Jiang Xin''s way. In the palace, Dong Yinger came out of the palace. Since Xia Qing came that day, he found out that the emperor had poisoned his hair and died. On that day, all the questioning eyes could almost make a person collapse, and Dong Yinger did, because someone found that the emperor''s decoction was poisonous in the medicinal food room, and the poison came from two old ginseng. And these two old ginseng come from Zhao Jin. Dong Ying''er is too eloquent, but at the last moment someone came forward to prove that Zhao Jin did come to visit Dong Ying''er with some gifts sent to the palace that day. The two old ginseng are also among the gifts. Even the new Mr. Chen has proved it. But even so, Dong Yinger''s suspicion has not been cleared, because Zhao Jin has no reason to murder the emperor, that is to murder the emperor, which is too obvious. Where can there be such obvious poison? At the end of the day, one of Dong Ying''er''s maids timidly said: maybe Miss Zhao didn''t want to harm your majesty, but Lao Shen sent it to Xiuyi Niang at first. As soon as this remark came out, people suddenly became enlightened, and it was probably the same. Zhao Jin came to see Dong Ying''er and brought two old ginseng. The old ginseng was poisonous, but Dong Ying''er didn''t know it. Instead, she thought it might be better to give such a valuable thing to the emperor. Who knew that the emperor would die after eating it. But it turns out that Zhao Jin wanted to harm Dong Ying''er, but in the end, she hit the emperor by mistake. Zhao Jin really has no reason to harm the emperor, but it''s possible for Dong Yinger. Many women in the palace know that Dong Yinger has alienated Zhao Jin since she entered the palace. Since she won''t alienate Dong Yinger for no reason, it must be because there is something wrong with her. Zhao Jin has a grudge because of the festival, so it''s not impossible for her to kill Dong Yinger. It''s just that the matter hasn''t come to a complete conclusion yet. Although we already know about it, we just arrested the Zhao family. Although Dong Yinger didn''t kill the emperor directly, the emperor died because of her. The palace is busy these days, and no one can take care of her. However, everyone secretly guesses that the Xiuyi lady''s life is really bad. She is easy to get a favor, but the emperor died before long. After the death of the driver, it was Miss Zhao who committed the murder, but she was also implicated by Shengsheng. Most of the time, the final result will not be much better. And Dong Ying''er did show a pathetic scene. The sad look on her face made people feel sad. She only felt that the woman was innocent. After leaving CI Ning palace, Dong Ying''er first went back to her bedroom. She changed her clothes. She had not been washed since yesterday. She looked very haggard. Now she let people put the bath water, and then she slowly went in. Steam slowly transpiration up, Dong Yinger''s face actually showed a very delicate color, she seems very happy, even with a smile. Things even went more smoothly than expected. Dong Ying''er didn''t know whether she was happy or sad, but those feelings were ignored. Now what she wants to see most is what kind of situation Zhao Jin is now, and how does Jiang Xinzhi like her? If you commit such a big crime, it is impossible for Laozi to save you. They should also be given a taste of despair, which was exactly what she felt when she entered the palace. At that time, Jiang Ruan did not save himself when he saw death. Now, Jiang Ruan does not know where he is. If Jiang Xinzhi wants to go through this muddy water, he will only involve himself, and he does not know whether Jiang Xinzhi will regret the decision he made. If she had chosen her at the beginning, she would not be like today. Jiang Xinzhi is always suitable for smart women.Dong Ying''er thought, more and more want to see Zhao Jin immediately, see what she looks like now, so soon after the bath, called the maid in waiting to make up for her, and then said as if nothing had happened: "I didn''t expect that Zhao Jin and I had a meeting, she should hurt me so much, such a scene, it is not angry in people''s heart, I also want to ask her clearly, let''s go, go to see the sisters of the past." In the dungeon, Zhao Jin is locked up in the last room. Now she doesn''t know what''s going on in the house. These people haven''t locked her up with her eldest brother and second brother, but locked her up alone. Zhao Jin faintly felt something. Maybe in these people''s eyes, she was the mastermind of murdering the emperor, so she had to be locked up like this. Although Zhao Jin didn''t know much about the affairs in the court, she also knew that anyone who had something to do with the life of the king of a country had no good end. Although she knew that the old ginseng would never be poisonous, and the emperor died because he ate the old ginseng, someone must have framed the Zhao family. Who has such a big feud with the Zhao family? Just as brother Zhao thought, the Zhao family in the capital is nothing more than the mean, which can''t be called a big tree to attract the wind. Besides, they usually keep a low profile, so they can''t attract such a big enemy in any case. Zhao Jin''s heart then faintly guesses a person, Dong Ying son. Dong Ying''er specially asked Zhao Jin to bring the ginseng, saying that it was for the emperor to mend his body. Who knew that his body had not been mended yet, and it became the emperor''s last reminder. Dong Ying''er''s words on that day actually untied Zhao Jin''s heart knot. She thought that her sister really cared about herself, but there was some misunderstanding many years ago. Now, as time goes by, they are no longer children who used to be emotional, and those unimportant misunderstandings can disappear. But Zhao Jin did not expect that Dong Yinger would become so thorough. She was very reluctant to believe that it was written by Dong Yinger, but she really had to believe it. Why on earth did Dong Yinger do this? Zhao Jin''s heart is not betrayed anger, only disappointment. Since Dong Ying''er made this decision, their last love in the past has disappeared. Zhao Jin buried her head in her knees. The dungeon was dark and damp. She didn''t feel very well. However, Zhao Jin practiced martial arts since she was a child. She was not spoiled, so she didn''t shout anything bad. What''s more, at the moment, the mood is complex, and there are things outside the upper body. In the dungeon slowly came the soft footsteps, a familiar voice rang up: "you go down, I have a few words to say with Miss Zhao." Hearing this sound, Zhao Jin suddenly raised her head. Under the reflection of the torch on the wall of the dark dungeon, there was an iron fence in front of her. At the moment, there was a man standing, which was Dong Yinger. The jailer quietly put the silver into his sleeve and said with a smile, "Xiuyi, please say, I''m going to guard outside." After that, she takes another look at Zhao Jin in the prison and shakes her head. Now everyone knows that Miss Zhao in the prison is a vicious person. She even wants to harm her sister who grew up with her. In fact, she let Dong Yinger, who was once in favor, suffer a disaster. Such a woman is really terrible. After the jailer left, the maids beside Dong Ying''er also withdrew. Only Dong Ying''er and Zhao Jin were left in this prison. Zhao Jin stares at Dong Ying''er for a long time and then says in a hoarse voice, "you did it." "So you just want to understand now." Dong Ying''er chuckled: "yes, I did it, but it''s too late for you to know." "Why?" Zhao Jin grasped the prison door as if she was about to rush out. She bit her teeth and said, "why?" "Why?" Dong Ying''er thought for a moment: "there are too many reasons for what it is. For myself and for your highness. Only by borrowing your hand to pull down your majesty, and by borrowing your Zhao family to pull down the people you want to pull, can you help your royal highness to complete the great cause. It''s a matter of one person''s sacrifice from the beginning to the end. Unfortunately, Zhao Jin, it''s you. Of course, these are not the most important, the most important thing is, I don''t like you, I hope you die. So when I decided on this candidate, I found you at a glance. " Zhao Jin looks at Dong Yinger incredulously. The cruelty in Dong Yinger''s words makes her fight a cold war. The eighth prince? This matter has something to do with the eighth prince. She didn''t expect that Dong Ying''er was the person of the eighth prince? She did not expect that Dong Ying''er worked hard for the eighth Prince and even betrayed herself. But all the doubts in Dong Yinger''s last sentence reached the peak, what does Dong Yinger mean? She said, "what have I done to make you hate me so much? Even my whole Zhao family? " "Zhao Jin, I always don''t understand why you can live such a naive and stupid life." Dong Ying''er frowned at her: "when you and I were young, you were the most carefree one. You don''t have to learn any etiquette, housekeeper or tact. As long as you like it, you will like it. If you don''t like it, you can turn around and go. If you like to dance and make swords, your two brothers will take you to practice martial arts. I don''t like you all the time. Your father''s official rank is obviously not higher than my father''s, and your Zhao family can''t compare with our Dong family''s scenery, but you seem to be happier than me. You don''t lack what I have. Even if I don''t have yours, you do. "After a pause, Zhao Jin looked at Dong Ying''er like a Madman: "is that why you hate me? So you hate me? " If so, Dong Yinger is too crazy. In addition, when he was young, his feelings were excellent, and Dong Yinger never showed any dissatisfaction. Even now, Zhao Jin has always thought that their feelings were sincere, only after Dong Yinger entered the palace did they become strange now, but the feelings of the past were not adulterated. If Dong Yinger was really jealous of herself when she was a child, it would be terrible for her to hide her Kung Fu. "Of course not." Dong Yinger said with a smile: "I don''t like this. But Zhao Jin, you seem to have forgotten what I told you about Jiang Xinzhi. " Zhao Jin a Leng, then suddenly realized, lost his voice called up: "you like him!" "Of course I like him. I''ve loved her since the first time I saw him." Dong Ying''er said: "he saved me at the Palace Banquet. I like him so much that I go to see him in person. I fell in love with him first! I took the initiative first! Why did you get him in the end? Zhao Jin, do you know how much I hate you when I know it''s you? " Dong Yinger stares at Zhao Jin. She is wearing a plain white dress for the emperor''s filial piety. The makeup on her face is also very simple and elegant. But at the moment, his eyes were round and he roared like this. His facial features were distorted because of emotional excitement, and he was like a female ghost. "How can we be reluctant to do things of emotion?" Zhao Jin looked at her incredulously: "you even hate me for this?" "You owe me that!" Dong Ying''er''s face was not as calm as when he came, and he roared back. After a pause, he continued: "at the beginning, he disappeared at the border. Everyone said that he was treason to the enemy, but I don''t believe it, I don''t believe it. My parents forced me to enter the palace at this time. I don''t want to enter the palace. I like him. But my parents locked me in the house and put me under house arrest. I couldn''t get out. Later, Jiang Ruan came to see me. You know, I always treated Jiang Ruan very well. I thought we were friends. " Dong Ying''er murmured: "but how did she answer me?" Dong Ying''er''s eyes wandered and seemed to return to that day. The bright and gorgeous girl looked at her coldly. Her words cruelly shattered her hope. Jiang Ruan said, "why should I help you?" She said: "my elder brother has no intention of you. Whether you like him or not has nothing to do with him." Dong Yinger rushed to Zhao Jin in the prison crazily and yelled: "I kneel down to beg her, kneel down to beg her, but she is also desperate!" "When I enter the palace at my age, the rest of my life will be ruined. How can she repay me when I make friends with her?" Dong Ying''er sneered: "from that day on, I can see clearly, what friends, what friendship, all lies, not as good as grass mustard!" "Sister Ruan was kind to save you. She didn''t save you, but I can''t blame her. Not everyone in the world was born for you. Why do you want to turn around because of you?" Zhao Jin looked at her pitifully. "Can''t you blame her? Who should I blame? " Dong Ying''er stares at Zhao Jin, and suddenly laughs: "I forgot, I should blame you! Zhao Jin, you know I like him! You know it! But how did you do it? When I went into the palace, you could have a bird''s nest. Anyone could have been standing beside Jiang Xinzhi, but not you "What''s the nest of doves?" Zhao Jin doesn''t get angry but smiles. She is used to being careless. She is more tolerant to people she knows. Now she can''t bear to listen to Dong Yinger''s words. Even if she retorts: "do you like him, have you ever spoken to him personally? If he didn''t say it, that''s your reason. If he did, he didn''t choose you at last, that''s because he didn''t like you. What''s the matter with me? You say I''m in the nest? What have you done for her? I also personally went to the border and rescued him from the enemy. Of course, it''s not about giving or not. But you know, Jiang Xinzhi chose me, not because I forced him, but because he chose me. He has me in his heart and I have him in my heart. Emotion is a matter for two people. Why do you think I''m sorry and have the right to criticize him? " "Shut up Dong Ying''er roared wildly. Xu was angry because of something else. Zhao Jin''s words, she did not have the slightest place to refute. It''s true that love is a matter for two people. What Jiang Xinzhi likes is Zhao Jin, not her. Dong Yinger knows better than anyone, but she doesn''t want to believe it. How can Jiang Xinzhi leave irresponsibly after disturbing a pool of spring water and live with her lover? What is she? If it had not been for Jiang Xinzhi, she would not have given up her marriage at the beginning and would not have entered the palace naturally. Is life now another scene? No matter what, it''s much better than now. Unlike now, when you look at the flowers, it''s actually a pool of black mud, which has been rotten and stinking! Dong Ying''er is just not reconciled. After destroying her life, Jiang Xinzhi can still live her own life. People are always like this. Once they fall into the mire, they always hope that the people around them will fall into the mire. It''s better than one person. She knew that she should not hate Zhao Jin or Jiang Xinzhi, but she had to keep her life in a huge hatred. Without this hatred, she would dieDong Yinger looks at Zhao Jin with a sneer: "is that right? You are very proud. I don''t know what Jiang Xinzhi will do to save you now that you are in prison, but that''s what I want to see. This is not the end of the matter. Don''t you think that love is stronger than gold? This time, I hope you can do what you wish and drag one of Jiang Xin into the water. That''s what I''m happy to see. " "What do you want to do?" Zhao Jin asked warily. "What for?" Dong Yinger chuckled: "Zhao Jin, what you owe me, you have to pay me back. This time, I will not be soft handed. " After that, regardless of Zhao Jin''s question, he walked out of the cell slowly. When Dong Yinger Fang comes out of the cell, he sees Lin Zixiang and Wen Feifei coming in a hurry with a basket. They are about to come to see Zhao Jin. Wen Feifei met Dong Yinger and immediately called: "Yinger." But Lin Zixiang immediately pulled the sleeve of Lavin Feifei and glared at her, looking at Dong Yinger without saying anything. Lin Zixiang is a person who can show any emotion on her face. Over the years, her temperament has not changed, even now. Dong Ying''er sees this, but is a tiny smile, active way: "from fragrant, Fei Fei." "What are you doing here?" Lin Zixiang asked coldly. She has a kind of sensitive intuition to see people, almost by intuition can see a person''s good or bad. Some people''s hearts are like glass, so they can see people accurately. That''s why many children can tell who is hostile to him at a glance. Lin Zixiang''s mind is pure, and he is more like a child with clear love and hate. If you think Dong Yinger is a bad person now, you won''t think it''s good for her to come to see Zhao Jin. "Let me see Zhao Jin." Dong Ying Er Si didn''t mind, just said: "I didn''t expect that this kind of thing would happen to the Zhao family. I''m also very sad in my heart." Lin Zixiang snorted: "hypocritical." Wen Feifei quickly pinches Lin Zixiang''s arm. After she gets married, she seldom has a chance to go out, and even less when she enters the palace. Therefore, she doesn''t know that Dong Yinger''s relationship with several people has been bad. At this point, she only says that there are some misunderstandings. Lin Zixiang''s words are always easy to offend people, so this reminds her. Then he looked at Dong Ying''er and said with a smile, "in that case, we will go first." Lin Zixiang shakes off Wen Feifei''s hand and goes in. Wen Feifei laughs at Dong Yinger. Dong Yinger doesn''t mind. She takes the maid of honor and goes away. Wen Feifei stands in the same place with a suspicious expression. Although she doesn''t know what happened, she still thinks that Dong Yinger''s whole life has become very wrong, as if she had become a stranger. It is the same appearance, but in her body, there is no trace of the past shadow, appears to be unprovoked gloomy. Shaking his head, Wen Feifei shakes off the strange idea in his mind, and goes in with him. Fang goes to the last cell where Zhao Jin is alone. Then he hears Lin Zixiang''s surprised voice: "what do you say?" Wen Feifei was stunned and went over curiously, only listening to Zhao Jin''s tired voice: "I didn''t expect that she would hate me so much, and I didn''t expect that she would use such cruel means. It doesn''t matter if I die, but I can''t hurt my family. " "What do you want to do?" Lin Zixiang asked seriously. Zhao Jin gave a wry smile: "when it comes to this, I probably understand it in my heart. I don''t know what''s wrong with my parents now. Zixiang, go out and inquire for me. If there''s no way, I''ll be the only one to bear the charge. " Why have I been praised for 8000 words every day recently_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 246 There was something strange about the death of the emperor. Although the news was blocked by the palace, so as not to cause panic among the people, there were so many civil and military officials. The secret of the palace was too big to hide. Colleagues in the court knew each other well, but they didn''t talk about it. Qi Feng is standing in the courtyard, playing with the Paperweight in his hand. Mo Cong asks curiously, "what the hell is Xuanli going to do? Is it just to catch up with Zhao Jin? It''s too much of a fuss. " Mo Cong and Xiao Shao were together. Naturally, they knew that Xuanli was against them. There is no doubt that Xuanli''s death is closely related to Xuanli''s death. Originally, people thought that Xuanli wanted nothing but the emperor''s death due to illness. Who knows, but the poisoning happened again. Xuanli must have deliberately left clues, but the purpose of his doing so was to involve a Zhao Jin. If Zhao Jin''s family is involved in it, the reason is that Zhao Jin and Dong Yinger have a personal grudge. In this way, it has nothing to do with the murder of the emperor. It''s just that Zhao Jin wants to harm Dong Yinger, but the emperor is poisoned. Since it''s just for the sake of pulling out a Zhao Jin, why should Xuanli do it? Besides, Xuanli and Zhao Jin have no grudge. Xuanli has never done much. In this way, Mo Cong can''t understand it. "Not so." Qi Feng shook his head: "Xuan Li has never been in vain, just a Zhao Jin, why do you do it." "That four elder brothers, you mean, this back has what back hand not to become?" Mo Cong hears speech to ask a way. "Of course there is." Qi Feng''s voice sank down: "Zhao Jin''s family is the most important protector, and Zhao Jin and Jiang Xinzhi have already had an engagement, which is a grasshopper on the ship. However, it is not easy for Jiang Xinzhi to pick it out. Of course, the most important thing is that they have only one purpose. " "Your Royal Highness?" Mo Cong understood that everyone knew that Jiang and Ruan had a good relationship with Xuan Pei, and Jiang Xinzhi and Jiang and Ruan were brothers and sisters, so they naturally shared a common hatred. If Jiang Xinzhi can replace Jiang Ruan, it means that Jiang Xinzhi and Xuan Pei have also formed an alliance. As long as Jiang Xinzhi is dragged into the water, Xuan Pei will not be able to leave. "I see!" When Mo Cong thought about it, he suddenly realized it and said, "Xuan Li is extremely cunning. I think it should be in his calculation. If it is true, he must have made preparations for the future. Fourth brother, you and third brother should have a way to deal with it. Let''s talk about it?" Mo Cong always has great trust in Xiao Shao and Qi Feng. Qi Feng is in charge of baizhanglou in the back, and Xiao Shao is leading the royal guards in the front. He has always cooperated very well. Even if the opponents are cunning, the whole Mo family, including Mr. Mo, are worried recently. Mo Cong himself is not worried at all. When the sky falls down, there are still several martial brothers to support it. After all, nothing will happen. Qi Feng looked at him and said with a smile, "I won''t tell you." Mo Cong was disheartened: "fourth brother, at least we are friends of the same family." "It''s good for you to be at ease in the court. By the way, please comfort your old man. Don''t be dazzled by the current situation in the court. It''s good to be neutral, but those who know the current affairs are heroes. The eighth Prince and the thirteenth prince, who will win more, needless to say, you know. It''s better to persuade your father than to have the heart to talk to me. You are also a member of the Mo family. Don''t ignore your family all day long. " Qi Feng simply taught Mo Cong. Although Mo Cong is intelligent, he is about a young man. He is a late beginner among his brothers. He is playful and likes to be a child. What he hates most is preaching. After listening to Qi Feng''s words, he felt a headache and said: "stop, stop, fourth brother. I won''t ask. Is it OK?" He took a look outside. Xiao Shao has been busy in recent days. He is not at home at all. He has been here several times and no one has been seen. Mo Cong said, "is the third brother still worrying about the third sister-in-law? No news at all? " Qi Feng heard that the light in his eyes was dim. After a while, he shook his head and said, "No." At the beginning, this plan was decided by Jiang Ruan and him. No matter how unwilling he was, he knew that it was the best way. Later, he thought that it would be better for the Royal Guards not to scare the snake and let them secretly investigate. But up to now, we haven''t found out where the people are. Even Qi Feng was worried. But he also knew that Xiao Shao''s worries were much greater than his. The matter had come to this point, but he had to continue. I only hope that the death of the emperor is a guide, which can make Xuanli move faster. In that case, the plan can be carried out smoothly. In the dungeon, Zhao Jin looked at Lin Zixiang who came to visit him and asked anxiously, "what''s the matter?" Lin Zixiang''s face was a little ugly: "your father was sent to the Ministry of punishment for interrogation. It''s a big deal. The emperor''s affairs are sensitive. Now your Zhao family is a big deal. Zhao''s house is sealed now. I asked my father to ask the Empress Dowager for her life, but it''s useless. I''m sorry, Zhao Jin. " Lin Zixiang is very sad. She really wants to help Zhao Jin, but his father has a long history of fame but no real power. Usually, he just talks, which can''t really affect the decision of the superior. Seeing this, Zhao Jin was relieved and said, "if I don''t do your business, this is what happened this time. It''s too much. By the way, Zixiang, what does my father say? Did you tell my father to blame me for all this? "Zhao Jin has seen clearly, since this matter is Dong Ying''er''s final decision for her, then as long as she dies, it doesn''t matter. In any case, the whole Zhao family should not be involved. If she only admits that it''s her fault, then it''s just her fault that she tried to murder Dong Yinger and killed the emperor by mistake. The Zhao family can at least get away and save their lives. But if the whole Zhao family is involved, I''m afraid the whole family will be charged with deliberately murdering the son of heaven. Lin Zixiang was silent for a long time. He shook his head and said, "your father and your two brothers love you so much. How can you bear all the things by yourself? You know it''s impossible." In fact, as long as the two young masters of the Zhao family and master Zhao argue that they have no knowledge of the matter, they can be selected from it. After all, the Zhao family really has no reason to harm the emperor now, and the evidence is basically conclusive now. Who knows that master Zhao and the two young masters of the Zhao family are hard bones. They have spoiled Zhao Jin since childhood. How can they stand idly by. Not only is not willing to push all the things to Zhao Jin, but also fight for Zhao Jin. To say that Zhao Jin would never send poisonous ginseng to the palace is to say that Dong Ying''er would not murder it. This is definitely a frame up and someone designed it. This is the sensitive time, such a grievance is a violation of the Ministry of punishment''s taboo, even when the situation becomes more tense. Zhao Jin smell speech is to stay to stay, immediately wry smile a: "it is I to give them to add trouble after all." Lin Zixiang also sighed: "as a daughter, at least your father is willing to protect you. When Ruan''s sister was in prison..." She didn''t go on. The relationship between Jiang Ruan and Jiang Quan was never good. The cold and thin man wanted to go down the well and say what he wanted to protect. The fate between people is so different, but now master Zhao''s protection is not necessarily a good thing. "You go back." Zhao Jin tired way: "I think again." "What do you want to think?" Lin Zixiang vigilantly asked: "you don''t want to do stupid things, do anything in prison to commit suicide." This kind of thing is not rare, in order to protect their families, a person will all the charges are top in prison. Zhao Jin said with a smile: "what can I take to commit suicide? This place can guard me strictly. Besides, I will commit suicide. My father and brothers may be able to release me. At least we have to wait for things to come out. Don''t worry. " Lin Zixiang turned to think that it was not good for Zhao Jin to commit suicide now. With her nature of protecting her family, she really would not do such a thoughtless thing. When even nodded: "OK, then you should be more careful." Zhao Jin nodded. After Lin Zixiang left, she rubbed her forehead, turned around and sat down against the wall. There were wet straw on the ground, and even mice at night. When she was so old, Xuan Li went to Xuan Pei and sighed, "Thirteen younger brother, I''m really unlucky." On his face, he looks like a good brother fighting for his brother''s injustice. From a distance, it''s really a scene of brotherhood. But in his words, there is a little provocation, which is a mockery of the loser. Although empress Yide didn''t make a statement about xuanpei, xuanpei would be under house arrest after that. This is not a good thing for a prince. Once he is under house arrest, he will communicate with those courtiers who support him. He knows nothing about things outside. On the day of house arrest, the outside world may change dramatically. It''s too passive to become a deaf, blind and lame person in the palace. "Why does myna say that?" Xuan Pei asked curiously, "I''ve always had good luck. I thought life was over at the beginning. I didn''t want to be valued by my father later." He said with a smile, "master huijue has seen the photo for me. He said that my whole life is a good fortune. No one knows how lucky it will be until the end? Maybe in a few days, I''ll be in the dark again. " Xuan Pei Si didn''t pay any attention to Xuan Li''s words, and it seemed that she deliberately separated Xuan from the army. Xuan Pei''s ability of killing people with anger can never be underestimated. Even if he was as tolerant as Xuan Li, there was a flash of anger in his eyes, but he soon recovered. Also smile: "so, wish thirteen younger brother good luck." There is not only one person in the palace who is worried about this. Liu Min, who has been silent for a long time, is also worried at the moment. After all, Jiang Ruan''s feelings are taboo. On the day when she married someone else, Liu Min knew that she had no fate with this woman in this life. He longed for Jiang Ruan to have a good life, but he really saw the deep love between her and Xiao Shao, and his heart was sour. But Liu Min is a restrained person. He knows that since he can''t get it, forgetting is also good. Liu Min knows that Jiang Ruan and xuanpei have always been close friends. Since the Emperor gave him to xuanpei as Taifu, Liu Min has been trying his best to teach him what he has learned. Originally, when he was the crown prince, he did not know how to write, which made Liu Min very difficult. But xuanpei, the 13th prince, was different. At first, because of the relationship between Jiang and Ruan, Liu Min took a different look at him. Later, in the process of getting along with him, Liu Min felt that this young man had a unique opinion and a strange mind. In politics, although he was the prince, he could see things from the bottom to the top, and he didn''t have the impetuousness of young people. He acted steadily and thoughtfully. He was really a genius. The emperor asked him to teach xuanpei. Liu Min always thought that it was also to pave the way for xuanpei''s future. He and Xuan Pei are the relationship between bole and Qianlima. He has only two students in his life, one is mediocre and incompetent, the other is a genius. Any master will cherish his talent, not to mention Liu min.He sighed, but now the emperor is dead, and the imperial court is leaderless. As a scholar, he can neither go to battle to kill the enemy nor influence the whole situation like those prime ministers. He could not do anything for Jiang Xinzhi when Jiang Ruan''s life and death were uncertain. Liu Min suddenly felt sad and sighed: "it''s useless. He''s a scholar." "What are you talking about?" With both hands on his shoulder, Liu Min turns around and finds that it''s Mo Cong. At the beginning, Mo Cong gave him a helping hand in the Imperial College. Later, he joined the list together. However, Mo Fu had the power, but he climbed up step by step with his ability. There was not much intersection between them. Seeing Mo CONGLAI at the moment, he was stunned. "No. 1 scholar, don''t belittle yourself. Many scholars in the great Jin Dynasty take you as an example and hope to take a number one scholar back. If you say that, don''t you have the heart of the students? How can you do the imperial examination in the future?" Mo Cong joked. Liu Min shook his head: "what about being an official? It''s not that you can''t do anything. In the past, you thought you could change the world by yourself. Now, it''s just a dream. " Mo Cong glanced at him: "you are really a strange person. When you were excluded from the Academy, you were very noble. How did you become an official in the court? After more people praised you, you became cynical?" He shook his head: "originally I expected you to help my third sister-in-law, but now it seems that I have to reconsider." "Third sister-in-law?" Liu Min was stunned and suddenly remembered that the man in front of him had a lot to do with Jiang Ruan''s husband Xiao Shao. His heart beat a little fast and he asked hesitantly, "Hong...". Princess Jinying Liu Min''s secret is that outsiders are right. This man has been coveting his third brother''s backyard for a long time, but he still slaps and says: "exactly!" Soft girl will not be rescued yet. Because she''s a drama! Love! Be careful! Xuanli is about to be beaten in the face_ ١ϣ_ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 247 "Exactly." Mo Cong shakes the fan. The fan pendant is lifelike and full of interest. He casually says, "you are the Taifu of your highness 13. Your third sister-in-law and your highness 13 are friendly. So when she asks you for help, she actually asks you to help her. Even for the sake of your highness, you will not refuse Liu Min was shocked. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan helped him. Later, because of his own impoliteness, they were more divided than strangers. There has never been an unprovoked Xiangbang in the world. Liu Min always knew that there must be a reason why Jiang Ruan helped him, so Is that the reason now? He seemed to think of something and asked in a hurry: "did Princess Jinying find it?" "No Mo Cong shook his head: "now the thirteen highness can''t get away. It''s just a school of turbidity outside. She doesn''t have a mind to hold her head up and down. This is something that the third sister-in-law had expected before the accident. Even she had expected that she would have an accident. Long before the accident, she explained that if something happened, she must come to Taifu for help." Liu Min''s heart is filled with a feeling that he can''t explain clearly. Does Jiang Ruan trust him so much? What we are going to do now must be very important. Jiang Ruan trusted him so much. Liu Min is a man with principles. Even as an official in the court, he never disobeyed his principles. Therefore, we all know that he is the most upright. But Liu Min knew a long time ago that Jiang Ruan was not a good man. She had some means, even very insidious. Now, this is not an aboveboard thing. But the hesitation was only a short moment. Soon, Liu Min said, "OK." Now it''s Mo Cong''s turn to be surprised. Today, he was asked to come to find Liu min. in fact, there is no bottom in his heart. It''s just because Liu Min''s temper in the court is known to all, and he is the most stubborn. Even if we know that Liu Min has such a different affection for Jiang Ruan, Liu Min will never be a person who betrays his principles because of his private feelings. Mo Cong makes an offer to persuade Liu Min for a long time. He doesn''t want Liu Min to agree so easily, but he is surprised. Then he hesitated and asked with a smile, "Liu Taifu, don''t frame me. Is your answer true?" "I know what you''re worried about," Liu Min said, looking at him. "I''m serious about this." "Why?" Mo Cong also put away his face and said, "you are not so easy to agree." "When you know what you''ve got, you''ll get what you''ve got." Liu Min light way. Mo Cong looks at him thoughtfully. It seems that it took a long time for him to understand the meaning of Liu Min''s words. After a long time, he nods and says, "OK, I believe you, too. It''s just that there are so many people in the palace. I''ll take you to see someone tonight. " After saying this, Mo Cong pats Liu Min''s shoulder again, turns around and leaves without stopping. Outsiders look at the past, but also just like Mo Cong road encounter look bleak Liu Min, in line with the original classmate friendship in the past to comfort just a few words. After Mo Cong left for a long time, Liu Mincai looked blankly at his palm. What can I do for myself? He knows Jiang Ruan''s ability. Now this situation is unfavorable to Jiang Ruan. She really has the ability to turn the tide. What she wants to borrow is her own hands. Can she really do it? Liu Min slowly clenched his fists, and the dazed color in his eyes began to fade. He had a little more perseverance in his expression. Anyway, he wanted to have a try. That night, Liu Min changed into brown coarse linen clothes. In addition to his official robes, he always made them by his mother. He is more refined and respectable. Now he is wearing linen clothes, but he seems to be back when he was a poor student. Compared with other people staring at many pairs of glasses outside the house, Liu Min is extremely safe. On the one hand, he is a Taifu, and he has no real power. On the other hand, his temperament is obvious to all, and it is impossible to collude with anyone. Such a person comes and goes alone, and there is nothing to threaten. Liu Min goes out by himself, but there is nothing to follow. He came to a remote tavern. There was a back hall in the tavern. There was a separate room on the second floor of the back hall. When Fang went to the door, he saw Mo Cong waiting outside. His eyes lit up and he said, "here you are. Go in." Liu Min didn''t know who was inside, so he was pushed in by Mo Cong. Mo Cong said, "third brother, fourth brother, I''ve arrived. I''ll go out first." After that, he pulled Liu Min''s sleeve again. Without waiting for Liu Min to say anything more, he closed the door. Liu Min raised her eyes and looked at the people sitting in the room. The room was not spacious, but not small. It was just like an ordinary tavern room. There was one person sitting at the table and another standing by the window. The man sitting at the table was dressed in purple and handsome. He looked familiar, but he couldn''t remember where he had seen him. When the man saw him, he got up and bowed to Liu Min: "Liu Taifu." As soon as his decent action came out, Liu Min remembered that he was also a colleague of the court. His name was Qi Feng. His rank was moderate and he didn''t go to the palace for many years. Liu Min didn''t see him very often. What''s more, Qi Feng always had a bunch of moustaches in the past, which seemed to have some characteristics. Who knows, now a beard is cut, and Liu Min doesn''t recognize it. He also returned a gift, way: "Qi adult." Then he looked at the man in front of the window.Liu Min is very familiar with this man. He only wears a black gold robe. He is tall and straight. He is leaning against the window and playing with a dagger in his hand. His facial features are gorgeous. Who is Xiao Shao? Liu Min suddenly remembered some old stories. He had seen Xiao Shao before. When he was an official in the imperial court, he had heard all kinds of Xiao Shao''s deeds from the crowd. Naturally, I know that this Jinying palace is the home of disorderly officials and thieves. Later, I saw that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had a dispute, and I once advised Jiang Ruan, hoping that she would not take herself in. In fact, in the end, his words didn''t play any role. Even at that time, it was clear that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had a long relationship. I''m afraid they had known each other for a long time. Liu Min always had a complicated feeling about Xiao Shao. He knew that the emperor trusted him, but he had some doubts about him. Later, he saw that Xiao Shao was really taking care of Jiang Ruan, as if those who were not reconciled to him were gradually dispersed. But even so, in front of this young man, he still had a kind of embarrassment, that is to face the embarrassment of a winner. Xiao Shao didn''t look at Liu min. he played with his dagger attentively, as if he only focused on doing his own thing. But when he looked at it seriously, he felt that he didn''t look at the dagger at all, and there was nothing in his eyes. Qi Feng coughed and interrupted Liu Min''s eyes. He said with a smile, "Liu Taifu, please sit down." Liu Min takes his mind back and sees that Qi Feng doesn''t mean to call Xiao Shao. He realizes that this is just a conversation between them. At least it''s no more positive than communicating with Xiao Shao. He is relieved for some reason. Then he sat down and looked up at the man in Purple: "did you call me here?" "Exactly." Qi Feng smiles a little. He brings up a teapot on one side and pours a cup of tea for Liu Min: "don''t be surprised. I think I told you before I came to Mo Cong that I wanted to find Liu Taifu. To tell you the truth, I have something to ask for." After a pause, he continued: "and this matter, it is your third sister-in-law put forward." Liu Min is calm, but she can''t help being surprised. She''s not very familiar with Qi Feng, but she also knows that Qi Feng is as humble as his official position in the court. Such a person doesn''t even have the power to influence the whole situation. Naturally, he won''t be in the eyes of the people who want to win the throne. Who knows that Qi Feng''s statement not only shows the relationship with Mo Cong and Jinying''s palace, but also reveals a message that Qi Feng is not a simple person. What is the purpose of such a man who is not simple, but has been in the court for many years, and has endured to be a moderate official? Liu Min is not a dead bookworm. Some usurpations of power in the previous dynasty have been heard in his ears. He can''t help but wonder if it is. Xiao Shao wants to be king? King Jinying''s mansion has always had the reputation of being a disorderly minister and a thief. If you are a king, you will live up to this reputation. But if it is true, Liu Min has made up his mind that even Jiang Ruan will not succeed. He will never help tyranny and become an accomplice in usurping power. Seeing that Liu Min''s face became more and more ugly, Qi Feng seemed to have guessed what he thought in his heart and said with a smile: "Liu Taifu, do you know what the current situation is on the court hall?" Without waiting for Liu Min to speak, he said to himself: "Your Majesty died suddenly. The Empress Dowager is old. The country can''t be without a monarch one day. The master of the world will take a seat one day. Now there are only two princes, eight and thirteen, who are equal. " Liu Min said coldly, "what do you want to say?" The meaning of Qi Feng''s words is to discuss the problem of the king of the Jin Dynasty with him. Liu Min can almost conclude that what Qi Feng wants to say next must have something to do with seizing the emperor. Thinking about this, he took another look at Xiao Shao, who was leaning against the window. He could not help but feel a sense of anger. Xiao Shao thought like this, but he had ever thought about where to put Jiang Ruan. If a beautiful woman wants to live in the world, she will easily cause trouble. