The training of the Forbidden Dragon Guards was brutal, and the punishments were equally so. He Sheng received ten lashes, and these were no ordinary whips. The whips were specially made, with barbs on them. Each lash tore the flesh, causing pain that went to the bone.
After ten lashes, although there were external wounds, the pain was incomparable to the ten planks that Zhan Feiyu had endured on her palm.
As for the others, Yin Wuyan had them removed. Even though they had been punished, they could not return to Zhan Feiyu's side. Twelve new Forbidden Dragon Guards replaced them, guarding in the shadows.
After a few steps, seeing Gu Qingzhou not far away, Chong Guang paused. "I'll go apply some medicine to He Sheng, otherwise the chubby girl will definitely find out."
He Sheng had been punished. Even with medicine, it was only the most common hemostatic medicine for the Forbidden Dragon Guards, which had a strong smell. The medicine in Chong Guang's hand, however, was a treasure. Not only was it effective for stopping bleeding, but it was also odorless.
"Come in and talk," Gu Qingzhou was not afraid of the cold, but she also didn't like being in the cold wind on such a cold day.
After Yin Wuyan entered, Gu Qingzhou gestured for him to sit down before saying, "You know Xiao Yu's personality. She's headstrong. He Sheng and the others are her attendants; they can only obey orders."
Yin Wuyan did not speak, but Gu Qingzhou didn't mind. She had other matters to discuss. "Has the Zhenbian Marquis's estate been arranged properly?"
Zhu Xiao's defection to the barbarians was a desperate move. Gu Qingzhou was surprised when she saw the secret memorial Zhu Xiao had submitted.
Zhu Xiao, such a formidable figure, had been operating in Longyou Province for several years yet could not gain control of the military power. This showed the absolute control the Yang family had over Longyou Province. It was understandable that the Emperor had worried about General Yang's excessive power in the past.
"Zhu Xiao only took his eldest son, Zhu Zhengrong, and two hundred elite soldiers from the Zhenbian Marquis's estate." When it came to business, Yin Wuyan held nothing back, exchanging information with Gu Qingzhou. "The Zhenbian Marquis and the rest of his household have all been secretly escorted back to the capital."
The people from the Zhenbian Marquis's estate would be imprisoned in the capital in the future. In a sense, they were hostages. If Zhu Xiao dared to truly betray the Great Qing Dynasty, these people would all become ghosts under the knife.
Of course, since the Emperor had imprisoned the Zhenbian Marquis and others, it meant they had escaped death. Otherwise, when the Yang family was reinstated and General Yang's grievances were redressed, once an investigation began, the Zhenbian Marquis's estate would surely face a complete annihilation.
Zhu Xiao's actions could be considered as buying a sliver of hope for the Zhenbian Marquis's estate.
After Zhu Xiao defected to the barbarians, the military power of the Zhenbian Marquis's estate was transferred to the Emperor. Yang Shoucheng, in order to save Zhang Shi's life, was also willing to hand over military power. In this struggle, the Emperor emerged as the biggest winner, and would firmly control the military power of Longyou Province in the future.
When it came to military power, not only did the Emperor not trust Gu Qingzhou, but Gu Qingzhou would also proactively avoid suspicion. The Emperor would send another trusted general to take over the military power. However, Yin Wuyan was currently handling these matters, so he could naturally make arrangements stealthily.
Especially with the cooperation of the Yang family, this plan would be flawless. Even if the Emperor had secretly sent the Dark Dragon Guards, Yin Wuyan could still deceive the heavens.
Even though it was late at night, and they had been traveling tirelessly for several days, Gu Qingzhou was already accustomed to such busyness and fatigue.
After listening to Yin Wuyan's words, Gu Qingzhou pondered for a moment before saying again, "Are you confident that the Yang family will help cover for you?"
If the Emperor discovered any manipulation of military power, Gu Qingzhou could imagine the consequences for Yin Wuyan. Moreover, even without concrete evidence, as long as it aroused the Emperor's suspicion, Yin Wuyan, as the Commander of the Forbidden Dragon Guards, would be finished. And knowing too many of the Emperor's secrets, Yin Wuyan would surely die.
A cold smile appeared on his handsome, aloof face. Yin Wuyan's expression was arrogant and ruthless. "When the Yang family was convicted, not only the Emperor, but also the princes in the palace and their maternal relatives all wanted a share of the pie. Unfortunately, they all returned in defeat. Now that the Yang family is reinstated, it's one thing, but once the Emperor establishes a crown prince, settling accounts in the autumn is inevitable."
It wasn't that Yin Wuyan looked down on the adult princes in the palace, but the First Prince and a few others were indeed narrow-minded. When they had courted the Yang family to seize military power, they had failed, and they would definitely hold onto this grudge.
Furthermore, once a crown prince was established, the ambition to seize military power would reignite. The Yang family, as a stumbling block, naturally had to be removed. With new grievances added to old ones, the fate of the Yang family could be imagined.
And the crown prince, lacking the Emperor's magnanimity, would not show mercy but would cut the grass and remove the roots. Therefore, for the Yang family to protect themselves, they must plan ahead. This was why Yin Wuyan dared to be so sure that the Yang family would help.
If Zhan Feiyu was intelligent, but still had a bit of childishness and retained a pure heart, then in Gu Qingzhou's eyes, people like Yin Wuyan were the most terrifying and formidable. Intelligent yet cold-blooded, treating human lives as nothing, and holding great power. If such a person became an enemy, the consequences would be unimaginable.
Just as they finished talking, Yin Wuyan got up to take his leave.
However, as he reached the door and opened it, a whistling cold wind blew in. Yin Wuyan, standing at the door with his back to the room, said coldly, "Xiao Yu is still young. If she is not perfect in any way, please, Master Gu, be more accommodating. I do not wish for today's events to happen a second time."
Even with Gu Qingzhou's excellent composure, she was amused to the point of laughter. As her teacher, wasn't she allowed to discipline her disciple?
Unfortunately, Yin Wuyan's words were a warning, not a negotiation. Without waiting for Gu Qingzhou's reply, he left. But the weight of his words was self-evident. If there was a next time, even if Yin Wuyan could not openly attack Gu Qingzhou, as the Commander of the Forbidden Dragon Guards, he could find more than ten ways to retaliate.
...
With the sound of firecrackers, the old year passes; with the warm spring breeze, we send off the Tusui. Ten thousand doors and a thousand households glow with the sun, all replacing the old peach wood charms with new ones.
Amidst the crackling of firecrackers, Zhan Feiyu wriggled in her quilt. Despite her reluctance, she finally resigned herself to getting up. "A Nuan, I'm up."
She had woken up half an hour later than usual, but it was only just dawn.
He Nuan placed the hot water aside, then picked up the clothes from the end of the kang and walked over. Her movements were no different from usual, but if Zhan Feiyu observed carefully, she would notice that He Nuan's movements were slightly stiff. Even though she had applied medicine, any movement of her hands would still pull at the whip marks on her back.
There was no distinction between male and female in the Forbidden Dragon Guards. After He Sheng received ten lashes, He Nuan also went to receive her punishment after Zhan Feiyu fell asleep. Ten lashes left her back torn and bleeding.
Fortunately, the wound medicine from Chong Guang was indeed effective. Despite the pain, the wounds had stopped bleeding. The key was that there was no medicinal smell, so as long as He Nuan was careful, Zhan Feiyu would not discover that she was injured.
The study.
The charcoal brazier had already been lit, so even in the freezing morning, the study did not feel cold.
"Can't you let the little girl sleep in on New Year's Day?" Qiu Zongxi was old and slept little. Moreover, he had always come to the study at this time to guide Zhan Feiyu's studies, so it was the same today.
But seeing Gu Qingzhou, who was already in the study checking Zhan Feiyu's homework, Qiu Zongxi felt a pang of envy. Why wasn't such an intelligent and sensible young girl his disciple?