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan won the reputation of climbing a high branch because of Xiao Shao. Now Xiao Shao does this, but does she want the woman to be denounced by the world? Since I married someone else, why didn''t I take good care of it and spoil it? Qi Feng said with a smile, "I want to know what Liu Taifu means. With Liu Taifu''s eyes, it seems that who is suitable to be the future Prince of Jin Dynasty?" Liu Min said, "I can''t stand this." Where is the room for him to speak? What''s more, now Liu Min is full of vigilance to Qi Feng, that is, every word Qi Feng says, Liu Min has to deliberate carefully. "Liu Taifu is a pleasant person, but with his position and official position, it is not difficult to be a man of the mean. But all the people in the world, who do not want to make a great career? As a minister, it is his duty and long cherished wish to assist the king. Liu Taifu did not think about helping the emperor, accompanying the emperor to see the prosperity day by day, and doing more for the common people? " Qi Feng''s eloquence is never bad, especially good at persuading people''s ideas. Liu Min is brilliant. Although he was appreciated by the former Emperor at the beginning, the position of Taifu has no real power after all. He can''t be the master of political affairs in the mountains and rivers. Liu Min was an official in the court in order to change the unfairness in his own eyes. But now it seems that he did not do what he had thought. Qi Feng''s words are not so much a promise as a reminder. He is reminding: don''t forget the original intention. Have you ever done it?Liu Min said: "so what? Let nature take its course is your Majesty''s decision, and I can''t control it alone. As for assisting the king, no matter where I am, I will worry about the temple. " "Well said," Qi Feng said with a smile, "since there is such a gully in Liu Taifu''s heart, naturally he should have an idea. Who is better in this world? Let me ask Liu Taifu, "do you think your 13 highness is worthy of the responsibility of the world?" Liu Min thinks that Qi Feng''s words are just to mention Xiao Shao. Now he is just waiting for him to say that he is young. He is talking about Xiao Shao. In order to prevent Qi Feng from succeeding, Liu Min immediately said, "naturally, among the thirteen Royal Highnesses, the dragon and the Phoenix are more alert, and the youth''s demeanor will surely have a bright future in the future." "Very good," Qi Feng said with admiration, "I didn''t expect that Liu Taifu and I had a heart to heart relationship. Third brother, did you hear that? This is where we don''t meet in life, and there are predestined friends everywhere?" Qi Feng faces Xiao Shao road. Xiao Shao light swept this side one eye, did not take care of the words of Qi Feng. Liu Min, however, was stunned when he heard the speech. He didn''t expect that what Qi Feng was going to say was this sentence. Shouldn''t he mention Xiao Shao next? How to follow his own words suddenly, Liu Min rarely shows a bit dull, suspiciously asked: "what?" "Just as Liu Taifu said," Qi Feng said with a smile, "we also think that among the two princes today, the 13th Royal Highness is better. Therefore, I am determined to go to the 13th royal highness and live up to him in this life." This is a bit beyond Liu Min''s expectation. He doesn''t know what to say, so he has to look at Qi Feng in a daze. Qi Feng suddenly changed his face: "but now you and I all know that the position of his highness thirteen in the palace is really worrying. A few days ago, he was in prison because of the identification of his maids. Even general Jiang was innocent. Liu Taifu is a wise man. If he doesn''t believe in others, he should believe in the innocence of general Jiang. " Liu Min''s heart was touched by these words. If he had doubts about Xuan Pei, it would be impossible for the Jedi to think that Jiang Xinzhi might let someone murder the former Emperor. At the beginning, the great Jin Dynasty sent troops to attack the state of Tianjin. It is obvious to all that how Jiang Xinzhi survived and fought bravely with all the soldiers. The young general came up step by step with his blood. It''s my life. Unlike other literati, Liu Min does not despise the vulgarity of the generals. Instead, he has a deep admiration for the bravery that he can''t reach. In Liu Min''s mind, Jiang Xinzhi is an honest and brave general. It is impossible for such a glorious general to poison the former Emperor. It is obvious that someone wants to drag Jiang Xinzhi into the water. The purpose of dragging Jiang Xinzhi into the water is naturally to drag xuanpei into the water. Who in the palace and Xuan Pei have the greatest hatred? Besides Xuan Li, who else? So naturally, Xuan Li is the one behind the scenes. Because of this, Liu Min doesn''t think much of Xuanli''s back stabbing behavior. What''s more, he and xuanpei have a friendship between teachers and students. Even if he doesn''t come here today, his heart is on xuanpei''s side. "I believe in general Jiang." Liu Min Dao, just a word, shows his attitude. "The general''s house is the eldest brother of the third sister-in-law. Naturally, we also believe in him." Qi Feng said with a smile, "but now it seems that Liu Taifu is also on the side of his thirteen highness. That is to say, Liu Taifu is the same person as us." Liu Min heard here is completely clear, the original purpose of this group of people is not to push Xiao Shao. There is only one person they support. Over there is Xuan Pei. Now these people come here, and what they have done is very clear to him. They bring him into xuanpei''s camp. Liu Min can''t help but want to smile bitterly. What''s the use of his position? What''s the use of pulling him into this camp? You should know that he is just a man of letters who has no real power. He goes to empress Yide to intercede for xuanpei in person, and his words are weightless. Therefore, he is useless. It is not in vain for these people to drag him in? "I''m really on the side of your highness 13," Liu Min said, "but no matter which side I''m on, it''s useless. It won''t have any impact on the final outcome, so you have to worry too much. If you expect me to change anything, I''m sorry." In the end, Liu Min couldn''t help looking at Xiao Shao again. On the surface, he meant to listen to Qi Feng, rather than to Xiao Shao. Qi Feng obviously listened to Xiao Shao''s words. Today Qi Feng''s appeal is actually what Xiao Shao means. Liu Min felt a little uncomfortable, but what he said was true. "No," Qi Feng said, "you''re wrong. Liu Taifu really belittles himself. You''re not useless. On the contrary, you play a very important role. I''m afraid it would be difficult without you. If your highness is really in charge of the country in the future, without you, I''m afraid the great cause will be difficult to entrust. " Hearing this, Liu Min couldn''t help showing a trace of surprise. Qi Feng''s words shocked him, but he couldn''t figure out what else he could do. He couldn''t help saying to Qi Feng, "I''m just a Taifu..." "Before Taifu, you were a scholar first." Qi Fengsu said: "everything in the world can be stopped, but idealism and words can''t be stopped. Before Liu Taifu became a Taifu, he was a scholar or a scholar who won the number one scholar. When an article at the beginning of the new year attracted Your Majesty''s favor, scholars in the world took you as an example. You are the yardstick in the minds of the literati. Liu Taifu may not realize that Taifu is nothing in the dynasty, but in the minds of the literati, you have more weight than any prime minister, because you are their example. "Liu Min is stunned. No one has ever said such a thing to him. At the beginning, he studied hard in the cold window to change his own situation and the situation of people like himself. But later, he read the book and found that everything was not as simple as he imagined. He could change his life, but there are thousands of people in the world. Where is the Savior? He doesn''t know I can''t do anything. I''m just an emperor''s teacher. But Qi Feng said that he was a ruler in the hearts of scholars all over the world? This Why is it so ridiculous? "Just as generals worship Guan Gong, there is no Guan Gong in the world, so they naturally worship the most powerful people in the dynasty. Liu Taifu, before and after the great Jin Dynasty, there were many number one scholars. But which one, like you, was promoted so fast and came from a poor family, so he was appreciated by your majesty. In your eyes, this may not be praiseworthy, but you should know that all you have, some people can''t get it all their lives, and what you have is enough to make many people envious. " Liu Min did not speak, his heart is gradually beginning to identify with Qi Feng''s words. With a smile, Qi Feng suddenly stood up and bowed to Liu minduan: "Liu Taifu, what I want you to do now can change the situation and save countless people. You should use the power of your own literati to change the present Zhenlong chess game. What you have to do is much bigger than you think. Would you like to, you. How dare you? " Qi Feng''s face is solemn. Liu Min also feels Qi Feng''s serious words. His heart can''t help sinking slightly. Qi Feng has made such a big gift. It seems that this matter must be very important. Qi Feng''s words, however, seem to touch something in Liu Min''s heart. When he was a boy, he also looked forward to one day flailing Fang Qiu with high spirits. His enthusiasm is being dissipated day by day on the way to the office. Now he has a chance to fulfill his dream as a young man. Liu Min feels a little chilly, but his blood is boiling under his skin, and he almost points to an answer. He stood up slowly, saluted Qi Feng and said in a soft voice, "naturally." Xiao Shao doesn''t know when he has turned around. His dagger has been withdrawn from his sleeve. Now he is standing with a negative hand and looking at Liu Min quietly. Qi Feng slowly put his hand into his arms, took out something, and put his hands on Liu Min''s hands. He didn''t say anything. Liu Min was slightly stunned. When he looked down, he was shocked. This thing, the feeling of tentacles. With unbelievable mood, he slowly opened the object in his hand. His hand was still shaking. When he saw the whole picture of the object in his hand, he could not help crying out: "how can..." He suddenly understood the meaning of Qi Feng and why Qi Feng said he had such great power. It''s true that it''s not as effective in anyone''s hands as it is in his hands. But Why? He looked at Qi Feng and the young man in black standing behind him. Both of them didn''t say anything. Qi Feng''s eyes were entrusted, while Xiao Shao''s expression was as light as ever, as if nothing in the world could be reflected in his eyes. "Thank you, Liu Taifu." Qi Feng said in a deep voice. Liu Min finally recovered after a long time of hesitation. Finally, he still couldn''t help asking, "she arranged this?" This "she" refers to the princess Jiang Ruan of Jinying. Xiao Shao and Qi Feng understand it. Xiao Shao doesn''t speak. Qi Feng says with a helpless smile, "exactly." Liu Min closes her eyes. She is really bold. It turns out that all this is under her control. In this way, now that her life and death are uncertain, it should be just a play. She should be safe, she is so smart. Liu Min was relieved. He didn''t know why. He didn''t feel cheated at this moment. He just sighed that this woman was so kind-hearted and intelligent. She played the whole country with applause. It''s a pity. It''s the first one. Liu Min put away the reverie in his heart, holding the thing in his hands, nodded to Qi Feng and said: "I will try my best." "Thank you very much." Qi Feng smiles and looks out of the window: "it''s inconvenient to stay here for a long time. Liu Taifu, please go back to the mansion first. If the time is right, he will offer it by hand. Liu Taifu is a smart man who knows how to do the rest. We don''t have to tell him what to do." Liu Min nodded slightly again. Qi Feng knocked on the table. Mo Cong, who had been eavesdropping on the table for a long time, immediately broke into the door. Looking at Liu Min, he said with a smile, "it''s OK. I''ll send Liu Taifu downstairs. By the way, I''ll pick some dark guards to protect Liu Taifu." After Mo Cong and Liu Min leave, Qi Fengcai sighs, and his self-confidence disappears. Xiao Shao goes to the table and sits down. Qi Feng looks at him and says, "it''s hard to deal with this man. He''s really afraid of him and refuses." No matter how calm the appearance is, only Qi Feng knows how hard it is to persuade a stubborn person. But he didn''t expect Liu Min to agree so readily. Qi Feng was also slightly surprised. If he didn''t believe the Taifu''s character, he would really doubt whether there was any conspiracy. Xiao Shao looked down at the tea cup in front of him, but he didn''t speak. Qi Feng looked at it, thought about it, and suddenly said, "are you jealous? Are you jealous? That Liu Taifu is so straightforward today, should be to see the face of the third sister-in-law, how, third sister-in-law you are not happy? "Xiao Shao is a strong man in his heart. It''s hard for anyone to see his wife being missed by a strange man, especially Xiao Shao, who is possessive. Qi Feng couldn''t help but think hard after he was serious. He wanted to make fun of Xiao Shao. Who made Xiao Shaoping always look cold in the day? It''s been a hard time. It''s a lot of pressure. "Talk a lot." Xiao Shao scolded in a low voice. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 248 No matter how many waves things have set off in the capital, in the courtyard where Jiang and Ruan lived, there was no news. The dumb maidservant could not speak. And with her in addition to the cover of the big white dog, then only the belly of the flesh and blood. As the days went by, Jiang Ruan could feel the bulge of his abdomen. Even if he touched it with his hand, he could feel the bulge clearly. Now she is wearing a little more generous clothes every day. No one can see her except the dumb maid, but she has not been found for the time being. But this is not the way to go on, with the passage of time, will eventually become more and more pregnant. And the people she came into contact with would never be the only dumb maidservant. One more day, she would be more dangerous. She is completely isolated from the outside world, so she doesn''t know what''s going on outside. Jiang Ruan is not without anxiety. Now she just wants to protect her baby. The rest of the things need to be considered on the basis of protecting the child''s safety. On this day, Jiang Ruan used rice. Even if the dumb maidservant cooked more rice for the reason of the white dog, there was more meat, but for a pregnant person, these things were far from enough. What''s more, Jiang Ruan also had old diseases in the past, and his body could not compare with others, so he became much weaker in these days. She leaned on the soft couch and flipped through some of the scripts specially prepared on the table, but her eyes didn''t turn up at all, thinking about her own affairs. Until a strange voice came: "Princess Hong''an." Jiang Ruan raised his eyes and saw a man in a grey robe standing in front of the door. The man''s left face was wearing a mask and only half of his cheek was exposed. A pair of green fox eyes seemed strange. Who was this man? Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised. Now with her body in her arms, her reaction became more and more dull. She didn''t even know when there were more people in the room. She did not stand up, motionless leaning on the couch, the broad front of the dress just can cover the bulge of the abdomen clean. Yuanchuan walked in slowly, with a smile on his face. Because only half of his face could see his expression, it was very strange. He sat down on the wooden chair in front of Jiang Ruan and said, "long time no see. The princess is haggard." Without saying anything, Yuanchuan continued: "I saw Lord Xiao the day before yesterday, and it seems that he has been reduced a lot. It is true that the husband and wife are united. Yuanchuan also admires him." "The envoys are not here just to talk to me." Jiang Ruan opened his mouth and said, "what''s the matter?" Yuan Chuan laughed: "the princess is still so straightforward, but she seems a little anxious. To be honest, Yuanchuan did not come here today for the sake of reminiscence, but to tell the princess something. " Jiang Ruan''s eyes fell on him, and his tone was very calm: "what''s the matter?" After a pause, Yuan Chuan said slowly, "general Jiang is in the dungeon. His 13th highness is under house arrest. Miss Zhao, who has already got an engagement with general Jiang, is also charged with murder now. Oh, no, it''s not Miss Zhao, it''s the whole Zhao family. Now it''s known as murdering your majesty. I''m afraid it''s hard to protect it." Jiang Ruan listened quietly, but did not show any fluctuation because of Yuan Chuan''s words. Yuan Chuan saw this scene, his eyes flashed slightly, and he could not help but want to see Jiang Ruan''s expression more carefully. Xuanli is about to start his work. Before that, he has to come to test Jiang Ruan for the last time. At the critical moment, Xuanli couldn''t come out easily, and the saint had a private feeling towards Jiang Ruan. Yuanchuan didn''t think Dan could really get any benefit from his words, so he had to come out in person. He knew that Jiang Ruan''s mind was treacherous and cunning, but he couldn''t see any loopholes when he said these words, so Yuanchuan couldn''t help doubting. One is his elder brother, the other is his handkerchief, and the other is his future master. In any case, Jiang Ruan should not be indifferent in front of him. But Jiang Ruan has always known how to control his emotions. Maybe now he is just playing a pig and eating a tiger. "Emissary," Jiang Ruan said in the flash of Yuanchuan''s mind. "Now it''s time to call you the emissary of Southern Xinjiang. Your saint in southern Xinjiang once met with me. From her words, it seems that she wants to occupy the whole land of Dajin Dynasty. Maybe I shouldn''t say that it''s wishful thinking, but southern Xinjiang is just a small country with bullets. At the beginning, it was not the opponent of Jin Dynasty when its national strength was at its peak. Why is it so arrogant now? " Jiang Ruan didn''t answer Yuanchuan''s words, but he said something else. Yuanchuan''s face moved slightly, and then he said with a smile: "is the princess concerned about my southern Xinjiang?" "Care is not enough, but people always like to watch the excitement." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I don''t know what kind of agreement your country has made with the eighth hall, but now it seems that I don''t understand. Your country is determined to overthrow his highness 13 and help his highness 8. Is it difficult for you to just marry clothes for other people''s crimes? With all due respect, our eighth highness is not a man who has a hand in the mountains and rivers. " "There are gains and losses in everything in the world. Naturally, the deal with his eighth Highness has reached equal conditions." Yuanchuan said: "since Nanjiang and his eighth highness are allies, now that his eighth highness is in a good situation, we are naturally very happy. But isn''t the princess worried about her elder brother?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "my elder brother has never made any mistakes. Even if he is put into the prison for a while, he will come to the conclusion one day. Why should I worry?"What she said was magnanimous, and Yuanchuan was even more suspicious. Is it difficult for him to succeed? But he couldn''t think of it. His eyes fell on the big white dog in the corner of the room. Jiang Ruan asked the dumb maid for a dog. He also knew it. At first, he thought about whether there was any trick in it, but after observing for a long time, he didn''t find anything. As soon as Jiang Ruan came out of the room, there would be countless people watching her. What tricks could he play. What''s more, she seldom goes out of the house on weekdays. A woman who can''t even go out of the door of the house can''t lift any storm naturally. But if Jiang Ruan was really afraid of being lonely to raise a big white dog, he always felt that something was wrong. Yuanchuan had a headache for the first time. He suddenly found that the women in Dajin Dynasty were more treacherous than those in southern Xinjiang, and it was very difficult to guess. Jiang Ruan, in particular, is one of them. He said casually: "the princess is cheating me. If you are really calm, why do you lose so much weight even if the dog is fed so carelessly?" The big white dog looked thin. Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised. She ate in the name of big white dog every day, but the growth of animals was always reflected directly. The dog used to be fed too well, but now, just a few days later, it looks very skinny and strange. She did not say, such silence fell in Yuan Chuan''s eyes is some rest assured, he was relieved. Thinking that Jiang Ruan must have been deliberately bluffing, now that the overall situation has been decided, I''m afraid that there is no room for anything to turn around. In this case, I can talk to Xuan Li and do it immediately. It''s not too late. Yuan Chuan''s mood suddenly became better. He looked at Jiang Ruan and found that this woman had always been a thorn in the heart of the saint. As the most trusted aide of the saint, he had been clearing all the obstacles in his life for the saint. Qiman and Xuanli want to keep Jiang Ruan in exchange for Xiao Shao''s power, but Dan really just wants to kill Jiang Ruan in his heart, and he will eventually achieve this goal for Dan Zhen. He will try to destroy Xuanli''s deal. Once Jiang Ruan is rescued by Xiao Shao, it will be more difficult for him to start in the future. How to let this woman die quietly, Yuan Chuan has an idea in his heart. He stood up again, looked down at Jiang Ruan and said: "originally, Yuanchuan came here today, thinking that the princess was alone. He didn''t know what was going on outside, so he came to tell her. But seeing that the princess was calm and not distressed, Yuanchuan was satisfied. Don''t be too sentimental for the princess. When the overall situation has been decided, she will be given a place to settle down. " With these words, he left with a laugh, never looking at Jiang Ruan again, as if he had a full grasp in his heart. After Yuanchuan left, Jiang Ruan''s calmness gradually faded away. His eyes seemed to be a little relaxed, but also a little nervous. Yuanchuan came to tell him that Xuanli had already started his work, and everything had developed as he thought. Since Yuanchuan came to test, it only means that the other party had not found something strange. Today, she played a play in Yuan Chuan''s mind, knowing that Yuan Chuan would inform Xuan li of the result of the test. Xuanli ate the peace of mind, this will start, she must quickly urge Xuanli to start. Everything here can be expected, the only unexpected is that she is pregnant, and this place is so hidden, up to now no one has found her. In this way, the belly of the child is very dangerous. I don''t know how long that big white dog can be used as a cover, but more days will bring more danger. Today, for example, it is extremely dangerous. Yuan Chuan came out of the room and saw the dumb maid carrying the leftovers to wash the dishes. Yuan Chuan saw that there was little leftovers, and the dishes and plates were huge. He was stunned and asked, "is this the prepared dog food?" Dumb maidservant "ah ah" of open mouth, disorderly point a few head. Yuan Chuan frowned: "how can you be so skinny if you eat so much..." The dumb maid was carrying a lot of food, but the white dog he saw in Jiang Ruan''s room today didn''t look fat, even thin. On weekdays, Yuan Chuan would never see such a trivial matter. However, whenever things have something to do with Jiang Ruan, Yuan Chuan always feels that things are not so simple, and he has to come up with a reason. So it''s hard to think when you look at it. The dumb maid stumbles and accidentally falls the plate to the ground. Yuan Chuan wakes up from his meditation. He looks at the mess on the ground with disgust. Because he doesn''t think of the reason, he turns and leaves. In King Jinying''s residence, Xiao Shao changed his official robe. Because he didn''t go to court much, he mostly walked outside and didn''t wear official robes much time, so his robes were very new. The Kirin embroidered with gold thread was very powerful, but he changed his clothes and immediately looked a little majestic. He was born handsome, and he was also very impressive in the crowd. But today, he was accompanied by a strange man. This man was wearing a dark red official uniform with patterns. The style of the official uniform was a little old, like the style of years ago. But on the man''s boat, he didn''t feel old-fashioned at all. On the contrary, he had a mellow fragrance like old wine. This is a very handsome middle-aged man, even today''s facial features are also very distinct, let alone think about the young style. There seems to be a literati like Qingjun, but also with a few scattered and romantic, giving people a mixed feeling between maturity and youth.The man looked at Xiao Shao and said, "master, let''s go." Two horses, black and white, were tied side by side on the wooden bolt outside the mansion. Xiao Shao turned over and jumped on the black horse. Naturally, the man jumped on the white horse, and they rode away. But on the roof behind the door of the mansion, Jin San spits out the grass in his mouth and says, "I didn''t expect that housekeeper Lin is really a beautiful man. He used to think he was talking nonsense." Jin four shook his head: "people can''t be appearance, this person is serious, but looking at some unfamiliar." These days, in King Jinying''s mansion, almost everyone noticed the change of housekeeper Lin, getting younger and more handsome. In this world, in addition to the appearance, there is no way to make people look good, and appearance is achieved overnight, where there is such a gradual view. It''s just that the royal guards have been wandering in the Jianghu for many years, and they are all well-informed masters. Looking at them, you can see that they are coming. It''s probably that housekeeper Lin took some medicine to make him ugly and old, and hid his appearance. Now, it''s about that he took the antidote, and then he gradually returns to his original appearance. "I''ve been looking for a long time, and I''m glad to find the antidote." Jin San sighed: "now, no one doubts that he said he was a beautiful man." From ugliness to beauty, everyone will be happy. Who thinks they are good-looking? Housekeeper Lin is also a person who pays attention to appearance. In the past, when he looked like that, he often commented on his own appearance. Now he has a face that can complement his clothes. Isn''t it a happy life? "Not necessarily." Jin Si shook his head: "for so many years, he is honestly playing the role of a housekeeper. It''s not necessarily that he doesn''t know that he has a way to recover his appearance. Just as we have to hide our identity when we go out on a mission, housekeeper Lin is doing it to hide our identity. " "How come you''re looking back now?" Jin three think Jin four said also reasonable, but still some don''t understand. The brocade four sighed a tone: "approximately is now what matter, force him to want to pick up his own identity again, originally hide from now on have no.". Don''t you realize that Lao Lin''s temperament is becoming less and less like Lao Lin now? " The brocade four hands propped up to lie down on own head: "Brocade Ying Wang Fu is quick to have no old wood." The old Lin is gone. Once the handsome middle-aged man has regained his original identity, he will not come back to be a little housekeeper. People like that should have a big future. Jin three also followed silence, for a long time just way: "hope they all the way smoothly, don''t live up to the identity of sacrificing Laolin." When Fang entered the palace, Xiao Shao and housekeeper Lin separated at the door. They obviously didn''t go the same way. Housekeeper Lin walked through the garden from the corridor in front of the door. His appearance was strange and tight. Eunuchs and bodyguards came to stop him. But housekeeper Lin took off a bronze medal from his waist and shook it in front of the bodyguards. The bodyguards were surprised and looked at the sign again. They had to let him go. After housekeeper Lin left, they still looked at him. Looking at the curious little eunuch came forward and asked: "elder brother, what did that man just see with you? How did he let go? He looked at his face tightly." "You know what." The bodyguard urged him to keep his voice down, and replied, "he had a pass from Prince Hongxi in his hand. There were only two passes. I''ve seen one from Mr. Li once. But after Prince Hongxi left, Mr. Li never used it. I didn''t expect to see one today." Speaking of this, the bodyguard was also a little strange: "but who is that man? He even has this thing. It looks like he is very familiar with the palace. It doesn''t look like a stranger. Is it the old friend of Prince Hongxi''s Royal Highness?" Yes, in the complicated road of the palace, housekeeper Lin''s step is very steady. After so many years, even if some things have changed, many new gardens and yards have been added to the palace, but there is no change in general, just like people''s heart. The easiest thing to change is it, the least easy thing to change is the night market. Housekeeper Lin''s feeling is very complicated. He can''t describe the feeling in his heart at the moment. If he can, he would rather not go to the palace for the rest of his life. At the beginning, his future, his prosperity, his ambition and his confidants were all buried in this cold palace. Housekeeper Lin knows better than anyone how ruthless it is in the deep palace. But he still came today, not for anything else, just for a promise. He is going in the direction of the CI Ning palace. Aunt Yang beats the Empress Dowager Yide on her shoulder carefully. Her strength is very good. She has taken care of the Empress Dowager Yide for decades. Aunt Yang is always so considerate. Once upon a time, the Empress Dowager Yide was very comfortable with her service, but today, the brow of the Empress Dowager Yide has never relaxed, as if she had encountered something that could not be solved, and she has been frowning tightly. Aunt Yang sighed silently in her heart. Maybe xuanpei''s news of regicide could not be concealed after all. She wanted to try her best to conceal it. How could the people of the eighth Prince school let go of such an opportunity to attack xuanpei. Now the Manchu Dynasty is flying up and down in the hope of setting up the prince as soon as possible. The thirteen princes are not worthy of being the emperor because of their bad morals, and the eight princes are the future masters of the great Jin Dynasty. Although these voices were not as arrogant as they were on the surface, they almost spread all over the former dynasty of the great Jin Dynasty. Xuan Pei was under house arrest. Naturally, he didn''t know about these things outside, but maybe it was a good thing. Aunt Yang thought that he was just a young child. It was cruel for him to face fratricidal and confusing right and wrong at such an age.Xuanpei didn''t directly face these cruel things, so all the pressure was put on empress Yide. Empress Yide, who listened to the government behind the curtain, couldn''t do it for too long. Otherwise, she would be criticized by the whole world, just like the empress who ruled the country after the death of an emperor in the previous dynasty. No matter how well she managed the country, she could not win the name of a demon empress, and was eventually defeated by civil and military forces All the officials and the Regent overturned the country. If the Empress Dowager Yide didn''t make her stand, the courtiers would think that she wanted to control the government by herself. But once xuanpei provoked this incident, the Empress Dowager Yide could not openly support him. Under such circumstances in the court, some of xuanpei''s followers also defected, but Xuanli had more people. Aunt Yang knew the empress Yide''s mind. At the beginning, the emperor wanted to make Xiao Shao the crown prince, but Xiao Shao never meant that. The empress Yide thought that she owed Xiao Shao, so it was impossible not to consider Xiao Shao''s mind. If Xiao Shao didn''t want to be the emperor, empress Yide would not force her. The remaining eight princes and thirteen princes, to be fair, no matter which one she chose, would be harmless to herself. She has always been the emperor''s grandmother. Xuan Pei and Xuan Li can''t do anything to her, as long as they are not afraid of drowning in the saliva of the world. The Empress Dowager Yide''s original disposition was that she would not do anything. However, the Jinying palace had clearly indicated that she was on Xuan Pei''s side, which represented Xiao Shao''s attitude. Although it must be because of Jiang Ruan, it turned out that Xuanli had an unclear relationship with Nanjiang, which was a piece that could not be used by Empress Yide. Therefore, the Empress Dowager Yide will not publicly support Xuanli. Even if it is the trend of the times, the Empress Dowager Yide will support Xuanli under countless pressures. Even in the most cruel and difficult years, this woman is like an iron mirror and will not yield to anyone. "Niang Niang, now..." Aunt Yang finally couldn''t help asking the question she had been wondering all along: "what are you doing so hard to support?" "To wait for an opportunity." Empress Dowager Yide, with her eyes closed, said so. "Opportunity Is it a chance for your Highness the thirteenth? " Asked aunt Yang. "If he only has the ability to wait, he won''t have to think about that position." Empress Dowager Yide opened her eyes. Her eyes were full of clarity and sharpness. It seemed that there was something else flashed by, but aunt Yang didn''t see it. "Empress dowager, it''s too hard." Aunt Yang whispered that the haze in the palace did not disappear in a day. How many things the Empress Dowager Yide did in it, outsiders can see, just a little. Just as she was thinking about it, the eunuch''s notice suddenly came from the outside: "tell the Empress Dowager that someone outside the door is holding a token to see her --" the eunuch presented the token with both hands, and aunt Yang took it and handed it to empress Yide. When empress Yide''s eyes touched the token, she was stunned at first, as if she had fallen into some kind of memory. Then her face suddenly sharpened, "Bring it in!" he said in a deep voice Lao Lin said that he wanted to change the style of painting ~ about watching pirated girls, this can''t be controlled, but it can be done without leaving a message. It''s very tiring to delete one by one_ ١ϣ_ I know that some student party members say that they are short of money, but 123 romance clients can sign in and send 123 romance coins, no money ~ for free www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 249 A figure in a red official robe came in slowly. His clothes were very colorful. But in this gloomy hall, he felt a bit desolate, like an old attic where things are different. The red lacquer is still there, but there is a kind of mottled old desolation. The man stopped in front of empress Yide and knelt down at the corner of his robe. He said in a loud voice, "minister, Captain Lin, meet the Empress Dowager --" empress Yide didn''t speak. She just stared at the people kneeling in the hall. Aunt Rao Shi Yang was also surprised. Lin Wei, this name in the great Jin Dynasty, is today''s civil and military officials, in addition to the new officials, no one is unfamiliar with this name. The elegant tanhualang is eloquent. At the beginning, he argued with the old people in the Imperial Academy, but he didn''t fall behind at all when he was young. The stubborn beards of the people who taught in the Imperial Academy were all pulled off. And the most talked about, or about this person and Prince Hongxi original friendship. Prince Hongxi is a courteous corporal, but because of his status as the prince, he can''t be too close to others. He can only treat this tanhualang, Lin Wei, with sincere admiration. When the former Emperor was alive, Prince Hongxi also said: with this man, Dajin can guarantee the government for 20 years. Such a handsome, young and promising tanhualang asked himself to resign after Prince Hongxi''s accident. Although the reason is not suitable for the official career, people with clear eyes can see that he is because of Prince Hongxi. How can such a talented young man who attaches great importance to love and righteousness not let people sigh. It was difficult to produce a Lin Wei in the hundred years of the Jin Dynasty. But after Lin Wei resigned and retired, there was no news. The emperor also inquired about Lin Wei''s news openly and secretly, but in the end they all failed. People only said that the person is no longer in the world, otherwise such a wonderful and gorgeous person would not be buried anywhere. How could he have been unknown for so many years. Aunt Yang turned her mind and looked at the man in front of her. Compared with the young man at the beginning, Lin Wei had obviously added a little wind and frost, but it didn''t make him look haggard and old, on the contrary, it added a unique charm to him. It was the calm after the world, with the heroic spirit of a mature man. Aunt Yang was in a trance. When Lin Wei was visiting flowers in senior high school, she was just a little girl. All the young girls had a heart for this visiting flower boy. Unexpectedly, so many years have passed, and the people in front of her are not as sharp as they used to be. If we say that the original Lin Wei is a shining pearl, now it is like a gentle jade, tempered by the years of peace and deep. Empress Dowager Yide finally spoke, but she didn''t let Lin Wei get up. She only said, "it''s been more than 20 years. Lin Qing''s family is still alive." Lin Wei smile: "a farewell after years, Empress Dowager Phoenix Health, Lin Wei will rest assured." Aunt Yang lowered her eyes and carefully continued to beat her shoulder for Empress Yide, but she was a little absent-minded, and her strength was not as good as just now. The Empress Dowager Yide didn''t notice. She turned her eyes and closed her eyes slightly. Her voice was not salty and said, "I''ve never heard from you for so many years. Where have you been?" There was not a trace of blame in the words, just like an old friend''s reminiscence. Lin Wei knelt on the ground and replied, "I didn''t go anywhere. I''ve been here all the time." The Empress Dowager Yide''s breath stagnated slightly, and then said, "are you in the capital?" "Exactly." Answer Lin Wei. Empress Dowager Yide was silent for a long time, then she suddenly gave a smile: "I see. No wonder the emperor can''t find you anywhere. You are beside him...". You protected him for so many years. Lin Wei, you even cheated the AI family. " "Wei Chen just wanted to take good care of the little master," Lin Wei replied, "at the beginning, his royal highness entrusted the little master to the king, and also to Wei Chen. Weichen vowed to follow his highness to the death, and he would only live for the little master all his life. " There was a long silence in the hall. After a long time, the Empress Dowager Yide waved her hand wearily: "your words are always true. Since he has entrusted his son to you, even if he believes in you, he has nothing to say about mourning his family. " She sighed: "just, but also wronged you." "I don''t feel aggrieved." There was a smile on Lin Wei''s face, which softened his originally solemn look. He was in a trance with the wanton demeanor of playing mahongxiu building. Instead, it was a kind of comfort: "I watched my master grow up, I watched my master lose his teeth for the first time, and now I''m still watching my master get married. I''ve finished my highness''s life Entrusted, I don''t feel aggrieved. " Aunt Yang was not moved by the sincerity of these words. The Empress Dowager Yide stopped and said, "why did you enter the palace today?" After more than ten years, Tan Hua Lang, who lives a down-to-earth life in anonymity, has come back to reality, which means that his identity is about to be exposed. This is undoubtedly a loss to Lin Wei, who has been hiding for many years, but he still does it. What made him prefer to abandon his stable life and enter the palace? It''s not necessarily because of his wealth. If he really wanted to be rich, he would not have resigned many years ago. In fact, they both know what the purpose is. "Empress dowager, when I first became an official, I wanted to help the monarch of the world. Later, my highness the prince died. Even though I had all my skills, I was useless. Now Mingjun reappears, and Weichen still wants to assist the princess. ""Presumptuous!" Without waiting for Lin Wei to finish, the Empress Dowager Yide said, "are you saying that the emperor is not Mingjun? How dare you, Captain Lin If the emperor was alive, he would not be able to chop off Lin Wei''s ten heads. The meaning of his words is that the emperor he recognized was Prince Hongxi, so it was not Prince Hongxi who took the seat later. It didn''t matter to Lin Wei. He disdained to help! Lin Wei heard empress dowager Yide''s angry words, but he didn''t beg for mercy. He still knelt quietly in the same place, but his back was straight. He was stunned, which made people see that he was stubborn and unyielding. Obviously, he didn''t think there was anything wrong with what he said. The atmosphere of catching the ghost in the hall became very tense for a moment, and aunt Yang could not help holding her breath. I don''t know how long the stalemate lasted before I heard empress Yide sneer: "are you really as bold as ever?" If Liu Min, who was born in the imperial examination at the same time as Lin Wei, was also upright and stubborn, but he was far worse than Lin Tanhua. When the former Emperor was alive, he didn''t like Prince Hongxi, but he appreciated Lin Wei very much. Lin Wei has the courage to smooth a tiger''s beard and the ability to smooth the tiger''s irritability. He was a lawless Lord. Many people in the court did not hesitate to say what they did not dare to say in front of the emperor. Even sometimes they would touch the scale of the emperor, but in the end it was thunder and rain. In fact, Lin Wei is very smart. The most taboo thing for those who are in charge is that the minister will feel his mind completely. It''s not a good thing if the minister is too smart. In the eyes of the emperor, there is no doubt that Lin Wei is such a straightforward person. If he has two or three talents, he is a rare talent. Lin Wei is straightforward and has seven or eight points of talent. The emperor is very satisfied and will not be punished easily. Now that Lin Wei is still commenting on the emperor in front of empress Yide, empress Yide is a little stunned. It seems that the man kneeling down in front of her is back to the original Jinluan palace. At that time, nothing happened. She closed her eyes and said in a deep voice, "well, the Emperor didn''t care about you at the beginning. What can I care about my family?" She looked at Lin Wei, her eyes suddenly became sharp: "what do you want to do?" "I beg the Empress Dowager to allow me to become an official with the imperial edict of the former Emperor," said Lin Wei. With these words, aunt Yang could not help but stop her action and looked at Lin Wei with a look of amazement. "When the former Emperor was alive, he once gave his ministers a will. As long as they were willing, they would be ministers all their lives." Lin Wei continued: "only later did I resign and return to seclusion, but the imperial edict is still there. Now I dare to beg the Empress Dowager for mercy. I invite myself to be an official -" "you are crazy..." Yide murmured. The minister who has been away from the temple for many years suddenly wants to become an official for no reason one day. It''s ridiculous to anyone. But Lin Wei is still serious. Aunt Yang and Empress Dowager Yide don''t think he''s joking. "Even if you hold the imperial edict of the late emperor, it is against the official way and is bound to cause numerous rumors. What are you doing! " Empress Dowager Yide said in a cold voice. Looking at Lin Wei''s eyes is a little complicated. Lin Wei said that if there is an imperial edict in his hand, there must be an imperial edict. However, after the death of the former Emperor for such a long time, every turbulence in the court today is closely related to what may happen in the future. When Lin Wei chose to be an official at this time, did he not put the handle in front of others. Although empress dowager Yide called the wind and rain when she was young, now she has to serve her old age. These days, the pressure given by the people who support Xuanli is also very hard. She dare not think about what kind of turbulence will be caused when Lin Wei''s true news is spread. "I don''t have any nonsense," said Lin Wei. "The emperor of Ming Dynasty has come out. I just try my best to help him. I hope the Empress Dowager will succeed." Empress Yide got up from her seat and went to Lin Wei. She looked at him condescending, not angry but smiling: "Mingjun? I also want to know who the emperor of the world is At the end of the day, her voice suddenly showed a trace of anger and depression. These days, she looked coldly at the ups and downs of the court, and the time repeated with the past, which reminded her of the scene when the eight kings seized the throne when the former Emperor was alive. And now, Lin Wei, an old minister of the past, dare to say: Fu Zuo Ming Jun. Mingjun! Where does Mingjun come from in this world? If he wins, he is Mingjun. If he loses, he can only let history books waste his life at will. No one can help him. "The Empress Dowager is far sighted. Naturally, she knows who knows who is the emperor." Lin Wei suddenly bowed his head to empress dowager Yide and kowtowed: "I will be loyal to my master all my life. I will finish my master''s orders. There is no difference in the hands of the people and the officials in the world, but the little master wants it to be his Aunt Yang''s hand slightly, this can be said to be arrogant to the extreme, almost the world people are not in the eye. Aunt Yang said that Lin Tanhua was the most courageous in the middle of the dynasty. She didn''t believe it. Now she can see it. Not only that, after many years, this man''s temperament has increased. Where did he get the courage? What is surprising is not only the courage of Lin Wei, but also the attitude of empress Yide. The Empress Dowager Yide was silent for a long time. Without saying a word, she turned back to her seat. The ruby armor in her hand unconsciously crossed the carved clouds on the seat. The small voice was very clear in the quiet hall. After a long time, she sighed and said, "the will of heaven, the will of heaven will come out today."She raised her hand and said in a clear voice, "it''s time to be an official and mourn my family." "Thank you, Empress Dowager." Lin Wei kowtows to empress Yide again. "Lin Qing''s family, think about it." The Empress Dowager Yide looked at him: "no one knows what will happen in the future. It''s your own way to assist the king. One day you will become a stepping stone, and you will be willing to. Don''t blame me for not reminding you of