"Rather than sleeping an extra half hour, it's better to take the imperial examinations as soon as possible. Once you break through, you'll be free to soar like a fish in the sea and a bird in the sky." Compared to Qiu Zongxi's displeasure, Gu Qingzhou appeared magnanimous and composed.
Qiu Zongxi let out a dissatisfied snort. Before he could retort, footsteps were heard from outside the study. He Nuan pushed open the door, and Zhan Feiyu, bundled up like a bear, walked in.
In the study, the conversation between teacher and disciple began. Qiu Zongxi also wanted to know Gu Qingzhou's ability to teach disciples, so he sat aside to observe.
"The Book of Jin states: Wang Meng was handsome and imposing, learned and fond of military books, prudent, solemn, resolute, and possessed a broad and far-reaching demeanor, with trivial matters not clouding his judgment." After speaking, Gu Qingzhou looked at Zhan Feiyu and asked, "Do you know of King Wang Meng of Wu?"
With her photographic memory, Zhan Feiyu had read extensively. "Wang Meng's courtesy name was Jinglue..."
"Since you know, tell me, was Wang Meng loyal to the Former Qin or the Eastern Jin?" After asking, Gu Qingzhou also gave Zhan Feiyu time to think. She opened Zhan Feiyu's previous homework and picked up a brush to start grading it.
Zhan Feiyu did not immediately think about Gu Qingzhou's question. Instead, she wondered why her teacher was suddenly asking about Wang Meng. Was her teacher implicitly referring to Zhu Xiao's defection to the barbarians?
Two quarters of an hour later, Gu Qingzhou put down her brush, signaling the end of Zhan Feiyu's thinking time.
"Lu Bolou once said that Wang Meng's strategies were unparalleled," Zhan Feiyu replied, her clear, small voice echoing in the study. "There are Bole, then there are thousand-mile horses. Wang Meng met Lu Bolou in Guanzhong, and through him..."
Here in the study, Gu Qingzhou was guiding Zhan Feiyu with historical figures. On the other side, Yin Wuyan was also not idle. He went to the courtyard where General Yang was temporarily staying.
"General Yang, there's no need for this. Since it's Yang family's business, it's fine for Yang Xu to stay and listen." If it weren't for Yin Wuyan's still indifferent gaze, his words might have sounded as if he greatly valued the younger generation, Yang Xu.
General Yang was slightly surprised, then laughed heartily. "In that case, Xiao Xu, you stay."
Yang Xu, who had just gotten up to leave, sat back down. Perhaps it was because Zhan Feiyu and Yin Wuyan were too close, creating a harmonious atmosphere that outsiders couldn't penetrate, that Yang Xu, as a friend, felt jealous.
"The news of Qiu Jinyu's death must have spread. Although this matter is detrimental to Xiao Yu's reputation, during the critical period of the Yang family's reinstatement, if someone were to fan the flames, the blame for killing Qiu Jinyu would inevitably fall on Yang Xu." Yin Wuyan's words were not alarmist, nor were they to shirk responsibility for Zhan Feiyu.
Gu Qingzhou was a Grand Academician of the court. Regardless of Zhan Feiyu's background, she was now Gu Scholar's only disciple. Therefore, slandering Zhan Feiyu was equivalent to offending Gu Scholar. Most people would not easily attempt it.
Furthermore, Zhan Feiyu was, after all, a young girl. Even if she had a talent for reading, in the eyes of the world, once Zhan Feiyu reached adulthood, she would eventually marry like an ordinary woman of the inner chambers, and then raise children. Therefore, whether Zhan Feiyu's reputation was good or bad did not matter to these prominent families. On the contrary, if they believed the rumors, they would offend Gu Scholar, which would be of no benefit.
However, if the blame for Qiu Jinyu's murder was placed on Yang Xu, it would be different. The Yang family had many enemies. Once the Yang family was reinstated, these families in Longyou Province would be held accountable. Especially since they had ambushed and assassinated Yang Xu at Aozi Pass, this was a mortal enmity.
Therefore, knowing that he was going to die anyway, it was better to drag Yang Xu down with him, ruin Yang Xu's reputation, and make him a murderer. Even if they died, they would have someone to accompany them.
"So, even if I can control the situation, unfavorable news about Yang Xu will still spread." General Yang understood the deeper meaning of Yin Wuyan's words.
The Yang family had absolute control over Longyou Province. The enemies in the dark wanted to destroy Yang Xu, and it depended on whether General Yang would agree!
But if Yang Xu's reputation was protected, Zhan Feiyu's reputation would be precarious. Yin Wuyan would not allow the dirt to be thrown onto Zhan Feiyu. Therefore, even if General Yang intervened, Yin Wuyan would still release the news that the murderer of Qiu Jinyu was Yang Xu, and Zhan Feiyu would be cleared of the matter.
There was a distinction between close and distant relatives. General Yang could understand why Yin Wuyan would do this, and Yang Shoucheng and Yang Xu could also understand. In the end, Zhan Feiyu's choice to let Qiu Jinyu die was also to protect Yang Xu.
"Rather than choosing between the two, it's better to let Qiu Jinyu die a deserving death." Yin Wuyan didn't beat around the bush and directly stated his intention. "The barbarians will attack Xiangwu County, and the person responsible for this will be Qiu Jinyu."
With Qiu Jinyu's identity as a barbarian spy exposed, the third branch of the Qiu family would not dare to exploit this favor to extort Yang Xu, even if they had the courage of a bear. Instead, they would have to be grateful to Yang Xu and Zhan Feiyu. It was good that he was killed, and it was done wonderfully. Otherwise, the entire third branch would be implicated as barbarian spies and face annihilation.
General Yang frowned, his expression complex and unreadable. After a long while, he said, "You want to clear Zhu Xiao from this matter?"
The Yang family disdained to use dirty means to retaliate against the Zhenbian Marquis's estate; they would only seek revenge openly. Zhu Xiao's collusion with the barbarians was a capital offense. General Yang could use this matter to settle accounts with the entire Zhenbian Marquis's estate, arresting those who should be arrested, killing those who should be killed, redressing grievances, and avenging wrongs.
Yin Wuyan did not speak. As for Yang Xu's shocked and somewhat angry gaze, Yin Wuyan couldn't be bothered to look. If he hadn't been so incompetent, how could he have implicated Xiao Yu and caused her injury?
"What if Zhu Xiao colludes with the former subordinates of the Zhenbian Marquis's estate to create an inside and outside attack?" Yang Shoucheng asked the most crucial question.
Zhu Xiao had already gone to the barbarians. If his subordinates left in Longyou Province were not dealt with, who could guarantee that they would not collude with Zhu Xiao to attack the Great Qing Dynasty in the future? The Yang family guarded Longyou Province, so this hidden danger would ultimately harm the Yang family.
"General Yang, you can rest assured. The Emperor will handle everything concerning the Zhenbian Marquis's estate." Yin Wuyan's cold voice sounded. Since he was cooperating with the Yang family, he would reveal the necessary information. "As for Zhu Xiao and Zhu Zhengrong, if they dare to have any ulterior motives, even if they hide to the ends of the earth, the Forbidden Dragon Guards will still take their heads!"
If the Zhenbian Marquis and others imprisoned in the capital could not restrain Zhu Xiao, Yin Wuyan wouldn't mind leading his men to the barbarians himself. The Forbidden Dragon Guards had never failed to kill a target.
Yang Shoucheng and General Yang exchanged glances. Indeed, in terms of power and strategy, the Emperor was the master. By reinstating the Yang family, he had firmly controlled the Zhenbian Marquis's estate.
And by using a Zhang Shi, he had also taken away most of the military power from the Yang family. Without a single soldier, within five years, the Emperor would firmly control Longyou Province, holding military power in his hands.
General Yang looked at Yin Wuyan seriously. The Emperor was meticulous in his planning, but unfortunately, man proposes, God disposes. It was likely that even the Emperor had not expected his most trusted subordinate to have other intentions.