this. " Lin Wei smiles and says in a loud voice: "I will remember the lesson of the Empress Dowager." On this day, some people in the palace were restless. At the eighth Prince''s house, Xuan Li got the news and discussed with his staff for a long time. "That person must be the helper that the Empress Dowager seeks. If your highness doesn''t wait for the matter to be settled at this time, he should start early and kill them unprepared." An aide suggested. A strange man came to the palace, holding the token given by Prince Hongxi, and asked to see empress Yide. The person who came to report didn''t say who that person was. It''s just that holding a spirit card is enough to attract people''s attention. "That''s not true. That person is probably Prince Hongxi''s old friend. Since he entered the palace, he must be ready. It''s not beautiful to start so rashly. Now that his Highness has taken the lead, there''s no need to worry too much. It''s better to wait and see the change, know yourself and your opponent, and win a hundred battles." Another aide, however, held the opposite view. Xuanli frowned. This argument has been going on for a whole afternoon. His disciples are divided into two groups. One group thinks that we should act according to the plan, no matter who the other party is coming from. The other group thinks that there is something strange about it. Don''t get caught in the enemy''s trick. The two sides have their own views, which are all reasonable, and the debate has not yet come to a conclusion. Xuanli was a little upset in his heart. He didn''t know where his impatience came from. These days, he hid his actions. In order to prevent being caught, he had never even seen the place where Jiang Ruan was locked up. The news Yuanchuan brought back was that Jiang Ruan showed that so far there were no back moves, and their plan was feasible. But Xuanli''s spies also said that Jiang Ruan''s diet was as usual, and he looked very at ease. Xuanli was puzzled that Yuanchuan and he were allies, and now they need him to ascend the throne to rely on his power. Before that, he would not do anything, let alone cheat him in the matter of Jiang Ruan. There is no need for his spies to lie. Jiang Ruan Mingming is worried about his future. Why is he still so calm? Xiao Shao''s royal guards are searching for Jiang Ruan''s whereabouts everywhere, which is beyond doubt. But xuanpei in the palace didn''t move. Xuanli didn''t think that xuanpei was a man waiting to die. He should think of some way to change the current situation, but he didn''t. xuanpei was surprisingly quiet, and he was very calm during house arrest. The Zhao family and Jiang Xinzhi didn''t complain about the wrongs of the family who had been put into the prison. These people also bite their teeth in the daily interrogation of the Ministry of punishment. With Xiao Shao saying hello, those people dare not Lynch the Zhao family and Jiang Xinzhi. It can be said that the threat has not been burned, but it is useless. Even mu Xirou, who had already been convicted of death, was calm when she learned that she was about to be executed more than ten days later, as if she had already expected the outcome. Most of the chess pieces sent by people, especially the most important ones, are dead men who know their own ending. This is nothing to blame, but Xuanli once saw that mu Xirou''s calmness was not the calmness he had expected for his own ending, but a kind of light joy that seemed to contain liberation. Joy? Xuanli only felt headache. These people were so calm that he could not help doubting his original plan. Now there are more strangers holding tokens, which makes him hesitant. He is a man who does things without fail, especially this time. So I finally turned back, interrupted the argument of the guests, left a sentence to watch the change and left. However, this change was much earlier than everyone expected. Because the next day, the Empress Dowager Yide announced a news that Lin Weilin, the great talent of the Tang Dynasty, who had resigned from office and returned to seclusion, and more than 20 years later, with the emperor''s will in hand, were ordered to return to office. As soon as the matter came out, Ju Chao was in an uproar. Lin Wei''s reputation is not unknown among the civil and military officials of the older generation. Even now many young officials in the court and his father and uncle are aware of it. Such a person who has full influence on the great Jin Dynasty, but now the situation is unpredictable now suddenly so high-profile back. Although this is in line with Lin Wei''s uninhibited style, it''s really shocking. At that time, there were two waves in the court. A group of people strongly opposed Lin Wei''s becoming an official, even with the emperor''s will. He also moved out of his resignation and seclusion, saying that since he was dedicated to the country, why he wanted to go free and easy at the beginning, and now he came back, I''m afraid that he had ulterior motives. Another group of people strongly supported Lin Wei, saying only that Lin Wei had talent and strategy in his heart, and that staying in the imperial court was just for the prosperity of the great Jin Dynasty, which was the well-being of the people of the Jin Dynasty. Let''s see which of today''s civil servants is as talented as captain Lin. such a brilliant blade naturally requires many appointments.Those who opposed Lin Wei were from Xuanli. Since the first person Lin Wei met was empress Yide, they firmly believed that there must be a conspiracy. As for those who supported Lin Wei, they didn''t support the thirteen princes, but most of them were old ministers in the original court, who also had friendship with Lin Wei. Lin Wei''s influence among civil servants has remained unchanged for decades. If Liu Min is a model among the students, Lin Wei is a model among the civil servants, who has achieved the ultimate goal of being an official. It is the dream of all civil servants that one can scold the emperor, another can swim in the spring breeze, make friends with the crown prince, and finally get away and leave a good name. But in fact, Lin didn''t care what people outside said about him. Yide empress dowager''s Yizhi has come down. Lin Wei still has the imperial edict of the former Emperor in his hand. Now where can anyone control him? Moreover, the people who supported his return were all senior officials in the imperial court. They had a high reputation, so no one could do anything about it. So tan Hua Lang, who had resigned and retired, came back in full view of the public. Now that he''s back, everyone can''t help guessing why he''s back. And Lin Wei really lived up to the expectations of the public. He took out his previous lawlessness. On the second day of becoming an official, he publicly gave a compromise in the court to explain the matter of setting up the crown prince as soon as possible. Moreover, he clearly showed that he supported the 13th Prince xuanpei. It seems to have turned into a farce. No one thought that Lin Wei would do it. At that moment, some people who supported Xuanli quarreled with Lin Wei in the court. But who was Lin Wei? He used to argue with Confucians. Even after more than 20 years, his skill was no less sharp than before. The more sarcastic his words were, he didn''t feel it at first. When he listened carefully, he just felt very old and spicy. Several ministers who supported Xuanli were angry, but they couldn''t say a word. Just like this, he began to lobby other officials. He was a scholar, and all the people he was looking for were civil servants in the court. Most of them were old and had a great position in the court. Of course, I have a full friendship with him. He had already made friends with Lin Wei. Lin Wei was a leader in the civil servants'' mind. With his eloquence, it was almost less than a few days. Most of the civil servants who were still hesitating stood firmly in the group of thirteen princes. In this world, civil servants seem to have no real power, but their role should not be underestimated. The students of civil servants are all over the world, and the scholars are the people who have a lot to say among the common people. If they lead all the good words to xuanpei, the 13th prince, they will not have a good reputation even if xuanpei leaves the throne later. Lin Wei''s action is more and more presumptuous, finally, even Xuan Li, who is used to be patient, can''t help it. "If we go on like this, the spittle of civil servants will drown us," the staff said urgently, "Your Highness, we can''t go on like this any more. We have to start as soon as possible. The later we delay it, I''m afraid that Lin Wei will cheat almost all the people in Jin Dynasty. " Xuanli''s eyes were deep. Naturally, he knew the truth. It turned out that Lin Wei had the idea. Although I don''t know how Xuan Pei and Lin Wei get together, for Xuan Li, Lin Wei''s existence is just like a fly, which turns people off. He turned the jade finger on his finger slowly and said coldly, "I can''t bear it anymore. It''s time to do it." After returning to King Jinying''s house, housekeeper Lin took off his official robe. Over the years, he has been used to wearing comfortable materials and the style of ordinary people. He is not used to this kind of formal and colorful clothes. He just put on his usual clothes. As soon as he went out, he felt something was wrong. He looked up and saw Jin San sitting on the eaves, looking at him in his spare time. Lin housekeeper Leng Leng, immediately blow beard stare way: "see what see, girl home also don''t know to pay attention to own posture!" If it had been in the past, it would have been very pleasant, but with the handsome face of housekeeper Lin, it would have been a bit nondescript. Jin San spat out the grass in his mouth, jumped down and stood in front of housekeeper Lin. he shook his head and said, "tut Tut, people depend on clothes and horses depend on saddles. Lao Lin, it''s very nice for you to dress up like this." "I am a handsome man." Lin housekeeper smell speech proud smile: "calculate you have vision." "Not only a beautiful man, but also a talented man." Jin San picked an eyebrow: "these days, your actions in the court are all crazy in our royal guards. They say that you are a real person who doesn''t show your face, who plays a pig and eats a tiger, who is insidious, cunning and shameless..." The front said very well, heard the back Lin housekeeper more and more feel wrong, quickly stopped Jin three words: "stop, stop, what do you say, can you say idioms? Is that a compliment? " Jin three vomited out his tongue: "don''t dislike people. They are not as good as housekeeper Lin. Yes, I have something to tell you Then he took out a thick pile of things from his arms. Housekeeper Lin was stunned at first. Then he opened it and found that it was the bank notes of Sihai bank. There were more than 100000 taels in a thick pile. He is a Leng: "what does this mean?" "Now that you are an official in the court, you need to deal with everything. Besides, you have to cheat people to deal with the eighth prince. Those people are not fools. How can they willingly listen to you if they don''t benefit. Scholars are the most hypocritical. On the surface, they say that money is something outside their bodies. In fact, they are eager to have more money. We in the royal guards don''t think you have much money to spend, but you can''t even sell your wife. So we gather some money to spend on your old scholar friend. No more money can be spent. "Lin housekeeper smell speech first is a meal, then just see to brocade three. The brocade three is calm with him to look at each other, don''t have the slightest twist. Who is housekeeper Lin? He is very familiar with the royal guards when he takes care of Xiao Shao from childhood to adulthood. This man usually looks unreliable, but who knows what is behind him. It can be seen from the fact that Ken lived in anonymity beside Xiao Shao for so many years that he was really a determined man. Housekeeper Lin is not used to using the money in the house. He always pays money from his own account. He is not a bank. Where can he have so much money. Although the royal guards have never experienced those things in the court, they have never eaten pork, and they have seen pigs run. Knowing that housekeeper Lin is not easy, they have collected some money to send them. "I can''t take a child''s money!" Housekeeper Lin said angrily, "what''s more, there''s a woman''s money. Isn''t it shortness of breath?" "Oh, when you were housekeeper, you flattered the princess." Jin San said, "I don''t know who that is? Oh, by the way, that''s housekeeper Lin. now where is housekeeper Lin in the house? Only Lin Tanhua. The original one has been forgotten. Ah. Don''t forget it. It''s a pity that our young lady wants to help the palace, but someone can''t save her face. She wants to make things difficult for her ridiculous self-esteem. Ah, there''s no way -- "then she takes the money from housekeeper Lin and turns to leave. "Stop!" Housekeeper Lin scolds. He walks to Jin San in three or two steps and grabs the money ticket: "it''s not very unkind for me to refuse, so I accept it reluctantly." Jin three''s last words still touched him, indeed, what face is not important, now the most important thing is to help the thirteen Prince ascend the throne. This silver is really indispensable. No matter how much silver there is in King Jinying''s mansion, if war really starts in the future, where will the salary of the soldiers come from. Steward Lin has been a bit stretched these days. Everything has to pay a price. No matter how eloquent he is, he can''t draw a pie of emptiness without practical things. Brocade three smile with a smile, the amorous feelings of ten thousand kinds of Tuo Tuo hair: "in fact, this silver is not white take of, in fact, I also have a thing to ask, also want to ask Lin housekeeper help." "What''s the matter?" Housekeeper Lin asked curiously. Jin San usually has nothing to ask him. "Well, I fell in love with the young master of the general''s family, and planned to write a love poem, which would be quietly put by his bed at night. It''s just that I don''t know how to write this love poem. Since housekeeper Lin was a tanhualang, he must have a good literary talent. I''ll do it for you. " "Go away!" Housekeeper Lin walked away with a black face. On the way, he could still hear his voice murmuring to himself: "if you don''t learn well, girl, what kind of love poem do you write...". Put it under the bed. What''s the point After housekeeper Lin left, Jin San shrugged. Jin Si jumped down from the back eaves and went to Jin San. Looking at the figure of housekeeper Lin, he sighed: "he''s hard, too." No matter how handsome he looks, he can''t hide his tiredness. In recent days, housekeeper Lin has been lobbying wildly. On the one hand, he really wants to build momentum for the 13th prince, but more importantly, he puts pressure on Xuanli. It''s just like fighting in a war. It takes a lot of ability to make Xuanli, who is used to forbearance, anxious. Housekeeper Lin''s incessant lobbying and persuading civil servants would make Xuanli feel uneasy. Under such uneasiness, he would only carry out his plan ahead of time. In this way, housekeeper Lin''s wish was achieved. "I hope his hard work is not in vain." Jinsidao. "I hope," Jin three put away the face of the color of laughter: "only hope to live up to the young lady''s sacrifice and plan." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 250 Three days later, most of the courtiers in the court suddenly joined hands to ask for Xuanli''s orders, and Xuanli was asked to ascend the throne immediately. This time the news was so big that Xuan Li decided to do it. Facing up and down, those courtiers who were used to not knowing the depth and who had been working for Xuanli in private stood up. People were surprised that the eight princes had such a wide influence. It was really chilling. Among them, there are many senior officials of the two dynasties, civil and military officials, and those who hold great power. Compared with them, those who support Xuan Pei seem to be too weak. It''s no wonder that Xuan Pei''s supporters are not many. In fact, Xuan Li has been planning for this matter for many years. Many years ago, he began to buy courtiers secretly, just for this day. When xuanpei was a waste prince, Xuanli had a great reputation among the people in the dynasty. The thin camel was bigger than the horse, and he was used to hiding his strength. Under such strong pressure, Empress Dowager Yide could not support her. Those people''s notes are very clear. Since ancient times, if not for the emperor''s personal identification, they have established the elder rather than the younger. During the reign of the emperor, he also attached great importance to Xuanli. Now xuanpei is still young, so he is not a candidate to take on a great responsibility. Besides, Xuan Pei still has a suspicion of Patricide. In the Jinluan hall, the ministers talked endlessly, but if you look closely, you can see that most of the people who spoke were Xuanli. Even if Xuan Pei''s people want to argue a few words, they can''t match Xuan Li''s large number of people. Xuanli stood quietly in the same place, his face was still the same smile as before, which made people feel warm like the spring breeze, as if they were deaf to these quarrels, and there was a kind of confidence that he had to get, as if he should be the place of the world in the next moment. In fact, it should be. Xuan Pei is still under house arrest, which naturally can''t be released. Seeing this scene, Gu Da Ren, a member of the chief soldier''s family, almost wrinkled his brow. Because of Jiang Ruan''s reasons, Gu Yi wholeheartedly supported the thirteenth Prince Xuan Pei. His reason was also very simple. He said to Mr. Gu: "Miss Jiang is so smart. You can see how she has suffered losses under people''s hands from the beginning to the present. You are right to believe her The angry Gu only gave him a hard beating, but he turned back and expressed his loyalty to Xuan Pei. It''s not that he believed Gu Yi''s words. It''s just that since Jiang Ruan was on Xuan Pei''s side, Jinying palace was on Xuan Pei''s side. The power of Jinying palace was never underestimated by Mr. Gu. The couple were not fuel-efficient. Mr. Gu preferred them. Who knows what happened now? Jiang Ruan''s life and death are uncertain. Xiao Shao is determined to find his wife. Xuan Pei is under house arrest. At this time, Xuan Li is going to be pushed to the top. The situation is really bad. Mr. Gu couldn''t help worrying. Did he go wrong again? The Empress Dowager Yide sits in a high position, and her long armor unconsciously crosses her temples. Who can reverse this trend? No matter how it is, it can''t be offended. The power of courtiers can''t be underestimated. Her eyes crossed Lin Wei who was standing in the hall. Since this man had made up his mind to make a future here, how could he still be indifferent at this time. Lin Wei had a smile on his lips, as if everything around him had nothing to do with him. He was a bit of a light hearted. However, in Xuanli''s eyes, he just felt that he was pretending to be a mystery, just pretending. Just at this time, there was a clear voice outside the hall: "wait a minute!" They all turned around and saw a young man in a long black and straight official robe walk slowly to the palace with firm eyes and a somewhat different look than usual. This man is no other than Lang Liumin, the number one scholar in the imperial court. Liu Min''s position in the imperial court is very strange. He is in a high position, but he has no real power. However, if he has no real power, he is highly respected and trusted by the emperor. He is a real red man in front of the emperor. If he offends him, he won''t get any good. At this moment, seeing his voice suddenly, everyone was puzzled. They knew that Liu Min was later given to xuanpei by the emperor. Maybe he had some friendship with xuanpei. But as a Taifu scholar, could he change the situation? Don''t say it''s a fool talking about dreams. Even dreams make people feel funny. People''s eyes are full of ridicule, but Xuanli''s look is gradually dignified. Liu Min''s clothes are different today. He always likes to wear light colored clothes, which makes him feel like a scholar. Today, he was very dark, and I don''t know if it was because of his clothes, which made him a bit chilly. It seems that the literati''s hand is not a book, but a sharp blade. What he is facing is the Shura battlefield, and his eyes already have a faint intention to kill. What does he want to do? Xuanli keenly felt a difference. He suddenly turned his head to look at Lin Wei. Sure enough, Lin Wei''s smile on his lips was deeper, almost grinning. That kind of happiness from the heart was not pretended. Why? Xuanli feels that he has fallen into a trap, but he can''t grasp the clue. At this time, he just wants to stop Liu Min as soon as possible. But before he made any action, he watched Liu Min take out a pair of bright yellow scrolls from his arms and unfold them. He stood on the Jinluan hall, in front of all the civil and military officials, and said clearly in a loud voice: "worship the heaven, the emperor says --"As soon as the words came out, all the people were surprised. They knelt down and cried for long live. Empress Dowager Yide was also slightly stunned, and then she sat upright. She suddenly realized something. She looked at Lin Wei who was smiling, and then at Liu Min who was standing upright, and her heart suddenly brightened. I see. It turns out that the real backhand is here. Liu Min read aloud: "Prince jiuchen, the 13th son of the emperor, is a noble and deep man. Xiao Zhengong will be able to conquer Datong and succeed me to the throne. This is the emperor''s position -" jiuchen is xuanpei''s word. In a short sentence, it hardly takes much time, but Liu Min deliberately said it very slowly. His voice has always been gentle with a scholar''s characteristic, but today it is like a sword Sharp and aggressive, almost breathless. Silence, the stillness of the hall. It seems that even the sound of a needle falling on the ground can be heard. Liu Min keeps this posture. His back is straight, as if he can carry all the burden. A minister took the lead in calling out: "how can an imperial edict suddenly appear? Liu Taifu, it''s a capital crime to fake the imperial edict!" This man is a military officer of Xuanli school, who despises literati. Now Liu Min''s performance is beyond everyone''s expectation, overturning his original intention. At that time, they began to question. "My Lord, that''s not true," said Wang Ge. He never stood in line in the court, but since Lin Wei came back, he was really drawn to xuanpei''s camp by Lin Wei. At the moment, seeing this man''s strange voice, he made no secret of Liu Min''s hostility, so he said sarcastically: "it''s well known who Liu Taifu is and how to say this fake imperial edict. It''s really the heart of a villain to cross the belly of a gentleman." Liu Min is generally acknowledged to be upright and never does anything wrong. In his world, right is right and wrong is wrong. He is a man of great principles. Even those who are against Liu Min have to admit this, saying that Liu Min is faking the imperial edict is really something that has no persuasion in front of anyone. So the man was speechless. "It''s just no proof. Let''s have a personal examination." Lin Wei said in a voice and then looked at Liu min. Liu Min understood, strode to empress Yide, bowed down, held the imperial edict in both hands, and said, "please have a look at the Empress Dowager --" empress Yide reached out to take the imperial edict, looked at it, then laughed slightly and said only four words: "absolutely true." There was an uproar in the middle of the court, and the eyes of all the ministers fell on Xuanli. Xuanli''s face was not good-looking now, although he tried to calm down and make a look as light as before. But today''s event was unexpected. According to the plan, he should have accepted the throne with the support of the courtiers. But now an imperial edict suddenly appeared, which was not his name. The muscles of his cheeks were shaking slightly, and his hands in his sleeves were clenched. He is persuading himself that Liu Min''s imperial edict can''t be true. The real imperial edict is in Qiman. They have already got the real imperial edict. How can the emperor have two imperial edicts? It''s impossible! Even after hearing what empress Yide said, Xuanli couldn''t believe it. She only said that empress Yide had already stood on xuanpei''s side. Since Lin Wei went to see empress Yide that day, he might be planning this. The Empress Dowager Yide is just helping to lie. Considering this, Xuanli winked at the other side of the court. The minister came forward and said, "empress dowager, the imperial edict of the former Emperor is very important. Can you allow me to have a look?" In fact, this is not reasonable, but now the emperor''s crown prince is a person with the reputation of Patricide, which is far from the emperor in the eyes of the courtiers, but it is justifiable. As for the Empress Dowager Yide, she readily agreed and asked people to pass on the imperial edict. What''s she afraid of? These people just hope that this edict is false. Unfortunately, this edict is absolutely true. It''s not her who has beaten her face. What does she do to prevent these people from giving up completely. It''s just The Empress Dowager Yide''s eyes fell on Lin Wei. Lin Wei probably already knew what happened today. A murky sky over a dark earth is as like as two peas. For example, at this moment, the imperial edict suddenly taken out from the Jinluan hall is heavy enough to exceed a thousand pounds. The imperial edict was circulated in the hands of the courtiers. They were all senior officials of high rank. Among them, many of them held great power. They used to get along well with the emperor and his courtiers. Naturally, we can see whether the imperial edict is true. From the handwriting to the imperial seal, there is really no place for fraud. Even if Xuanli people want to find some evidence from the eggs that the edict is false, they fail in the end. After all, the imperial edict returned to Liu Min''s hands. Liu Min took the imperial edict and said in a loud voice: "at the beginning, your Majesty was seriously ill. He secretly wrote the imperial edict and delivered it to my minister. On that day, Mr. Li was also present, but now that Mr. Li died, no one testified, but the imperial edict can''t be false. Now that your majesty is dead, you can''t live without a monarch for a day. Your majesty has decided who to choose, so you should respect him. " He went back to empress Yide, presented her with both hands, and said respectfully, "please let the Empress Dowager preside over the grand ceremony for the new emperor to ascend the throne one day -" Liu Min had been trusted by the emperor, and it was not impossible to give the Imperial edict to him, which is indeed irrefutable. The xuanpei group, who had been at a disadvantage, saw that the situation suddenly changed, and this time with the imperial edict, it was really irreversible. Naturally, they also raised their eyebrows and breathed bitterly. They immediately followed Liu Minqi to kneel down and yelled with one voice: "please hold the grand ceremony for the Empress Dowager to ascend the throne, and choose a new emperor to ascend the throne."Lin Wei also mingled with these people. He had a smile on his lips. His handsome face was full of joy. He even looked at the Xuanli faction provocatively. Those people are all disheartened at the moment. Just now, the words that they thought Xuanli was the worthy son of heaven seemed to slap them in the face. Now everything they said is wrong. Xuanli''s face was no longer smiling. His face was very stiff. But if you look at it carefully, you can see the horror. Success and failure are on the verge of success. A joke from the beginning to the end is an irreparable blow to the purpose and self-esteem. Empress Yide also smiles. She slightly raises her chin and says with a smile in a solemn tone: "quasi -" the dust has settled. No one thought that Liu Min would suddenly stand up and take out an imperial edict at this time. The great power of the imperial edict is obvious to all. From the moment when the imperial edict came out, Xuanli, no matter what happened in the future, even if he was fighting against each other, still stood in a completely unreasonable position. To lose the support of the people, even if Xuanli was the last one to ascend the throne, it would be a bad name and a bad word. It would only have a reputation of seeking to usurp the throne. For an emperor, it''s hard to stop all the people in the world. He has fallen into an irreparable situation. He forced himself to suppress his anger. After a few words, empress Yide announced that he would go to the next court. She let go of straightforward, since big brocade Dynasty future reserve king already decided, she again why here pull the affair of the government not to put. As soon as empress Yide left, the Jinluan hall was full of excitement. The xuanpei group suffered a loss under xuanliren''s hands. It''s easy to find the place. It''s strange not to ridicule them. He immediately caught people and began to sneer. Xuanli didn''t pay attention to the war of words here. He turned around and walked out of the Jinluan palace. There was no one around him. He stepped very fast, and his face was really twisted and terrible. "Starling." At the corner of the corridor, I heard a familiar voice. Xuan Pei came over from the other side. He had been under house arrest for such a long time, but now he suddenly appeared. Someone must have said that he committed suicide, but the jailer said that Dong Yinger didn''t seem to commit suicide. How could anyone commit suicide? The poison he took was so painful. The thing that arsenic can solve is to use the ecstasy of Southern Xinjiang. Xia Qing has seen it. People who use the poison will suffer great pain before they die. They drink the eggs together with the liquid medicine and are killed by the eggs in their bodies. Dong Ying''er''s death is also extremely miserable, almost people can not see the prototype of the body. When Zhao Jin heard the news, she was stunned. She didn''t say anything and didn''t eat. She ran to the house alone and didn''t even find Jiang Xinzhi. Jiang Xinzhi touched his head: "go to dinner." "She didn''t poison herself." Zhao Jin said: "she is most afraid of pain. She used to love beauty most. Even if she died, she would not use such a cheap way. She would have to die in the wind and scenery. It''s a waste to die like this. " Zhao Jin should have hated Dong Ying''er, but she really knew her miserable ending. On the contrary, she had an unspeakable feeling in her heart, which was not pity or sympathy. She was not selfless to that extent. Just heavy in the heart, there is a kind of full depression. To deny Dong Yinger is like denying her carefree childhood. Not everyone can be a stranger to the original intimate, but there are some ups and downs in their heart. "It''s Xuan Li''s hand." Jiang Xinzhi patted her on the shoulder: "with this kind of poison, he''s afraid he''s mad now. He''s also used to vent his anger against a pawn." Dong Ying''er is Xuanli''s man. When the east window incident happened, Xuanli naturally wanted to kill people. But he used this kind of torture poison, which is not consistent with Xuanli''s consistent style. It can only be said that he has been furious by Liu Min''s imperial edict, and his anger can''t be vented. After Dong Yinger''s accident, he was used as a tool to vent. "He''s not human!" Zhao Jin hated: "the beast with human face and beast heart!" Looking at the gentle man''s cruel means, she can also attack a weak woman, especially her former ally. Zhao Jin is disgusted to think of Xuanli now. "To be a king and defeat the enemy is the truth since ancient times." However, Jiang Xinzhi said, "besides, she has to have the courage to bear the consequences when she made this decision." He looked at Zhao Jin, some helpless way: "you don''t have to worry too much about this, although I know you are sad in the heart, but you have to know that she is not a good person, people are unkind to you, you are not a Bodhisattva, this is just to blame, or God''s eye." Jiang Xinzhi doesn''t like Dong Yinger at all. How good is the person who can drag Zhao Jin''s family into the water. He is a soldier. He has seen many cruel ways to die on the battlefield. He only thinks that Dong Yinger suffered for herself. However, when she framed someone else or poisoned the emperor, she didn''t want to go to this stage. Zhao Jin sighed. Without refuting his words, Jiang Xinzhi pulled her up and said, "I''m afraid the capital will not be peaceful for some time. Your family should be more strict. I''m afraid there will be some action in Xuanli. Since your Zhao family has offended him, he will naturally be listed as the number one enemy. " What happened in the Jinluan palace is still unknown to Jiang Ruan. Day by day, she felt more and more sleepy, and even ate more and more unconsciously. Even if she was patient, she could not hide it. Looking at his protruding belly, Jiang Ruan couldn''t help laughing bitterly. If it went on like this, the next time he saw Xuan Li, he was afraid that he couldn''t hide it anyway.Just thinking about it, the dumb maid came in, holding some clothes in her hand. Jiang Ruan was slightly shocked, and the dumb maid laughed. He drew a few strokes on her, and Jiang Ruan understood that this was a new dress made with her. But after being here for so long, no tailor came to measure her body. Of course, people here can''t let her get in touch with outsiders, so that she won''t play tricks. Jiang Ruan looked at the clothes sent by the dumb Maid: "ready to wear?" Dumb maid nodded, Jiang Ruan took the clothes, said: "you go out first." Dumb maidservant himself left first. Jiang Ruan opened those clothes. None of them were red, but they were all light colors. Maybe she was afraid that she would be found out. These light clothes would not attract people''s attention, and it would be much easier to transfer them in the future. Jiang Ruan opened a dress and put it on himself. He found that it was too big. Then suddenly, the clothes sold in the clothing shop, where there is such a fit, but it is too big. But a moment later, a little smile appeared on Jiang Ruan''s face. She stroked the dress. It was bad before, but now it is no better. Maybe you can cover your belly and make it look less conspicuous. It''s really good. If Xuan Li came in person next time, maybe he could try to cover it up. She took a look at the scratch on the record of the date at the head of the bed. She didn''t know what the scene was now. Did Xuanli start? If she did, Xuanli would come to the door as soon as the imperial edict came out. At that time, she could find a way to leave. But why didn''t Xiao Shao''s people come up yet? Jiang Ruan had some doubts. She would never have been afraid to drag on with these people before, but now she has a small one in her stomach. If she drags one point, it will be more dangerous for her children. She didn''t want to take risks with her children, and her expression became more and more dignified. 250 ~ 250 www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 251 Congratulations on getting a monthly ticket the silver candle is fragrant and the smoke is curling. Even in the remote courtyard of the capital, the fragrance seems to be exotic. The woman in red leans on the couch, playing with a small copper bell. It seems that there is a bell ringing in the distance. Obviously, this is a temple. The smoke in the temple is mixed with the smoke from the incense in the room, but it can''t tell who is who. Just in this case, a man suddenly burst in, the man in grey came in in in a hurry, and even forgot to knock on the door. The woman in red was startled, then stood up and said angrily: "bold!" "Yuanchuan knows the crime." The man in grey quickly admitted the punishment, but immediately thought of something, and immediately said: "please forgive yuan Chuan for offending. I''m really in a hurry. I dare to ask the saint. The imperial edict that was taken from Jiang Ruan was on the saint?" Now that such a big thing has happened, Qiman naturally wants to find the imperial edict to send to Xuanli first. Who knows, he can''t find the imperial edict. In the heart naturally grew anxious, Yuan Chuan almost immediately thought of Dan Zhen. Dan Zhen has never been in touch with outsiders, and he has always been obedient. Even in this place, he is by no means obedient to others. Before Qiman came to ask for the crime, Yuanchuan came to Danzhen in a hurry to find out. "Yes." Dan admitted that he didn''t want to. Yuan Chuan''s heart is a pine, even busy way: "that imperial edict now where, now..." "I burned it." Without waiting for Yuanchuan to finish, Dan Zhen interrupts him. Yuan Chuan was stunned. His face under the stick mask was stiff for a moment. He had been talking and laughing for a long time before he said, "saint, are you serious?" "Yuanchuan, when did you talk so much?" Danzhen frowned at him. Yuan Chuan thought about it, but finally he didn''t say anything to Dan Zhen. I''m afraid that even now I''ve talked to Dan Zhen about it, Dan Zhen won''t realize how serious it is. Now another imperial edict has been issued. It is impossible to know what the imperial edict in Jiang Ruan''s hands was before. Xuanli will definitely want to find out, but in the end, if he knew that he was burned by Danzhen, Xuanli''s ally would not have been trusted. Now that his plan is ruined, who knows what he would do to Danzhen? Now we have to go to Qiman first and explain it to him. At least Qiman and Danzhen are both Royal relatives of Southern Xinjiang. They are grasshoppers on the same rope in front of Xuanli. They have no reason to help others. Yuan Chuan thought like this, only hesitated for a moment, and then he gave a wry smile in the eyes of Dan Zhen''s Questioning: "it''s just some small things, and it''s OK for his subordinates to solve them. The holy daughter is at ease. She must pay attention to her own safety Dan Zhen snorted, and Yuan Chuan turned and left. But Yuanchuan hasn''t found Qiman yet. Xuanli has found Qiman first. Qiman looks at the young man in front of him. The young prince of the great Jin Dynasty has been famous for a long time. Even when he was young, he enjoyed a good reputation among the common people. His talent and temperament are excellent, at least on the surface. In the eyes of the emperor, it seems that his position is also very high, but in the final imperial edict, the emperor''s name is not written, which is enough to surprise people in the world. It''s just that Xuan Li, or Xuan Pei, who was just a little boy? It''s OK to cheat others, but it''s not easy to cheat Qiman. Only she knew what the emperor was up to. It''s not bad that the family name of Jiangshan in this world is Xuan. But the person who sat in this position should have been Prince Hongxi, so now the one who ascends the throne should also be prince Hongxi''s son. The world says that Prince Hongxi''s son died in that war, but Qiman knows that he is not dead. He hated Prince Hongxi, Xiang Xiaoyuan, and the Emperor today. He hated Prince Hongxi''s son most. That slut and Prince Hongxi gave birth to a bastard. She wants to die to Xiaoyuan''s flesh and blood. Prince Hongxi is a smart man. He will protect his son''s life. In Dajin Dynasty, Qiman changed his appearance completely. He even spared no expense to be a concubine in Shangshu''s family, and saved his life in decades of jealousy in Houzhai. Later, she finally found Xiao Shao, so she played tricks on the affairs of the old Jinying couple, and even took advantage of the contradiction between the emperor and Jinying palace. Unfortunately, Xiao Shao''s identity has not been exposed, and he is still alive. However, Qiman also thinks it''s good. It turns over everything Xiao Shao thought. The world he stayed in is all a false lie. Not all people can bear the truth, especially when they lose everything overnight and bear the name of a bandit. But what I didn''t expect was that Xiao Shao took the royal guards in. Qiman hated him so much that he could figure it out later. It''s more painful to wait for Xiao Shao to lose everything after he gets it. What she didn''t expect was that Xiao Shao should stay with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan is a scheming woman. When she was in Shangshu mansion, she looked at Ji Qie''s fighting as an outsider. Jiang Ruan came to this point step by step. If it were not for her relationship with Xiao Shao, Qiman thought that she could appreciate Jiang Ruan''s unscrupulous nature. Xiao Shao was the one to be established by the emperor, but I don''t know why he became Xuan Pei. Qiman doesn''t want to tell Xuan Li about Xiao Shao''s identity. However, Xuan Li just smiles and says, "Your Highness, if you want me to ask you for a crime, you will find the wrong person. We can only find one imperial edict. We didn''t make the imperial edict in the palace. ""Where is that edict?" Xuanli cold road. Xuanpei''s imperial edict has made him face swept and become the laughingstock of the whole great Jin Dynasty. Even those who decided to follow him now look at him with strange eyes. More and more people began to choose xuanpei, as if after xuanpei became the rightful heir to the throne, there was a bright road. Now Xuanli just wants to find out what''s going on. Qiman''s face moved slightly, and then he said with a smile: "that imperial edict is not important. Isn''t it Princess Hong''an that your highness should ask now? In fact, your highness knows that we have been cheated. Princess Hong''an did it on purpose. And she made it Since xuanpei still had an imperial edict in his hand, Jiang Ruan''s behavior of hiding an imperial edict and coming out of the palace was almost like attacking the West from the East. Let people take xuanpei in the palace lightly, and then give him a fatal blow when Xuanli is most satisfied, and his face is disgraced. This is Jiang Ruan''s mind. She planned it from the beginning. She was the bait to attract Xuanli''s eyes. Xuanli''s face was changing, so he suddenly opened the curtain and walked away. After Xuan left, Qiman''s face gradually sank. She suddenly put on her coat and turned to go out. Jiang Ruan was sitting at the table on the couch, looking at the book leisurely. The place below her chest was blocked by the table, but she could not see her growing stomach. However, although the wide clothes can cover one or two, the face is also more and more plump. She sits here every day reading leisurely, but also pretends to come out, naturally thinking of other things. Today, she just turned two pages, the door was suddenly pushed open. Jiang Ruan raised his eyes and saw the dumb maidservant''s panic face, then Xuan Li''s gloomy expression. Xuanli unexpectedly came. Jiang Ruan was slightly surprised, and then he knew. It seems that something has happened. Xuanli has come to ask for the blame. These days, he has been confined in this strange place, and there is no way to know everything outside. At the moment, he suddenly sees Xuanli, and then he looks like he is. Jiang Ruan''s lips unconsciously hook up, and there is a glimmer of joy in his eyes. The joy in Xuanli''s eyes was so dazzling, as if he was satirizing him. He walked towards Jiang Ruan step by step, full of pressure, like a fierce beast in the face of his prey. He went to Jiang Ruan''s table, put his hands on the table, looked down at Jiang Ruan from top to bottom, and suddenly said with a sneer, "the princess has a good life. She looks more mellow these days." "Buddhism is a good place for self-cultivation. If you are relaxed, everything will be fine." Jiang Ruan replied with a smile. Xuanli''s eyes flashed a trace of vigilance: "do you know where this is?" "It''s not hard to guess." Jiang Ruan also laughed: "but even if you can guess, you can''t go out. Does your highness understand this better than me?" Xuanli looks at her indefinitely. Among the women he has seen in his life, this one is the most cunning and difficult. This place is Qiman''s headquarters, which no one can find. It''s doubtful that Jiang Ruan can guess the temple. Who knows if she has the chance to inform Xiao Shao''s people. Although Qiman vowed, how could Jiang Ruan be the one to deal with? However, he obviously didn''t come here for this. Xuanli looked at Jiang Ruan and asked with a sneer: "that imperial edict, you deliberately seduced me." Jiang Ruan chuckled. This smile instantly poked Xuanli''s most exasperated mind. He held out his hand and grasped Jiang Ruan''s neck. His hand was broad and powerful. Jiang Ruan''s white and slender neck was in his palm. His palm slowly tightened, and the woman''s neck seemed to break in his hand. Xuan Li narrowed his eyes, and his eyes lingered on the beautiful and bright face. It''s strange that Jiang Ruan is a strange woman. He had seen countless women in his life, but every time he met Jiang Ruan, he had a strange feeling in his heart. That kind of feeling can be felt by Xuanli. It''s possessiveness. He read countless beauties. Dan, the saint of Southern Xinjiang, was also a beautiful woman. But in Xuanli''s eyes, he was just a fool with better skin. But Jiang Ruan was different. This woman was cunning, resourceful, independent and ruthless. She also had such a beautiful face. If she stood with him, it would be a good match. This woman is qualified to stand side by side with him. Xuan Li''s eyes are a little dazed and obsessed, and his hands tightly hold Jiang Ruan''s neck, almost close to her face. Jiang Ruan was choked by him, but he closed his eyes slowly. Xuanli was surprised and let go immediately. Jiang Ruan is still useful now, and he has to trade with Xiao Shao. He must not die now. As soon as he opened his hand, Jiang Ruan immediately covered his neck and coughed. Xuanli seems to suddenly think of the identity of Jiang Ruan. Yes, she is the princess of Jinying palace and the woman of Xiao Shao. This woman is certainly smart, but she is against herself from beginning to end, she is a disaster! "I''m afraid your highness misunderstood it." Jiang Ruan gasped for a long time, and finally began to speak. She was still a little uncomfortable, so she was still retching. Finally, she arrived: "that imperial edict is true." "What?" Xuanli frowned.Jiang Ruan smiles slightly. Although her face looks pale because of Xuanli''s hands, she still says clearly: "Your Highness, what I said is the imperial edict. The imperial edict in my hand is true. When I took the imperial edict out of the palace, I didn''t want to be a bait. I was just going to take it away. " Looking at Xuanli''s stunned expression, Jiang Ruan continued: "does your highness know why I want to take that imperial edict away? Because the imperial edict is a biographical edict, but the name on it is not his royal highness Xuan Pei. So I''m going to take that edict with me. " "Why are there two edicts?" Xuanli said coldly, "you are lying to me." "I don''t have to lie to you, because your majesty didn''t make a choice before that. A shrewd man like your majesty has set up two imperial edicts, intending to hand them over to a loyal confidant. The situation in the DPRK can change a lot overnight. If there is anything, just destroy one of them and take out the other and tell the world immediately. Your highness, your majesty is your father. Your father and son are deeply affectionate. You don''t know what your majesty is Xuanli was very suspicious. He knew that Jiang Ruan always liked to cheat people. But the emperor was so suspicious that he was good at leaving room. He was able to keep two imperial edicts. But according to Jiang Ruan, the name of the other imperial edict. He looked at Jiang Ruan and said in a forceful tone, "whose name is written in another imperial edict to pass the throne?" Jiang Ruan looked him in the eye and said with a smile, "it''s you, your highness." What she said was light, but like heavy iron, it hit Xuan centrifugal. How could it be him? How could it be him? If he had, wouldn''t he have kept his imperial edict these days and given xuanpei the chance to seize the opportunity? This is all on purpose! "I didn''t mean to." Jiang Ruan seemed to see his mind, and continued to say: "Liu Taifu and his royal highness shisan have the friendship between teachers and students. For such a scholar, we can only use emotion to influence him. Liu Taifu was originally a member of his royal highness. Naturally, he would help his royal highness. I wanted to take another imperial edict back to the palace and destroy it. As you think, once these two imperial edicts come out, the world will be in chaos. Only one will be burned and the other will be left. What is burned is the imperial road and the royal road will be left. But I didn''t expect that someone would take me away on the way. After I came here, I gradually understood and guessed that you were the one behind me. Since it can also achieve my goal, why not do it? So I didn''t say anything. Now looking at your highness, I can see that the imperial edict has been issued, can''t I? " Xuanli looks at the woman in front of her and says all this with a smile. She doesn''t mind her identity at the moment, and even tells Xuanli her plan as a good friend. But listen to Xuan from the heart is like blocking a group of cotton. He clenched his teeth and whispered that at the beginning, Qiman only said that the imperial edict was true, but he didn''t think much about it. Who knew such a thing would happen. Is it Jiang Ruan''s good abacus that he did it himself? What is this! His expression suddenly became overcast. On a peaceful day, he looked like a different person, even a bit ugly because of distortion. He said fiercely: "so what? The imperial edict is still in our hands. As long as we take it out, xuanpei is not the right prince. The rivers and mountains in this world are mine, and they have always been mine! " "I''m afraid your highness will be disappointed." Jiang Ruan looked at him pitifully, but the pity seemed to contain some hilarious irony: "there is no imperial edict." Xuanli jumped in her heart, pinched her chin and said, "what did you say?" Jiang Ruan seemed a little confused. She tilted her head. There seemed to be a trace of innocence in her charming eyes. She said, "didn''t the princess of Southern Xinjiang tell you that the imperial edict has been burned by the saint of Southern Xinjiang?" She hung her eyelids: "at the beginning, the saint thought that it was the imperial edict of the 13th highness, which was to be burned after all. She wanted to please you, so she took the initiative to do it for you. But... " Jiang Ruan said with a smile, "what she burned is your Royal Highness''s imperial edict." He burned your Highness''s imperial edict. Jiang Ruan''s words were far and near in his ears. For a moment, Xuanli''s whole mind was full of repeated words. He suddenly felt that his chest was suddenly stagnated, as if all the blood in his body had solidified. It''s clearly a warm spring day, but it''s as cold as a cold day. He knew that Jiang Ruan would not lie about this kind of thing. Jiang Ruan''s smile was sincere pleasure. The imperial edict was really gone. He let go of Jiang Ruan''s hand, turned around and walked to the door. When Fang stepped out of the door, he suddenly felt his throat was sweet, and a mouthful of blood was sprayed on the bluestone road in front of the door. But he didn''t seem to see half of it at all and went on. Jiang Ruan returned to his original position and began to have slight colic in his abdomen. Xuanli''s strength was too strong in his hand, which made her move. Just now, he tried to do such a play with Xuanli. Naturally, the imperial edict was not Xuanli''s name, but the imperial edict of passing the throne to Xiao Shao. However, only when Xuanli was told that it was his imperial edict, and Xuanli, who had a strong sense of self-esteem, would feel a blow of 100000 points. What''s more, Xuanli would not let go if he was told that the imperial edict was burned by the saint of Southern Xinjiang The saint of Southern Xinjiang. Jiang Ruan in these days of house arrest can also see clues, Qiman and Danzhen relationship is not very good, that day Danzhen burned the imperial edict, Qiman was too late to party, but later will know the news, but Qiman didn''t even come to see her, but as if there was no one to continue to be at peace. This is for what, perhaps Qiman also know, if really out of what problem, Xuanli will find Dan really trouble.There is a delicate relationship between a former Princess and a present saint in southern Xinjiang. Moreover, with Dan Zhen''s temperament, she may not admit that she was the princess who caused the subjugation of Southern Xinjiang. Qiman and Dan really have different temperaments. They are good at latent forbearance. In this way, maybe Qiman deliberately let go of the burning of imperial edict. The alliance between southern Xinjiang and Xuanli must be broken. It''s best to punish Danzhen by Xuanli''s hand. It''s just. Jiang Ruan covered his stomach and big drops of sweat rolled down from his forehead. There was a little fear in her heart. She was Peier''s mother, but Peier was not her own. It was her first pregnancy, the first time she had a child of her own. When she was in the palace, she had seen countless concubines who were pregnant with children, and finally gave birth in various ways. Of course, there are reasons for other people''s harm, but it also shows that children are very vulnerable. Now she has abdominal pain like a wring. She covers her stomach with one hand and almost faints on the ground. She is biting her teeth. She hesitates to call someone. If she does, she can''t hide the fact that she has a child in her stomach. If she doesn''t call, she won''t forgive herself all her life. Just then, she saw the dumb maid come in in a hurry. As soon as she came into the room, she closed the door behind her. She was carrying a food basket to deliver food. Then lift the lid of the basket and take out a bowl from inside. Then the dumb maid ran to Jiang Ruan, helped him up, put the bowl in his hand in front of him, and said in a low voice, "drink quickly." Jiang Ruan was stunned. At the moment, he didn''t care to be surprised when the dumb maidservant would speak. He just looked at the medicine in the bowl and immediately remembered the scene of watching the concubines pouring saffron into the women''s mouths. She looked warily at the dumb maid and said, "what''s this?" "Tocolytics." Dumb maidservant also appears very urgent: "drink quickly, do not know when their people will arrive." Jiang Ruan took a look at the dumb maid. She didn''t pretend to be worried. She didn''t show anything special these days, and she couldn''t speak. Jiang Ruan thought that this was the dumb man Xuanli had found to serve people. On weekdays, I deliberately kept it from the dumb maidservant, but now I think about it carefully, it seems that the dumb maidservant has never done anything to hurt her. Even a lot of times, they unintentionally helped her. Jiang Ruan Xin said that she was not easy to trust others, but for the sake of her children, she also had a kind of intuition. Without saying a word, she poured down the bowl of medicine. I don''t know how long it took for Jiang Ruan to feel that the pain in his abdomen was relieved a little. Dumb maidservant had already put away the dishes and chopsticks, put out the rest of the food one by one, and helped her up to sit on the chair. Jiang Ruan asked, "are you sent by Xiao Shao?" Dumb maidservant a Zheng, shook head. Jiang Ruan can see now that the medicine is indeed an abortion medicine. The dumb maidservant should have seen that she is pregnant. It''s fair to say that no matter how much she hides, no matter how many people get along with her day and night, they will find her unusual, just those who hide in the yard to watch. In the same room, it''s also difficult to hide perfectly. It''s just that the dumb maid said that she was not sent by Xiao Shao. How could someone who was not Xiao Shao help her like this? "And who are you?" Jiang Ruan asked suspiciously. While standing beside Jiang Ruan to add food, the dumb maid leaned over the window and said in a voice that only two people could hear: "Xuanli has done harm to my family. I want revenge." Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned. In any case, he didn''t think it was this reason. She said, "what is your deep hatred for her?" The dumb maid said, "my father worked for Xuanli. When it came to light, Xuanli ordered people to kill 93 people in my family in order to protect himself from being found out to be related to him. I was out at that time and I got away with it. Ninety three lives. I''ll get it back from him. All these years, I''ve spent all my money just to seek opportunities. " Jiang Ruan frowned: "then why are you here?" "I was among the people in Xuanli''s house, pretending to be dumb. When I heard that the housekeeper wanted someone to serve an important person, I picked me. Dumb is easy to do things. I started with the idea of pretending to be dumb. Maybe I can find a chance to contact Xuanli''s secret. Heaven has eyes, let me wait for this opportunity Jiang Ruan knew that he thought it was Xiao Shao, but he didn''t want to be a man who had a grudge against Xuanli. Xuanli had a grudge against Xuanli. Xuanli had a grudge against Xuanli. Xuanli didn''t want to live, but she got a bargain. Think of dumb maidservant''s life experience, can''t help but also feel let a person sigh. Xuanli is a kind-hearted man with a fierce heart. It''s not the first time that he''s done this. When he thought of something, he asked, "then why do you want to help me?" "The enemy of the enemy is a friend. I will help whoever has a grudge against Xuanli." The dumb maid said, "now I''m alone. Although I try my best to seek opportunities, I don''t know if I can succeed in the end. I know that you are the princess of Jinying palace. Jinying palace is powerful, and you are also capable. Otherwise Xuanli will not be so taboo to you, and even put you under house arrest. I know you must have a way to deal with him Jiang Ruan said thoughtfully, "so, do you want to help me?" "It''s too far away from the capital," said the dumb maid. "Lord Xiao can''t find it here. Besides, there are people guarding everywhere, and I can''t send out information. But now that you are pregnant, if you are known, you have grasped the greater weakness of Lord Xiao. I want to help you, so I will try my best to find the right time. Once I have the right time, I will help you escape. But you must promise me that if you escape, you will take revenge for my family. I''m too weak to do anything. You can kill Xuanli. "Jiang Ruan was silent for a moment and said, "yes, it''s a deal." www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 252 Danzhen never cares about things in the capital. She is here to avoid the pursuit of the imperial court while waiting for the news of Xuanli. In her opinion, now everything is a certainty, and nothing can go wrong. So I''m not worried. It is that a yen Chuan comes in strange, also didn''t put on the heart by Dan Zhen, but didn''t expect now, Xuan Li suddenly appears in his eyes. Dan Zhen looks up at this man. To be fair, Xuan Lisheng is not ugly. In terms of this man''s means, he is not incompetent. It''s just that Dan Zhen has already taken a fancy to another person, and Xuan is far away from that person. When Dan Zhen saw Xuan Li again, he didn''t have much mood fluctuation. However, she still knew that Xuanli was the one who made a deal with them in southern Xinjiang, so that she could stand up and smile: "eighth highness." Xuanli is also smiling. Danzhen has seen Xuanli several times and knows that this is Xuanli''s habitual expression. Xuanli is also capable of penetrating a mask into the bone marrow and making everyone who sees him feel like a spring breeze. But today, at first glance, his face is still the usual kind of warm smile, but there seems to be something more in that smile, which makes people feel unspeakable strange. Dan Zhen was about to step forward, but suddenly he said, "what can I do for you when your highness comes here?" She is sensitive to detect a trace of wrong, but do not know where is wrong. Her communication with Xuanli is through Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan is a smart man and the most handy knife she uses. Xuanli said with a smile, "holy girl, I came here to ask her one thing." Dan Zhen said, "what''s the matter?" "The imperial edict found from Princess Jinying was burned by the saint, right?" Xuanli''s smile at the moment, looking at it from a close distance, was also a bit false. For no reason, it made Dan really feel disgusted. As if there was something else in it, she looked at Xuanli, nodded and said, "exactly." "Oh? Why did the virgin do this? " Xuan Li asked. Dan Zhen was stunned. He looked at Xuanli''s expression carefully, and then said: "since the imperial edict is an imperial edict for your brother, keeping it is also a disaster, and you will destroy it one day. It''s better to let me do it for you than to have a long night''s dream. Since you and I are all on one side, I''m not afraid to do these things. " She thought that what she said was very appropriate. As a saint of Southern Xinjiang, she was willing to do things for others. It was a great honor for others. If it wasn''t for the fact that there was a covenant between them, she wouldn''t have said that. Who knows Xuan Li after hearing speech but is eccentric smile, way: "help me?" Dan really didn''t expect the Xuanli meeting to be this reaction. She was a little dissatisfied and said, "Your Highness, what does that mean?" Xuanli couldn''t hear the joy and anger in his tone: "the imperial edict that you burned is not thirteen. The name on it is mine." "Yours?" Dan really cried out. Then he understood why Xuanli was such an attitude. Just ordinary people think about how to express their guilt for the first time, but Dan really thinks about how to shirk. There was even anger in my heart. She said, "is your highness here to ask for a crime?" Even though the state of Nanjiang had been destroyed by the Dajin Dynasty decades ago, nanjiangguo still gave a very high status and honor to the saint who was originally a royal relative. No one questioned and resisted her words, and she was more kind to Danzhen because of the destruction of the country. Danzhen looked down on anyone who was lower than her. In her eyes, Xuanli is just a prince who has not yet ascended the throne. It''s disrespectful to dare to talk to her in such an uncomfortable manner. He immediately put on a high posture: "when your highness asked us to rob the imperial edict, we didn''t say that the name on the imperial edict belonged to your highness. Why, now I''m to blame? Did I burn your imperial edict? What''s more, you haven''t read that edict. How can you know that it''s your name written on it? Isn''t it someone else''s way? " "In the way of others?" Xuanli asked slowly. "Yes," Dan Zhen seemed to have a sudden interest and kept on saying, "maybe when the imperial edict was robbed by you, it was someone else''s way. Your Highness has been asking for help. Why don''t you ask yourself? It''s your own fault after all. It''s you who are stupid, make mistakes, fall into the trap of others, burn your own imperial edict, and cut off your right emperor''s road. I''m just following your advice. What does that have to do with me? It''s you who are really to blame! " Dan Zhen is eager to get rid of the whole thing, so he attributes all his mistakes to Xuanli. If this words were normal, it would be OK, but what she said today happened to poke every word in Xuanli''s painful place. It is true that Xuanli fell into someone else''s trap at the beginning. It was his self righteous judgment that he mistook the imperial edict of xuanpei for the imperial edict of xuanpei. Can Xuan Li this person is the most conceited, and can''t tolerate himself to have any stain, let alone others to question his ability, Dan Zhen''s words are hitting him in the face, how to make? What''s more, there was room for this matter to turn around. Just take out your own imperial edict. Who knows that Dan is really a shitty stick, and a fire will burn away his last chance. Not only that, but also without any regret, making an aggressive appearance.Xuanli''s heart suddenly raised a sense of irritability. He looked at Dan Zhen and said slowly, "you''re right." Dan Zhen was just in a fit of temper. He didn''t expect Xuanli to admit his fault so quickly. He was a bit strange in his heart. However, Xuanli had always been a good talker, and he was the best at dealing with people in a friendly way. So I didn''t think much about it, so I said: "in fact, I don''t blame you, but you really shouldn''t blame me for all this..." Before she finished her words, she felt a sudden chill in her chest. A strange pain spread from her chest and got into her bones. She lowered her head and looked at her chest, where there was a short knife, and the handle was in Xuanli''s hand. Xuanli looked at her with a smile, and the rage in her eyes suddenly increased. She turned the knife slowly for another week, and almost heard the sound of skin and flesh spinning. "Since I shouldn''t blame you, I should thank you and give you a ride." Xuanli''s voice was light, but with a chill. Dan really can''t believe staring at her wound. She wants to shout for help. She wants to call Yuanchuan, Qiman, and the servants outside, but she can''t say a word. She is cold all over. Her mouth is open again and again, but she has no strength. Xuanli took out a handkerchief from his arms to clean the dirt on the tip of the knife. He put the knife back into the scabbard and looked down at the dead woman on the ground. It was like appreciating a picture of the corpse on the ground for a long time A slow smile: "I should have killed you in the first place, fool." He turned and walked out of the house. Dan Zhen''s body is lying in the room, and the blood from his chest gradually turns the ground under his body red. Dan Zhen didn''t expect that Xuanli would attack her until she died. Maybe she didn''t realize how big a mistake she had committed, and Xuanli was much more cruel than she wanted. But what she didn''t realize most was that she didn''t think it was so important. The reason why she has no fear is that she takes a fancy to Xuanli. She wants to make an alliance with her and use the power of Southern Xinjiang. But she forgets that she is not the only one in southern Xinjiang. She is the saint of Southern Xinjiang, and there is a princess in southern Xinjiang. Qiman is smarter than her, more tolerant than her, and more than she knows how to make a deal with Xuanli. Being a person is not the only choice When there is a better substitute, it is a very simple thing to kill her. Dan Zhen didn''t expect that her life would end so fast even to her death. She had not seen the time when Jiang Ruan''s life was better than her death, nor had she seen the time when Xiao Shao could only surrender to her ever since. So died in Xuanli''s hand, because of an imperial edict, how unwilling. Maybe when she died, she suddenly understood why Jiang Ruan had to say those words to her, those words that misled her and made her think that the imperial edict was really xuanpei''s name, were just to burn the imperial edict with her hand, and then use her character and Xuanli to tear her face. Maybe she even expected Xuanli''s reaction, and knew that Xuanli was a person who could not tolerate anything The sensitive and fragile nature trampled by human beings will surely kill her. When Danzhen was in southern Xinjiang, she once heard that Jiang Ruan was a good judge of people''s minds. Danzhen didn''t think so, but this disapproval finally killed her own life. From the very beginning, Jiang Ruan set up a chain game. She wanted to announce the great cause of her family and country, and also wanted Dan Zhen''s life. She did nothing but stir up Dan Zhen''s emotion, which caused such an uncontrollable situation. She was really a woman who was good at making use of people''s weakness, a terrible woman. But really these experiences can only dissipate in the land of Dajin Dynasty with her life. It is impossible to conquer the sky where eagles live and the land where wolves live. When the door was pushed open, Yuanchuan''s voice rang: "Saint..." Before he finished, he suddenly stopped, and his eyes fell on the body lying on the ground. Yuan Chuan was stunned for a moment, but he didn''t dare to step forward. After a while, he finally understood. He quickly walked to squat down and helped Dan Zhen to his arms. There was only a cold corpse in his arms, and he was not angry any more. Yuanchuan was stunned when he got there. "How can...". How could... " Yuan Chuan murmured and called in a low voice: "saint, saint!" There was only a dead silence to answer him. Dan''s blood dyed his skirt red, and there was some black and purple hair in the blood. He suddenly put Dan Zhen''s head in his arms and sobbed in a low voice of pain. If someone from southern Xinjiang passes by at the moment, he will be surprised by Yuan Chuan''s expression. This man, who has never been mysterious, has always been extremely fierce. Almost everyone who works under him will be afraid of him from the bottom of his heart, because this man is not happy and angry. It seems that he just likes killing and bloodthirsty. Such a devil like man, even because of others and cry, looks very sad. He whispered: "you don''t mean that I am your most loyal servant, the best knife you use. I want to help you achieve your wish. How can you die now... "Yuanchuan''s eyes are a little crazy. He frantically prints his kiss on the face of the person in his arms. His expression has already seen madness. He has always been very clear about his position. In front of Dan Zhen''s eyes, he is a dog that can bite people. Dan really knows who is in his heart. He knows how to treat himself as a dog. He will bite whoever Dan really wants? There is only one person in the world who can get all his loyalty. Even if there is no place for him in this woman''s heart, he will enjoy it. She is the saint who came down from heaven to save the sinner, and he is the humble sinner in the dust. The saint is also a human being. She has her own seven emotions and six desires, but she can''t relieve them. He is willing to be a knife in the hands of the saint. If the blood is dirty, his hands will be dirty. He will remove all obstacles on the road for her. She only needs to be the clean and pure saint. But now, there is only one corpse left in my arms, nothing left. His faith and the people he would follow all his life are gone. Yuan Chuan slowly put down the person in his arms, reached out and took off the mask on his face. Half of the face under the mask is full of ravines, and the original scars can be seen. In the half of the face covered by the mask, we can see the word "prisoner" with a brand iron. It was a big crime he had committed. He was beaten with a whip and branded with the word "prisoner" on his face with a hot iron. At that time, when he was about to brand the other side, he heard an ethereal voice: "stop it." The torment of pain stopped suddenly. He looked up and saw a red dress and a pair of beautiful eyes. The woman was like a fairy in the sky. She was slim and graceful and said, "it''s not a person whose sin is unforgivable. Please forgive him." He didn''t commit a serious crime, but he did. This woman''s words rescued him. Later, Yuanchuan could not forget this woman, and finally found a chance to see her again, indicating that he was willing to follow her with his whole life''s sacrifice. Yuanchuan is smart, cruel and understanding. Dan really likes to use him. Over the years, he and Dan Zhen depend on each other. He regards Dan Zhen as his salvation. The world is too dirty and dark. Only this woman who is not as beautiful as human can make the world look less ugly. He witnessed Dan''s loneliness, in which his soul became distorted. He never regretted being a devil. Yuanchuan stroked the uneven skin on half of his face, and his expression gradually calmed down. He said softly: "you give me name, give me life, saint, I will let them accompany you." He slowly bent down and bowed to Danzhen''s corpse. Then he slowly got up and walked out of the door without looking at the corpse on the ground. In the eighth Prince''s house, different from the past, there were many important ministers in the court besides the staff, all of whom followed the Xuanli group. Now, all of them are sitting here, headed by a great humanitarian: "Your Highness, the 13th Prince''s accession ceremony is imminent, if..." "Since the imperial edict has been announced to the world," Xuan Li said coldly, "it will be done without the imperial edict." At the thought of the burned imperial edict, Xuan Li''s heart was still in pain at the moment, and it was about to split. "Your Highness means rebellion?" Another minister asked tentatively. "What is rebellion?" Xuanli asked back. His face was not as gentle as before. On the contrary, he was crazy. He said in a deep voice: "this world is mine. The winner is the king and the loser is the bandit. Who wins is who? There is no need to say after the word "rebellion". This time it is called "eliminating the chaos in the palace of Qing Dynasty!" All the ministers did not speak. The common people in the world are not fools. The imperial edict has been issued. It''s not all self deception to say that we should eliminate the chaotic party. Everyone knows that it''s just a cover up. However, some movements are better than none. In terms of Xuanli''s military strength, it may not be worse than xuanpei''s. besides, there are people from southern Xinjiang. A military officer said: "Your Highness, we can discuss with Nanjiang. It''s just that Nanjiang is a stranger. I''m afraid there will be more trouble in the future. Now it''s just the situation, so for the time being, if you want to cooperate, your highness will have a long dream in the future, or... " The military officer hesitated and didn''t go on talking about it. In the final analysis, it''s still disturbing for people to come together with other countries to deal with their own land. Moreover, this southern Xinjiang state was personally destroyed by the hands of the Dajin Dynasty, so it''s hard to believe that the people of Southern Xinjiang have no other idea. For those who have a ghost in their heart, where can they live in peace in the future? If not for the sake of fighting against the xuanpei faction, why do you do these things with Nanjiang? "It''s just an expedient plan," Xuan Li said lightly. "After it''s done, it''s the southern Xinjiang that we will deal with. You don''t have to worry about it." Xuanli had already thought about it for a long time. After using it, he would throw it away. Nanjiang was just a tool for him. But Xuanli''s heart rang out what Dan Zhen had done, and he couldn''t help being angry. Because of this girl''s interference, he added a lot of things. Now there is only Qiman left in southern Xinjiang. Qiman wants to have a better grasp and be much smarter. I hope he can be more knowledgeable than Danzhen. Hearing Xuanli''s words, the minister at the scene first let down his breath, and then someone asked, "where does your highness start this battle?" "According to the past," Xuanli said, "now, instead of going out of the palace, they are going in from outside the palace. There are people from southern Xinjiang on the edge of the capital. First, they take the imperial guards in the palace outside the capital. Then, they surround the palace in a dilemma. Then, they build a strong wall and clear the field and burn the palace."What he said seemed to be nothing, but the people around him could not help but burst out in a cold sweat. They were firm in the wall, clear in the wild, and burned the imperial palace. They would not let anyone go, including the empress Yide in the palace. The ministers did not know whether they were lucky or unfortunate. Fortunately, they followed Xuanli. Otherwise, they might be themselves. Unfortunately, this master looks gentle and elegant on the surface, but he is so cruel in his heart. He may not be able to get along well in the future if he works under such a person. For a time, it was difficult to distinguish between happiness and anger, and the face was complicated. "When will it happen?" Someone asked. "The grand ceremony of accession to the throne." Xuan Li answers. So the officials were silent, just to avoid people''s eyes and ears, and soon they left in a hurry. After everyone left, Xuanli sat alone in the hall, supporting his forehead with one hand, with an indescribable look. After all, we have come to the worst step. I thought everything could be done well, and the emperor''s name was right, but I just needed to make xuanpei unable to sit in that position. Who knows that Xuan Pei has played such a trick? Now he is the one who has failed and has to extort confessions in the name of rebellion. When he rebelled, Xuan Li laughed. The most important thing in his life was his reputation. As long as the word "rebellion" came out, no matter whether he was good or bad in the fight in the future, he completely became a traitor he despised most. Even if he finally ascended the throne, the reputation could not be washed away. People may be afraid to say it, but who knows what they think. We can''t kill tens of thousands of people in the capital to avoid talking. Therefore, from the beginning of making this decision, the humiliation will be deeply imprinted on Xuanli, and it will be impossible to wash away all his life. In the final analysis, it was all Jiang Ruan''s fault. After he came back, Xuanli thought about it clearly. He was afraid that he was angry and killed Danzhen in Jiang Ruan''s calculation. But he didn''t regret it. As a woman, Danzhen would bring disaster to herself one day. It''s better to die early and clean up early. Xuanli hated being schemed all his life, but when it came to the end, he found that he was always schemed by Jiang Ruan, and he didn''t even have the interest to ask questions. He''s just a little tired. If Jiang Ruan had been his man, would he not be in such a mess now, and would he not have taken the lowest road. With Jiang Ruan''s words, it will be like a tiger adding wings. I''m afraid that the road to achieve thousands of miles will be much smoother. Xuanli thought, but at the beginning, he didn''t show his kindness to Jiang Ruan. From the first time he met Jiang Ruan, he was always in a gentle state. Although this appearance didn''t attract all women, it wasn''t annoying. But Jiang Ruan avoided him from the very beginning, and even seemed to be disgusted. Xuanli didn''t know why. Jiang Ruan was always against him, destroying his plan, and when he proposed to marry her, he refused without hesitation. Xuanli doesn''t know if it''s his illusion. Sometimes Jiang Ruan even shows his hatred to him. Xuanli doesn''t know where he offended her. He thinks about it and can''t find the reason. Later, Jiang Ruan chose Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao returned with the beauty. Xuan Li didn''t see anything on the surface, but he was already mad. Jiang Ruan was the one he couldn''t get, but he was finally got, and the one who got Jiang Ruan was Xiao Shao, the most hated and envious person in his life. Yes, he was jealous. He didn''t understand why the emperor trusted Xiao Shao so much because he was a bandit. I don''t know. Among the brothers of the mountain master of Canaan, Mr. Baqi''s favorite is Xiao Shao. I don''t know why Xiao Shao can easily do what other people need to work hard to do. Under his aura, other people''s efforts have been wiped out. Xuanli was not willing to be a man when he was young. He longed for others to pay attention to him from time to time. He was the best one, but Xiao Shao broke his rules. Even Bai Jiu is the same. At the beginning, everyone just said that Bai Jiu liked him, but he didn''t know that he liked him at that time. He was born in the Imperial Palace and was used to all kinds of fights. Who didn''t like Bai Jiu, such a natural and uncut girl. At that time, it was the first time that he fell in love with a person. Before he spoke, he saw Bai Jiu saying to him, "eighth elder martial brother, I like Third Elder martial brother. Why does he always ignore me?" Bai Jiu likes Xiao Shao. She never likes Xuan Li. Xuan Li can''t understand why Xiao Shao is so cold to people that Bai Jiu still likes him. Just at that moment, he felt the anger of leaving and the feeling of being betrayed. He was jealous of Xiao Shao and hated Bai Jiu''s betrayal. At that moment, the youth''s affection turned into a huge hatred. How did he do it? He said: "if you want to see if he really cares about you, you can see if he is jealous. You can say that you like me and be close to me, so that you can try to find out his mind." Bai Jiu doesn''t doubt that there is him. Xuanli is a gentle and considerate elder brother in her eyes. She also thinks this method is very good. At that time, all the brothers in Canaan mountain knew that Bai Jiu liked Xuanli. The more intimate Bai Jiu is, the more intolerable Xuan Li is. He feels that it''s all a shame, a shame. So that day came. When Bai Jiu was trapped, he hesitated to ask someone to help her. But in the end, when Bai Jiu told him about Xiao Shao''s affection, Xuan Li sneered and turned away.Bai Jiu didn''t know why Xuanli did this until he died. All the people in Canaan mountain thought that he was ungrateful. Only he knew that Bai Jiu didn''t like him. What Bai Jiu liked was Xiao Shao, and what he hated most was Xiao Shao. For so many years, he thought that those things had been forgotten for a long time. He wore the mask for too long, and he could smile kindly to Xiao Shao. But those envious and gloomy feelings have never been forgotten one day. Xiao Shao is always better than him. Bai Jiu or Jiang Ruan always want to take what he likes. Maybe they are the old enemies in the past, and they will end up in this life. Xuanli shook his hands, and the teacup in his hand broke, and the blood flowed out from between his fingers. It''s just a strange and strange look, like a wild beast with a devil. It''s very crazy. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 253 In the room, with chin in one hand, Qiman is looking at the pieces on the chessboard in front of him. The black-and-white pieces appear to be placed in disorder on the crisscross chess path, but Qiman is also interested in watching them. After so many years in the great Jin Dynasty, she learned the habits of many people in the Jin Dynasty, such as playing chess, self-cultivation. This is undoubtedly a very good way, so that after so many years in Shangshu mansion, she did not find any loopholes. But today, it is different. Suddenly, a man came into the door. He walked like the wind. He didn''t even knock on the door. His action was very rude, but he was a bit reckless. Qiman raised his eyes. The man who came from outside was wearing a gray robe and dragged to his feet. His face was not the mask he usually wore. Half of his face was rugged and looked ugly with his strange blue eyes. That''s Yuanchuan. Qiman looked at him in his spare time. He was not surprised. He even gave a slight smile and said, "it turns out that you look like this. No wonder you have to wear a mask." Her tone is calm, but it seems that she always has a sharp irony, which makes people feel uncomfortable. But Yuanchuan obviously didn''t notice this. He just stepped forward step by step and said coldly, "the saint is dead." "Oh." Qiman stretched out his hand to twist a piece of chess, thought for a moment, and then fell down. He said, "I have said that she is reckless and spoiled. I don''t know the heaven and earth. Sooner or later, she will be killed." "She was killed by Xuanli." Yuanchuan stepped forward and continued: "you knew Xuanli would kill her, right? You did it on purpose, didn''t you?" "I did it on purpose?" Qiman seems to have heard something funny, light way: "why should I deliberately kill her?" "You are the princess of the former dynasty. When you died in southern Xinjiang, your status was greatly reduced when you had a saint. You are no longer the princess who could call the wind and rain. If you want to master Southern Xinjiang thoroughly, the saint is your stumbling block. You want to get rid of her. " Yuanchuan said: "you have seen the imperial edict for a long time. You know that it is wrong, but you didn''t tell the saint. You even let her burn the imperial edict on purpose, because you know that the saint will be killed by the angry Xuanli after the incident is revealed. All this is your conspiracy!" Yuanchuan finished, then staring at Qiman, the eyes of the green fox are full of venom at the moment, it is obvious that he now wants the woman in front of him to die. He carefully thought about the key, found that Qiman is the most suspicious. Dan Zhen and Qiman stay together. How can Qiman not know what Dan Zhen has done? Since you know, why don''t you remind Dan Zhen, so that Dan Zhen died in Xuanli''s hand. When Qiman heard the words, she began to smile. Her eyes moved away from the chessboard to Yuanchuan''s face. She looked at Yuanchuan carefully as if she didn''t know him. Then she said: "for so many years, I don''t understand how Dan really can do so many things, or even negotiate with Xuanli. It turns out there''s a smart guy around. You are right. I really take credit for this. But you''re wrong. I didn''t plan to do this. I just pushed the boat with the current. I didn''t open the imperial edict, and I didn''t know the contents of the imperial edict. " Yuanchuan did not speak, and his anger did not recede. "When Danzhen burned the edict, I got the news late. The imperial edict has been burned. What''s the point of pursuing it again? I didn''t know so much that day. When the real imperial edict came out, I knew Xuanli would come to ask for another imperial edict, but the imperial edict was destroyed in Danzhen''s hands, and Xuanli would vent his anger. Dan is so rampant. You are so obedient to her that she doesn''t know the superiority of heaven and earth. She thinks that everyone respects her in the south of Xinjiang. However, in the eyes of the people in the Dajin Dynasty, she is just like a mole ant. This kind of disposition will bring disaster to southern Xinjiang one day. It''s better to let Xuanli suffer from it and know more about it. " Qiman sighed: "but I didn''t expect that the imperial edict was Xuanli''s imperial edict. Danzhen burned Xuanli''s imperial edict, and any prince would not let that man go. I''m not surprised that Danzhen died at Xuanli''s hand. Because that''s the price she has to pay. " Yuan Chuan looked at her, the words are gnashing their teeth: "so, you are not wrong?" "That''s not true," Qiman said with a smile. "But after all, I''m just pushing the boat with the current, and the plot behind this is not from me. Since you are her loyal servant, you should know clearly who is behind the scenes in this matter. " "It''s Jiang Ruan." Yuanchuan gritted his teeth. "Yes," Qiman nodded. "I admire her a little. From the beginning, she played such a play in order to achieve everything. Now, you can see that without a single soldier, a saint has been lost in southern Xinjiang. Do you think it''s time to ask me for this "You Shouldn''t we protect her? " Yuanchuan was a little puzzled at first, and then became alert: "why do you want her life?" Since Qiman and Xuanli are allies, Xuanli wants to use Jiang Ruan to trade with Xiao Shao. Before that, he must ensure Jiang Ruan''s safety. But just listen to the meaning of Qiman''s words, it seems that they don''t care about Jiang Ruan''s life or death. Isn''t she worried about something that would be hard to explain in front of Xuanli?"Xuanli and I are never allies," Qiman said lightly. "Besides, I still have some personal grudges with Jiang Ruan. Since you are not afraid of death, you can solve this grudge for me by the way. Why should I stop you for this. But I want to ask you, are you afraid of death? " The meaning of this is almost * naked understand, Jiang Ruan''s death, Xuanli is bound to take Yuanchuan''s life, because Yuanchuan bad his good deeds. Although Qiman has a grudge with Jiang Ruan, he doesn''t need to give up his life for Jiang Ruan. This is a gamble, with Jiang Ruan at one end and his own life at the other. Qiman thinks Jiang Ruan''s chips are not enough, but Yuanchuan thinks they are. "I just want to avenge the virgin," Yuanchuan said "In that case," Qiman said with a smile, "then do what you want to do. I won''t stop you." Yuanchuan looked at Qiman and sneered: "thank you, princess." Then he turned and left. He also hated Qiman, but not as much as Jiang Ruan. At most, Qiman pushed the boat along the river, but Jiang Ruan was the mastermind of the whole thing. Besides, Danzhen wanted to kill Jiang Ruan when she was alive. Now that Danzhen is not here, killing Jiang Ruan himself is also a wish for her. Qiman looks at Yuanchuan''s back and his smile fades away. What she said just now is a bit true and a bit false. Jiang Ruan is indeed the planner of the whole thing, but she is not just pushing the boat with the current. She had guessed that the edict was not so simple, not because of anything else, but a kind of intuition. Anyway, in Shangshu mansion, she also had a long time with Jiang Ruan. The more things Jiang Ruan kept secret, the more impeccable he looked. But being taken away is an abnormal thing. Qiman guesses that Jiang Ruan must have some plans. Maybe there is something wrong with the imperial edict. She doesn''t say anything, because she also wants Dan''s life. Only when Danzhen died, she was the only princess in the future royal family of Southern Xinjiang. Only she could be a noble and inviolable Royal. As for Jiang Ruan, Qiman slowly raised his lips. Why did he want her to die? Maybe it''s because if Jiang Ruan died, the woman''s son would also feel heartbreaking pain. Does she know that Xiao Shao