However, for the Yang family, if the Emperor held military power, then the Yang family would lose the capital to contend with the Emperor. Whether to kill or torture was at the Emperor's whim, truly fulfilling the saying that if the ruler wants the minister to die, the minister must die.
"Good, I promise you." General Yang made a decisive statement. He had no choice but to agree. He was old, and this old body could only last a few more years.
General Yang looked at Yang Xu sitting below with loving eyes. Xiao Xu was still young, and his future was long. He had to leave a sliver of hope for Xiao Xu. If the Emperor were still in his prime, General Yang might not be so worried, as the Emperor was skilled in both civil and military arts and had always been lenient with loyal ministers.
But once the Emperor established a crown prince, or a new emperor ascended the throne, who knew what kind of disposition the new emperor would have and what attitude he would have towards the Yang family. Therefore, General Yang could not entrust the future of Xiao Xu and the entire Yang family to the new emperor.
While Yin Wuyan was still discussing more specific and detailed cooperation with General Yang and Yang Shoucheng, Yang Xu, not wanting to listen, walked out. He looked at the thick snow on the ground and, before he realized it, had already walked to the study.
"Why are you here?" Zhan Feiyu had just put down her brush and smiled at Yang Xu, who was led in by He Nuan.
Gu Qingzhou and Qiu Zongxi had left a quarter of an hour ago. After half an hour of lessons, Zhan Feiyu needed to comprehend the rest on her own, and the two had gone to play chess.
"Xiao Yu, your hand?" Yang Xu walked over, looking at Zhan Feiyu's left hand with concern. Even though it was covered in a thick layer of ointment, it was still evident that her palm had not yet subsided in swelling, and her fingers were also red and swollen. This was enough to show how heavily Gu Qingzhou's ten planks had hit.
She raised her left hand, which looked like a pig's hoof, and shook it. Zhan Feiyu smiled nonchalantly. "It still hurts a bit, but it's bearable. Didn't you notice there's a charcoal brazier in the study? Teacher was afraid I'd be cold, so she asked A Nuan to light an extra one."
The two moved to the charcoal brazier and sat down. Zhan Feiyu picked up a copper poker and stirred the charcoal to make the fire burn brighter, then placed both hands near it to warm them. "Longyou Province is too cold. When I was at home before, although it was cold in winter, the room was warm with a charcoal brazier."
The winter in Jiangnan was damp and cold, but the temperature was higher. Only during the coldest days of the "three nines" would ice form outside, and it would last for at most about ten days. Therefore, as long as one had enough to eat and wear, and the charcoal brazier was lit, it didn't feel very cold.
But Longyou Province was different. Without a charcoal brazier in the room, a cup of water left for a while could freeze into ice. Zhan Feiyu was already afraid of the cold, and when she sat down to study for a whole day, her hands and feet would be icy cold. Once they were severely chilled, she couldn't even hold a brush to write.
Yang Xu had long been accustomed to the cold of Longyou Province. Moreover, he practiced martial arts, so he didn't feel very cold when he stayed indoors. Looking at Zhan Feiyu, who was bundled up like a bear and seemed to want to dive into the charcoal brazier, Yang Xu found it hard to imagine that such a delicate young girl would dare to risk her life to fight her way out of the barbarian army and then go to Aozi Pass to save him.
Just as Yang Xu had said before, regardless of Qiu Jinyu's intentions, whether he was overly ambitious or truly loyal, Yang Xu would remember the kindness of him going to Aozi Pass.
Of course, with Qiu Jinyu's identity as a barbarian spy exposed, Yang Xu's feelings naturally changed.
"Xiao Yu, when did you discover that Qiu Da... Qiu Jinyu's identity was problematic?" Yang Xu asked in a low voice. After all these events, Yang Xu increasingly felt his own incompetence, that he was a burden and a drag.
Looking up at the dejected Yang Xu, Zhan Feiyu said, "Your identity is special, so people who approach you basically have ulterior motives. The first time he saved you on the official road, the situation was chaotic. A total of eight ruffians died. The time he appeared was too coincidental."
When something is out of the ordinary, there must be a demon! Zhan Feiyu also had a "villain's heart." Later, she asked He Sheng to take people to examine the bodies of those eight ruffians. They had died at the hands of the Zhenbian Marquis's estate guards, and these two guards were acting under orders.
"When He Sheng examined the wounds, he found that seven of them were clean cuts, all killed by sharp swords. The depth of the wounds was consistent with the swords of the Zhenbian Marquis's estate guards. However, only one person's wound was somewhat abnormal. Although it was also a sword wound, based on the depth of the wound, this sword was slightly thicker, and there was no smell of sword oil at the wound."
Yang Xu listened, dumbfounded. He had never known these things, nor had he thought of having someone investigate. After those eight ruffians died, their families, instigated by someone with ulterior motives, had carried their bodies to Qiu's mansion.
This was to frame Yang Xu for indiscriminately killing innocent people and disregarding human lives. In the end, it was Zhan Feiyu's heroic act of throwing money that resolved the matter. After all, these ruffians were also a scourge in their own homes. Now that they were dead, the families, if not celebrating, were actually happy.
Moreover, Zhan Feiyu was generous with her出手. She gave dozens of taels of silver without hesitation. The eight families accepted the silver and immediately took their bodies back for burial, fully proving that anything that could be resolved with money was not a problem.
Speaking of sword oil for maintaining swords, Yang Xu did know. "Every martial artist maintains their swords. The weather in Longyou Province is cold, so the oil used to wipe the sword body is also specially made and different from other places."
The humidity in Qianzhong Province was heavy, and it rained frequently. If not maintained diligently, swords might rust. Therefore, the oil used by martial artists in Qianzhong Province must be different from that used by the Zhenbian Marquis's estate guards, and the smell would also be different. Of course, if one was not meticulous, they might not discover such a clue.
Recalling the scene when he met Qiu Jinyu that day, Yang Xu finally understood what it meant to be a gentleman, refined and as gentle as jade. Qiu Jinyu's erudition, his cultivation, and his chivalrous spirit of drawing his sword to help the weak when he saw injustice – thinking about it now, it was all just a scheme, a trap to lure him in.
"The eighth corpse's wound looked no different from the previous ones at first glance, but different weapons leave different wounds. The similarity is more like an attempt to cover up." Zhan Feiyu had suspected Qiu Jinyu from the beginning, and after investigating the bodies, her suspicion deepened.
However, Qianzhong Province was far away. Even with the help of the Forbidden Dragon Guards for the investigation, there would be no results in a short period. Later, Qiu Jinyu continued to behave impeccably. Even though he was disliked by Qiu Zongxi, he did not get angry at all. He even comforted Yang Xu in return.
Zhan Feiyu felt increasingly that something was wrong. A fourteen-year-old boy, also a top scholar, even if not full of youthful spirit, would not be so good-tempered. Being too magnanimous, Zhan Feiyu felt that Qiu Jinyu was somewhat hypocritical. If it were her, she would absolutely not put on a smiling face to someone who was cold to her.
Looking at the pensive Yang Xu, Zhan Feiyu said again, "The third branch and the main family have been at odds, with open and secret struggles for many years. They must have done many dirty deeds, otherwise, Old Master Qiu would not dislike the third branch so much, even to the point of taking it out on Qiu Jinyu. Growing up in an environment full of hatred, Yang Xu, don't you think Qiu Jinyu is too perfect?"
The most common saying is that unsolicited kindness is either a trap or a theft. Therefore, even though the news later sent back by the Forbidden Dragon Guards was only speculation, Zhan Feiyu was certain that Qiu Jinyu had a problem.
"So he had so many flaws, and I was so stupid that I didn't notice any of them and even called him brother?" Yang Xu looked at himself with self-mockery. He was truly foolish.
Zhan Feiyu grinned sympathetically and patted Yang Xu on the shoulder. "Actually, if you think about it the other way, I went to Aozi Pass to save you with confidence. Those who wanted to kill you would never dare to kill me. But what about Qiu Jinyu? Wasn't he afraid of death?" If Qiu Jinyu also feared death, how could he have risked his life to save Yang Xu? Let alone knowing each other for only a month, even brothers might not be able to do this. Therefore, Qiu Jinyu, like Zhan Feiyu, might have been confident, ensuring his own safety.
"Zhu Xiao defected to the barbarians. If Qiu Jinyu was a barbarian spy, then he must have believed that Zhu Xiao would not kill him." Yang Xu's mind suddenly lit up.
Putting aside the so-called brotherhood and shared life and death, this explanation was more logical.
Zhan Feiyu nodded, silently shedding a tear of sympathy for the tragically deceased Qiu Jinyu. "Unfortunately, neither the barbarians nor Qiu Jinyu knew that Zhu Xiao was only pretending to defect."
Zhu Xiao was brave and skilled in battle. Although he was over fifty, he still led troops in battle and fought head-on with the enemy. He did not kill Yang Xu, partly to avoid worsening relations with the Yang family, and partly because he disdained to act. Yang Xu, a young boy, was not qualified for Zhu Xiao to make a move.
But Qiu Jinyu was a barbarian spy. Zhu Xiao conveniently eliminated this hidden danger. It was likely that the Emperor would be even more reassured about Zhu Xiao's presence among the barbarians after knowing this.
"Wasn't he afraid that the barbarians would know and suspect him?" Yang Xu was startled. He hated the Zhenbian Marquis's estate, but at this moment, he couldn't help but feel a trace of worry.
The barbarians revealed Qiu Jinyu's identity to Zhu Xiao to enlist Zhu Xiao's help at a critical moment and gain Yang Xu's trust. Who knew that Zhu Xiao would not play by the rules and directly kill him?
"Qiu Jinyu and his ten followers are all dead. Among those who know the truth, who would leak the news to the barbarians?" Zhan Feiyu laughed. She even suspected that even if the news leaked out, Zhu Xiao could explain it away.
The two hundred elite soldiers Zhu Xiao took to the barbarians were his confidants, comrades who had shared life and death on the battlefield and could entrust their backs to each other. Therefore, their loyalty was not to be doubted.
As for Zhan Feiyu and Yang Xu, since they knew the truth about Zhu Xiao's defection to the barbarians, and Zhu Xiao had spared them, Zhan Feiyu and Yang Xu would not repay kindness with enmity.
...
Before the three days of the New Year were over, the news of the Zhenbian Marquis's heir, Zhu Xiao, and his eldest son, Zhu Zhengrong, defecting to the barbarians spread. The entire Longyou Province was abuzz with the news.
The Zhenbian Marquis, along with his other sons and grandsons, were escorted to the capital. The grand Marquis's estate, once glorious, was instantly extinguished. Even the common people whose family members had died at the hands of the barbarians poured sewage into the Marquis's estate.
General Yang's grievances were redressed, the Yang family was reinstated, and they regained military power. The county magistrate Zhu, who had fled on New Year's Eve, was also caught and faced the inevitable fate of execution.
Linzhou Prefecture.
"Teacher, can't you stay a few more days?" Zhan Feiyu had lived two lives. She was not a sentimental person, but at this moment, seeing Gu Qingzhou about to leave, she felt a surge of reluctance, and her voice was a little choked.
Gu Qingzhou patted Zhan Feiyu's head and smiled gently. "You've already sent me from Xiangwu County to Linzhou Prefecture. If you send me any further, won't you be following me all the way to the capital?"
"Big Brother left on the afternoon of the first day," she muttered softly, lifting the curtain of the carriage to look at the bustling street. "Then let's eat lunch before leaving."
"A send-off of a thousand miles must eventually end in farewell... Alright, let's eat before leaving." Seeing Zhan Feiyu's pouting little face, Gu Qingzhou could only agree immediately.
Zhan Feiyu instantly smiled and snorted triumphantly at Gu Qingzhou. "Teacher, if you hit me again, I'll cry for you to see."
Her little paw had been swollen for a full three days. After the swelling subsided, only a faint bruise remained on her palm, and it still hurt when touched.
Smiling and shaking her head, Gu Qingzhou said no more. After all, if the little girl wanted to risk her life again, He Sheng and the others would not agree.
The carriage slowly stopped in front of the restaurant. The innkeeper, who was so bored he was about to doze off, his eyes lit up. He quickly got up to greet them. "Please come in, esteemed guests. Xiao Shuang, quickly bring the tea, good tea!"
During the New Year, every household prepared abundant meals. Relatives and friends who came to visit were always served with good wine and good food. Therefore, there were no customers in the restaurant.
If it weren't for some people stranded in Linzhou Prefecture due to the heavy snow who needed accommodation and food, the innkeeper would also have closed the shop and gone home to celebrate the New Year.
Although Gu Qingzhou had come to Longyou Province with light luggage, besides the coachman, she had also brought five guards. Coupled with He Sheng and the others, there were about ten people who opened two tables, as there was a distinction between masters and servants.
"This is the signature dish of our chef, Huadiao Drunken Chicken. Please enjoy, esteemed guests." The waiter lifted the lid of the clay pot, and a rich aroma wafted out.
Zhan Feiyu's eyes lit up. Just one glance told her that the waiter had not exaggerated. In the clay pot, one could see precious medicinal ingredients such as ginseng, astragalus, hawthorn, and Jiao San Xian. This was definitely a dish that required slow cooking and meticulous effort.
"They say this dish is: 'In spiciness, there is heroic spirit; in numbness, there is hidden gentle charm.'" Zhan Feiyu picked up the serving chopsticks and was about to pick up a piece for Gu Qingzhou.
"Wait!" Suddenly, a voice of prohibition sounded at the entrance of the private room.
Zhan Feiyu was startled and put down the chopsticks she had just raised. She turned to see a girl of fifteen or sixteen, wearing a green jacket and skirt, pointing at the jade bracelet on Zhan Feiyu's right wrist. The jade was of ordinary quality, likely belonging to a head maid of some family.
"Miss Qing?" The waiter respectfully called out, but with some confusion. "Is there something wrong?"
"Since the chef made this Huadiao Drunken Chicken, why didn't he send it to my lady? Have you fed all the tips you usually give to the dogs?" The angry scolding rang out. Qing Girl was aggressive. Although she was still a girl who had not yet come of age, her bossy and overbearing demeanor made her look more like a village woman.
Being scolded so harshly, the waiter dared not retort, only explaining sheepishly, "Miss Qing, this dish is slow-cooked using the finest Huadiao wine with alternating strong and weak heat. There is alcohol in the dish."
Huadiao wine has the effect of promoting blood circulation and qi. Coupled with the various precious medicinal ingredients placed inside, this dish not only tastes excellent but is also a rare tonic. However, it is not suitable for children.
"You blind fool, if that dead girl can eat it, can't my lady eat it?" Qing Girl was furious and kicked the waiter's leg without hesitation. "Hurry up and bring the dish over! If you neglect my lady, I don't think this restaurant wants to operate anymore!"
Although the dish contained ginseng and Huadiao wine, which was a great tonic, a small amount would not cause any harm.
However, the waiter remembered that the previous dish, Drunken Fragrant Duck, contained the most authentic Bai Daozi from Linzhou Prefecture. As a result, the dish was smashed, and everyone from the innkeeper to the waiter and the chef in the kitchen was severely scolded by Qing Girl.
After all, her lady was only twelve years old after the New Year, and she was taking tonics prescribed by a famous doctor. She could not touch alcohol, and even if the dish contained alcohol, it was not acceptable.
If the lady cannot eat it, can I not eat it myself? Smelling the tempting aroma, Qing Girl became even more annoyed. Fortunately, she arrived in time. This old man and young woman, a grandfather and grandson, had not yet started eating. Otherwise, how could she eat food that had been handled by these lowly people?