loves her princess so much that she wants to revenge on Prince Hongxi and Xiang Xiaoyuan for their son''s loss. Qiman didn''t notice that the dumb maidservant bent down to sweep the floor in the room had a moment''s stagnation towards the face of the underground, and then he recovered his usual slightly silly and cowardly look, and walked out of the room with dirty water. Jiang Ruan sat on the couch and hid the Antai pills in his sleeve. These days, dumb maidservant sent many of these Antai pills. Because they were not noticeable, they were convenient to hide. She also gradually began to make sure that the dumb maid really didn''t have a bad idea for her. These days, she has been helping her to cover for fear that she would not be known by others. Jiang Ruan''s body has been for several months, and gradually began to show the strength of her bosom. Under such an obvious move, she has never been found to be pregnant, which is enough to show the perfect cooperation between the dumb maid and her. Dumb maidservant also consciously added some body tonic things to Jiang Ruan''s food, but it was more hidden. As soon as she finished her sleeves, she saw the dumb maid coming in with a basin of water. Then she closed the door and tried to wipe her face. Jiang Ruan leans on the innermost couch. Even if you look out of the window, the dumb maid is close to Jiang Ruan, and no one can see her open mouth. Every time the dumb maidservant had something to say to Jiang Ruan, he used this method. "Yuanchuan is going to kill you." Dumb maid close to Jiang Ruan''s ear, voice is very shallow: "Qiman also acquiesced." Jiang Ruan slightly stunned, then said: "expected." It seems that Yuanchuan''s feelings for the saint of Southern Xinjiang are unusual. As soon as he finds out that he is the person behind the plot, he will not give up. But Qiman also acquiesced, which surprised Jiang Ruan. She thought Xuanli''s alliance with Qiman was very strong, and now it doesn''t seem so. In other words, the main purpose of Qiman''s flattening the whole Dajin Dynasty was to avenge the past. What she hated most at that time was Xiang Xiaoyuan. Xiao Shao was Xiang Xiaoyuan''s son. She was willing to do anything that could block Xiao Shao. Jiang Ruan pondered in his heart that Qiman''s hard-working methods always made people ignore her identity. He thought that she was a ruthless Southern Xinjiang person with a strong overall view, but he forgot that she was still a woman. Women always lost some sense in the face of feelings. "You are in danger now. How can I help you?" Asked the dumb maid. "Don''t worry. The worst thing is to tell the guards outside that Yuanchuan is going to kill me. Those bodyguards are Xuanli people. They are ordered to protect me. If you know that Yuanchuan intends to harm me, you are bound to try your best to protect me. " Xuanli will also want to take Jiang Ruan to make a deal with Xiao Shao. Such valuable chips will not be destroyed by Yuanchuan. So these people are sent by Xuanli to protect her safety. If there is anything happening in Yuanchuan, we can naturally rely on the strength of these bodyguards. "The worst way?" The dumb maidservant seemed to understand Jiang Ruan''s meaning. After thinking about it carefully, but he didn''t understand it very well, so he asked, "are you going to use the worst way?" Jiang Ruan smile: "of course not. Although this method can guarantee my safety for a while, it can''t guarantee my whole life. Besides, my body is more and more pregnant. If I stay here, they will find me sooner or later. With Xuanli''s disposition, he has undoubtedly increased his chips. What''s more, I''m afraid that he will do something harmful to the children. I can''t gamble on this. ""What do you mean?" Dumb maidservant some don''t understand. "The purpose of those bodyguards and Yuanchuan is totally opposite. I want to take advantage of their contradictions and find a suitable opportunity to escape. Xuanli is going to fight soon. Once he starts to fight, he will take me out as a chip. After that, it will be difficult for Yuanchuan to kill me again. So he will fight in these two days. At that time, you will do so... " She whispered a few words in the mute maid''s ear. After hearing this, the mute maid looked at Jiang Ruan in shock: "it''s too risky, you What if it fails? Think about it. Now you have a baby in your stomach... " "Just because I have a child in my stomach," Jiang Ruan frowned at her, and his tone became serious: "Yuanchuan is extremely cunning. One day, my stomach will not be able to hide it. Yuanchuan hates me to the bone. He has the idea of dying together. Once he knows that I am pregnant with a child, he will only come up with more vicious tricks. I''m not afraid to face him alone, but I want to protect my children. Just told you the plan, although it is also dangerous, but it is much safer than staying under Yuanchuan''s eyes. I am lucky if I succeed in this matter, but I am doomed if I fail. I can''t let Yuanchuan know that I''m pregnant. Do you understand? " The dumb maid looks at Jiang Ruan. These days, she has seen that when she is quietly planning strategies, she will let the people of Southern Xinjiang fight each other without a single soldier, and let the holy girl die at Xuanli''s hands. She is indeed a powerful woman, but at the moment, when she mentions the flesh and blood in her abdomen, her worries are not concealed. But when talking about the plan, everyone can feel the determination in her heart. Women will be weak because they become mothers and strong because they become mothers. Dumb maidservant way: "I understand, I will help you.". But please remember your agreement with me. After it''s done, you must kill Xuanli. " Jiang Ruan nodded. As soon as the conversation was finished, someone came in outside the door. It was no one else but Yuanchuan. Dumb maid back to Yuan Chuan, some uneasy look up at Jiang Ruan, Jiang Ruan drooping eyes, indicating that she rest assured, leave as soon as possible. Yuanchuan will not do it now. There are all Xuanli people outside. He will do it, and he will do it only when Xuanli people are distracted. Dumb maidservant quickly picked up the handkerchief and sweet pancreases, took the water basin back out. Yuan Chuan slowly stepped forward and stopped in front of Jiang Ruan. PI xiaorou said with no smile: "princess, I haven''t seen you for a long time. Now I look plump. I''m really in a good mood." Jiang Ruan looked up at the man in front of him. He had taken off his mask. This mask used to be very important to him, because it was always on his face. Now even the mask has been taken off. Does it really matter? Or life without love. Jiang Ruan took back his eyes and said with a smile, "it''s just cultivating one''s nature." It is inevitable that the body becomes plump after pregnant. The belly can be covered with wide clothes, but the face can''t. Fortunately, Jiang Ruan was thin in the past, but now he''s only a few months old. He''s not so obvious. He just looks plump and not too much. Yuan Chuan sneered again, and his tone was full of bitterness: "why is the princess happy, because she succeeded in her trick and killed the virgin?" "Did I kill the virgin?" Jiang Ruan slightly tilted his head and seemed to be thinking carefully: "let me think about it. At most, I concealed the message of the imperial edict and sent you the wrong message, but I didn''t expect to kill your saint. Your saint is dead. Am I responsible for it? " "It''s very eloquent." Yuanchuan seems to have heard the joke. His body is a little stiff. His face is very strange because of the anger of his face. The red lips have to be lifted up. At first glance, it looks like a ghost who is trying to kill him: "do you think this can cover up your murder? This is what you planned. Do you think you can get away with killing the virgin? Do you think your husband will come to save you? No, you can''t wait for that day. " Jiang Ruan chuckled: "you don''t have to intimidate me, emissary. The most important thing I need in my life is to be intimidated. Compared with being intimidated, I expect you to take some practical actions. Of course, what I want to say is not this. In fact, I''m a little strange. Although I have calculated your saints, there is no turning around in this matter. Didn''t Xuanli kill her? Why did you find me instead of him? Why do I have to pay for my life instead of my life? Is it because you know you can''t compete with Xuanli? You keep saying that you are very loyal to your saint, but you have to be choosy even when you avenge her. Once you meet an enemy who is beyond your ability, you will ignore him? You don''t think you''re acting like that? Your loyalty is only for others, because you don''t even have the courage to avenge her. " Yuan Chuan was stunned for a moment. Although he told himself at the beginning, none of what Jiang Ruan said was true. But when she said it, he could not help but agree with her in his heart. He had no way to kill Xuanli. Xuanli was surrounded by bodyguards with excellent martial arts skills, and Qiman would not allow it. So knowing that Xuanli killed Danzhen himself, he couldn''t do anything. Jiang Ruan''s words are just a dull hammer, hitting the fact that he has been afraid to face. He was a coward and had no courage to avenge Danzhen. Yuan Chuan only felt that his heart was split, and a great sense of disgust came to his heart. He even thought that it would be better to go with Dan Zhen in this way. But a moment later, he came back from this mood. His eyes fell on the smiling Jiang Ruan in front of him, and he could not help taking a breath in his heart.This woman It''s terrible, she wants to make him have the mind of self disgust, she is guiding his ideas, she is a master of playing with people, she''s terrible. For a time, Yuanchuan''s mind only for this woman''s suspicion. He calmed down and said, "do you think I can move all my hatred to Xuanli by saying this? You think I''m going to hate myself? You are just talking nonsense. It''s your fault from the beginning to the end! It''s Xuanli''s killer, but it''s also because of your plan! You''ve calculated everything. You''re the real killer. To pay for your life, the first one is you Jiang Ruan shrugged: "what a pity." She didn''t say what it was a pity, but Yuanchuan knew it in her heart. It was a pity that her words of guidance were finally found out by Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan is very angry in his heart, but he can''t do it at this time. There are all Xuanli people outside. In this way, he will frighten the snake. He looked up and down at Jiang Ruan again. His eyes stopped for a moment on Jiang Ruan''s slightly plump face. He threw down a sentence: "I hope you can always be so lucky." He turned and left. After Yuan Chuan left, Jiang Ruan just frowned, put his hands on his belly, and tightly pursed his lips. His smiling face was a bit deep. There is no time. That night, a corner of the temple burst into flames, and a female voice suddenly called out: "Yuanchuan, what do you want to do, come here!" The voice was not strange. It was the voice of Princess Jiang Ruan of Jinying. The fire rose from the sky. The temple was made of wood, and almost immediately swept half of the wall. The strangest thing was that the guards at the gate of Jiang Ruan were silent, as if they were dead. The people who covered the remaining temples at the gate heard the voice, but they were burned The fire was stunned. In that dark night, however, a man in grey came and looked at the burning flame in front of him. This man is Yuanchuan. He really plans to fight today. But who knows, he tries to bring down the guards at the door, and there is a fire here. Yuanchuan almost thinks without hesitation that this must be a conspiracy of Jiang Ruan. Just now there was a woman shouting in it. Naturally, it was Jiang Ruan. No doubt, Jiang Ruan had no chance to survive in this room. Yuanchuan looked at the fire in front of him. I don''t know where the fire started. It almost engulfed the whole room. The room where Jiang Ruan lived was very remote. If it hadn''t been for today, he would have planned to start in the middle of the night. No one would have known if the place had been burned to ashes. Yuanchuan heard the woman''s scream clearly. It was impossible for Jiang Ruan to escape. But Yuanchuan had a strange conjecture in his heart. Since such a long fight, he had never asked Jiang Ruan for any advantage. Is this another stratagem of Jiang Ruan? How could Jiang Ruan willingly die in this fire? Yes. Every time she seems to have no way to survive, she can survive. It is the fire that seems to have no way to retreat. It is not necessarily her deliberate scheme. Once you have this idea in your heart, Yuanchuan''s suspicion will grow stronger and stronger. How about the fire again? He must see Jiang Ruan die in it before he is willing to live to see people die to see the corpse. He can''t let go of his heart without confirming Jiang Ruan''s death. Yuan Chuan once thought so, then ruthless, even if it is blazing fire, also no scruple to rush in. The subordinates who were still busy fighting the fire were surprised to see this scene, and they had to dissuade them one after another. But Yuanchuan can listen to it. Now he is determined to die for Jiang Ruan''s life. He is willing to pay for his life as long as Jiang Ruan is dead. Yuan Chuan did not hesitate to plunge into the sea of fire. As soon as Fang entered, he felt the burning sensation coming from his face, and the heat went straight to his face. The flames spread everywhere. Every time he took a step inside, he could feel his hair and skin burned a little more. The burning smell of his skin penetrated his ears, but Yuanchuan didn''t care. Once the room was on fire, he could not tell where it was. He could not see where it was. He could only hear the cry of Jiang Ruan deep in the room, and he followed the sound. Yuanchuan was not afraid at all, and he was buried in the sea of fire. As long as you watch Jiang Ruan die, what''s wrong with him dying together? Just thinking about how Jiang Ruan was in such a place in the house, did she not want to escape? Yuanchuan is excited. He steps faster and faster. The more he goes inside, the bigger the fire is. Yuanchuan''s hands are all burned out, and he doesn''t care. Finally, in a corner, I saw Jiang Ruan curled up in the wall. Jiang Ruan was still weeping. Yuanchuan was relieved and said with a ferocious smile, "Jiang Ruan, go to hell now and pay for the life of the saint." At the end of his speech, Jiang Ruan was still weeping without noticing. Yuan Chuan was stunned, and a strange feeling suddenly appeared in his heart. How can Jiang Ruan cry all the time? This woman''s tears are rarer than stones, so incorrect! He suddenly stepped forward, regardless of the cross beam in front of him, grabbed Jiang Ruan''s hand and dragged her to his eyes. "Jiang Ruan" was wearing the usual clothes, weeping, his face was blackened by the fire, but he could still distinguish his facial features. It was not Jiang Ruan, but a dumb maid!"I''ve been deceived!" Yuanchuan yells badly. He doesn''t care why the dumb maidservant talks and why he wants to help Jiang Ruan. At the moment, he is only annoyed. It turns out that all this is a good situation for Jiang Ruan bu. With the help of his hand, he put down the bodyguard outside and set the house on fire. The dumb maidservant was crying in it. Everyone knew that the dumb maidservant was dumb and could not speak, so he would make up his mind. It must be Jiang Ruan. If he didn''t doubt it and didn''t walk in to see it, the dumb maidservant sacrificed himself. Everyone thought that the remains belonged to Jiang Ruan and helped him escape. If he suspects going in and looking. The dumb maid suddenly jumped up and grabbed his arm tightly, with a strange smile on his face: "I didn''t expect you to come in, just because I earned it. Since you want her to accompany you to hell, why don''t you accompany me to hell?" This is her purpose. As long as Yuan Chuan comes in, she will pull yuan Chuan together and die together, so that people outside don''t know what''s going on inside, and they won''t know whether Jiang Ruan is fake. The real Jiang Ruan has escaped! What a poisonous mind! Yuan Chuan sneered, "are you Xiao Shao''s man?" "Wrong," said the dumb maidservant with a smile. "Xuanli and I have a grudge against each other. Since you are his ally and a wild dog in southern Xinjiang, I will take revenge on Xuanli!" When she finished, she held her hands more tightly, and a large piece of burning wood fell down, and sparks splashed Yuanchuan all over her body. It was at this time that the fire around was already very strong, and the house was about to collapse. Yuanchuan looks dangerous, but his expression is more and more ferocious. He wanted Jiang Ruan''s life, but now Jiang Ruan is likely to escape. How can he be willing to die! Yuan Chuan sneered and felt that his hands and feet were tight. He found that the dumb maid didn''t know what button he had used and put his arm and his arm together. Dumb maidservant stayed here for a long time, inhaled a lot of smoke and dust, at this moment is dying, this action has exhausted all the strength. Yuan Chuan''s cruel smile: "in that case, I''ll give you a ride!" He immediately took out a serrated curved knife from his waist and cut off the dumb maid''s arm with one knife. I don''t know what was painted on the blade, but many small things like insect eggs quickly climbed out and climbed in along the dumb maid''s arm. "This poisonous insect is also precious. It''s cheap for you. Enjoy it. " Yuanchuan was also hurt badly. His feet were empty, and his whole body was burning with pus. He immediately went out. The dumb maidservant screamed and covered her broken arm. What was more painful than that was that countless poisonous insects began to enter her body today. It felt like thousands of ants corroding her heart. It was really unbearable. In the sea of fire, the voice of dumb maidservant screamed. She thought, in fact, Jiang Ruan didn''t let her do this, just let her hold on for a little time. She was willing to do this. She wanted to buy more time for Jiang Ruan, and to help Jiang Ruan was to help herself. Even if she felt great pain at the moment, she would not regret it, as long as she could get revenge. Yuanchuan from the sea of blood in the emergence, people outside are scared. His clothes were charred, and there was no intact skin on his whole body. Everywhere is drips the dark yellow liquid, sends out a skin flesh to scorch the taste, smelling disgusting. His ugly face is now burned a large part of the skin, those pink skin exposed, full of terror. That is to say, those subordinates in the daily life can''t help stepping back. Qiman stood in the crowd, looking at Yuanchuan faintly, and said, "how about it?" Yuan Chuan sneers. The guards outside the room are still awake. He''s full of material, but he doesn''t expect that it''s him who''s digging. If these people had not been drugged at the moment, it would not be difficult to catch Jiang Ruan who absconded. He went out darkly: "she ran away, now, chase!" There is no light in the dark mountain road in the mountain stream. Jiang Ruan runs fast on her horse. She can''t light the torch, otherwise it will attract people from Yuanchuan. She doesn''t know what the dumb maid is like now. She originally asked the dumb maid to go with her, but the dumb maid said she would have to take revenge if she stayed. Now I can''t persuade her. I have to let her go. I don''t know how long the dumb maidservant can hide Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan is a smart man and should come soon. Jiang Ruan was very anxious. She didn''t expect that this place was so far away from the capital and so desolate. There was no place to hide. The child in her stomach didn''t know whether she could bear such a violent turbulence. She ate a lot of Antai pills from dumb maidservant, hoping to survive today. After all, this place is unfamiliar. Jiang Ruan himself doesn''t know where he is going. He is thinking of running forward, but he hears the noise behind him. She turns her head and finds that a large fire is approaching. The leader is riding on the horse. Who is Yuanchuan? It''s coming! Her heart a tight, Yuan Chuan unexpectedly chase so fast, perhaps because they don''t have scruples can ignite torch? Regardless of his body, Jiang Ruan took out a dagger from his sleeve. Without thinking about it, he thrust it into the horse''s buttocks. The horse felt pain and ran wildly. In this way, it is temporarily opened up with Yuanchuan their distance. This horse was the best one Jiang Ruan had chosen in the stable, and it ran very fast, but under such a violent jolt, Jiang Ruan''s lower abdomen began to ache. In her heart, she said no, and immediately put her hand over her belly, trying to make the child quiet. But the pain became more and more severe. The faster the horse ran, the more painful she was.Yuan Chuan followed him, and naturally he noticed the strange posture of Jiang Ruan. After looking at it for a while, he suddenly had an idea in his mind. He could not help thinking about why Jiang Ruan had to keep a white dog in those days. The dog ate a lot but was very thin. He also thought about Jiang Ruan''s increasingly plump face. He was almost sure. He exclaimed excitedly, "hold her, she''s pregnant! She can''t run fast Jiang Ruan''s heart jumped. The secret was so bad that he was discovered by Yuanchuan. In this way, Yuanchuan couldn''t catch him. Yuanchuan hated her so much that she was afraid that the first thing to catch her was to kill her child. She ran faster and faster in her heart. However, Jiang Ruan ignored that it was difficult to walk in the dark in the mountains, and such a mindless collision was extremely dangerous. She wants to flee, eager to get rid of Yuanchuan, but did not expect Yuanchuan is deliberately forced her on a dead end. The broken wall was right in front of him, towering into the clouds, and the beautiful scenery that he could still enjoy in the daytime was dark at night, which covered up the thousands of feet below. Jiang Ruan could not see clearly, and even did not know when he came near. He only felt a sudden lightening of his body, a long hiss of his horse, and fell into the boundless abyss with him. Yuan Chuan''s ferocious laughter and the voice of reining in the horse came from his trance: "I have already said that I want to give you a ride!" Take a week off to write the finale (*^__ ^*) ~ I''ll see you in a week www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 254 The wind is blowing hard at the foot of the mountain. It''s very chilly in the early morning. There are huge deep pits in the wasteland full of weeds. The pits are covered with straw and seem to have some attractive aroma. Two young men dressed as hunters were carrying medicine baskets. From a long distance, they saw a big hole in the hunting pit, which was deeply sunken. The movement seemed quite big. Looking a little childish, the young man said, "brother, do you think there''s a big guy here? My mother has a good mouth these days!" The older young man couldn''t help showing a trace of joy on his face and said, "let''s go and have a look." This hunting pit was originally set up to catch big guys, but usually there are many wild animals such as wolves and rabbits in this place, and there are no big wild animals. This hunting pit is just a show. Who knows today''s luck is so good, unexpectedly came to be a big guy, two hearts naturally overjoyed, touched the back of the scythe and bow and arrow, cat waist toward the other side of the pit. The younger brother couldn''t bear it. After a few steps, he trotted all the way. He couldn''t wait to see his head under the pit. He was so scared that he called out: "stop, hill! Be careful what''s underneath But the hill didn''t move. It just tried to see what was inside. Seeing this, his brother was even more anxious. He thought that his brother''s behavior was strange. He also recalled that some wild animals in the mountains would marry and pretend to be injured to attract people. When people came forward, he grabbed people''s neck and dragged them into the cave. The more the young man thought about it, the more suspicious he felt. He immediately picked up his scythe and ran there. Who knows, just halfway through the race, Xiaoshan raised his face and looked back at his brother. He was disappointed and said, "brother, it''s not a big guy. It''s a woman inside." The young man''s action stopped abruptly, followed by a stay, quickly stepped forward to look inside. If it is true, in the sunlight outside, there are still thick straw covered outside in the pit. There is a man lying on the straw. It looks like a woman. The two brothers looked at each other. Finally, the older brother said, "bring the people up first." The hill slid down. One of the two brothers was outside the pit, the other was in the pit. It was so easy to get the woman out. The hill climbed out and sat down on the ground, saying: "I''m so tired, brother. Is this man dead?" "Don''t talk nonsense." His brother stopped his brother''s nonsense and put out two fingers to probe the woman''s nose. Although it was very weak, there was still a nose. That''s a relief. Fortunately, human lives are still there. Seeing this, Xiaoshan got up and said, "brother, is she going to die? Why don''t you wake up? " The young man thought about it and said, "if we carry her home, it will be a human life." Although Xiaoshan was very reluctant, he still went home with his brother. As soon as they got home, a fat woman with a headscarf came out. When they saw them, they were stunned and said, "Dashan, why did you bring Xiaoshan back? Is something missing? " As soon as the words came to an end, she saw a woman on the back of Dashan and said, "this..." "I picked up a dying woman on the road. Let''s have a look." The hill opened its mouth. "Oh, my God. Dashan, please carry your back to my room and let the girl lie down. Xiaoshan, please go to see Doctor Wang." Obviously, the woman is also warm-hearted and urges her son to carry the girl to her bed. Doctor Wang came soon. He was the only doctor in the village. He was responsible for every headache in the village. Most of the people in this village are simple minded. When they know that Dashan''s family has picked up an injured girl, they rush over. After feeling the pulse for the woman on the bed, Doctor Wang twisted his gray beard and said, "the girl fell down from a very high place. Fortunately, she met a branch hanging on the way. It was not so bad that she fell off, so she left a scratch on her arm. Finally, I fell into your brother''s animal pit, only skin trauma. It''s just that the baby in her belly is a little dangerous. Fortunately, she took a lot of medicine to protect the fetus before, otherwise she would be a immortal now. But the baby in her belly is not out of danger. She is very weak now. Xiaoshanniang, I''ll prescribe a few prescriptions for abortion. Let Xiaoshan go to the mountains to collect some medicine for the girl to drink. In addition, pay attention to tonifying her body. Pregnant women pay most attention to recuperation. " Xiaoshanniang didn''t think that this woman was pregnant. She heard that Doctor Wang said that she had fallen from a very high place. She thought that she had met a heartbreaker and killed herself. Thinking about it, he took pity on the woman on the bed and quickly thanks Doctor Wang for letting the mountains and hills collect herbs. It''s like falling down from a distance. When Jiang Ruan woke up, she was at a loss for a moment. Her first move was to lower her head and touch her abdomen. Fortunately, the child was still there. She settled down, and then some doubts, the last memory, she was in the dark yuan Chuan lured, from a very high place fell into the cliff abyss, should be dead. What, this is the world after death? This is not the world after death, of course. She soon understood. Looking around, this is a small farmhouse, which is similar to the one in ZhangLan village. The quilt is blue and white with lotus leaves embroidered on it. The stitches are fine. The material is comfortable but ordinary.She was stunned and looked around. The door was pushed open. From the outside, a woman with small feet in a blue flowered cloth jacket came in. Her face was a little wide, but she had a kind smile on her face. The smile was very simple and honest. She came in with a bowl of black medicine. It was a surprise to see her wake up. She put the medicine bowl aside, sat on the edge of the bed and looked at her and said, "girl, are you happy I wake up. You slept three days and three nights "Ma''am, this is..." Jiang Ruan asked with a smile, holding out her hand and not smiling. Besides, the woman looked like an ordinary peasant woman. "You fell into my son''s trap. He carried you back. The doctor in our village took the pulse for you. You are very weak. Fortunately, the child is OK. This is the medicine to protect the fetus. You can drink it first. This is Qingping town. Just call me sister-in-law GUI. It''s not a lady. " The woman''s smile was bright, and her words were sincere, which made her feel good. Jiang Ruan noticed that she still had a cocoon left by doing farm work on her hand. With a little smile and no words, she called sister-in-law GUI and took the medicine out of the bowl. Just then, he said to sister-in-law GUI: "sister-in-law GUI saved my life. She is my life-saving benefactor. She is very kind and virtuous. She has nothing to repay..." "Don''t say that!" Sister GUI was startled, and even said: "it''s all human life. How can you not save yourself from death? Dashan and I didn''t save you for anything in return. Girl, you are still very weak. It''s better to stay here and take care of yourself. Since you fell into the mountain''s animal pit, it''s also fate. There''s no need to be rigid. " After thinking about it, sister-in-law GUI said, "just where does the girl live? The girl suddenly disappeared, and the family must be very anxious. Would you like someone to take a message to the family? " As soon as Jiang Ruan''s expression changed, his eyes suddenly deepened. Yuanchuan naturally wanted to make sure that she died clean. That day, when she fell off the cliff, Yuanchuan might not have sent someone to look for her. Would she have found this place? If so, would it not have hurt these people? The way she twisted her eyebrows was seen by sister-in-law GUI. She thought that she really had something to think of. Some careful explorations said: "girl, what''s the difficulty? If there''s any difficulty, it''s better to live here. The people here are very good. Girl, I''ve lived most of my life. I haven''t seen anything, and I''ve encountered a lot of pain, but I still have a sentence to tell you . It''s not easy in this world, but it''s good to be alive. Don''t give up your life easily at any time. " Jiang Ruan didn''t understand the meaning of sister-in-law GUI''s words until sister-in-law GUI covered her abdomen with one hand and said, "besides, you still have children. Even if there is anything wrong, the children are innocent. You are the mother of the child. You have to bring him up. " Jiang Ruan finally understood why sister-in-law GUI said this. She thought that she was not well behaved, so she wanted to jump off the cliff and commit suicide. After my parents died, someone who had an engagement with me married me. I was pregnant, but I found that he wanted to swallow my property, or even kill me. I absconded at night and was forced to jump off the cliff by them. I didn''t want to come here She casually said that she had never seen these things in her previous life and this life. When she said that, she only taught sister-in-law GUI to be stunned and indignant, and said, "there are so many people who are so cruel! Girl, don''t be afraid. Let''s go to court. Is there no justice in the world! Let''s go. There are also scholars in our village. Write a lawsuit against the official immediately! " After Jiang Ruan finished, she carefully observed sister-in-law GUI''s expression and confirmed that sister-in-law GUI''s expression was not a fraud. She put her heart down, shook her head and showed a bitter smile: "it''s useless. There are people in his court, and those officials protect each other. They won''t make decisions for me at all. What''s more, I don''t want to scare a snake. I just want to have a baby quietly, but he won''t let me go easily. What I''m afraid of is that he will involve you too. " "There''s no need to worry about that," sister-in-law GUI shook her head. "Our place is very hidden. At the beginning, it was for the sake of avoiding the talents in the village that we hid here. People outside don''t know that there is a place like ours. It''s impossible for a heartless person to find this place just by climbing up the rattan from the outside world. " Jiang Ruan just wanted to know whether it was safe or not. He felt a little relieved when he heard that. With Yuan Chuan''s temperament, he must have sent someone down to look for it. Since he didn''t find it here for three days and three nights, it means that this place is very hidden. She smile a little, way: "that annoys GUI Sao." "Don''t mention it," said sister-in-law GUI. "I haven''t asked her name yet." Jiang Ruan said, "my name is Ruan Niang." "Lady Ruan." Sister GUI said, "it''s a good name. You look like a girl from a wealthy family. I just hope you don''t dislike us here." Jiang Ruan shook his head again and exchanged greetings with sister-in-law GUI. Sister-in-law GUI told her to leave first. Sitting on the bed, Jiang Ruan is deep in thought. She doesn''t know what''s going on outside now. She wants to send news to Xiao Shao, but who knows if Yuanchuan''s people will stay outside. Although we haven''t found her yet, maybe we are waiting for her to fall into the trap. Besides, it''s not safe to run around with a child. It''s better to take a rest and wait for the child to be born before going out. By that time, the matter of Yuanchuan will be solved.But Xiao Shao must be worried again. Jiang Ruan was worried. After Jiang Ruan woke up, because she was still very weak, she didn''t go out a few days ago. It was sister GUI who brought the meal to the bed for her to eat. Guisao was originally a farmer, but she was very good to Jiang Ruan. Dashan and Xiaoshan brothers often beat pheasants and rabbits when they went out hunting every day. Guisao also tried to mend Jiang Ruan''s body. No one will be moved to treat a stranger like this. On the third day, Jiang Ruan went out. Sister GUI rushed to dress Jiang Ruan for several nights. Sister GUI''s figure is much fatter than that of Jiang Ruan. She can''t wear her clothes. Guisao''s man died early. She brought up Dashan and Xiaoshan brothers. It''s said that guisao liked her daughter very much when she was young. She thought Jiang Ruan was a gift from the superior. She gave her new dress to Jiang Ruan. It happened to be a red cloth skirt made of crabapple. Although the material was not very good, it was also comfortable. The Begonia flowers embroidered on the top are also very delicate. Sister GUI said, "this is a gift from a relative who was doing business outside during the Spring Festival a few years ago. I can''t pass on this material. Your young girl''s dress is just right." Jiang Ruan nodded, washed his face again, combed a horse bun, and then said thanks to sister-in-law GUI with a smile. GUI Sao Zheng for a moment, just way: "Ruan Niang, you can be born of really good-looking." Sister GUI could see that the woman was beautiful, but on weekdays Jiang and Ruan stayed on the couch, looking haggard and pale. No matter how beautiful she was, she didn''t look very energetic. Now the disease is good, the spirit of the whole person, once washed face, put on bright clothes, it is very different. Mrs. GUI was very happy. She was about to be glad that she had found the treasure. She was eager to let the big guy see how beautiful Jiang ruansheng was. Some childish people pushed Jiang ruansheng out and said with a smile, "go outside too. Be careful in the house all day." Dashan and Xiaoshan were cooking medicine in front of the door. Xiaoshan fanned and said angrily: "my mother doesn''t care about us recently. Most of the chicken soup stewed yesterday was served by that woman. Elder brother, do you think she is a fox spirit? How can she fascinate my mother? " "Nonsense." Dashan is angry and funny: "fox spirit is not used in this way." As soon as he looked up, he was trying to teach his brother a few words, but he saw his mother pulling a woman in red out of the room. The girl was born with red lips, white teeth and picturesque eyebrows. Although she had a gentle look, she was bright and beautiful, just like the spirit of heaven, the goddess of nine days, and her scarlet clothes set off her skin. Seeing him look over, the woman smiles a little, and the radian of her lips makes Dashan dazed and at a loss. "Dashan, this is lady Ruan. This is Dashan and Xiaoshan." Sister GUI looked at the mountains and the hills and said with a smile. Xiaoshan, who was not happy at first, was stunned when he saw Jiang Ruan. For a moment, he stammered: "mother Who is this "This is the girl that your elder brother rescued," said Sister GUI. "It''s not coming yet." Jiang Ruan came forward, saluted the two brothers and said, "thank you for saving my life." Dashan is only 16 this year, Xiaoshan is only 13. It''s not too much to call a little brother, but Dashan and Xiaoshan both blush at once. Don''t blame them. They have never seen such a beautiful woman. They are not as beautiful as any woman in this village. At first, they thought that Chen Xiaomei, who can read the book of songs in his family, was the most beautiful, but Chen Xiaomei was really not worth mentioning in front of this woman. The two brothers watched together in a daze. GUI sister-in-law is a little funny, say: "OK, don''t look, go, Ruan Niang, I take you out to have a look." Xiaoshan and his brothers rescued a fairy, which spread all over the village that day. Many people want to see them when they come to visit and give them some food gifts. However, Jiang Ruan listens to sister GUI''s words and walks around the village more often, which is good for the children. The air here is fresh and there are many trees. If there is anything wrong, people will watch everywhere they go. Jiang Ruan Huai''s body shows his heart, which is also something that can''t be concealed. At first, everyone thought that she was pregnant and her husband should come soon, but there was no movement after so long. Someone who couldn''t help asking guisao what was the matter. Jiang Ruan didn''t ask guisao to keep it secret, so guisao said it. Everyone immediately felt sorry and sympathy for Jiang Ruan''s experience. At the same time, it was hard to understand the cruel man. How could anyone be willing to hurt such a beautiful woman with such a gentle temperament? For a moment, some people thought. If Jiang Ruan had stayed here all his life, and given birth to such a beautiful girl, if she could be married by herself, she would be very lucky. So every once in a while someone sent things to xiaosanniang''s house and asked Xiaoshan to send things to Jiang Ruan. Naturally, they were all gallant. The young man often took Jiang Ruan to his home for dinner, and Jiang Ruan was warmly received here. Sister GUI was very happy. She thought that there were many excellent young men among them. Since she wanted to take care of Jiang Ruan all her life, if Jiang Ruan could get married, her baby would have a father. She thought that she would say goodbye to the past and start a new life. But Jiang Ruan was very gentle to everyone, but she didn''t seem to mean that. Sister GUI thought that Jiang Ruan was hurt too deeply and needed some time, so she didn''t worry. She just let Jiang Ruan choose.Naturally, Jiang Ruan knew the kindness of the villagers, and the young people''s admiration was in her eyes, but she had no heart at all. That''s a lie. I Miss Xiao Shao more and more these days. I don''t know what''s wrong with him now. If I don''t get his news, I''ll be very anxious. But my stomach is getting bigger every day. I''m afraid that I''ll have a baby in two months. At this point, I don''t want to get extra branches. She sat in front of the door and made some clothes with sister-in-law GUI. What she made was small clothes for her children. In those days when they were under house arrest, they did not dare to make clothes because they were afraid of being discovered. Now with the belly growing up day by day, it''s time to make some children''s clothes. Guisao is a very good and comfortable material. She won''t hurt children''s delicate skin. While Jiang Ruan was doing it with her, sister-in-law GUI said, "you have made both men''s and women''s small clothes. I like my daughter. Do you like my son or daughter?" Jiang Ruan was slightly stunned and then said with a smile, "I think it would be nice if I were a son." If you are born like Xiao Shao''s son, you are also a beautiful and picturesque child. Just don''t inherit his father''s cold temperament. If only you were more lively. However, Xiao Shao can teach him to practice martial arts, and Xiao Shao should be willing to. "I think it''s good to have a daughter. If your daughter is as beautiful as you are, the suitors will break the threshold of your family." Sister GUI said with a smile. Jiang Ruan also laughs. Xiao Shao wants to have a daughter. On the surface, he looks indifferent, but in fact, he is careful. If a daughter hangs around his neck every day and acts like a spoiler to him, Jiang Ruan can''t help laughing. Seeing her smile, sister-in-law GUI thought that she was thinking of something happy, so she also laughed: "ah, I say if the twins are the best, a son and a daughter are also lively..." Just then, Dashan came back with a load of firewood. Dashan''s mother went to pick up the firewood and put it in her warehouse. She said to Dashan, "you talk to Ruan Niang, I''ll come right away." Dashan stood in front of the door, scratched his head and looked shyly at Jiang Ruan. He did not expect that the woman he rescued was so beautiful. All the young men in the village admired him and asked him to bring some small gifts to Ruan Niang all day long. Dashan can''t speak and always likes to look at her secretly. He knew that Ruan Niang Zi was a rich man. The most educated teachers in the village praised Ruan Niang Zi as a talented woman. She can read a lot of words. She has a gentle temperament. She is not as shy as her ordinary daughter''s family. She is very generous and how to look at it. Dashan is also a young man in love. It''s normal to like beautiful girls. Besides, the girl was rescued by herself. In that story, she likes to tell stories about mutual promises. Dashan knew that Ruan Niangzi had a vicious husband who was still being chased and killed with her body in mind. He was very sad and thought that there was such a cruel man in the world. But he was stupid and didn''t know how to please Ruan Niang. For example, he just looked at Ruan Niang with a simple and honest smile at the moment when his mother told him. Jiang Ruan looked at it with a smile. He looked at Dashan and said, "I''m working hard today, little brother." When Dashan heard the speech, he was even more at a loss. He scratched his head and said, "it''s not hard, ha ha, it''s not hard." Hahaha, how could I ask for leave to write the grand finale in such a bad place? It turns out that I am such a wicked writer in your eyes_ ١ϣ_ I''m so stuffed that I lied to you www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 255 The second day after the spring rain was a fine day. When the new emperor ascended the throne, as early as the third watch, all civil and military officials were waiting at the gate of the altar. The auspicious time had come, and the ceremony of enthronement began. Sacrificing to heaven is a ritual of sacrificing to Taiyi God. There are three layers of altars, surrounded by green, red, white, black and yellow five emperor altars, killing white deer, pigs and white yaks as sacrifices. Yimao Sanji grass produced in Jianghuai area is used as the God''s book, and the five color soil is used to benefit miscellaneous seals. Strange animals and rare birds are placed all over the mountain to show auspiciousness. The drum, Taihe and flute are playing. The young man standing on the high altar is dressed in a bright yellow robe. The real dragon on his sleeve is ready to fly, but his face is quiet. He holds the imperial seal and his eyes are sharp and deep. Directly below him, Xiao Shao, an important official of the imperial court, wore an official uniform with red background embroidered with white python, holding the imperial edict of the former Emperor, and issued the imperial edict word by word. The young man is usually silent and indifferent, but now his voice is clear and steady, and every sentence is like an iron strike in people''s hearts, like silent support, which makes people tremble. When the musicians in the palace played, a high official helped the new master of Dajin Dynasty to the throne. The moment he ascended the throne, all