If it were any other time, Zhan Feiyu would have taught this maid a good lesson. But at this moment, she wanted to cherish the time spent with her teacher. She directly called out, "A Nuan, come out for a moment."
He Sheng and the others were eating at a private room next door. Qing Girl was making a fuss at the door, so He Nuan and the others immediately put down their chopsticks.
Hearing Zhan Feiyu's command, He Nuan stepped forward and dragged her away without hesitation. As Qing Girl was about to make a fuss, He Nuan exerted force on her wrist, causing Qing Girl to be in so much pain that she couldn't speak.
The waiter was stunned. Qing Girl had kicked an iron plate this time. "You two esteemed guests, please enjoy your meal."
After saying that, the waiter thoughtfully closed the door of the private room, not realizing that the girl just now was actually skilled in martial arts.
"Teacher, look how well-behaved and trouble-free I am." Zhan Feiyu snorted proudly.
As the only disciple of a Grand Academician of the court, she could have been arrogant and overbearing. But what was the result? She was so well-behaved and sensible, causing no trouble for her teacher. Tsk, thinking of it this way, Zhan Feiyu felt proud.
Gu Qingzhou was amused by her thick-skinned appearance. "Compared to you, those dissolute young men are mere trifles."
The dissolute young men in the capital were at most unlearned, fond of cockfighting and dog fighting. Some were also useless, bullying men and women, causing trouble that their elders had to resolve. If they offended someone with status and background, they had to apologize with a weathered face.
But in the end, these were all minor matters. Zhan Feiyu, on the other hand, was usually well-behaved, but when she caused trouble, it was something that could be discussed in the imperial court.
Looking at the pouting and unconvinced Zhan Feiyu, Gu Qingzhou picked up her chopsticks, picked up a piece of drunken chicken, and said slowly, "The Chen family of Zhongzhou Prefecture?"
Uh... Thinking of the feud with the Chen Xue Zheng, the maternal uncle of the First Prince, Zhan Feiyu smiled awkwardly, having forgotten about this matter. The chicken meat, soaked in Huadiao wine and heated at high temperature, had most of the alcohol evaporated, and a small portion was absorbed by the chicken. With one bite, it was tender and juicy, with the unique aroma of Huadiao wine. Even in the capital, it could be considered a delicacy.
"Huai'an Prefecture." Although Gu Qingzhou did not directly name the imperial merchant Liu family, this feud had still been formed. She had managed to get two hundred thousand taels from Liu family and handed it over to Deng Zhiwu to take away.
Moreover, she had also transferred the tea mountain under Liu Hefeng's name to her own. As for the remaining two hundred and fifty thousand taels, Zhan Feiyu had taken out one hundred thousand taels and placed it in the Liu family's winery. The remaining one hundred and fifty thousand taels were converted into properties in the capital.
Thinking of this, Gu Qingzhou raised her eyebrows and admired Zhan Feiyu's ability to accumulate wealth. Many people could not earn a hundred thousand taels in their lifetime. This little girl was not the God of Literature, but perhaps the God of Wealth reincarnated. She would not act unless she did, and when she did, it was always hundreds of thousands of taels. In a few more years, Gu Qingzhou, as her teacher, would probably be less wealthy than her.
The "evil" Zhan Feiyu could no longer smile. She sat up straight and forcibly whitewashed herself. "But I didn't cause any trouble in Qianzhong Province!"
"If the truth about Qiu Jinyu's death is known to the barbarians, do you think you can still live in peace?" Gu Qingzhou mercilessly exposed Zhan Feiyu's self-deception.
Although it was now rumored outside that Qiu Jinyu died at Aozi Pass, and as for who killed him, in the middle of the night, Aozi Pass was dark and chaotic, and it was a melee. Who knew who delivered the fatal blow.
Later, the bodies at Aozi Pass were collected by Commander Dou and the soldiers of the garrison. A total of seventy-eight bodies, as well as a large number of swords, were enough to show how fierce and dangerous the battle was.
After the bodies were moved away, many people still went to Aozi Pass to inspect it. There were no bodies, but the bloodstains were still there. Someone even dug out a hand from the snowdrift. In broad daylight, it almost scared someone to death.
With her past exposed, Zhan Feiyu gave a dry laugh and picked up her chopsticks to eat heartily. "Don't expose each other." Her teacher was too heartless.
Pushing Qiu Jinyu's death onto those who intercepted Yang Xu was indeed the best way to handle it. Zhu Xiao, who was far away among the barbarians, did not have to face suspicion and doubt from the barbarians.
Similarly, it saved Zhan Feiyu and Yang Xu trouble.
The key was that the news had not leaked out. The Forbidden Dragon Guards could continue to monitor the third branch of the Qiu family, and perhaps they could follow the clues to find other spies lurking in the Great Qing Dynasty. This could be described as killing three birds with one stone.
The master and disciple ate and talked. As for the saying "no talking while eating, no speaking while sleeping" practiced by aristocratic families, they could go wherever it was cool.
"Even when beating a dog, one must consider its owner. Is there no law in Linzhou Prefecture?" The voice was somewhat sharp, belonging to a young girl.
However, with He Sheng and the others guarding the entrance of the private room, the master and disciple were too lazy to pay attention. After all, after finishing this meal, Gu Qingzhou would set off for the capital, and Zhan Feiyu would return to Xiangwu County. When the temperature warmed up a bit and the snow on the official roads melted, Zhan Feiyu would have to continue her travels.
"Miss, is it that cheap girl who injured me?" Qing Girl, who had been so imperious to the waiter just now, was now acting pitifully and delicately, even revealing her wrist. On her wrist was a clear bruise in the shape of a finger. He Nuan had indeed not held back.
A personal head maid, to some extent, represented her young lady's dignity. If her maid was beaten, it was equivalent to slapping her face. Qiu Jingyuan, although not yet old, was only twelve years old after the New Year, but she had a considerable presence.
Coupled with the maids and nannies standing beside her, as well as the eunuchs and guards standing a little further away, there were more than ten people in total.
This did not include the guards who were on duty last night and were resting now. Qiu Jingyuan had brought more than thirty people with her on this trip.
"Miss, you are of noble status. Let your great-aunt handle this matter." The woman who spoke was also elegantly dressed, with a full set of gilded hair ornaments. She wore jade bracelets on her hands and a gold ring inlaid with sapphires on her fingers. The value of this attire, if converted into silver, would be enough for an ordinary farmer to eat and drink for ten years.
Qiu Jingyuan, who prided herself on her status, indeed did not seem like she would speak with a few commoners, thus lowering her own status. She had been furious just now. Now that her great-aunt had spoken, Qiu Jingyuan maintained her condescending attitude, only nodding.
Although Qian Shi came from the merchant Qian family, all of the Qian family's businesses, large and small, were managed by her in secret. The men of the Qian family only served as a front. Any decision required Qian Shi's approval.
Precisely because Qian Shi's generation was also quite high, and she was shrewd and had been in business for many years, the third branch of the Qiu family, upon receiving the news of Qiu Jinyu's death, could not rush over from Qianzhong Province. So, they thought of Qian Shi.
Coincidentally, the pampered daughter Qiu Jingyuan had run away from home and happened to be celebrating the New Year at the Qian family's residence. Therefore, the group immediately rushed over. Although the snow on the official roads had not yet melted, they were close, and they arrived in Linzhou Prefecture at noon yesterday.
He Nuan and He Sheng still stood at the entrance of the private room. The brother and sister looked calm, but this calmness was infuriating. On one side, people were jumping with anger and scolding, while on the other side, they were calm as if nothing had happened. This clearly showed that they did not put Qiu Jingyuan's group in their eyes.
"Miss, even if Qing Hong's words were inappropriate, it is our master who should punish her. You, without a word, took action to beat someone. There are no such rules in aristocratic families." Qian Shi was slightly overweight, with a round, prosperous face. She spoke with a smile, like the kindest woman, but if one could ignore the shrewdness and calculation in her eyes, she would be even more so.