the music stopped suddenly. All the officials congratulated him and worshiped the gods. They all cried out: "long live the emperor -" the young emperor was sitting in a high position, his eyes glancing at the top of the important official hill, which was a kind of arrogance Life''s eyes, that is, the courtiers did not look up, but also can feel an unspeakable pressure. Just listen to the young Lang Sheng say: "all Qing flat body -" the courtiers raise their eyes, the young emperor''s delicate face at this moment has completely faded the last point of harmless noble spirit, or the last point of camouflage, appears extremely sharp. It''s like the lazy cub finally showed his white teeth, and with a wave of his paw, it was a sharp intention to kill. It''s the pressure of those who are in the top position. It''s also the calmness of those who are used to watching big scenes. At this moment, it''s the same teenager who shows it. There are many ministers in the courtiers who are still hesitating in their hearts. At this moment, they all think that this young man is a natural king because of his cunning, dogmatism, cruelty, benevolence, and coldness of nature. It was born to be king. The Dajin Dynasty ushered in a new master. The young man sat on the throne with a clear voice. However, his voice was deep and solemn, and he was gradually confident. He said: "there is a national code, amnesty to the world -" "those who follow me prosper, those who rebel against me perish -" "I am the son of heaven, and I am the world -" three sentences are sonorous, It''s like the apocalyptic motto passed down from the time when heaven and earth were in flood and famine. It reverberates between heaven and earth, and there is no other master in the great Jin Dynasty. This young man is the emperor of the great Jin Dynasty, once the prince of waste, xuanpei! The Golden Dragon on the corner of the robe almost soars to the sky, but not to the sky. A smile overflows from the young man''s lips. The smile is clear and fuzzy, which makes people feel cold. No one can guess the emperor''s mind. Standing on the right side of Taifu''s face, a trace of complex feelings floated up. This move, in the end, was right. The boy really had the spirit of a real dragon as he thought, but it was deeper than he imagined. But he still didn''t regret it. The so-called one or two times in his life, he should live for himself and support Xuan Pei to ascend the throne. That''s what he wanted to do. At the moment when the ceremony was completed, the leader of the bodyguard suddenly rushed in and said, "Your Majesty, no good, your eighth Highness has rebelled with a kind of minister. The general imperial guards have defected. Now they are encircling the capital from outside the city." The young emperor on the high seat smiles slightly, as if he is not surprised by this. Xuanli did not attend today''s ceremony, or it is a fact that everyone knows. As a loser, Xuanli can''t watch the throne fall into other people''s hands, let alone watch the ceremony complete with his own eyes. Just choose to start at this time, is it impulsive or completely prepared? It''s a little reckless. "The officers and officials of the Dajin Dynasty are now rebellious, and the eight kings of the former imperial dynasty are rebellious. His Royal Highness Prince Hongxi judged the rebellion by his own strength, and did not hesitate to change his body. Now, when I see this scene again, it''s time for me to ascend the throne. I am the son of heaven today, and I will fight with you. Take up your weapons, for the sake of the stability and prosperity of the Dajin Dynasty, and drive out the bandits, I will be Dajin! My country is not allowed to be invaded by those who have bad intentions. Whoever covets my country, I will trample on its body. Grand brocade, monopolized by Tianwei He was not at all flustered by the sudden news, and even raised the morale of civil and military officials by this saying. Prince Hongxi of the former dynasty used metaphors to express the confidence and determination of the young emperor. But even if he was so arrogant, people didn''t think that he was talking big. On the contrary, they thought that what the boy said was loud, as if he could do it. So, just a moment later, a general called out and said, "I will defend Dajin land to the death! Follow your majesty to the death It seems that when the first person spoke, more and more people were affected by this kind of emotion. Their blood was surging out of control, and they knelt down to fight one after another. The cry became louder and louder, and they rushed to the sky. In the end, they could only hear hundreds of men''s powerful voices ringing in the altar: "I will follow your majesty to the death!"With a satisfied smile, Xuan Pei slowly stood up. The Golden Dragon on the corner of his robe glared at him, and he said in a steady voice: "fight!" Fight! Xuan Pei''s speed of accepting people''s hearts was much faster than most people expected. This young man not only won the support of the people, but also quickly set up wechat among civil and military officials. It was not long after the ceremony that someone told a secret. It turned out that there was a shop in the Dajin dynasty that was the biggest benevolent and righteous family. Who knows now that xuanpei was the owner behind those shops. Naturally, the common people are grateful for this. It is better to have a benevolent and righteous Emperor than anything else. The emperor still issued the imperial edict to pass on the throne, so naturally, he did not hesitate to favor him. Xuanli''s rebellion with his troops was originally a matter of great treason. These days, the people around the capital suffered because of the war. Xuanpei sent people to send things to appease the injured people, which won a lot of popular support for a while. As for the court hall, there were some old ministers in the court who supported Xuan Pei, and Xuan Pei''s life was not too hard. Besides, he also has his own unique way to accept. For those ministers who are still dissatisfied with the idea, the combination of grace and power has also received miraculous results. Moreover, the longer he got along with the new emperor, all the ministers almost felt that Xuan Pei was not like a young emperor who had just ascended the throne. Everything he had done, including the means of dealing with political affairs, was like an experienced official. Even in the face of a difficult situation in front of him, can defuse cleverly. It''s like he didn''t become emperor for the first time, but for many years. They are so skillful that they don''t even need the guidance of the ministers around them. With this understanding, ministers will be taboo three points to the emperor. In this way, the relationship between the monarch and his ministers will be more stable. What these officials didn''t know was that Xuan Pei had died once. In the last life, although he was a waste prince, he had been with Xuanli for many years. He also saw Xuanli''s way of doing things. After a lifetime of hard work, he has been planning for today for a long time. Naturally, he is doing very well. But I don''t know that my actions fall in front of those ministers, and it becomes the true saying of heaven. If there is anything special, Xuanli people are more difficult to deal with than they think. Although he knew that he had bribed many people secretly, now all these people have come out, it''s still surprising. Among them, there are many senior officials of the two dynasties and ministers of the humerus. Even the people in charge of the imperial army now have half of their troops in Xuanli''s hands. It is because of this that they have been deadlocked with Xuan PEI for such a long time. Moreover, their scattered forces are converging. Not only in the capital, but also in many places, chaos is beginning to emerge. Among them, there are still many people from southern Xinjiang, who have been lurking around for a long time, and most of the troops in southern Xinjiang have been quietly transferred. After all, Xuanli made a lot of money this time. Xuan Pei was sitting in the imperial library, with countless folds piled up on one side. At this time of chaos, he was still thinking about the memorials one by one. At the beginning, Jiang Ruan once said to him that he should not change anything and let it be. As the king of a dynasty, if he was in chaos, the people in the whole court would be in chaos. He is calm, and he also believes that Xuanli will not be able to break this situation. He believes that Xiao Shao is a person who can solve the problem well. The main thing you do is to employ people, not to do things yourself. Now he uses people very well. Xuanli seems to have the upper hand on the surface, but in fact he is inferior. Now, if Xuan Pei is worried about Jiang Ruan, he has no news about him. This is what xuanpei was worried about. At the beginning, xuanpei knew Jiang Ruan''s plan. As Jiang Ruan told Qi Feng, Xuanli would try to use Jiang Ruan to make a deal with Xiao Shao. Now Xuanli has set up the banner of rebellion, and the next step is to use Jiang Ruan to exchange benefits with Xiao Shao. Xuanli wants nothing more than the control of the royal guards. But it''s been several days. Why is Xuanli not moving? At this time, it''s not just a matter of putting up with others. Every moment is time and life. Xuanli can''t wait to make a deal with Xiao Shao. There was almost only one possibility that Jiang Ruan was not in his hands. Why he didn''t have Jiang Ruan in his hands? First of all, it was Jiang Ruan himself who escaped, so Xuanli couldn''t find anyone. This is what Jiang Ruan said. She said that she would find a chance to escape. Secondly, it is the fact that Xuan Pei is most reluctant to guess that Jiang Ruan is in danger. He told himself that Jiang Ruan was clever and cunning. She was the only one who calculated other people''s share. The most likely thing was that she calculated other people''s escape, but she could not help thinking about the worst. Xuan Pei is also worried. If it''s not what he thinks, what should he do? If Jiang Ruan really escaped, why didn''t he try to contact them? Where is she now? Xuanpei thought about it, and a kind of melancholy and dryness came into his mind. He suddenly reached for Mingyue standing on one side and said, "what''s Xiao Shao doing recently?" Mingyue replied, "the young master is chasing Yuanchuan." "Yuanchuan?" Xuanpei frowned and thought that Yuanchuan was the masked man who loved to follow Danzhen, so he said, "what is he chasing Yuanchuan for? Is there a whereabouts of the princess "No Mingyue patiently replied: "recently, there is a report in the royal guards. Xuanli''s people are also chasing Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan is running away. The young master thinks something is wrong. Maybe he can know the turning point of the matter from Yuanchuan, so he has been chasing him." Mingyue is Xiao Shao''s person, but xuanpei is also easy to use now. Xiao Shao also told him not to hide from Xuan Pei about Jiang Ruan. Mingyue didn''t hide it and told all she knew."Xuanli is also chasing Yuanchuan?" Xuanpei sat up straight, his face became dignified: "why?" The night is like ink. There are two riders galloping along the steep mountain road. One horse and one person in front are obviously in a bit of a panic. They just rush forward with crazy whip, but the other one is much more relaxed. The horse is bright in color, agile and powerful in hooves. It is obviously a good horse. The man at the back of the horse was dressed in black, almost integrated with the night, but suddenly jumped up, with his toes on the horse''s back, and his body flew forward. The man in front knew that it was not good and wanted to turn the horse''s head to the other direction immediately. Who knew that the man in the back was flying obliquely in the air. Suddenly, a stone burst out of his hand and dived into the leg of the horse in front of him. The leg of the horse was soft and fell to the ground. The man on the horse''s back fell down immediately. The man in black was in front of a man. Before the man could react, a dagger had reached his throat. "Third brother, wait for me!" Behind him came another slightly noisy sound, followed by a confused sound of horses'' hooves, and many people rushed to this side. When they got closer, they were some bodyguards with torches. The first two were not bodyguards. After a closer look, it was mo Cong and Qi Feng. Mo Cong came forward with a torch in his hand. When he saw the man on the ground, he couldn''t help shouting: "third brother, are you sure he is the messenger of Southern Xinjiang? I didn''t look like this even though I was wearing a mask, did I? Who is this? Born like a ghost. " The gray clothes of the man on the ground are already ragged, and his hair is disheveled. The most terrible thing is not his sloppy clothes, but his face is beyond recognition. His face looked as if he had been burned by something, like a half torn wall skin. His skin was mottled, and some of them were still hanging, revealing the naked flesh and blood inside. The most terrible is a scar near the eye, almost the entire orbit are burned. Then look at the whole body, are the same burn marks, it seems that has not been well treated, the whole body has begun to flow out of pus, a walk in is a stench. "Where is she? Why did Xuanli pursue you? " Xiao Shao ignored Mo Cong''s words, and the dagger in Yuan Chuan''s throat was not loosened at all. At first, it was the spies of the royal guards who found that Xuanli was chasing and killing a man who looked very much like the emissary of Southern Xinjiang. After telling Xiao Shao, Xiao Shao immediately came to arrest people in person. In fact, it is true that Yuanchuan has been seriously injured. Naturally, there is no lack of Xuanli''s hands. If he had not been seriously injured, with Yuan Chuan''s cunning nature, he might not have been so easily caught by Xiao Shao. Nevertheless, there are still many doubts. Nanjiang and Xuanli have always been allies. How could Xuanli suddenly kill his own people. If the alliance broke down, but did not see Xuanli chase Qiman, and also for a long time no one saw Dan really trace. Yuanchuan must know where Jiang Ruan was, because it was the people of Southern Xinjiang who took him away at first. Xuanli didn''t dare to come out in person. He was always guarded by people from southern Xinjiang. Now that Yuanchuan is being hunted down, will it have something to do with Jiang Ruan. When Yuanchuan heard the words, he sneered and said, "Lord Xiao, do you want to know why Xuanli is chasing me? Do you really want to know? " "Don''t talk nonsense," Mo Cong interrupted Yuanchuan before he finished saying, "hand over the whereabouts of my third sister-in-law. I''ll make sure you die happily. If you don''t say it, hum "I didn''t want to live." Yuan Chuan looks up at Xiao Shao who is staring at him coldly. In the light of the fire, Xiao Shao''s face is very beautiful, but he is very cold. Yuan Chuan can''t help but think of Dan Zhen''s infatuation with this man, but this man has only Jiang Ruan''s vicious woman. His heart suddenly gave birth to a resentment, then almost provocative smile: "Lord Xiao must know, I naturally only tell the truth. Lord Xiao should know that Xuanli has always wanted to use the princess to do a business with him, but I ruined the business. Do you know why? " He grinned, his muscles touching the scars, and he looked more like a ghost: "because I killed her. That woman died, Xuan Li lost a bargaining chip that he could talk with you, so he wanted to pursue me. " As soon as his voice fell, he felt that the dagger in his throat was advancing one inch. A cool liquid came out of his throat. He closed his eyes, but felt that the dagger was not moving forward. Xiao Shao''s cold voice sounded in his ear: "you are lying." Qi Feng and Mo Cong are relieved. They are afraid that Xiao Shao will stab yuan Chuan to death. If there is anything that can make Xiao Shao emotionally unstable, it is only Jiang Ruan. Anyone who hears such a curse on his wife will not feel well, not to mention Xiao Shao. Mo Cong said angrily, "what are you talking about? You think my third brother will believe your story? What can you do to kill my third sister-in-law? I''m afraid you can''t touch my third sister-in-law''s little finger. It''s ridiculous Yuan Chuan suddenly burst out laughing. His mouth was full of blood. Looking at Xiao Shao, he bit his teeth and said, "what''s the point? Not only did I kill her, I killed the bastard in her stomach! " www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 256 "What child?" Xiao Shao is slightly a Zheng, immediately way. "So you don''t know?" Yuan Chuan looked at Xiao Shao in surprise, then slapped his head as if he had just thought of it. He said slowly, "no wonder you don''t know, because I just know it. The princess kept her body secret. No one knew where she was. He even raised a dog to steal food from the dog''s mouth in the name of raising a dog. This is something that people can''t think of. It''s probably for the sake of growing in the belly. But in the end, it''s still a corpse and two lives. Tut Tut, pity the little son of King Jinying''s house. He died in his mother''s stomach before he was born. " Before Yuan Chuan''s voice fell, he felt that his shoulder blades were suddenly wrong. Xiao Shao didn''t kill him, but he didn''t tolerate him so easily. He was originally trained in martial arts, but he didn''t show mercy. He misplaced Yuanchuan''s shoulder blade, and Yuanchuan couldn''t help screaming. "Third brother..." Mo Cong was in a daze, but Yuanchuan even said this kind of thing. He was afraid that Xiao Shao would be confused. But Xiao Shao said coldly, "you are lying." Yuan Chuan endured the pain and said with a smile, "why do you deceive yourself? You can''t say that the princess is not dead because you can''t bear the news. It''s worth my life to replace Jiang Ruan and the little prince of Jinying''s mansion. If you want to kill or cut, do as you please. " "If you want to kill yourself with my hand, I can''t do what you want." Xiao Shao''s eyes were cold, and his tone was even colder: "you are loyal to Danzhen. Once Danzhen dies, you will only have revenge. If you say that a great revenge is rewarded, why don''t you die? They also need to stay away from Xuanli. It can be seen that a Ruan is still alive, and you are looking for her whereabouts! " Xiao Shao''s words surprised Yuanchuan. Indeed, on that day, he watched Jiang Ruan fall off the cliff. It was a safe life. But when he sent someone down the mountain to look for the body, he couldn''t find the whereabouts of the body. Then Xuanli found the clue. Qiman thought that he was successful and sold him quickly. Xuanli knew that Jiang Ruan died in Yuanchuan''s hands, so he wanted to kill Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan originally intended to kill Jiang Ruan and then follow Dan Zhen, but now if Jiang Ruan''s body is not found for a day, he can''t be relieved for a day. I always feel that there is something wrong with Jiang Ruan. He can''t confirm Jiang Ruan''s death, so he can''t easily die in Xuanli''s hands. As a result, he had to avoid Xuanli''s pursuit like a bereaved dog and inquire about Jiang Ruan''s whereabouts. But I didn''t expect that this was noticed by Xiao Shao. Xuan Li''s people hadn''t caught him, but Xiao Shao had caught him. Caught by Xiao Shao, there must be no chance to escape. The only thing he can do now is to disgust Xiao Shao and tell him that Jiang Ruan is dead. He knew that Jiang Ruan was pregnant in the end. If Xiao Shao knew that Jiang Ruan was pregnant and died, he would not be able to let go of it in his whole life. Dan Zhen followed Xiao Shao all his life. All he did was to imprison Xiao Shao around him, but he finally lost his life and buried him in the strange land of Dajin Dynasty. Since Yuanchuan can''t confirm whether Jiang Ruan is alive or dead, Xiao Shao lives in pain and guilt all his life. It''s also a bad breath for Dan Zhen. He thought so right, but did not expect that his intention would be seen through by Xiao Shao. Yuan Chuan raised his head and looked into Xiao Shao''s cold star like eyes. He felt that his eyes were sharp and almost penetrated his heart. He was shocked, but he raised his lips and said, "how can I make it clear to you? Lord Xiao seems to know me very well. But I''m not living for Jiang Ruan. There''s more than one enemy who killed the saint. Jiang Ruan is just the most ruthless one. I''m going to kill her. If you do not believe this, you might as well ask your royal highness. Yes, the same is true of Xuan Li. On that day, the fire burned the whole house, but she was burned alive. There are no ashes left. Why does Xuanli chase me? It''s not for this reason. Otherwise, you think that as long as Jiang Ruan is alive, why doesn''t Xuanli hand her over to you to make a deal? " Xiao Shao didn''t speak, but Yuanchuan felt a slight trembling of the dagger in his throat. Even if it was just a smile, Yuanchuan still felt that Xiao Shao was nervous. Xiao Shao is a man with cold heart and cold lung, but once such a person has concerns, he will live a lifetime. Dan really likes Xiao Shao, so Yuanchuan naturally inquires about Xiao Shao and knows that Xiao Shao has a deep love for Jiang Ruan. No matter how rational and steady a man is, he will not be indifferent in the face of the scene that he may lose his love forever. Xiao Shao is just an ordinary man. He is not a God, but also has seven emotions and six desires. At this moment, Yuanchuan''s words still make him confused. When the fire started that day, Xuanli''s people were fainted by Yuanchuan medicine, and all they left were their own people. Qiman had already cleaned them up, so when Xuanli''s people woke up, they knew that Jiang Ruan had died in the fire. And the stars and skeletons left in the fire are indeed in the past. In order to avoid Xuanli''s anger, those bodyguards will naturally set things aside. Since Qiman said Yuanchuan set the fire, it''s equivalent to having a scapegoat. Naturally, all the accusations are directed at Yuanchuan. Even if yuan Chuan died, he would not tell the fact that Jiang Ruan might still be alive. As long as Xuan Li knew that Jiang Ruan might have a little chance of survival, he would try every means to save him.So up to now, all Xuanli knows is that a fire in Yuanchuan destroyed Jiang Ruan''s house and killed him. This is exactly what Yuanchuan wants to achieve. It confirms that Jiang Ruan''s death can make Xiao Shao miserable for a lifetime on the one hand, and on the other hand, it can completely cut off the possibility that Xuanli can get Dan Zhen from Xiao Shao. What Jiang Ruan said is right. If it is Jiang Ruan who calculated to let Danzhen burn the imperial edict and get the final result of death, Xuanli is the direct murderer who killed Danzhen. Yuanchuan has no way to compete with Xuanli, but he will never let Xuanli get a benefit. As long as Jiang Ruan died, Xiao Shao and Xuan Li would be enemies. Throughout his life, Xiao Shao would try to avenge them. Isn''t it nice to see people fighting each other? "Old three," Qi Feng quickly stepped forward and took a look at Yuanchuan. Naturally, Yuanchuan''s words made waves in his heart, but he still had some sense. Xiao Shao looked at Jiang Ruan from her husband''s eyes. Naturally, he thought that Jiang Ruan must have had a very hard life. But in Qi Feng''s eyes, Jiang Ruan was not so weak. If he died so easily, it must not be her. If she is pregnant, she will try her best to survive. So he looked at Xiao Shao and said, "I''m afraid this man''s words are deceitful. Third sister-in-law is not so easy to be killed. If she was pregnant, she would only be stronger. We need to check this person''s words. As for now... " "Take it away." Xiao Shao suddenly takes back the dagger and looks down at Yuanchuan. Yuanchuan is looking at Xiao Shao with some pride. But now he is staring at him with Xiao Shao''s eyes. He has a kind of fear from the bottom of his heart. Subconsciously, he has an impulse to run away. It''s a cold thing that completely abandons human emotion, and seems to be looking at a dead body, even worse than a dead body. What does he want to do? Xiao Shao said faintly: "if you have any means, you can use them all. Don''t let him die. " Having said that, he turned and turned over to mount the horse. He did not care about his descendants and drove the horse away. "Hello..." Mo Cong wants to go after him. He is caught by Qi Feng. He looks at Xiao Shaoyuan''s back and says: "let him be quiet." "What about him?" Mo Cong looks at Yuan Chuan on the ground and asks. Qi Feng has a strange smile on his face. He is beautiful and polite. But when this smile appears on his face, it seems to make his face suddenly take a murderous air, which is similar to Xiao Shao. He said slowly: "didn''t you hear what the master said? Take it back to the royal guards and wait on it." All of a sudden, even one side of the brocade one brocade two showed a strange expression. The royal guards are all killers. They never say what kind of good people they are. The means of trying criminals are endless, and they don''t get any good. Xiao Shao was used to killing himself by sweeping the fallen leaves in the autumn wind. He seldom used the criminal law prescribed by the old king Jin Ying. Now he pays special attention to it. Naturally, Yuanchuan suffered a lot. Several royal guards came forward to destroy Yuanchuan''s martial arts and break his limbs to prevent him from committing suicide. They also carefully searched for the poison hidden in him and almost threw him naked on the horse''s back. Then they yelled back together. That night, Xiao Shao didn''t come back until the third shift. After he came back, he didn''t say anything. He locked himself in his study and no one was allowed to come in. Housekeeper Lin stands at the door and sighs. Qi Feng comes over and looks at the light in the study. After catching Yuanchuan, Xiao Shao immediately took the royal guards to check the temple in Yuanchuan''s mouth. The temple was dozens of miles away from the capital, but Xiao Shao went regardless. The place was originally a place where lepers lived together. There was a broken temple where monks were all lepers. If the people in southern Xinjiang kill the local patients and then disguise themselves as patients and monks, they will be able to deceive the patrolling people. After all, no one thought that someone would hide here. If someone is not careful, he will be ruined if he gets infected with leprosy. By the time Xiao Shao and the royal guards arrived there nonstop, all the people in southern Xinjiang had left. The buildings were empty, leaving only the original corpses of patients buried in the ground. One of the temples was burning black and almost destroyed. Xiao Shao was shocked when he saw the ruins. He went in to see the royal guards. The house had been burned beyond recognition, but the deep marks scratched on the wall before death could be seen on the wall. It was the woman''s fingerprints. And the bed curtain and the like have been burned clean, but the layout of the room can be seen that it is a woman''s residence. And there''s a chain for dogs. Yuanchuan once said that in order to conceal the fact that he was pregnant, Jiang Ruan kept a dog and even used it as a cover. There is no doubt that this chain of dogs has proved something. And to search for other things night maple, and finally it is in a servant''s room found the medicine. What do all the signs show? At least, it shows that Jiang Ruan''s current situation is not optimistic, maybe more or less. The present royal guards all know this fact, but no one dare to say it. Finally, Yefeng couldn''t help feeling sad. He went to Xiao Shao and said, "master..." It''s all burnt to ashes. Even the ashes are confused with them. How to bury them? In any case, Xiao Shao must bear great grief in his heart. But Xiao Shao is light to see the ruins one eye, way: "the princess is not here, continue to look for."Where can Jiang Ruan be if he is not here? Xuanli didn''t send someone to search for Jiang Ruan''s whereabouts. There were only two possibilities. Either Xuanli had Jiang Ruan in his hands, or Jiang Ruan was dead. But if Jiang Ruan was still in Xuanli''s hands, Xuanli would not hide and hide from others. Everything in front of him seemed to show that Yuanchuan was not lying. All the royal guards have only one idea in mind, that is, Xiao Shao is deceiving himself. This man, who has always been calm, rational and powerful, can face any situation in a variety of calm States, is now very afraid to face the facts. So he is escaping from the fact, but everyone can''t bear to expose it. They don''t want to expose Xiao Shao cruelly. Let''s assume that Jiang Ruan is still alive. Princess Jinying is still alive. After all, the body hasn''t been found, has it? We didn''t find the body. It''s probably alive. We can only cheat ourselves in this way. "Mr. Qi," said Lin, "you. I''d better advise the young master. " "Steward Lin, don''t kill me. I can''t persuade him." Qi Feng said with a bitter smile, "I regret my death now." I can''t even persuade myself, he said in silence. Jiang Ruan''s plan was discussed with him at the beginning, and he agreed to it. When the news of the royal guards came to his ears, Qi Feng only felt that time had stopped at that moment. What he saw was Jiang Ruan''s resolute eyes on that day. He couldn''t stop it. At last, he thought it was a good way. He didn''t stop it at all. So in the end, he just watched Jiang Ruan walk on the road of the yellow spring. Xiao Shao could not forgive himself, nor could he. Especially when he learned that Jiang Ruan was pregnant, he was sorry not only for Jiang Ruan, but also for his children and Xiao Shao. Qi Feng knows better than others that the living suffer 10000 times more than the dead. When Jin Ying Wang and his wife died, Xiao Shao had already suffered such a kind of pain. He completely closed himself up. When he met Jiang Ruan, it was easy for him to get out of it. But now he has to suffer such a blow again. For Xiao Shao, this may mean that the last trace of tenderness in his life has been wiped out. From then on, this person can no longer be regarded as a "person". How could Jiang Ruan be willing? Qi Feng closed his eyes. He felt that the spring wind was very cold, and the light in the study was very dark, as if it was going out the next moment. Housekeeper Lin stopped talking. A moment later, he said, "I''m a fool. Like his father, he''s a lover. At the beginning..." Housekeeper Lin didn''t go on. At the beginning, Prince Hongxi, because Xiang Xiaoyuan had no will to live any longer, finally followed Xiang Xiaoyuan in such a tragic way. The Xiao family, no, should be the sentimental son of the Xuan family. His son Laozi is the same. Prince Hongxi is gentle as lotus, and Xiao Shao is cold as water. He looks a little colder than Prince Hongxi. In fact, his heart is softer than anyone else. Now even the last bit of softness will be taken away? Housekeeper Lin looked at the sky and said in his heart: Prince, open your eyes. If there is spirit in the sky, don''t let your only son suffer this kind of pain. In the room, Xiao Shao was sitting at the table. He was still wearing a black gold robe and was stained with the cold dew outside. He didn''t want to change his clothes. He just sat at the table in a daze. She touched the pen on the table, used the paper, drank the quilt and sat on the chair. Every place in the room seems to be full of her smile and bright, she is always here with a lamp waiting for him to come back at night, every time he blames her for going to sleep earlier, now there is no such picture. Xiao Shao looked at it in a daze. He thought of Yuan Chuan''s saying that Jiang Ruan was still pregnant with their child. He suddenly felt a pain in his heart. He suddenly felt that he had never really done his duty as a husband. She was very strong, he thought she was very strong, but forgot that she was just an ordinary woman. Jiang Ruan was miserable in his previous life. He was determined to protect her in this life, but is that how he protected her? Xiao Shao suddenly put out his hand to cover his face. The wind in the room was so cold that the small study suddenly became so big and empty, and he felt very lonely. He slowly loosened his hand, took off a piece of writing paper on the desk, took out a pen from one side of the pen holder, rubbed and moistened it, and began to write. He wrote: "my wife, a Ruan..." He wrote carefully, his eyelashes were straight and slender, his face was heroic and handsome, but he looked very sad. After he finished writing word by word, he put away a large sheet of writing paper. Folded into an envelope, rolled into a small iron tube, blew a whistle, and a snow pigeon flew in. Xiao Shao tied the small iron pipe to the leg of the snow pigeon, and then stretched out his finger to touch the head of the snow pigeon, then raised his hand, and the snow pigeon flew out of the window. He looked at the window in a trance. Outside, Qi Feng and housekeeper Lin look at the snow pigeon flying out of the house and disappear into the night, with a sigh. Where will the snow pigeon send the letters from the people in the house? Can it still be delivered? My aunt is here. She''s in great pain. I''ve been drinking the medicine for a day. Now it''s better. I''m sorry to update it too late. It''s been updated in the afternoon these days www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 257 Xuanli people are becoming more and more rampant day by day. Perhaps it is found that seizing the right is not so easy as I imagined, or maybe it is the feeling of death and destruction that makes the offensive more and more fierce these days. And Xuanli seems to have torn off the civilized appearance of the hungry wolf, gradually showing his true face. Those means are extremely tough. When they come to villages and tribes, they force the people to hand over food and expenses. The southern Xinjiang people who are distributed all over the country and accompany the rebellion are even more cruel. In some places, they even commit the crime of slaughtering villages. Tu Cun''s action was only done by the most inferior and brutal army invading other countries, but it was done by Xuanli people. Although the matter of seizing the emperor''s right has always been a contradiction between the court and the people, it is far away from the people''s life. At most, the common people scolded twice when they saw the change of the people who had stepped on the throne. It was the first time in the history of the great Jin Dynasty that they were really in the middle of it and lost their lives. Xuanli''s action was no longer the prince''s capture of the throne. Because of the relationship between the people of Southern Xinjiang, Xuanli was almost naked and showed the whole world to usurp power. For a time, the common people in the Dajin Dynasty were full of complaints. Xuanli''s reputation was a rat in the street, and everyone was shouting. "He''s the most arrogant person. It''s hard for him to get what he looks like now." The moon faces the emperor''s way on the high seat in front of her. Young, no, it can only be said that the young emperor is reclining on the Dragon chair, and his actions are not very regular, but with a bit of obstinate randomness, but even so, it is not to be underestimated. Xuanpei lazily played with the white jade in his hand and said with a smile, "this is the way he found for himself. I can''t blame him." It''s like a young lion catching a little mouse. Some of them play with it and watch it struggle in it. Mingyue lowers her head. Now she is not the prince''s maid. Xiao Shao doesn''t want to take her back. Xuanpei can''t leave her. After all, she has many things to worry about. She has become aunt Mingyue, and her value rises with the tide. Outsiders all envy her good luck and a good master. Who knows that the original waste prince will have such a bright day and become the master of the world in one jump. But only Mingyue knew that from the first day she followed xuanpei, she knew that xuanpei was not as simple as on the surface. What this teenager did was the same as Xuanli''s purpose, but Xuanli''s strength was too strong at that time, and xuanpei snatched this piece of fat from Xuanli''s mouth as a weak person. At that time, even she did not expect that Xuan Pei would become the final winner, and he did. She said, "Mu Zhaoyi is outside to see you." "Bring it in." Xuanpei road. When mu Xirou was brought in, her face was no longer as cold as ice. Her face was still beautiful, but there was something more between her eyes. A closer look seemed to be peaceful. Originally that kind of awe inspiring and inviolable temperament completely disappeared, so it was no different from those ordinary beauties in the palace. She came in and saw Xuanli. She didn''t say much. As soon as her legs were soft, she knelt down in front of Xuanli and said, "thank you After she was released from prison, she couldn''t get rid of the crime completely, and she had no power behind her, so she was under house arrest all the time. I don''t know what''s going on outside. With Xuan Pei''s Dragon Robe, I can see that she is a smart woman. Xuan Pei said, "this is the result of your own efforts." In the end, the Mu family supported Xuan Li at the last juncture of seizing the throne, perhaps because they felt that Xuan Pei was just a little boy and might not have any future. Maybe there is no price here in xuanpei, and there is no peace of mind from Xuanli. The Mu family finally turned to Xuanli school, regardless of their daughter sent to the palace. Now they are following Xuanli to rebel, obviously they have regarded mu Xirou as an abandoned son. "At the beginning, my father sent me to the palace to be a high-ranking official and a high salary. Unfortunately, I didn''t follow his wishes. He was disheartened and made a living on his own. Now I have nothing to do with him. Please be kind to me. Your majesty is kind to me. Everything in the Mu family has nothing to do with me. " Muxi judo. The moon is listening, but she doesn''t look like waves. When the Mu family wanted to send the beautiful ice beauty into the palace, mu Xirou himself did not agree. It''s not hard to find out if you want to inquire about this matter. Mu Xirou has a fierce temperament, but he finally agreed to enter the palace without knowing why. Everyone in the world has a price and something they want. Mu Xirou exposes such a big weakness that xuanpei doesn''t take advantage of. On that day, Mingyue was asked to inquire about the reason, and the reason was also surprising. It was a secret of the Mu family. Mu Xirou is not Mr. Mu''s own daughter, but Mr. Mu''s outer room. He gives Mr. Mu a green hat outside. Mr. Mu doesn''t know it. He didn''t know the truth until he was ten years old. I wanted to find a chance to deal with mu Xirou, but at last I don''t know which colleague reminded him that mu Xirou is so beautiful, it''s better to change his position for a good price in the future. There are no impermeable walls in the world. What''s more, there are many official back houses. Mu Xirou was originally born outside the house, and the daughter of his wife and concubine in the house couldn''t stand it. Later, he knew that he was not born in person, and all of them were sarcastic. When mu Xirou was very young, she knew that she was not born to master mu. Master Mu had a eldest son, Mu Feng. Mu Feng was the best person to treat mu Xirou in the whole house. He was gentle and considerate. Mu Xirou fell in love with her brother, who had no real name.It''s a scandal. It''s a scandal. Mu Xirou dare not tell anyone. When entering the palace that day, master Mu said to her that the portrait had been sent up. If Mu Xirou refused to even commit suicide, the whole Mu mansion would be destroyed, and the young and promising Mu Feng would ruin his future because of Mu Xirou''s action. Mu Xirou doesn''t live well in the Mu family. How can she? She wants to die with the whole Mu family, but mu Feng is hard for her to put down, so she admits her life to the palace for her lover. But mu Xirou is a strong and unyielding person in her heart. Even if she loves Mu Feng, she hates master Mu and the ruthless Mu family. She makes a deal with Xuan Pei. What xuanpei wants is the country. As long as xuanpei takes the throne one day, wants to return her freedom and suppress Mu''s family, it''s better not to employ him except Mu Feng. Xuanpei agrees, and then mu Xirou maintains a cold temper, pretending to have to die. Master Mu is not happy about this, because mu Xirou doesn''t flatter the emperor. She is conceited but not favored by men. It''s just a waste of chess. So when mu Xirou was imprisoned for killing the emperor, no Mu family came out to speak. When Dong Yinger was in prison, the Dong family also inquired. When Wang lianer had an accident, the Wang family also came forward to take care of her. Only the Mu family did not hesitate to stay away. It was like avoiding the plague, which made Mingyue feel a little cold. Xuan Pei looked at Mu Xi''s Judo: "I''ll give you a chance now. You can modify your conditions." After the rebellion, mu Xirou knew that the Mu family would never survive this time, but she still loved Mu Feng and was willing to trade her life and freedom for mu Feng''s life. It''s not so easy to make a deal with Xuan Pei, but mu Xirou still wants to do it. Mingyue doesn''t know why. She always feels that xuanpei''s special kindness and care for mu Xirou seems to have given her many opportunities. Xuan Pei''s heart is hard and her hand is hot. Mingyue has seen it before. What''s the special reason for her kindness to Mu Xirou. "Thank you, your majesty, but you don''t have to." Muxi Judo: "I only hope your majesty will save my elder brother''s life." "I''m not unreasonable," Xuan Pei said with a smile. "You''ve done so many things for me, but my deal is still true. But think about it. Since you entered the palace, your good elder brother once went to the palace to greet you. The Mu family revolted. He could not have known that he knew you were still in the palace, but he didn''t save you. He knew that you would be the culprit, and he didn''t mean to save you. Mu Xirou, I can tell you that in your eyes, the Mu family may be evil, only he is good, but unfortunately, in my eyes, he and the Mu family are birds of a feather. The good in your eyes is just the good he wants you to see. " Mu Xirou is very clever. She doesn''t contradict Xuanli directly. She just stares at the ground quietly to express her insistence. Xuan Pei thought about it and then laughed: "it''s OK. I''ve said a thousand times that you don''t understand. It''s better for you to see him in person." Mu Xirou suddenly raises her head. Xuan Pei winks at Mingyue. Mingyue comes to Mu Xirou, quickly points her acupoints, takes her to the screen, and stands beside her. Soon, someone escorts a man to the palace. That person is no other than Mu Feng. "Mu Dalang," Xuan Pei said with a smile, "long time no see." Mu Feng also belongs to a group of young and promising officials in the court. Because such young people may have unlimited future in the future, they are very important people in the eyes of the public even though they are not impressive now. Xuan Pei and this person are not unknown, but in Mu Feng''s eyes, Xuan Pei is not enough to make him surrender. Mu Feng will not pay attention to a suckling boy. But now that Mu Feng has become a prisoner, Xuan Pei has changed from a useless prince to a master. He looks up, and the youth on the seat is magnificent. Instead of being unable to hold down the Dragon Robe, it is the Dragon Robe that makes him unfathomable. He was so caught today that he would never be able to make a great success in his life. "Don''t worry. I only came here to ask you something. I heard that you have a good relationship with Mu Zhaoyi?" Xuan Pei asked. Mu Feng was stunned at first, and then he seemed to think of something, with a smile on his face: "Oh, that woman, that woman is a wild breed. I heard that she became his highness later. I didn''t expect that her highness was so young that she had such a guest. Yes, she is devoted to me, but we mu family never accept wild seeds. This kind of woman with improper origin is just playing. When I sent her to the palace, I looked up to her and let her be a pawn. I never thought about this bitch, but I had to cooperate with others. If I had her mother''s style, slut He spat phlegm on the ground. Mu Feng was also a hero. Knowing that he would die, he didn''t even ask for mercy. He thought that since the young emperor had an affair with mu Xirou, it would be disgusting to say these words. So it''s very vulgar on purpose, and it''s true, of course. Xuanpei has no special expression, and even has a smile. Behind the screen, mu Xirou''s acupoints are lit by Mingyue, and she can''t move, but her eyes are wide open, and hot tears fall from her eyes. Mingyue sighs in her heart. This woman is as cold as ice on weekdays, but now she shows such a heartbroken expression, which should be very hurt. After all, it