He Nuan and He Sheng's clothing and appearance were somewhat inferior to Qiu family's maids. At least Qing Hong had a pair of silver hairpins on her head and pearl earrings. However, He Nuan only used a hair tie to secure her bun, and she also wore earrings, but they were only pearls the size of mung beans.
The fabric of the clothes looked inferior. Qing Hong's jacket and skirt were not only thick but also bordered with silver thread, and there were exquisite embroidery at the hem. This jacket alone was probably worth four or five taels of silver.
Respect the robes before respecting the person. With He Nuan's simple attire, Qian Shi's attitude was naturally more dismissive. She could also mention aristocratic families, implying that their group had an extraordinary background.
He Nuan glanced at Qian Shi lightly, but was so stingy that she didn't even say a word, still guarding the door with He Sheng. This naked contempt was enough to infuriate someone to death.
Qian Shi, after all, was a person who had been in the business world for a long time. Although she was angry in her heart, she did not show it on her face. "If the servants do not understand the rules, it is likely that the master has not taught them well. In that case, this old woman will overstep her bounds today and teach you the rules of dealing with people."
As Qian Shi's words fell, two guards stepped forward, glaring menacingly at He Sheng. Meanwhile, two nannies and another woman around thirty years old walked towards He Nuan.
This woman was not dressed as a married woman. Judging by her posture and bearing, she was also skilled in martial arts. But thinking about it, it was reasonable. Qian Shi managed the Qian family's business, and there were times when she had to go out. If she only had male guards, it would be inconvenient, so she had hired a female guard.
"Brother, don't disturb Miss's meal." He Nuan said. As the female guard made her move, her figure flashed, and she dodged.
But before everyone could react, a sharp voice rang out, "Let go of me!"
He Nuan restrained Qiu Jingyuan with one hand. Annoyed by her noise, she moved her left hand, and a sharp blade was placed on her neck.
Suddenly, Qiu Jingyuan fell silent. The Qiu family members also became timid. No one dared to act rashly. The dagger looked extremely sharp. If it cut the blood vessels on the neck, even a great immortal could not save her.
Qian Shi's face changed greatly. Even though she was usually calm and composed, she panicked at this moment. "Don't mess around. If you harm a noble person, not only you, but even your young lady cannot afford to compensate!"
"Shut up! Whoever speaks another word!" He Nuan's voice was cold, and her icy gaze swept across everyone, the threat evident.
Well, now no one dared to speak. The hostage, Qiu Jingyuan, was trembling with fear. No matter how spoiled and arrogant she was, even daring to run away from home, she was, after all, only a twelve-year-old girl. Before, in Qianzhong Province, because of her surname Qiu, everyone flattered and fawned over her, so her temper naturally grew. But who knew she would encounter He Nuan, who would draw a knife at the slightest disagreement?
In the private room, unable to hear the commotion outside, Zhan Feiyu knew without thinking that He Nuan had captured the king first. She couldn't help but say, "Teacher, haven't you noticed that A Nuan has been a bit off lately?"
He Nuan was usually gentle and amiable, but in the past few days, Zhan Feiyu had clearly felt that He Nuan had changed. Before, when she practiced punches in the morning, A Nuan would accompany her. When she read, A Nuan would sit in the study and mend clothes.
But now, whenever she didn't need to take care of Zhan Feiyu, He Nuan would go to practice martial arts, and every move and stance exuded fierceness.
"With such a troublesome mistress, any change in He Nuan is forced by you." Gu Qingzhou raised her eyebrows, looking at Zhan Feiyu as the culprit. This little girl had risked her life this time, and the He siblings felt extremely guilty and remorseful. Although nothing had happened, what if something had happened?
It's my fault again? Zhan Feiyu puffed up her cheeks indignantly and said softly, "Teacher, shouldn't you be biased towards your own people?"
"Your skin is as thick as the city wall." Gu Qingzhou shook her head with a smile. They had almost finished eating. If they didn't hurry, they wouldn't reach the post station by night. In this weather, camping outdoors, even martial artists couldn't withstand it.
The door of the private room creaked open from the inside. Those standing outside turned their heads in unison. After all, Qiu Jingyuan was still being held by He Nuan, with a dagger at her neck. They dared not act rashly.
"My lord." Qian Shi, who had been waiting anxiously, hurried forward. Gu Qingzhou's demeanor clearly indicated that she was a scholar, which made Qian Shi's heart skip a beat. Fortunately, the Qiu family had a significant background, so she was not worried.
"Sir, we met by chance, and there might have been some verbal conflict, but your lady's maid is too overbearing. Not to mention the noble status of my junior, even for ordinary commoners, your lady's maid acting like this would lead to imprisonment!" Qian Shi once again emphasized Qiu Jingyuan's identity. If it weren't for fear that He Nuan would harm Qiu Jingyuan, Qian Shi would have already ordered someone to apprehend He Nuan, so why would she be so humble and submissive?
Zhan Feiyu glanced at He Nuan, who was holding a hostage, and felt that A Nuan seemed to be turning dark. "A Nuan, I'll escort Teacher out first."
If she let go now, there would likely be more trouble. To avoid delaying Gu Qingzhou's time, Zhan Feiyu gave Qiu Jingyuan an apologetic look.
This girl claimed to be well-behaved and trouble-free, but in Gu Qingzhou's eyes, she was a troublemaker.
Qian Shi was stunned. She couldn't have imagined that this seemingly delicate young girl would act like this. But with Qiu Jingyuan still in He Nuan's hands, even if Qian Shi was furious, she could only suppress it, watching Zhan Feiyu and Gu Qingzhou walk towards the staircase.
Just then, a guard, following Qian Shi's signal, suddenly attacked. His target was Zhan Feiyu, who was leaving. This was a plan to use the same method against them.
Not to mention that Gu Qingzhou's five guards behind her were all top experts, and one of them was even a Royal Guard bestowed by the Emperor years ago. Even with He Sheng present, how could a petty thief ambush Zhan Feiyu?
With a bang! Everyone felt a flash before their eyes. The attacking guard was kicked away by He Sheng, crashing into the display shelf by the wall, causing a clatter. The porcelain and other items on it shattered.
The innkeeper and the waiter, huddled in the corner, looked pained, but neither dared to step forward. These were all fierce characters who drew their swords at the slightest disagreement. They were not to be trifled with.
Zhan Feiyu did not even pause her steps. She walked downstairs with Gu Qingzhou and headed towards the backyard where the carriages were parked.
"Alright, in three years, after you pass the provincial examination, you can come to the capital." Gu Qingzhou smiled and patted Zhan Feiyu's head. The reason for setting the time at three years later was the result of discussions between Gu Qingzhou and Yin Wuyan.
Previously, one was a Grand Academician of the Cabinet, and the other was the Commander of the Forbidden Dragon Guards, feared by court officials. Both held high positions, but neither Gu Qingzhou nor Yin Wuyan desired power and status. Therefore, they needed three years to consolidate their influence.
When Zhan Feiyu went to the capital in three years, even the princes in the palace would not dare to bully her. Moreover, by then, no matter which prince the Emperor established as the crown prince, they would be able to protect Zhan Feiyu.
Nodding obediently, Zhan Feiyu watched Gu Qingzhou get into the carriage. The guards also mounted their horses. Despite her reluctance, Zhan Feiyu stepped aside.
Inside the carriage, Gu Qingzhou lowered the curtain. She was worried that this girl would shamelessly continue to escort her, and then they would really have to go all the way to the capital. "Go back. Don't forget that He Nuan is still at the restaurant."
Zhan Feiyu bowed solemnly to the carriage. "Teacher, have a safe journey. Your disciple bids farewell."
The sound of hooves echoed, and a carriage accompanied by five horses gradually disappeared from sight. Zhan Feiyu gazed for a long time, suppressing her reluctance. "A Sheng, let's go back and save A Nuan."
"Yes." He Sheng replied. His young lady could still joke, so she probably wasn't too sad.
At the restaurant, on the second floor, before Zhan Feiyu even went upstairs, she heard a sharp and ear-piercing scolding. "How dare you commit violence in Linzhou Prefecture? I think you have the guts of a bear and the heart of a leopard. Hurry up and release Miss Qiu! Are you deaf?"
Compared to Qian Shi, who was uneasy but still restrained her emotions, the scolding noblewoman was somewhat shrewish. However, she was only accompanied by nannies and maids. The coachman and attendants were all downstairs. The noblewoman could only resort to verbal abuse.
Like an old monk meditating, He Nuan's sharp blade was still firmly clamped on Qiu Jingyuan's neck.
"Madam Zhang, that maid's master is back." As soon as she saw Zhan Feiyu, Qian Shi quickly interrupted the scolding Madam Zhang. A disdainful glint flashed in her eyes. This was still an official's wife, and with such a shrewish demeanor, it was fortunate that she had a good birth.
"I'll see what kind of cheap girl raised this cheap skin that dares to cause trouble under my nose!" Madam Zhang turned around and looked at Zhan Feiyu, who was bundled up like a bear. She was momentarily stunned, probably not expecting such a young girl, even younger than Qiu Jingyuan.
Seeing an unfamiliar face, Madam Zhang snorted coldly and said with her chin held high, "What family's young lady are you? Who are your parents? You dare to be so lawless with a martial maid? Today, I must teach you some manners. Hurry up and release her!"
Linzhou Prefecture was Zhang family's territory. Although the head of the Zhang family was still Old Master Zhang, the prefect of the fourth rank, Zhang Minxian was the next heir and the Tongzhi of Linzhou Prefecture. The Zhang family and Prefect Zhou, the father-in-law of Zhang Minhua, were in-laws. Zhang Madam's mother-in-law remained in the neighboring Shanzhou Prefecture, so Madam Zhang, as the wife of the Tongzhi, dared to be so arrogant.
Zhan Feiyu was a new face. Her delicate appearance suggested she was from a small family. If any family had status and prestige, their female relatives would have paid respects to Madam Zhang. And although she looked down on people with her nostrils upturned, her memory was excellent. She never forgot anyone she had met.
When Madam Zhang was unmarried, she gained the reputation of a talented woman solely based on this memory. Therefore, although she was the daughter of a military general, she successfully married Zhang Minxian.
It was only after marriage, and after giving birth to the eldest son and grandson for the Zhang family, that Madam Zhang revealed her true colors. What talent and understanding she had were all lies. The poems she had written before were all done by the female tutors in her family. She only needed to memorize them, and also memorize some of the Four Books and Five Classics. Whenever there was a flower appreciation event or banquet, she would quote a few literary phrases, and thus she gained the reputation of being learned.
"A Nuan, release her." As soon as Zhan Feiyu spoke, Madam Zhang couldn't help but feel triumphant.
Upon regaining her freedom, Qiu Jingyuan instinctively touched her neck. The feeling of the sharp blade at her neck seemed to linger. Qiu Jingyuan, who had lived for twelve years, had never suffered such a great loss.
"Jingyuan, are you alright? You've worried your great-aunt to death." Qian Shi hugged Qiu Jingyuan with concern, her heart finally at ease. If anything had happened under her watch, the Qiu family would have eaten her alive, especially since Qiu Jinyu had died tragically, and Jingyuan was the only descendant of the third branch.
Pushing Qian Shi away with disgust, the force was so great that Qian Shi stumbled, but fortunately, her martial maid quickly supported her, preventing her from falling on her backside.
"How dare you lay hands on me?" The sharp, piercing cry rang out. Qiu Jingyuan, although a beautiful little girl with a delicate complexion, had a face distorted by anger at this moment. Her eyes, like those of a man-eater, were fixed on Zhan Feiyu and He Nuan. "Arrest these two bitches immediately and beat them to death on the spot!"
With Qiu Jingyuan's command, several guards immediately pounced on them ferociously. Over the years, they had done many such things in Qianzhong Province. Of course, usually, the servants were beaten to death, and their deaths were in vain. Who would dare to seek justice from the Qiu family?
This time, although Zhan Feiyu, the master, was also involved, since they had held Qiu Jingyuan hostage first, they could not be blamed for being impolite!
"My dear niece, feel free to vent your anger. I will take responsibility for any trouble." Madam Zhang echoed. If she could ally with the Qiu family, would that old hag at home still dare to control the household affairs?
Prefect Qiu, as a fourth-rank prefect, was stationed in Suzho Prefecture, the southernmost part of Longyou Province. Linzhou Prefecture was Zhang family's territory. With Zhang Minxian there, and Prefect Zhou being in-laws with the Zhang family, he naturally took great care of Zhang Minxian. Once Prefect Zhou retired, Zhang Minxian would surely succeed him as prefect.
What Madam Zhang was most dissatisfied with was that the Zhang family's household affairs were managed by her mother-in-law. Despite her shrewish and overbearing nature, her daughter-in-law's status was a generation lower. This resentment had been brewing for nearly twenty years. Madam Zhang wished she could immediately ally with the Qiu family and overthrow her mother-in-law to manage the household herself.
Although Qiu Jingyuan and Madam Zhang met for the first time, they seemed to hit it off immediately. After the guards attacked, they waited to see the miserable deaths of Zhan Feiyu and He Nuan.
Unfortunately, things did not go as planned!
With a few bangs, accompanied by the pained screams of the guards, the Qiu family's guards were beaten black and blue. They were now lying on the ground in pain and unable to get up.
Zhan Feiyu, standing by, blinked her eyes in surprise, looking at He Sheng and He Nuan. Why did she feel that A Sheng had also changed, becoming as fierce as A Nuan?
Before, when He Sheng and the others took action, it was a minor punishment, kicking someone away to incapacitate them. But just now, Zhan Feiyu clearly saw He Sheng and He Nuan delivering blows that landed squarely on their targets. The muffled sounds made Zhan Feiyu feel pain.
"You've gone too far! How dare you still take action?" Madam Zhang, as if her tail had been stepped on, her voice became sharp with anger. She glared at Zhan Feiyu and the other two. "You surrender immediately, and I might spare your dog lives. Otherwise, don't blame me for being impolite!"
Zhan Feiyu rolled her eyes speechlessly. If she surrendered, she would probably be beaten to death. "Let's go back."
"Don't go!" Seeing Zhan Feiyu leaving after beating people, Madam Zhang once again shouted angrily. "You immediately report to the yamen and call all the constables here!"
The innkeeper looked distressed, but he also knew Madam Zhang's temper. If he angered her, she could really have the constables tear down the restaurant. So, he hurriedly came out from the corner. "Yes, I'll go report to the yamen right away."
The guards, although severely beaten, did not dare to hide at this moment. They all endured the pain and got up to block the stairs, clearly intending to prevent Zhan Feiyu from leaving.
He Nuan sneered at this, her cold gaze falling on the blocking guards, scaring them into trembling. Their legs kept shaking, for fear that He Nuan would get angry and beat them again.
"Miss?" He Nuan asked Zhan Feiyu.
"Alright, then let's wait for the yamen officials to come. It will save trouble." Zhan Feiyu stopped walking. He Sheng moved a chair over, and Zhan Feiyu sat down with her hands clasped around the hand warmer.
There were patrolling yamen officers on the street, so the innkeeper saw them as soon as he stepped out. And so, four yamen officers, upon hearing Madam Zhang's order, pushed the innkeeper aside and rushed over.
"You..." The innkeeper stumbled after being pushed, but before he could finish speaking, the four had already disappeared.
The waiter next to him whispered, "Innkeeper, should we still go to the yamen? Those are martial artists. Four officers going there is like sending them to their deaths."