was Mu Feng who supported her to live in such a cool and thin place in the palace. But now she just knew that she was not as good as grass and mustard in Mu Feng''s eyes. All the supports collapsed overnight. Naturally, she couldn''t stand it."Oh, you took her as a slut, but she was very kind to you." Xuanpei asked: "why, I wanted to give you a way out of her face. Now it seems that you are also disdainful." He clapped his hands. Mingyue untied mu Xirou''s acupoints. Mu Xirou quickly wiped the tears on her face. Her hands were still shaking, but she pinched her palm and her face became cold again. He went out. Mu Feng was stunned, and Mingyue followed him out. Mu Xirou knows that Xuan Pei intentionally showed it to her. She doesn''t understand what Xuan Pei means. If she didn''t know all this, she could still keep Mufeng alive with the same good hope as before. But after knowing the truth, with her clear-cut nature of love and hate, she can only be regarded as Mu Feng''s enemy. No woman will have no hatred for a man who only uses her heart, even if she has loved him. She gave a cold smile, like ice Hibiscus blooming like a kind of cold Li, she said: "thank you so much for treating me like this." Mu Feng was stunned. When he saw mu Xirou, he was afraid. The woman''s love for him was something he knew a long time ago, so he took advantage of his love. Mu Xirou is in a low position in the Mu family. As long as she is kind to her, she will be loyal to others. Mu Feng has been using her, let her into the palace or favor the emperor, are just using. A used chess piece, he had never paid attention to it. At this moment, he saw mu Xirou appear. His eyes seemed to have no emotion, but he was suddenly afraid. "Mu Zhaoyi," Xuan Pei laughs lazily, "I once promised you a wish, now you say it. Are you going to let your big brother go? " Mu Feng was surprised. He didn''t believe Xuan Pei was so kind-hearted that he would let him go. But in the past, mu Xirou would have spared no effort to protect him. Now. There was some uneasiness in his mind. "Your Majesty is merciful, but how can my concubines take office in vain. I hope that your majesty can promise me a promise I have received from your majesty. " Muxi judo. "You said "The Mu family rebelled against the king, so there should be no amnesty for their crimes and killed the nine families. But my concubines know that the Mu family''s eldest brother is very important to the Mu family. It''s better to take him as bait and hang him under the gate of the city tower to die. If the Mu family comes to save him, they can catch all of them. If the Mu family doesn''t save him, they can set an example to others. As for mu Jiaquan''s family, their crimes are extremely serious, so they should be punished by cutting through the heart with thousands of arrows. " Mu Xirou said every word. Mu Feng took a breath of cool air. He never thought that this remark came from mu Xirou. He knew that the Mu family was not good to Mu Xirou, but mu Xirou finally came to the palace for the sake of the Mu family. Why did she say such vicious words. Hanging alive at the gate of the city, she shudders when she thinks about it, and she wants to take advantage of it to kill the Mu family. What a cruel woman! "Mu Zhaoyi is really smart. No wonder your father liked you the most at the beginning." But Xuan Pei said with admiration, "I think it''s very good, so I''ll go to draft a decree. I''ll do what you say." Mu Feng only felt a chill behind him. He said, "sister, sister, have you forgotten what your brother used to do to you? When you were bullied, your brother was protecting you. That was all angry words just now. You won''t be so ruthless, will you? Sister Mu Xirou looked at him coldly. It seemed that there was a flash of water in her eyes. However, soon she was left with a cold feeling: "young master mu, I don''t have a brother. I was born in a rural village. I don''t know my parents. Who is your sister? Maybe he''s already dead. " Xuan peishen shouts: "take it away!" Mu Feng was dragged away with a scream. There was silence in the hall. Mu Xirou knelt down again. She looked calm, but her palms began to bleed. She said, "I beg your majesty to allow me to become a monk and practice Buddhism for the rest of my life." Xuan Pei took a deep look at her and said, "sure." Mu Xirou kowtowed and then left. After mu Xirou left, Mingyue could not help asking Xuan Pei, "why did your majesty do that?" Let mu Xirou see her proud brother and lover with her own eyes. Although she saved her life, she lost the courage to live and lost heart to life. Mingyue thinks xuanpei treats mu Xirou differently, so she takes care of her like this. However, it seems that she is just trying to make mu Xirou sober, regardless of the possible outcome. Why? Why? Xuanli said faintly: "she always wants to understand." Long pain is better than short pain. Mu Xirou''s experience always reminds him of another person, who is not as good-natured as mu Xirou''s in this life. He was fated to be a chess piece and finally paid the price of his life. Every time I see mu Xirou, it''s like seeing that person. Even if it was because he wanted to get his attention, he would not let something happen again. Some fool do it once, some people, read wrong once is enough. I like mu Xirou''s QAQ www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 258 The bitter summer of the great Jin Dynasty was very long. Because of the spread of the war, it seems to have turned into a hot desert, lifeless. Xuanli''s people finally withdrew from the capital, to the edge of the gate, in the end is outnumbered. There are many generals under NA xuanpei''s command, including Zhao Guang and his son, Jiang Xinzhi, the young and brave God of war, Lin Wei, Liu Min and Xiao Shao. Xuanli''s people are losing day by day. Among them, the royal guards of Jiang Xinzhi and Xiao Shao are especially fierce, almost as brutal and unreasonable as the autumn wind sweeping leaves. Sometimes, they have a similar number of Xuanli''s troops, sometimes far less than them. In the end, they almost become one-sided massacres. Xiao Shao has always brought the habit of killers to the battlefield. In the eyes of the royal guards, the enemy can not be called the enemy, but can only become prey, so killing becomes instinct. Everyone knows why Jiang Xinzhi and Xiao Shao are so crazy, because Xuanli abducted Jiang Ruan and killed her. Xuanli was willing to make this decision, probably because he had Jiang Ruan in his hands. As long as the royal guards don''t show up, Xuan Pei''s people can only draw with him. Who knows that Yuanchuan''s last plot is to count him in, so he and Xiao Shao become enemies, and those who are against the royal guards would have been more difficult to walk in the world. In addition, xuanpei was in charge of the court and was in good order. Those officials who were still uncertain about their position and had a fluke mind in the fight for the right were also arranged and dealt with by xuanpei one by one. Xuanpei''s efforts to support Xin''s ministers, many of whom had followed his confidants at the beginning. He gave them a clear reward and punishment, and his behavior of settling accounts after autumn also made them realize that the young emperor was not a fuel-efficient lamp. He had been watching everyone''s every move for a long time, but he just couldn''t restrain it before. But no matter how fierce the war is, no matter how frequent the news of victory is. No matter the emperor or the general''s office, Jiang Xinzhi or Xiao Shao, they all had no joy. Xiao Shao, in particular, is colder than ever in his daily work and meal. It seems that there is nothing in the world that can be reflected in his eyes. "No news yet?" Housekeeper Lin should be a new minister of the imperial court now. Lin Wei looks at Xiao Shao, who is standing in the courtyard and doesn''t know what he is thinking, and asks him. Qi Feng shook his head. These days, Xiao Shao never gave up looking for Jiang Ruan. The royal guards of every place have been informed, but such a large-scale search has no result, which may mean something. Xiao Shao was a calm and rational man. He could not have known this, but he insisted that Jiang Ruan was not dead. At the beginning, the royal guards wanted to find some ashes in the burned temple and set up a burial mound for Jiang Ruan. When Xiao Shao saw them, they were furious. They just cut the burial mound into pieces and severely punished the royal guards. From then on, no one dared to mention the whereabouts of Jiang Ruan in front of Xiao Shao. Since Xiao Shao insisted on this wish, what could they do? Just want a person to keep hopeless hope, is generally some sad people look at it. Lin Wei sighed and said, "let''s go." He was about to leave, but he saw that Jin Er didn''t know where he was coming from. He looked very excited. He held something up and ignored the lightness skill. He ran in a hurry and cried, "master, master, I have news!" Qi Feng and Lin Wei are stunned at the same time. Then they quickly walk towards them. Xiao Shao turns his head. Jin Er is too excited to pay attention to the courtesy of his master and servant. As soon as Qi Feng and Lin Wei come near, they hear Jin Er''s voice: "young master, someone has found the jewelry of young lady in the pawnshop in the south of the city!". Jiang Ruan sewed the last stitch on her little coat, took her mouth to break the thread, and tied a knot skillfully. She was very skilled in doing these things. Sister GUI couldn''t help praising her. She also said that she looked like a lady from a big family. She must have never done any rough work. Who knew that the dress was more skillful than the village tailor. Jiang Ruan laughs. She once lived in Chuang Tzu for a long time. At that time, she could not finish embroidery every day. Naturally, she could practice needlework. After returning to Shangshu house, she seldom touched the needle and thread, but now she is happy to think about her children, and it''s also fun to do needle and thread. From spring to summer, these days, I have to catch up with some cool summer coats. They are all made of cotton, and feel very comfortable. Guisao said: "although it''s well done, lady Ruan still doesn''t do too much. You should know that your time of childbirth is approaching, but don''t miss anything. Take a good rest these days, and the weather is hot. Let me do these things. " Looking at Jiang Ruan''s stomach, she couldn''t put down her hand and touched it: "look at this big belly, it must be a big fat boy." Jiang Ruan also looked down at his belly, reached out and touched it, as if he could feel the child kicking himself. Life here is much easier than that in the outside world before. Maybe it''s because this place is remote and isolated from the world. People here don''t plan to live. Anyway, it''s very suitable for her to have a baby here. Just then, there was a voice of reproach, and it seemed that there was a child''s low sobbing. Jiang Ruan and sister-in-law GUI were all stunned. They watched the big mountain pull the small mountain over. The small mountain drooped his head, and tears still hung on his face."What''s the matter?" Sister GUI asked, "Dashan, are you bullying Xiaoshan again?" "Niang, I didn''t bully Xiaoshan!" Dashan was still angry. He looked at Xiaoshan and said, "tell Niang and Ruan what you have done!" Sister GUI and Jiang Ruan looked at each other, but it had something to do with Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "don''t worry, Dashan. Xiaoshan is still young and doesn''t understand. You can scare him so easily. What happened to the hill? " She spent all her days here in guisao''s house. Dashan''s two brothers were her saviors, and they were very sincere to her. They should have been grateful to others. It''s just that she can''t repay them now. On hearing this, Xiaoshan burst into tears, which made Jiang Ruan feel more inexplicable. Dashan sighed and stood in front of Jiang Ruan with shame. He saluted Jiang Ruan and said, "I''m sorry, madam Ruan. This boy stole your jewelry and sold it off." Sister GUI stood up and looked at the hill''s face. She said angrily, "hill! What do I usually teach you? If we don''t steal, we don''t rob, we don''t do anything furtive. Why are you so worthless? Are you worthy of your father Sister GUI''s eyes were red with anger when she said that, and she was almost ready to shed tears. She was also angry and wanted to hit the hill. "Don''t be angry, sister GUI." Jiang Ruan quickly advised that she would go to protect her with a bad body and said, "Xiaoshan certainly didn''t mean it. Listen to the children first. " Xiaoshan sobbed: "Qionghua''s grandmother is ill. She wants expensive medicine to continue her life. Doctor Wang doesn''t have those medicine either. She has to be in the capital. Qionghua''s family was poor and couldn''t afford the money. I and I thought that Ruan Niangzi''s jewelry might be valuable, so I stole it and pawned it. But I''m living. When I have money, I will redeem it for lady Ruan. " Has Jiang Ruan lived here for a long time? Naturally, he has heard about Qionghua''s family. Qionghua''s family only has her and her grandmother. Qionghua''s grandmother is old now, and she is in her twilight years. Qionghua is about to find a little partner to complain. Xiaoshan and Qionghua grew up together, but they can''t afford so much money. So he thought that Jiang Ruan would bring some jewelry when she came here I took it off because I was pregnant. Guisao was stunned. She didn''t expect Xiaoshan to steal Jiang Ruan''s jewelry for such a reason. This behavior is really unreasonable, but it is out of kindness. "Then you shouldn''t steal the jewelry of Lady Ruan," she said angrily Xiaoshan cried: "my mother taught us to repay each other by dripping water. After my father left, my mother had a hard time. Granny Qionghua helped us a lot. Now she is in trouble. We can''t stand by. But I don''t have any money. All those jewels are dead. I''m borrowing from Lady Ruan. I''ll pay them back in the future. " Jiang Ruan thought for a moment, and said: "hill, it''s far away from the outside, and there are more than ten miles to the capital. How did you get out?" "I went out on my own," he said. I went out after several days. A few days ago, I said that I would go to play with ER Gouzi in the mountains and be something. " Sister GUI took a breath. After all, Xiaoshan is still a child. It''s tiring to walk for a few days. Which mother does not love her son, especially sister-in-law GUI and her two sons depend on each other. Naturally, the resentment in her heart soon dissipated. He just looked at the hill and said, "what a fool! Why don''t you tell your mother and your elder brother? " "I, I''m afraid my mother and elder brother won''t agree, but only lady Ruan''s jewelry can save granny Qionghua." Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "sister GUI, who doesn''t get in the way, saving one life is better than building a seven level pagoda. Those jewelry are not worth a few dollars. Besides, I''m pregnant now and I can''t use it any more. They are all dead things. It''s better to exchange money for medical treatment. My life was saved by Dashan and Xiaoshan. You gave me a shelter again, sister-in-law GUI. You have been taking care of me for such a long time. I have nothing to repay. I wanted to give you those jewelry as a compensation for my nagging these days. Xiaoshan is still a child. The important thing is that he is kind-hearted and doesn''t steal it on purpose. I don''t think sister GUI should blame him any more. " Xiaoshan rubbed his eyes and looked at Jiang Ruan without saying anything, but sister-in-law GUI was a little embarrassed, and even said, "how can that be? Ruan Niang Zi, Dashan, they should have saved you. What compensation do you say? We really can''t take it back. Let Xiaoshan tell me the amount of silver and we can redeem it again. " Jiang Ruan shook his head: "but it''s all external things. It''s not important. There''s no need to redeem them. But it''s Xiaoshan. What danger did you encounter when you went out from here? Didn''t you meet anyone? " What she worried about was another matter. Before, people who were afraid of Yuanchuan were still wandering outside, so they didn''t dare to show up easily. What she saved was falling into Hukou again. Would Xiaoshan go out with his jewelry and be discovered? The hill shook his head and said, "No Jiang Ruan thought, "is there anything happening in the capital recently?" Xiaoshan thought, "the capital is at war. There are people everywhere." They were deep in the world, so they didn''t know the name of Xuanli very well. On hearing this, sister-in-law GUI was very anxious: "if you run out during the war, you don''t want to think about what happened. What can I do with your elder brother? You''re not hurt, are you? " Just now, she still wanted to eat people. Now she couldn''t help caring about her children''s safety. The more she thought about it, the more upset she was. She grabbed Xiaoshan''s ear and went to the house: "no, I have to see." She told Dashan: "Dashan, look at Niang Ruan and don''t let her carry heavy things." Then he took the hill away.After sister-in-law GUI and Xiaoshan left, Dashan and Jiang Ruan were the only two left. Dashan looked at Jiang Ruan at a loss and finally said bravely, "I''m sorry, Ruan. I didn''t teach Xiaoshan well." Jiang Ruan returned to his senses and said with a smile, "what does it matter? Xiaoshan didn''t mean it. Besides, it''s all about saving people. You don''t have to worry about Dashan. " As she spoke, she remembered what Xiaoshan had just said about the situation in the capital. Xiaoshan said that there was a war in the capital, but she didn''t say what it was. She didn''t know what happened to Xiao Shao now. What about Xuan Pei and big brother? Dashan also guessed that Jiang Ruan was lost because of Xiaoshan''s words. But Dashan thinks that Jiang Ruan is thinking of her husband, who abused her and cheated her and wanted her life. In Dashan''s eyes, Jiang Ruan is gentle and kind-hearted. He must have been impatient for his husband. Dashan felt a little aggrieved by Jiang Ruan Ming. He thought of Jiang Ruan as a better man and said, "Lady Ruan In fact, you don''t have to think about the past. You should look forward to those who don''t cherish you. Let them go. " He summoned up the courage to finish these words, and his face immediately turned red. Jiang Ruan looked at him in amazement. Naturally, she could see the young man''s affection for her. These days, he was very considerate. Jiang Ruan kept a distance from him politely, but the child was also a single-minded person. He lived in such a simple environment, but he never changed his mind. Dashan looked at Jiang Ruan''s bright face and said, "Lady Ruan can actually stay. I Xiaoshan likes you very much, too. I and I can help take care of the child in Ruan''s belly. I can teach him archery. " This kind of implicit expression is almost the acme that Dashan can say. This is the first time he said such words to a woman. For him, it doesn''t matter that Jiang Ruan married and had his own children. He wants to take care of this woman sincerely. Jiang Ruan was also stunned for a moment. If she was put in the outside world, she would be a real concubine. No matter how poor her life experience was, no good man would want him. But it''s different here. Dashan was so young that he could have found a better girl, but he still expressed his heart to her. Jiang Ruan looked at the young man in front of him. He was like a sun that had not been infected by the outside world. She said with a smile, "thank you, but Dashan, I can take care of him myself." Her words were calm without any ups and downs. Obviously, her mood did not change because of Dashan''s words. Dashan looked at her in disappointment and asked, "it''s because...". Can''t Ruan forget him? " Jiang Ruan was about to answer with a smile when she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her abdomen. She could not help but put out a hand to cover her abdomen. But the pain was getting bigger and bigger, almost more and more intense. Without a groan, she bent down on one side of the pillar. "Lady Ruan?" Dashan was stunned at first. Seeing Jiang Ruan''s uncomfortable appearance, he was also flustered in his heart. He hurried over, ignoring the defense of men and women. He helped Jiang Ruan and said, "Lady Ruan, what''s the matter with you?" "It hurts." Jiang Ruan frowned and said that his face was as white as paper for a moment. Seeing that the momentum was not right, Dashan called out: "Niang! Niang, Ruan Niang is not good! " Sister GUI was teaching Xiaoshan a lesson in her room. When she heard Dashan''s words, she ran out of the room. She was shocked to see Jiang Ruan''s appearance. She said quickly, "what''s the matter?" Then he came to help Jiang Ruan. He was surprised to see clearly Jiang Ruan''s look. Then he said, "no, I''m afraid I''m going to have a baby." "Dashan," she said, "go to the village and call Mrs. Yu. She says that Mrs. Ruan is going to give birth. I''ll take her back to the house first." Dashan answered and went out of the door. Sister GUI carefully helped Jiang Ruan to the bed in the room. At the moment, Jiang Ruan was already sweating with pain. She just bit her teeth to stop herself crying. Looking at it, sister-in-law GUI felt distressed and said, "don''t hold on, lady Ruan. It''s just that the baby has just started to move. I don''t know when it will start. Now don''t use up your strength. I immediately asked someone to cook some brown sugar eggs. At least she had some strength, so that she could give birth to the baby smoothly. " It''s the first time for Jiang Ruan to have children in his past and present life. It''s just how calm he is. There is no fear in his heart. But she has always been rational and calm, is obediently nodded to sister-in-law GUI, said: "good." Guisao went to ask the daughter-in-law next door to help cook the eggs. She sat by the bed with Jiang Ruan herself. She took Jiang Ruan''s hand and comforted him not to be afraid. Jiang Ruan was in a trance and unconsciously called Xiao Shao''s name out: "ah Shao..." At this moment, Xiao Shao, who is coming here quickly outside the capital, is pulling his horse. For some reason, he is suddenly stunned. Jiang Xinzhi, who is close to him, sees him and asks, "what''s the matter?" Xiao Shao pursed her lips, shook her head and said, "nothing." Now I really need to ask for leave to write the grand finale. I''ll see you in three days www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel! Chapter 259 Guisao let the young daughter-in-law next door boil brown sugar eggs, and soon served up, but Jiang Ruan now is the pain of ruthless, where there is the heart to eat. She said again and again: "Lady Ruan, you have to eat something. We are all people who have had children. We know how powerful it is. It''s a hard work to have a baby. If you don''t eat something when you are going to have a baby, how can you have strength. I don''t know when I will be able to have a baby for a while. I think it''s hard for Ruan to be hungry for a few days. Don''t starve the baby in your stomach Jiang Ruan was not in the mood to eat. When he heard the last sentence of sister-in-law GUI, he could not help but be surprised. He thought that he could not be hungry for his children, so he tried to resist the discomfort and ate the food that sister-in-law GUI brought. But even so, the pain in the abdomen has not been alleviated at all. As a result, the night passed in a flash. This night, the pain to the middle of the night, Jiang Ruan also did not hurt, because too tired and fell asleep. In Qingping village, all the villagers, some of the aunts and daughters in law who have had childbearing experience are guarding at the door of guisao''s house, and there are also many young men. Most of these young men are in love with Jiang ruansheng''s beauty. They usually give her some small gifts. At the moment, they can''t help worrying about her. Regardless of their parents scold Leng is ran out, Baba in guisao''s door guard. A slightly older mother-in-law said, "I don''t think it will be born tonight." This is the midwife in the village, Mrs. Wang. "I think it''s just these two days. It''s a big belly." Sister GUI is a little worried. She likes Jiang Ruan these days. Jiang Ruan''s temperament is gentle, polite and considerate, and people are still beautiful. There are not so many high school rules in the world, and people''s temperament is also very simple. Sister GUI takes Jiang Ruan as her daughter and loves her sincerely. At the moment, she can''t help worrying about her: "I don''t know if it''s good to have such a big stomach." "I think lady Ruan''s body is still a little empty." Wang said, "I''m afraid it won''t be so easy to be born this time." "How can it be true?" a young daughter-in-law said, "I have suffered so much in the past. When I was pregnant, I was chased and killed by my husband. I''m afraid my body was already empty. Oh, poor thing. " Naturally, this is to scold Jiang Ruan''s cruel husband. All the women present hate such a heartless man in their hearts, and the young men present also want to beat up the heartless man. How can they be willing to hurt such a kind and beautiful girl. Liu Mengmeng is the daughter of Liu Fuzi in the village. She is only 14 or 15 years old this year. Liu Fuzi is the most learned person in the village. Naturally, Liu Mengmeng is the most talented girl in the village. She also gave birth to Yuxue. Before Jiang Ruan came, she was the most beautiful girl in the village. However, after Jiang Ruan came, the young men in the village who liked to pay her attentions turned to Jiang Ruan one after another, and Liu Mengmeng was naturally suffocating. She also came today, following Aunt Liu. At a glance, Liu Meng saw Dashan''s two brothers sitting in front of GUI Sao''s house. Dashan was stunned when he saw that Jiang Ruan was going to have a baby today. He felt very sad when he saw that Jiang Ruan was suffering so much. He wished he could hurt her. At first I thought it would be born at night, but in the end I didn''t, so Dashan''s heart was hanging in his stomach. I didn''t know what to do, so I had to sit at the door with those young men who admired Jiang Ruan. "Dashan," Liu Mengmeng came up to him, took out a paper bag from his arms and handed it to him, "the camellia cake I brought from home, you''ve been sitting here for half a night, have something to eat." Around the young men have turned to see her, Liu Meng Meng was staring at some blush. Everyone in the village knows that Liu Mengmeng is very good to Dashan. It''s only because once Liu Mengmeng met a leopard when he was digging herbs with his little sister in the mountain. It was when Dashan was hunting that he met her and saved her life. The little girl always worships heroes. Dashan is also a handsome boy. Naturally, she will win the favor of Liu Mengmeng. However, Liu Mengmeng is also a hot shaver. Dashan doesn''t seem to care about this. Sure enough, Dashan didn''t notice this time, but the paper wrapped Camellia Cake said with a smile: "it''s OK, I''m not hungry. You haven''t eaten for half a night, Xiaoshan. Have something to eat. " Xiaoshan was really hungry, so he picked it up, took a big bite of camellia cake, and said to Liu Meng, "it''s delicious, thank you." Around the young man will coax a smile, also don''t know is laughing at Dashan don''t understand amorous feelings, or laugh at Liu Mengmeng''s kindness and wasted. Liu Meng stamped his feet and ran away with anger. Dashan was very puzzled, but was looked in the eye by sister-in-law GUI on one side, and could not help sighing. Liu Mengmeng is a good girl, but his son''s mind is naturally clear, Dashan is clearly in love with Jiang Ruan. Indeed, there''s no one who doesn''t like a girl like Jiang Ruan. Even she wants Jiang Ruan to be her own daughter. Dashan likes Jiang Ruan. If she wants to marry Jiang Ruan, she doesn''t have any opinions at all, but she''s also a woman. She can see clearly that Jiang Ruan has no feelings for Dashan, let alone anything else. Dashan''s tender feelings are doomed to be wasted, but Guisao thought again that Jiang Ruan had been hurt so much that she would no longer trust men. If you see people''s heart for a long time, maybe Jiang Ruan will change his mind. In a word, let''s go step by step.Time passed in the anxiously waiting of the people in the whole village. Until the afternoon of the next day, there was no big problem. All the people in the village were separated. When Jiang Ruan woke up, she felt very sorry for the trouble, but sister-in-law GUI comforted her and said, "it''s very important to have a baby. It''s hard for you. However, the child in his belly is very naughty. It''s about a boy to tease his mother like this. " Jiang Ruan also laughed. But on the other side, Xiao Shao came here with his confidants. One day and one night, his men and horses were tired to death, but they didn''t cry bitterly, because Xiao Shao was determined not to rest. The same is true of Jiang Xinzhi. Qi Feng wanted to persuade them, but he could understand their feelings. Besides, when he found the news about Jiang Ruan, it was good. The pawnbroker who spread Jiang Ruan''s jewelry recalled that he was a young man dressed as a hunter in the mountains who came to be a pawnbroker and still worked as a pawnbroker. The only way to do this is to say that the owner of the jewelry is still alive. Maybe the young man wants to redeem the jewelry for the owner in the future. Maybe this is the signal that the owner of the jewelry tacitly agrees or even takes the initiative to send out. Along the way, the royal guards inquired about the news and finally found out that there was a place to escape from the world. It''s really hard to find this place. At the beginning, everyone thought that Jiang Ruan was no longer alive. Only Xiao Shao insisted on inquiring about Jiang Ruan. Now, if he had any hope, how could he give up? When they get to the edge of the cliff, there is no way. However, they hear that they are going to go down the cliff, and there are only cane outside. Their subordinates follow Xiao Shao to get off the horse, leaving a few people to guard here. Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi open the way. They are good at martial arts and take the lead. Soon, Qi Feng and they follow. After several people settled down, they found that it was a cluster of mountains. They couldn''t tell where it was. It was endless. Qi Feng sighed: "no wonder other people can''t find it. If you want to find a village in such a hidden place, I''m afraid that no one will lead you. You''ll just get lost and die in it." "If you are trapped, you have to find it." "Look separately," said Xiao Shao "Wait a minute," Jiang Xinzhi suddenly put out his hand and said, "look, who is that?" In the middle of the continuous mountains, there is a young girl carrying a basket. I don''t know what she is doing. In this lush forest, the young girl is wearing a peach summer coat. She looks very eye-catching, and several people notice her at a glance. Brocade: "bait?" "Where is the bait in the refuge?" Qi Feng said, "maybe it''s from the village. Do you want to ask?" Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi looked at each other and said, "good." Liu Mengmeng is picking herbs in the mountains. It''s not safe to pick herbs alone, but today she is angry. Dashan lost all her face last night. She has been fond of Dashan for a long time. Dashan is handsome and brave, and has excellent archery. But Dashan has always been indifferent to her, but Liu Meng is not worried at all. She is the most beautiful girl in the village, and she is also the most learned. Dashan will like her. Who knows, everything has changed since Jiang Ruan came. Jiang ruansheng is also beautiful. Even she has to admit that Jiang ruansheng''s beauty is like the sun in the sky. It''s too bright and bright, which makes the people around her look gloomy. Besides, she has a good temperament, and her every move seems to be elegant. Most importantly, she is also very learned. Sometimes she even tells the children in the village something that Liu Mengmeng doesn''t know. Even her father praises Ruan as a learned woman. Envy, Liu Mengmeng envy Jiang Ruan, the most envious or Dashan to Jiang Ruan as good. She had never seen Dashan so considerate to other women. Liu Meng could see that Dashan liked Jiang Ruan. But why? Jiang Ruan was a woman who had a husband. The more she thought about it, the more sad she felt. Especially when she saw Dashan sitting there motionless last night, her eyes were full of Jiang Ruan who was about to give birth in the house. She couldn''t tolerate others at all. Liu Mengmeng felt aggrieved as long as she thought about it and went into the mountain to dig herbs early in the morning. She capriciously thought, if they encounter wild animals in the mountains, will Dashan come to save her? If she was hurt, would Dashan also watch over her like Jiang Ruan? She thought about these things in a bored way. She didn''t have the heart to collect herbs at all. Just as she was thinking about it, she suddenly heard someone calling her from behind: "this girl." Liu Mengmeng was startled and quickly turned around. A handsome young man was standing in front of her. The man was gorgeous and had a kind of bravery. He looked at her and said with a smile, "girl, how can I get to Qingping village?" Although Liu Mengmeng entered the mountain, she had never been to the outside world. All along, she lived in the village, so all the people she met were acquaintances in the village. Suddenly, a group of people came, and she was startled. Then, a man in purple came out from behind the Yingwu man. The man was also very handsome, and his voice was very gentle and polite: "this girl, we are not bad people. Dare to ask, the girl is from Qingping village. Can you lead the way for the next few people?" Liu Mengmeng stepped back. They were all very rich and dignified, and each of them seemed to have a great bearing. After all, Liu Mengmeng was a little girl. Besides, these people were gentle and polite, and they were good-looking. Unconsciously, they felt a little more favorable. They just thought that there were few outsiders in their village, so they still asked, "what do you want to do?"This time, a young man in black came out from behind the Yingwu man. The young man''s appearance was excellent, better than that of the two men in front of him. His eyes were like paint and his eyebrows were like ink painting. For a moment, Liu Mengmeng only thought of what his father had taught him. There was a kind of cool demeanor in the young man. His words are also light: "I received clues, my wife was exiled to Qingping village, so I came to find her. The girl is from Qingping village. Is there any strange woman here Only a word, Liu Mengmeng brain meal, an instant from the front of the young man in black surprised back to God. She thought of Jiang Ruan almost immediately. The outsider in Qingping village now is Jiang Ruan. The young man in Black said that Jiang Ruan was his wife. Is this not the man who is ungrateful! Liu Mengmeng also heard the story of Jiang Ruan. She knew that Jiang Ruan''s marriage was inhuman. At the beginning, she was still indignant for Jiang Ruan. In fact, it was miserable for any woman to marry such a man. Although Liu Mengmeng envies Dashan for being so kind to Jiang Ruan, he immediately thinks that he must not let him find the trace of Jiang Ruan when he sees the man in front of him. "Girl?" Seeing that she didn''t speak for a long time, Qi Feng couldn''t help but ask, thinking that what frightened the little girl. I don''t know that Liu Mengmeng is staring at the young man in black. She has never seen such a good-looking man before. Moreover, she has the elegance of flowing water in her heart. She can''t see enough. Such a person is actually a heartbreaker who takes over other people''s property and finally has to chase his wife. Liu Mengmeng''s heart is filled with emotion. He thinks that he is himself, and he is afraid that he can''t look at him He recognized the ambition of the young man. She looked back at Xiao Shao and said, "I''m not from Qingping village. There are several villages in the mountain. It''s my first time to visit Qingping village. I don''t know where Qingping village is, and I haven''t heard any women living here recently. I''m afraid I heard them wrong. " "How could it be?" Brocade two way: "this clue is clear right." He said, "little sister, are you cheating us? We are not bad people." It''s so easy to find such a clue. If it''s false, Xiao Shao doesn''t know how sad it will be. Everyone believes it. How can the little girl believe it. Seeing this, Jiang Xinzhi said to her, "I''m her elder brother. We''ve been looking for her for a long time. Don''t hide it, girl. If anything happens, I''ll never forgive myself." Liu Mengmeng sniffed in his heart, thinking that Jiang Ruan had already said that there was no big brother in his family, which was a lie. These people looked like dogs, but they didn''t expect to be killed. At this time, she couldn''t care about the grudges with Jiang Ruan. She blinked and said, "I''m sorry, I sympathize with you, but I really don''t know where Qingping village is. You''d better go to find it again and say goodbye." Then he turned around and left. "Ah --" Qi Feng wants to reach out and hold her, but Xiao Shao stops her. People don''t understand and look at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao whispers: "she lies, follow her." That girl''s appearance is not the first time to enter the mountain. Besides, the clues of the royal guards can''t be wrong. There is only one Qingping village here, and there are no other Qingping villages. The little girl just looked at him with a very strange look. At first, she seemed to be obsessed with surprise. Then she became a little strange after hearing what she said. Then her attitude suddenly changed. Although she didn''t know why, Xiao Shao knew that her words would make the little girl react. In this case, instead of pestering here, it''s better to follow behind quietly and find Jiang Ruan already. After all, the little girl is not well-known in the world. If she knows something, she will go back to the village for the first time and give information. As long as you follow her, you will find Qingping village. Xiao Shao''s words were not refuted, and they acted according to his words. But after Liu Mengmeng walked a section of the road, he couldn''t help looking back. He didn''t see the young man in black. He was relieved. As her father said, the outside world is too complicated. Even she didn''t expect that the handsome young man in black, who looks like a painting, was such a cruel man. She couldn''t help sympathizing with Jiang Ruan when she thought that he wanted to find a place to kill him. However, it suddenly occurred to Liu Meng that these people were so cruel that they would not give up until they found Jiang Ruan. Since they had got the clue, they would not give up so easily. I''d better go back to the village early and tell the villagers about it, so that Jiang Ruan can have a preparation. It''s better to hide from being found. Liu Mengmeng turned to confirm that no one followed him. Then he hurried back to the village with his basket. It takes several hours to get back to the village in the mountain, but it won''t be able to get there for a while. Liu Mengmeng tries to run faster. He is afraid that he will fall behind the group of villains, but he doesn''t know that Xiao Shao and them are following her far away. "A cunning little girl indeed." Qi Feng said, "but why did she cheat us?" "The refuge of the world, certainly do not want to be found." Jiang Xin''s way. It''s reasonable to say that, so people stopped talking and continued to follow Liu Mengmeng. However, it was said that once Japan passed quickly. At first, people thought it was a false alarm. But in the evening, when it was almost dusk, Jiang Ruan began to suffer from abdominal pain again. This time, he was much more severe than the last time. When Mrs. GUI came into the room, she was shocked to see that the blanket under Jiang Ruan''s body was wet. She rushed to the firewood burning mountain outside and said, "Dashan, go and call Mrs. Wang! Mother Ruan is going to have a babyDashan left the firewood in his hand and ran out. All day long, his heart was in a panic. No one knew when Jiang Ruan was born. When Dashan heard that a woman had a baby just to go through the gate of hell, Mrs. Wang said that Jiang Ruan was weak and dangerous. She was very afraid of accidents. Dashan was also worried. Mrs. Wang soon came in with two aunts who had midwifery experience. She had already cooked a large pot of hot water outside, and Mrs. GUI drove Dashan out of the house early. So this time, just like last night, many young men and young wives and aunts were waiting outside guisao''s house, anxiously listening to the news inside. But tonight was different from last night. Last night, Jiang Ruan''s abdominal pain was tolerable. Finally, he was stable. Tonight, the voice from that room is very shrill. I saw from time to time a woman will be a basin of blood out of the end, to see the palpitation. And the call of the parturient in the room also let everyone can''t help pinching their palms. "Ah --" Jiang Ruan clenched the sheets under him. Wang said, "don''t be nervous, lady Ruan. Take it easy. Women have children in this way. Don''t be afraid. Come on, exert yourself -" "it hurts." Jiang Ruan''s forehead was covered with sweat, his hair was wet one by one, his face was very pale, and his lips were still shaking. Another one pulled sister-in-law GUI aside and said in a voice of only two people: "no, lady Ruan is very dangerous. The child''s head is too big to get out. She is too weak to make any effort at the moment..." On hearing this, sister-in-law GUI was anxious: "what should I do then?" It''s not the first time that she''s seen someone give birth. Seeing Jiang Ruan like this, she knows she''s in danger. But Jiang Ruan has been with her for such a long time. These days, because of Jiang Ruan, she seems to have a daughter. Sister GUI feels sorry that Jiang Ruan has suffered so much when she is so young. If there is any accident today, she dare not think. "Only try again..." The aunt sighed and turned to help again. As time goes by, the groans in the room are getting weaker. Even the naughty little hill can''t help straightening his face. Nono asks Dashan, "brother, is she OK?" "It''s going to be OK." Dashan murmured. He didn''t know whether it was for Xiaoshan or comforting himself. At this time, I heard a clear voice: "no, no!" When they looked back, they found out who Liu Mengmeng was. Aunt Liu scolded, "where are you going to be crazy? Come back so late! " "Niang, it''s not good," Liu Mengmeng panted. "I went into the mountain today and met Ruan Niang Zi''s husband in the mountain. They brought a lot of people, probably to catch Ruan Niang Zi. I''m afraid that when they know about it, they''ll cheat them out. I''m afraid that they''ll follow them. I''ve made a detour and come back now. " "Ruan Niangzi''s husband?" Asked Dashan. "Well," said Liu Mengmeng, "tall and pretty, dressed in black Ah -- "Liu Mengmeng screamed and pointed to a man in the night:" Why are you here? " The man standing there was tall, handsome and dressed in black. Who was not Jiang Ruan''s husband described by Liu Mengmeng? He was followed by some people who had never met before. All the villagers in Qingping village stood up. They knew Jiang Ruan''s life experience very well. The white eyed wolf in front of him hated him very much. Dashan stood in front of the man in black and said, "what do you want to do?" Qi Feng frowned. He always felt that the villagers in this village were very hostile to them. Although he didn''t know why, he said: "you guys, we are not bad people. We just come to find your wife. After we find it, we will leave immediately. We won''t disturb you or disclose the news here." "False heart, false white eyed wolf, go away!" Xiaoshan rushed over with the shoulder pole. Jiang Xin''s hand was lightly hooked, and the shoulder pole was blocked to one side. He wondered, "what do you mean?" No fate, no reason, how to become a white eyed wolf? Looking at the appearance, the people in this village are really dissatisfied with them. Dashan stopped Xiaoshan''s action. He took a look around and determined that the man in black was Jiang Ruan''s husband. This man looked dignified. Who knew he was a beast with a human face. He said abruptly, "we don''t have any wives here. We are all from our own village. I''m afraid the young man has found the wrong place." Before the words were heard, a loud groan came from the room with the light on: "ah -" this voice was familiar to everyone, and it was Jiang Ruan''s. Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi changed their faces and cried, "ah Ruan -" is about to rush into the house. Wang Niangzi''s voice also rang anxiously: "Ruan Niangzi is going to die, no strength, how to do?" Dashan stopped Xiao Shao and said angrily, "you don''t want to hurt her. If you hurt her, I want your life!" Xiao Shao gave him a cold look. He was very unhappy at the moment. He grabbed Dashan''s arm. The next moment, Dashan flew out of his eyes. The villagers all around called out and surrounded them. Qi Feng felt very distressed. It didn''t have to be so angry. It could be settled peacefully. How could it be like this. Xiao Shao didn''t look at the group of people, and immediately rushed to the house. Jiang Ruan was so weak that he couldn''t make a sound. However, at this time, he seemed to hear Xiao Shao''s voice vaguely. Some of his unconsciousness had come to his senses again. She said, "ah Shao."Xiao Shao had heard her voice, and immediately broke into the house. The villagers could not stop her. Seeing this, Dashan would turn over and catch Xiao Shao: "what do you want to do?" "What do you want to do?" Jin Er Yi slapped him on the ground. He was very unhappy with the young man. He was familiar with the young lady. He made the young master angry. He laughed: "what do you care about other people''s husband and wife?" Several women in the room screamed when they saw the intruders. Jiang Ruan opened his eyes vaguely and saw Xiao Shao. Tears were coming down. She said, "ah Shao, ah Shao, you''re here at last..." "I''m late," said Xiao Shao, kneeling in front of the bed, holding her hand tightly and saying, "I''m sorry." "I. Save our children... " Jiang Ruan said: "you save him..." Seeing Xiao Shao, Jiang Ruan''s whole heart was relieved. Her only idea was to keep her baby. She felt that her strength and life were passing away. As long as Xiao Shao could keep her baby, it was her and Xiao Shao''s baby. She didn''t want to lose it. "A Ruan, hold on, you and the children are well, I''m here, it''s OK, you don''t be afraid, don''t give up." Xiao Shao held her hand. The young man who had never been happy or angry was red in his eyes. His voice was trembling, but his tone was firm. He said, "hold on, Ruan." He turned to look at the shocked women over there. The proud young man pleaded for the first time: "keep her life!" The old lady Wang and sister-in-law GUI were startled by the intruders, and they were so scared that they had no idea what to do. It seems that they should be Jiang Ruan''s husband. But Jiang Ruan''s son-in-law was a very kind-hearted man who was ungrateful, but the young man didn''t seem to be merciless to Jiang Ruan. They were all from the past. The young man''s eyes on Jiang Ruan were very painful. As for Jiang Ruan, she was always smiling when she came to Qingping village for such a long time, but it was the first time that they saw Jiang Ruan like this. It seemed that all the burdens they had been carrying had been put down, and they trusted the people in front of them wholeheartedly. Xiao Shao held Jiang Ruan''s hand, and he said in her ear: "you can''t leave me alone, a Ruan. I missed your life. I don''t want to miss it again. When all this is settled, I will accompany you to do what you want to do, wherever you want to go, I will accompany you. Don''t leave me... " His tears drop by drop. It''s amazing that the tears of the cold youth are so hot. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were red, and she could not bear Xiao Shao. People may only find out how precious everything they have now after they go wrong once. This life, Xiao Shao is her most unexpected gift, how lucky to meet him, if he died, Xiao Shao alone in this world, he will also be very painful. Jiang Ruan closed his eyes and clenched his fist again. On one side, sister-in-law GUI''s eyes were red. Mrs. Wang''s eyes were sharp, and she could see the difference between Jiang and Ruan. She quickly said in a high voice, "Ruan, it''s good. That''s it. Try hard!" She helped Jiang Ruan deliver the baby and encouraged her. Xiao Shao is also holding Jiang Ruan''s hand tightly, has been giving her encouragement. The night seemed to be a long one. When it was white in the East, the first baby''s cry rang through the sky, and people inside and outside the room were relieved at the same time. Dashan and the villagers were surrounded by the royal guards and couldn''t come near, but they heard Mrs. Wang''s surprise voice from inside: "it''s the twins of dragon and Phoenix. Mrs. Ruan is really blessed!" "Ah Ruan..." As soon as Jiang Xin''s heart relaxed, he was about to walk into the house. Then he saw sister-in-law GUI come out and ordered several little daughters-in-law to boil some sugar water. After giving birth to the baby all night, Jiang Ruan thought it was extremely dangerous. At last, such a narrow escape made everyone''s heart follow closely. If it wasn''t for the young man in black, I don''t know if she could insist Come on. Mrs. GUI sighed, remembering that after the child was born, the young man didn''t look at the child at all. Her eyes only fell on Jiang Ruan. At that time, she knew that the young man had a deep relationship with Jiang Ruan. She was afraid that things were not what Jiang Ruan said. If this man is Jiang Ruan''s son-in-law, he must be one who loves his wife. In the room, the baby in the swaddling clothes was wiped clean and wrapped in the swaddling clothes that had been made for a long time. It''s my brother and sister. It''s beside Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan''s body is still very weak, Xiao Shao has been holding her hand, Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "I want to see the children." "Don''t move." Xiao Shao frowned to stop her. He picked up the baby and showed it to her. His movements were clumsy and his posture was not right. Fortunately, the two children were not coquettish and didn''t cry. But the child just born wrinkled, small face group into a ball, Xiao Shao see also Leng for a while, tut a, way: "so ugly." Just born, he was despised by his own father. Jiang Ruan glared at Xiao Shao. Xiao Shao held the child in front of Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan reached out to amuse the child. He was full of joy. The pain of that night is all relieved at this moment, as if all is worth it. Life is so wonderful, this is her and Xiao Shao''s child. She said, "I haven''t named them yet. I''ve been waiting for you to do it." Did not see Xiao Shao answer, Jiang Ruan looked up, Xiao Shao is looking at her deeply."What do you want me to do?" Asked Jiang Ruan. "I''m sorry," Xiao Shao said in a low voice, "it must be very hard for you to be alone for such a long time. I came too late, almost... " Almost lost her. Xiao Shao''s hand stroked Jiang Ruan''s hair. If he lost Jiang Ruan, he didn''t dare to think about it. Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "what''s the matter? It''s very good here. But how do I feel that you don''t seem to like these two children very much? " Jiang Ruan''s heart also had a trace of tension. Xiao Shao''s expression to the children was light after he came in. Why did he show such an expression? It was because he didn''t like children? Xiao Shao hesitated to look at the two wrinkly little monkeys in his swaddling clothes. He buried his head in Jiang Ruan''s shoulder socket and took a deep breath, as if to engrave her breath in his heart. He said: "ah Ruan, in the future. No more Watching her give birth and step into the gate of death, I don''t want to do it again in my life. That powerlessness mixed with great panic, knowing that the person you love is suffering, but not knowing what you can do. What about the kids? As long as Jiang Ruan is alive, he doesn''t want him to suffer like this any more. Jiang Ruan was a little amused and moved. Knowing that Xiao Shao was scared this time, he scolded him: "childish!" After all, Xiao Shao stayed by Jiang Ruan''s side all the time, and his children were by Jiang Ruan''s side, just like his happy family. After Jiang Xinzhi came to the mountain at the door of the house, he stopped and stopped. He was not a fool. When he saw Jiang Ruan with such a happy and relaxed look, such an open-minded and heartfelt happiness, it must be because of that man. Jin Er patted Dashan on the shoulder and said, "brother, let''s go out first. Our young lady and the young master haven''t seen each other for a long time Jiang Xinzhi also went out with him. As long as Jiang Ruan was safe, he would put down his heart. Although he also wanted to go in and see Jiang Ruan and his two little nephews, now Jiang Ruan is weak and needs Xiao Shao to accompany him. Moreover, these days, he also saw with his own eyes how Xiao Shao tortured himself. With a sigh, Jiang Xinzhi turned, closed the door and went out. Qi Feng also spared no effort to explain the relationship between Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao to the people in Qingping village. At that time, he felt that the villagers treated them strangely. Later, he finally realized that Jiang Ruan had told such a lie. In fact, Qi Feng also wondered why Jiang Ruan said that. He was afraid that Xiao Shao didn''t know what he thought. The villagers were suspicious of them, but after sister GUI came out, she told the villagers about Xiao Shao''s performance in the house that day. Many young daughters-in-law were very moved. Later, when they saw that Xiao Shao was not taking care of Jiang Ruan, their doubts were dispelled. Liu Mengmeng was very angry. She didn''t expect that Jiang Ruan would cheat her. She didn''t expect that the man who looked so good was not a bad man and was so kind to Jiang Ruan. However, she was relieved when she looked at Dashan, who had been lost recently. Jiang Ruan had such a good-looking and considerate husband that she didn''t think she would like Dashan. Jiang Ruan''s body recovered faster than he had imagined, because this place was conducive to the body''s tranquility, so he stayed here for many more days. It wasn''t until a month later that I was ready to leave. On the day of leaving, Jiang Ruan said to his sister-in-law GUI and brothers Dashan and Xiaoshan, "I cheated you at the beginning. I have to. I''m sorry. I''m very grateful for your acceptance these days." "If you can use it in the future, just open your mouth." Xiao Shao said. Looking at the appearance of the two men''s obedience, a trace of sour flashed in Dashan''s heart. How much he liked Jiang Ruan was clear in his heart, but he also saw clearly that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had a wonderful relationship, and there was no place for outsiders to intervene. Besides, what qualifications did he have to fight for. But even so, the boy couldn''t help saying: "after you If you have any difficulties, you can come and live here. " "You" naturally refers to Jiang Ruan, Xiao Shao''s face suddenly sank down, only a way: "she will not." He said, "goodbye." He turned around and took Jiang Ruan away. Jiang Ruan glared at him, then said goodbye to Dashan brothers and guisao. Then he followed Xiao Shao''s men. After waiting for people to leave for a long time, Dashan still looked at the direction they left. Sister GUI sighed, thinking only about her silly son. She was afraid that she would have to be sad for a while. After Jiang Ruan got out of the mountain, he took a carriage back to Beijing. In the carriage, Jiang Ruan leaned against Xiao Shao with his child in his arms. Xiao Shao still didn''t look good. He said, "when are you so mean?" Xiao Shao didn''t answer. Jiang Ruan laughed and put the child in front of Xiao Shao: "you haven''t said what name to take." Xiao Shao''s expression was relaxed, and he said, "Mingsheng, Nanxu." "Yes? The autumn wind is blowing. The trees in the south of the street are green in spring. It''s a nice name. You''ve already thought about it. " Jiang Ruan said: "Why are you so awkward? I don''t want to tell you when I think about it. But who is the brother''s name and who is the sister''s name? " "All right. When they grow up, they can choose for themselves." The news of Jiang Ruan''s safe return to the capital spread all over the capital that day. Jiang Ruan was once Princess Hong''an, and now she is the emperor''s sister. Naturally, the young master and young lady of Jinying''s mansion became a hot cake. When Jiang Ruan returned to Jinying palace, Zhao Guang''s family, Zhao Jin''s family, Wen Feifei''s family and Jiang Xinzhi''s family all came. This is a top priority. Everyone will praise the twins when they come. Housekeeper Lin can''t help laughing. Dewdrop and forsythia are also relaxed and happy every day.Of course, this is not only because Xuanli was happy, but also because Xuanli''s rebellion was defeated like a mountain. This may be very strange, but on second thought, there is nothing strange. Although there are many people in Xuanli, the scattered places are too far away and not close to the capital. Xuanpei''s people are not just military power. In many aspects, such as merchants, he can also win over them. So when Xuanli''s people are still worried about the lack of food and grass for their troops, xuanpei is easy to solve the problem of military pay. The people who followed Xuanli were not loyal. From time to time, some of them turned to surrender. Xuanli''s power is getting smaller and smaller, but Xiao Shao and Jiang Xinzhi''s people are because of the fierce relationship between Jiang and Ruan. In this way, it is only a matter of time to catch all Xuanli''s people. Because Jiang Ruan''s body is not all right, he needs to rest for some time. Xuanpei is busy with the palace affairs, so he can''t come out to see her. They haven''t seen each other for a long time. However, the return of Jiang Ruan caused a great storm among the people in the capital. We all know that Jiang Ruan escaped after being abducted, and was saved by a kind-hearted man. He not only saved his life, but also held a pair of flesh and blood in his belly. They said one after another that it was Jiang Ruan Fu who had a big life and a good person had a good reward. The Jinying palace, which was originally burdened with disorderly officials and thieves, also changed among the common people because of fighting against disorderly officials in these days. In a flash, three months passed. In three months, the chaotic parties in the capital were gradually calmed down, and the rest of the people scattered in southern Xinjiang and Xuanli were just struggling. However, Qiman and Xuanli never showed up. Jiang Ruan is in the room to coax his children. His brother is Mingsheng, and his sister is Nanxu. Xiao Mingsheng and xiaonanxu finally break away from the wrinkled monkey appearance when they were born and become Yuxue cute. But the elder brother looks as bright as Jiang Ruan, his eyes are very moving, but his temperament is the same as Xiao Shao. No matter how cute he is, he doesn''t like to laugh. The little group has a reserved look. Her younger sister looks like Xiao Shao, but she has a sweet temperament. When she sees that everyone likes to reach out for a hug, Xiao Shao prefers her daughter. She hugs her son every day, but she is not very enthusiastic about her son. What Jiang Ruan is most used to seeing is that a father and a son sit on the bed and stare at each other. Every time, Xiao Shao can laugh angrily. At night, just after coaxing the child to sleep, Xiao Shao came back. Before Jiang Ruan got up, he was blocked on the wall by Xiao Shao, and his lips fell down. "Child..." Jiang Ruan reminded him. "Never mind." Xiao Shao''s tone is a little aggrieved: "you only care about children." "How old are you and your children?" Jiang Ruan is funny, pushed him: "tomorrow is the full moon banquet, you also have a good preparation." These two children are the treasures that everyone is looking at now. The full moon banquet is also to be held. Otherwise, housekeeper Lin will always talk about it. In fact, the day has already passed, and now, it''s just that there are too many things. Xiao Shao has an advantage, that is, since Jiang Ruan came back, he has been with her almost all day. Sometimes Jiang Ruan let him not care about himself, and Xiao Shao still guarded her. Probably because of what happened before, Jiang Ruan could not say anything more. In the early morning of the second day, Jiang Ruan took Xiao Mingsheng and Xiao Nanxu out. Now, housekeeper Lin went to the imperial court and entered the hall. He made the two identities of a courtier and housekeeper very natural. For the two new babies in the house, they are more attentive than Xiao Shao, who is a father. I personally asked the people of nanfengyuan to tailor two sets of small clothes, one pink and one blue. I don''t know if it was intentional. The pink one was given to Mingsheng and the blue one was given to Nanxu. What''s as like as two peas, and the south is always very cute. He is wearing a pink dress and looks at the jade carving. The Chiang Ruan is holding his chin. But he feels as if he has seen a face like Xiao Shao. When Xiao Shao comes to see him, Mingsheng loves to take care of him. Nanxu reaches out his hand to ask his father to hold him. Xiao Shao holds him naturally. Mingsheng looks at him and then turns to Jiang Ruan. Jiang Ruan understands him and holds him up. Mingsheng slaps his soft, creamy lips on Jiang Ruan''s lips. Xiao Shao turns to see it and looks at Mingsheng faintly. Mingsheng''s head shrinks and turns around as if nothing happened, pretending not to see his father''s eyes. Accustomed to the fact that the two fathers and sons came here every other day, Jiang Ruan shrugged his shoulders and said, "go out and have a look. After a while, everyone will come." Xiao Shao went out with Nan Xu and Jiang Ruan in his arms. When he got to the hall, there were some anxious people waiting. The hundred day banquet of the little prince and the little lady in King Jinying''s mansion will naturally stir the whole capital. Everyone knows that the relationship between the emperor and Jiang Ruan is good. To please the two treasures is to please the emperor. The endless stream of gifts are carried to King Jinying''s house without any money. Housekeeper Lin raises his chin and worries about where the extra gifts should go. The people in the general''s residence came early. Zhao Guang and Li''s loved the two children, as did several grandmothers of the Zhao family. Every present is more valuable than every one. Zhao Guang laughs. Daomingsheng is a good material for practicing martial arts. It must be cultivated well in the future. But Lin Zixiang looked at Jiang Ruan and said, "this brother was born just like you. How could he be so arrogant as your husband when he was so youngJiang Ruan also followed with a smile: "Nan Xu has a good temper." Nanxu really has a good temper. She is very happy and goes to Qifeng''s arms. She is very lovely. Her skin is white, and her eyes are as good as Xiao Shao''s. What do you mean, this is? Hello, old three, you are not so mean! That''s my daughter, too Qi Feng said angrily. "You were born?" Xiao Shao asked. Qi Feng was dumb, but Xiao Shao had already walked away with his daughter in his arms. As he walked, he admonished: "don''t get close to people casually in the future. There are many bad people." "Who is that?" Qi Feng feels aggrieved. When the guests arrived one after another, it was the flow of the hundred day banquet. Xiao Mingsheng and Xiao Nanxu were so nice. Although Xiao Mingsheng was cold, it didn''t affect the ladies'' love for him. Many young women, in particular, thought that if only Xiao Mingsheng could become their son-in-law in the future. Jiang ruanzi is also a smiling welcoming person. Since she gave birth to her baby, she looks more gentle and maybe happier, so the edges and corners are smoothed out. This one hundred day banquet has been held until the evening, and the Jinying palace is full of traffic. It has not been so lively for a long time. Xiao Shao was envious of Jiang Ruan''s thoughtfulness. But at the end, when Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao stood at the door to see off the guests, they only heard a scream from the nurse holding the baby. They were shocked. Before they could speak, they saw Xiao Shao''s figure flash. Jiang Ruan was shocked and ran back in a crazy way. But see nanny fell to the ground, the other side is standing Qiman, and fell to the ground, unexpectedly is Xuanli. Xiao Shao is holding a child in one hand. Jiang Ruan walks up quickly and doesn''t care about anything. Mingsheng and Nanxu are OK. Nanxu blinks at her as if she doesn''t understand what''s wrong. Yefeng said: "they suddenly come out and start too fast. Qiman wants to kill the child. Xuanli I''ve got a knife in the way Night Maple said here, since also feel very confused, everyone knows Xuanli and Jinying palace is the enemy, why will block a knife for the child, this is who can''t see things. Xiao Shao will protect the child very well, the bodyguards are blocking Qiman side, Qiman also can''t believe staring at Xuanli, she asked: "why?" Then, Qiman''s voice suddenly rose, almost sharp, so that everyone''s ears could not stand it. She said: "why? Why? Why? " Why? She''s here today to kill these two bastards. This is Xiao Shao''s son and Xiang Xiaoyuan''s grandson. She hates the fact that it''s impossible for Southern Xinjiang to seize the great Jin Dynasty. As long as you kill these two bastards, she won''t be in vain. It''s so easy to bet all the chips. How much did you pay for your body to sneak in, but all of them were destroyed by Xuanli in front of you. Why at the end of the day, he would suddenly rush out and block a knife for that bastard! Why, why! Jiang Ruan looked down at Xuanli. Xuanli was lying on the ground, looking very embarrassed. The knife hit his heart. Jiang Ruan''s eyes were suspicious, wary, puzzled, but without a trace of affection. Xuanli gave a bitter smile. He could say why. He spat out a mouthful of blood and said: "so You really hate me Jiang Ruan''s eyes widened. What does this mean? She looked at Xuan Li, and an unbelievable idea appeared in her mind. "You really hate me..." Xuanli is another way. "I always don''t understand why it turned out to be like this. It shouldn''t have happened, and why it was Xuan Pei. Later I learned that you are the variable. " Xuanli road. This may not be understood in other people''s ears, but Jiang Ruan knows what he is talking about, he is talking about rebirth, he is talking about the last life. He knows. Jiang Ruan stares at Xuan Li and doesn''t say anything, but Qiman of that box wants to rush forward again when he doesn''t succeed, but her expression becomes a little anxious. Hearing the news, Xia Qing was surprised to see that Qiman was a little crazy. She said, "why does she look so abnormal? She seems to have lost her mind?" Qiman naturally won''t get mad for no reason. Since he can get in today, it''s not a fuel-efficient lamp. But Xia Qing was more and more energetic and said, "I''m not wrong. She did take the poisonous insects. This is Zi Mu Gu. She took Mu Gu''s knife just now - "he suddenly looked at Xuan Li on the ground:" fortunately! " In just a few words, everyone understood that Qiman wanted to plant the Zi Gu on the children. Qi Feng asked, "what kind of Gu is that?" "Heart biting." Xia Qing said: "if she wins, she will have to leave her life. Otherwise, when she dies, the people of Zi Gu will also die. Moreover, the poison is very hot, and the people who have been poisoned are in great pain. They have to prepare their own antidotes. Once controlled... " Once controlled, will Mingsheng and Nanchu fall into Qiman''s hands. "What a poisonous woman!" Housekeeper Lin said angrily, "it''s really the same as it used to be!" Xiao Shao holds the child and frowns tightly. Nanxu doesn''t know when it happened. On the contrary, he giggles as if he thinks it''s very funny. But the laughter seems to suddenly offend Qiman. She fixed her eyes on Nanxu and suddenly raised her voice with a smile and said, "Xiang Xiaoyuan, you are very proud!"Xiang Xiaoyuan is not unfamiliar to everyone, but Xiao Shao''s life experience is only known by a few people. It''s strange that Qiman calls Xiang Xiaoyuan to Nanxu. Xiao Shao''s face was cold, but Qiman continued: "I''m not as good as you want. No matter how you win his favor, I said that one day I will take him away from you! Now that he''s dead, why are you still alive? " "The heart biting poison begins to bite back." Xia Qing said: "but what stimulation did she get? Why do you seem to get excited all of a sudden? " Everyone didn''t know what happened, but Jiang Ruan knew it. Qiman came here with a will to die heart in Japan today. Who knows that at the critical moment, he was ruined by Xuanli. Seeing his own life, he didn''t get anything. How can Qiman accept it. In addition, seeing Xiao Shaohuai''s safe and sound Nanxu, I''m afraid it''s also the place I hate most in my heart. All the bodyguards are guarding against Qiman''s sudden attack, but seeing that Qiman has lost his mind and seems to have lost his ability at the moment, he looks like a madwoman. "You want to harm my child, but it depends on whether I agree or not." Jiang Ruan said coldly, "it''s not enough for you to die ten thousand times." Jiang Ruan has never been soft on people who want to hurt their children. But Qiman seemed to wake up again gradually. She looked at Jiang Ruan carefully. After a long time, she realized that it was you, Jiang Ruan. I know you. At the beginning, it was easy for your mother to die in Shangshu mansion, thanks to me "What did you say?" Jiang Ruan was stunned. He stepped forward two steps and asked in a fierce voice, "make it clear!" "A Ruan," Xiao Shao took her hand and motioned to her not to be excited. Qiman''s voice with a smile came: "I think your mother is also a spoony woman, and it''s pitiful to follow people like Jiang Quan. But what I can''t see in my life is other people''s infatuation, so when Xia Yan in your family wants to get rid of her, I give her a medicine. Originally, that medicine could kill you as well. Who knows, in the end, it taught you to escape. You are also lucky, otherwise, now where there is this you! But you also have to thank me. If it wasn''t for my medicine, Xia Yan''s way of killing your mother would be ten thousand times more ferocious! " "You --" Jiang Ruan''s heart was cold. At the beginning, she thought that the poison was so silent. No matter how Xia Yan could see the sky, it was strange. Now she seemed to understand it. She calmed down for a moment and then asked, "Why are you doing this?" Why? Qiman stayed in Shangshu mansion secretly because he wanted to take advantage of a quiet place to carry out his plan. Under such circumstances, it was best to be silent. How can she make waves in secret? In Shangshu mansion, she has no hostile place with any forces. Qiman is a smile, so many years, she used to completely change their appearance of the potion, has already become an ordinary face, where there is the original gorgeous Princess appearance. But even so, the southern princess''s demeanor is still in her bones, at this moment, this smile, it seems to be back to those bright wanton years, almost a bit coquettish. She said, "why? I just think this kind of day is boring. I hate spoony. What''s good about spoony? Since that woman is so stubborn, I might as well let her pay for her life. Isn''t it fun? What about the main room? Isn''t it just a self withering end? " Xiao Shao understands this. Xiang Xiaoyuan was not the crown princess at the beginning, but Qiman wanted to marry into the east palace. But Xiang Xiaoyuan had a good reputation among the people. In front of Qiman, she told Prince Hongxi in person that she only knew a couple, no side room, no concubine. This is life. About that moment, the hatred for the main room was deeply engraved in Qiman''s heart. After all these years, she never forgot. "There are too many infatuated people in this world. Even if they are punished, they are doomed, but you can''t represent the will of heaven." Jiang Ruan said coldly. Qiman is also the murderer who killed her mother and Xiao Shao''s parents, trying to hurt her children. Such a person, no matter how miserable or pitiful, is not worthy of sympathy. She said with a smile: "what''s more, you should know that Prince Hongxi has never loved you. Your so-called self pity is your own wishful thinking and self indulgence. Why do you have to live such a miserable life? " "You''re bullshit Qiman suddenly seems to be stabbed to the pain by Jiang Ruan, and immediately scolds. It seems that he still wants to hurt Jiang Ruan. Jin Eryi flashes to stop her action. Qiman almost falls down and holds one side of the table with a cold smile: "what do you know? You have his pet, living high above the day, nothing to think about, hook a finger there are countless people you go through fire and water. You don''t have a person struggling, you don''t feel the taste of love, you don''t have anything to experience, what qualifications do you have to say me "I have." Jiang Ruan said calmly: "I have had a time when a person was living in the dark, when he was betrayed, when all people were not trustworthy and could not see the way forward, when he loved but could not finally find himself a joke. Your so-called betrayal, I can only say that I have entrusted a lifetime of trust, and finally let me pay a painful price. Thanks to him, I have what you see now. What I get now is less than what I lost at the beginning. None of this can be a reason. " Jiang Ruan said faintly: "if you want to get as much as I do now, you need to pay a painful price in this life."Xiao Shao held Jiang Ruan''s hand tightly. He knew what Jiang Ruan meant. However, Qiman didn''t understand. She suddenly gave a tragic smile and covered her heart. The poisonous insects in that place had already begun to move. Meanwhile, Xuanli''s face on the ground also showed a look of pain. Qi man''s eyes were wide open and seemed to cry, but his eyes were dry and there was no tear at all. She has been anonymous in the capital for so many years, but only for revenge. At the beginning, Prince Hongxi not only humiliated her, but also made her the chief culprit of national destruction. She wanted to take back her lost dignity and land, but since the first day of cooperation with Xuanli, she knew that this ally was not credible at all. Xuanli is cunning and suspicious. They are just using each other. Although the southern Xinjiang state recovered some forces, it was still suffering to compete with the Dajin Dynasty. Knowing that it can''t be done, Qiman can see clearly than Dan, but why does she insist? That''s because if she doesn''t insist on the belief of revenge, she doesn''t know whether she can live. She knew that even if she helped Xuanli win the great cause, the first thing Xuanli had to do was to cross the river and tear down the bridge. But Qiman did it. She watched Xiao Shao fall in love with Jiang Ruan, and she sneered. She can see clearly that Jiang Ruan is more cold-blooded than she is. She has no feelings for Jiang Ruan because he is so insincere to her father. She wanted to see Xiao Shao''s tragedy and jokes, but Xiao Shao succeeded. Jiang Ruan married Xiao Shao. Their deep love hurt Qiman''s heart. She even accelerated her revenge, which exposed more loopholes in many wrong plans. This time, she just wanted to do her best. In the end, all she could do was kill Jiang Ruan''s two children. No woman would love her children. At the beginning, she was determined to die to Xiaoyuan and Prince Hongxi. Even so, they all left the people to protect Xiao Shao. If the child left, Xiao Shao and Jiang Ruan would live in pain all their lives. But this last wish also failed. What Qiman didn''t expect was that Xuanli was the one who finally blocked the knife. It''s Xuanli, who has always shared a common hatred with her and has lost everything by Jinying palace. Why did such a person save Jiang Ruan''s children? Qiman couldn''t understand it, and she didn''t want to understand it any more. There was no antidote for this poison. She knew that unless she died, she would have to accept the pain every day. She had a sad smile, some did not understand what she was doing in her life. From the moment she fell in love with Prince Hongxi, her life began to make mistakes, and she couldn''t turn back. She knew she was wrong, but there was no way. She couldn''t go back. So in the end, the identity of the princess of Nanjiang was gone, and the life of Nanjiang was gone. Her whole life was buried in a strange excess, and she wasted the time like a flower. The man she loved didn''t even look at her until he died, let alone take it to heart. Although the woman she hated died early, she had the man''s love till her death. She lost in the first place. Qiman screams, suddenly reaches out his hand and takes out a handful of smoky powder from his arms. Xia Qing shouts: "be careful, it''s poisonous!" People in southern Xinjiang are the best at applying poison, so they quickly cover their mouths and noses. Xiao Shao stood in front of Jiang Ruan and put her and the children''s heads in his arms. When the smoke cleared, there was no trace of Qiman on the ground. "Run away. Young master, now go after him? " Jinyidao. "Don''t worry. She''s got a bug. If she''s here, she''s under control." Xia Qing looks at the people on the ground. Xuanli was also affected by Qiman''s poisonous smoke, and his whole life was miserable. Qi Feng looked at Xuanli curiously and said, "is this really Xuanli? How did you suddenly become a good man? There won''t be any conspiracy. " Xuanli''s rescue of the two children is incomprehensible. Xuanli was not a kind-hearted man, let alone the child of his enemies. Jiang Ruan coldly looked at Xuanli on the ground. Did he know what happened in his previous life? What does he mean now? Is it guilt that''s why it''s done? It''s too self righteous. All things can''t be forgiven so easily. She said with a smile, "thank you for your hand just now." Xuanli turned his eyes to Jiang Ruan. He murmured, "Ruan er." Jiang Ruan stepped back, and Xiao Shao protected her behind her. The dagger in her hand was already bright. Qi Feng looks at Xuan Li in surprise. What does Xuan Li mean. Although he had heard Xuanli''s idea from others, it seems that he had made a plan for Jiang Ruan before, but this kind of intimate address It''s a little strange. He said, "you You hate me. " Hate him. Hate that he had treated her like that in his previous life, used her to hurt her, and finally killed her. Xuanli finally understood why he felt that Jiang Ruan had a deep hatred for him for such a long time. It turned out that it was not an illusion. Defeated like a mountain, he abandoned the original brilliant life of the prince, hiding in hiding, carrying a curse, until he fell asleep, as if dreaming of ten years of spring and autumn, suddenly woke up, the world has changed. That dream is a completely different life, he got everything, got the throne, high above, the position is at the expense of a person. The dream of Jiang Ruan, gentle and beautiful, sweet smile, wholeheartedly love him, and then he used, there is no longer a drop of use value.At the end of that dream, he had become a great man, but he still felt lonely all the time. As long as he remembered the gentle and beautiful shadow in the past, he felt inexplicable heartache. He is not a good person, and he will not feel guilty for it. The reason why he felt heartache is that he found that in those days when he used her, he unconsciously paid some sincerity. These truths seemed insignificant to him, but they tormented him day by day in the nightmare of the future. When he found them, he was gone. There will never be such a person who loves him with all his heart. He thought it was not a dream, maybe it was a sign. He understood why when he saw Jiang Ruan in his whole life, he could not help feeling that she belonged to him. Jiang Ruan really belonged to him, but that was once. This time, not only he wakes up, but also Jiang Ruan wakes up, so she soberly plunges into Xiao Shao''s arms. She spares no effort to deal with him, regards him as a deadly enemy, and finally gets a completely different ending from the dream. Xuanli comes here with Qiman. He knows that Qiman wants to kill Jiang Ruan''s two children, and he also wants to take back Jiang Ruan. Up to now, he knows that the situation has gone and there is no chance to make a comeback. Xuan Pei holds the opportunity tightly. What is left for him? He has nothing left, but he is Xuanli. He never admits defeat and knows how to endure dormancy. If Jiang Ruan in his dream, even if he has nothing, he will follow him without hesitation. So he was not reconciled. He didn''t leave anything. What if he could leave Jiang Ruan? That woman belongs to him. But when he saw that Qiman was going to attack Jiang Ruan''s children, he suddenly thought of the scene when he finally saw Jiang Ruan in his dream. She knelt on the nine high steps, her hair was covered, her beautiful face was full of despair, and the child in her arms was silly, that was Xuan Pei. She will protect the child very tightly, even when it is at the end of the road, she will not let her children go. If Jiang Ruan''s child dies, she will live like a walking corpse. Xuanli suddenly thought that Jiang Ruan had nothing in his dream. This time, would he destroy her again? He suddenly hesitated, and Qiman had already made a move. At that moment, Xuanli didn''t think of anything, and he welcomed it. He didn''t know why he did it. When he fell down, his eyes were even blank. "Of course I hate you." Jiang Ruan said, "even if you save my child now, I still hate you." Her beautiful eyes can''t see the slightest ease. Xuanli suddenly remembered that, yes, Jiang Ruan had never looked at him with such cold eyes in his dream. She always smiles and talks to him gently. She always obeys his idea unconditionally. "Ruan''er, I didn''t mean to..." What he wanted to say, he wanted to say that he didn''t mean to use her, but he suddenly found that his words were poor. From dream to dream, every time he saw Jiang Ruan, his mind was to use. Use her to get fame and wealth, get the unique position in the world. But when he finally got it, he found that everything was not as good as he had imagined. He regretted it and had to swallow it in his stomach. "Xuanli, you don''t have to say anything. I have recovered what you owe me. Your country, your plan and your great cause have been destroyed. Now, as long as your life, you and I will have two feelings. In the future, when we meet on the road of huangquan, we are also passers-by, and we have nothing to do with each other. " She said no, but still clearly stated that she wanted to declare her life. Once the tender love, now only the knife and gun relative? She could not see the slightest touch on her face. Xuanli thought, maybe it was just a dream. It was a ridiculous dream at the end of his life. In fact, he preferred that it was just a dream. If only Jiang Ruan had been an enemy with him at the beginning, thought about how to overthrow her at the beginning, and had no other affection for him at the beginning. There is no use and hurt, no regret and regret, from a meet in the hands of the blade rather than flowers, this is right. But he also knew that it was not a dream. She once belonged to him and then left. He didn''t know what he was doing. He said, "I loved you." Xiao Shao''s forehead moves. Xia Qing and Qi Feng are silly. Is Xuanli tired of living or something? How can he express his feelings to Jiang Ruan in front of Xiao Shao. Is Xuanli such a sentimental person? Jiang Ruan gave a smile and looked at him with her head tilted. Her eyes were a bit naive and gorgeous, but there was a chill in the depth of her pupils, and her words were cruel and heartless. She said, "what do you have to do with me?" What does it have to do with me? Indeed, what does it have to do with her? Xuan Li didn''t know why he did it? His body became very heavy, he thought, at the end of that dream, he really found that he had loved a woman, but the woman in front of him was cold and gorgeous, and he would not be the same person. Either it was just an insignificant dream, or the woman in the dream had already died, and the woman in front of her was just another person. He suddenly laughed at himself. He didn''t know what he was laughing at. He just laughed with tears falling down. He won and lost the game. And he didn''t know where he lost until he died. Maybe that dream could inspire him, but he didn''t want to believe that dream."Xiao Shao, I''m not as good as you." He said. "Take it down." Xiao Shao''s face was cold. He turned to hold Jiang Ruan''s hand and said in a low voice, "be careful." Three days later, Qiman, the missing former Princess of Southern Xinjiang, was found. She was standing on the gate of the city, wearing a wedding dress. The reason for her heart biting poison made her look old and haggard, and even a little terrifying. However, in this case, still throw to make a girl''s move, let people look at it feel strange and shudder. Qiman stood on the wall, smiling wantonly, and I don''t know what he was laughing at. At last, he jumped down from the wall. There is also a kind of fierce appearance of the princess in southern Xinjiang, but she has done too much evil, and the people have never liked her. They have never said a good word about her. They all scold the villains for their evil deeds. At the same time, Xuanli, who was locked up in prison, died at the same time because of the attack of her son and mother. Xuanli was not qualified to enter the imperial mausoleum because he was a rebellious party and the murderer of the former Emperor. The emperor was kind enough to allow him to be buried, but when he was buried, he invited a Heavenly Master, but he didn''t know what it meant. Some people speculate that the young emperor did so in order to seal Xuanli''s soul and prevent him from reincarnation. Some people think it''s too cruel. After all, it''s from the same root. It''s too urgent to fight each other. Some people think it''s a good move. After all, Xuanli''s act of killing his father and rebelling is heinous. Then, the emperor appointed Princess Jinying as a wife of Gaoming, and gave her a hereditary title. Xiao Mingsheng and Xiao Nanxu became the status that no one dared to move in the Jin Dynasty when they were young, which was more important than the Royal grandson. At the beginning, all the ministers who followed the young emperor had a new future, especially the young court nobility, such as Liu Min and Mo Cong, seemed to have become the mainstay of the new generation. As for Lin Wei, after he helped the emperor ascend the throne, he gradually retired and only said that he would go back to be a housekeeper. People just think that he is a move that he played many years ago, so they don''t care. Jiang Xinzhi and Zhao Jin''s marriage is also in full swing, but Xia Qing and Lin Zixiang are not so smooth. Lin Zixiang is not so satisfied with Xia Qing, and there is still a long way to go for Xia Qing''s wife. Dewdrop, forsythia and their marriage are also in the process of preparation. In a word, the house is full of happiness, but the most enjoyable thing is about two little guys. Xiao Mingsheng and Xiao Nanxu grow up very fast and are very cute. Xiao Mingsheng is always as cold as his own father on weekdays. Except for Jiang Ruan, everyone has a straight face. As like as two peas in Xiao Shao''s temper, Xiao Lin''s smile was always a smile, but he was a master who was secretly in trouble. These two treasures make everyone upset in King Jinying''s mansion all day long, which makes people laugh and cry. Jiang Ruan was also busy, and it was spring time in a flash. On this day, Jiang Ruan is cleaning up the shredded paper torn by Mingsheng and Nanxu. When the child grows up, he also learns to grab things. There are shredded paper everywhere. Jiang Ruan bent down to clean up, and was caught by his hands. "What for?" Jiang Ruan looks back, and Xiao Shao rubs her neck. This person is more and more clingy now, especially he Mingsheng. The two father and son are fighting openly and secretly at home. Jiang Ruan pacifies the big one and the small one, which is also a headache. "Come with me to Jiangnan in a few days." Xiao Shao said: "the emperor sent someone to inspect." It''s called inspection, but it''s actually a visit. Xuanpei specially arranged it, and Xiao Shao naturally accepted it without any politeness. "What about the children?" "I''m afraid it''s inconvenient to take it with me," he said "No Xiao Shao hugged her more tightly, and said in a low voice, "it''s so big. Just stay in the house, and we''ll be fine." "So big?" Jiang Ruan said with a smile: "how big is this? You can say that too! The child can''t speak yet! It''s said that it''s the easiest time for me to learn to speak at this age. I still want to hear my children call me Niang. " Just then, they saw a "plop" on one side of the small bed, and they looked at it at the same time. The two brothers and sisters who were sleeping didn''t know when they had woken up. Xiao Mingsheng stares at Xiao Shao coldly. When Xiao Shao stares back, Nanxu suddenly grins and sweetly says, "Dad -" - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A lot of immature places. Next, there will be more fanwai. There are some stories about Xiang Xiaoyuan and Prince Hongxi. You can leave a message about whose fanwai you want to see. www.novelhall.com , the fastest update of the webnovel!