Miss Qiu's guards numbered ten, but in the end, they were still beaten black and blue by two people. What use would four officers be?
"Let's still go to the yamen to inform them." The innkeeper was also cowardly, but he was even more afraid of offending Madam Zhang. He took the waiter and ran to the prefectural yamen to report the crime.
Footsteps could be heard rushing from downstairs. Before the person arrived, an angry roar sounded, "Who dares to be disrespectful to Madam Zhang!"
The four yamen officers ran upstairs, their sabers held high, looking fierce and menacing. Their gaze swept around, and finally, they lunged towards the Qiu family's guards. "Bold thugs! How dare you commit violence in Linzhou Prefecture? Surrender immediately!"
It was not that the yamen officers had misidentified them. Zhan Feiyu sat in the corner. Although He Sheng and He Nuan stood beside her, the brother and sister looked honest and kind. Moreover, given Zhan Feiyu's age, she could not possibly be a criminal!
As for Qiu Jingyuan, she stood with Madam Zhang, surrounded by maids and nannies. Therefore, the only possible criminals on the second floor were these bruised and battered guards.
"You blind fools! You've caught the wrong person!" Madam Zhang shouted angrily, pointing at Zhan Feiyu. "Arrest this little slut and her two lackeys!"
Uh... The four yamen officers abruptly stopped and turned to look at the smiling Zhan Feiyu. This young girl was a criminal? "What are you still standing there for? Make a move!" Madam Zhang found these yamen officers too stupid for the first time, and cursed angrily, "Do you all want to take off your clothes and go back to farming in the countryside?"
Threatened, the four yamen officers jolted. Let alone Zhan Feiyu being a young girl, even if she were a ghost, they had to arrest her at Madam Zhang's command!
As the waiter had said before, these four yamen officers were here to deliver themselves. As soon as they rushed over, He Sheng dealt with them. It was a clean and swift fight, one against four.
"All useless!" Madam Zhang, seeing the yamen officers lying on the ground, was furious and kicked them.
Well, the four yamen officers lying on the ground, unable to move, now believed that Zhan Feiyu was the criminal. Her attacks were too fierce. It was the New Year, and they had been beaten. This was too unkind. According to the old saying in Linzhou Prefecture, after being beaten at the beginning of the year, they would probably have an unlucky year, and might even be beaten every few days.
A quarter of an hour later.
Madam Zhang, who was so angry she was about to spit blood, felt a little better seeing the constables who had come with the innkeeper. However, she was still unhappy, and her attitude was still hostile. "Constable Jiang, you're only coming now. Could it be that you deliberately delayed and intended to harm this madam? If we were waiting for help, the body would have gone cold by now."
Constable Jiang was a burly man in his forties, tall and strong, with a beard, and a loud voice. "Madam, please forgive me. After the innkeeper reported to the yamen, my subordinates immediately rushed over."
"Hmph! You think you can disregard this madam just because you have some military merit." Madam Zhang said coldly. She was the daughter of a military general and had intended to transfer her nephew to Linzhou Prefecture to be the constable. Unfortunately, this Jiang was arrogant and still occupied the position of constable.
Madam Zhang wanted to resort to some means, but who knew that Constable Jiang's wife was the niece of Old Madam Zhang's maternal relatives. Although they were distantly related and had no contact in normal times, they were still related.
Before Madam Zhang could act, Zhang Minxian had admonished her. This made her angry for three consecutive days, but she did not dare to vent her anger on her mother-in-law, so she found fault with Constable Jiang everywhere.
It was a pity that she was a woman, and he was a constable. They had little interaction. Moreover, the yamen's affairs were all decided by Zhang Minxian. No matter how much Madam Zhang hinted or suggested, those officials were cunning and pretended to be foolish, not taking the bait.
Constable Jiang was, after all, Zhang adult's cousin. They would be foolish to act against Constable Jiang, which would be slapping Zhang adult's face.
"This woman, I, Qian Shi of Shanzhou Prefecture, this matter is because..." Qian Shi was indeed shrewd. In a few words, she explained the situation, shifting all the blame to Zhan Feiyu. After all, it was He Nuan who had injured Qing Hong with a blade first, and then held Qiu Jingyuan hostage.
"Jiang Shan, this is the daughter of the Qiu family from Qianzhong Province. She was injured by villains right under your nose. What kind of constable are you?" Madam Zhang unreasonably pushed the blame onto Constable Jiang. Since he was the constable responsible for the security of Linzhou Prefecture, if something happened, he should bear the responsibility.
The Qiu family from Qianzhong Province? Zhan Feiyu, who had been watching the热闹 from the side, looked at Qiu Jingyuan in surprise. No wonder she had such airs. She was from the Qiu family. Was she from the main branch or a collateral branch?
Thinking of the murdered Qiu Jinyu, even if the news had reached the Qiu family, it would not be so soon for the third branch to come over, nor would it be possible for such a delicate young girl to come. Could she be from a collateral branch of the Qiu family in Qianzhong Province?
But that didn't seem right either. If she were from a collateral branch, the male members should be the ones to come to Xiangwu County to collect Qiu Jinyu's body.
Ignoring Madam Zhang, who was acting like a petty official with great authority, Constable Jiang first asked the four yamen officers. Knowing that they were all beaten by He Sheng, Constable Jiang had a clear idea. Then he looked at the bruised and battered Qiu family guards, estimating that they wanted to bully others with their status, but unfortunately, they met a tough opponent and were ultimately dealt with.
Qiu Jingyuan had never suffered such a great loss. Although she was only a twelve-year-old girl, her imperious demeanor was comparable to Madam Zhang's. "Why so much nonsense? Hurry up and arrest them! Perhaps they are spies from the barbarians!"
"Yes, Jiang Shan, are you perhaps harboring barbarian spies? Or are you colluding with the barbarians?" Madam Zhang echoed, her venomous gaze fixed on Constable Jiang, wishing she could nail him to death. Then the position of constable would be vacant. She, the wife of the Tongzhi, was the supreme authority in Linzhou Prefecture. When she boasted to her maiden family, the position of constable was hers with just a word.
So, it was a small matter that the task was not completed, but the key was that she had lost face. Madam Zhang could not swallow this anger, so she targeted Constable Jiang at every opportunity, determined to bring him down.
"My brother was definitely harmed by them. I order you to arrest them immediately, and kill them without mercy!" Thinking of Qiu Jinyu's death, Qiu Jingyuan couldn't describe how she felt. Before, she was jealous and unwilling. Many times Qiu Jingyuan had cursed Qiu Jinyu to die, thinking that if he died, her parents would dote on her even more.
Unfortunately, the person had really died, and Qiu Jingyuan felt uneasy.
Zhan Feiyu's eyes suddenly widened, looking like a frightened little girl. This random talk was quite accurate; she could become a fortune teller.
Constable Jiang naturally knew what had happened in Xiangwu County on the twenty-ninth day of the twelfth lunar month. However, Qiu Jinyu's death was indeed regrettable. Everyone who knew about it would say that heaven was jealous of his talent. A fourteen-year-old top scholar, from the Qiu family of Qianzhong Province, even if it was the third branch of a collateral line, it was a smooth path. In the future, as an official, who could not reach the highest positions and achieve supreme power?
But pushing Qiu Jinyu's death onto a young girl like this, Constable Jiang looked at the arrogant and unreasonable Qiu Jingyuan. This was also a young lady of the Qiu family, and her upbringing was far inferior.
However, Zhan Feiyu was indeed in the wrong here. Regardless of the reason for the conflict, He Nuan placing a sharp blade at Qiu Jingyuan's neck was a great mistake, let alone Qiu Jingyuan's noble status.
Zhan Feiyu glanced at the menacing Madam Zhang and Qiu Jingyuan, and then smiled at Constable Jiang. "Please trouble the official to make another trip to the prefectural yamen and tell Prefect Zhang that an old friend from Xiangwu County is visiting."